Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

1 tilted my head, giving him an exasperated look. "Are you giving me psychology lesson?"

"Maybe." He shrugged, his eyes teasing. "But it's working, isn't it?"

I didn't respond, just exhaled softly.

Logan patted my shoulder, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Though

I have to say... that throw was badass. Total alpha move. Even if you looked like a crazy woman ready to murder someone.*

"Rude!" I playfully punched his shoulder.

Logan laughed and pulled me into a hug. "You need to focus. Helen as combat training, and you can't fight like a jealous girlfriend. You can beat her easily, but only if you keep your head clear."

"Fine... fine." I said reluctantly. "How are you so good at this? You just found your mate yesterday too?"

stuff more than you have. You've been busy with your shop, never had time to discuss mate dynamics. Plus, we weren't

your positions!" Alpha Benedict's voice

stands were filled with spectators, and someone was demonstrating moves to Helen. My eyes found my father, standing proudly

gave me

excitement building once more.

on me. I felt him trying to connect with my mind, but I

father's voice rang out, and Helen lunged at

hand. My memory served me well-she feinted left but attacked from the right. I raised my forearm to block, countering with my left fist. She blocked too, but didn't anticipate my knee coming up fast, connecting solidly with

momentum to drop down, sweeping my legs

in time to land on my hands and knees. Helen immediately pounced, landing a punch to my kidney. We'd practiced this move countless times, and my response was instinctive. I wrapped my arm around her neck and flipped her off me. We rolled together, and she landed a hard punch to the back of my head. I pinned her down and delivered a precise blow to her nose.

called out loudly. I wanted everyone to know I wasn't done. Helen rolled over and sat up, wobbling as she got to her

that all you've got?" I

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