Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 112

Xena's POV

"Victory goes to Xena Harris," Logan announced, raising my hand high in the air as enthusiasm, I felt strangely hollow inside.

cheers erupted around us. Despite the crowd's

My eyes scanned the gathered pack members, searching until they locked with Ryder's intense green gaze across the field. His expression was a complex mixture of pride and anger, both emotions bleeding through our bond and into my consciousness. Yet he remained rooted in place, watching me from a distance instead of approaching.

Why wasn't he coming to congratulate me?

"Why isn't Ryder coming over?" I whispered to Logan, trying to keep my voice steady despite my confusion.

Logan's face transformed, his expression suddenly guarded. There was something in his eyes-knowledge of something I didn't understand. He hesitated, glancing briefly toward, his father before looking back at me.

"I'm sorry, X. I didn't know this was going to happen," he muttered, his voice so low I barely caught the words.

Before I could demand an explanation, Alpha Benedict's powerful voice boomed across the training field, commanding everyone's attention.

Xena Harris is my son's new mate! As you all know, she has been marked and claimed as his mate, making her the future Luna of our pack. If anyone wishes to challenge her position, now is your opportunity! Speak now or forever hold your peace!"

My mouth fell open in shock, blood rushing to my face as rage built inside me. What the actual hell? Future Luna? Public challenges? Had they orchestrated this entire thing just to put me on display like some prize to be won or challenged?

and betrayal coursing through me like electricity. He had

my body still humming with adrenaline from the previous fight. I knew I'd performed well-better than well-but that didn't mean no one would

several tense minutes of silence, Alpha Benedict spoke

done! No challengers have come forward! Let me introduce your future Luna, Xena

released my hand and stepped away, allowing Ryder to take his place. I refused to look at him, but I allowed him to take my hand

own.

together, but I couldn't enjoy the moment. Not like this. Not when

walking toward me with open arms, I yanked my hand

were amazing!" she exclaimed, pulling me into a tight embrace Her genuine enthusiasm was a balm to my wounded

replied as

arm

approaching with Logan and my father.

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Chapter 112

closet. Tenelope hugged me first, followed by Logan, and

I'm proud of you, Dad said, looking me directly in the eyes. His words

I smiled, taking

smiling at me

my stomach turn. He had orchestrated this entire spectacle and now

you were