Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 129

Xena's POV

"No. I think I'm good," I said quietly, my voice barely carrying across the sterile hospital room.

"Very well. Have a nice day, Alpha Ryder, Luna Xena." The nurse bowed respectfully before walking toward the door.

"Thank you," I called after her just before she completely left. I noticed her body hesitate slightly, but she continued walking. A wave of guilt washed over me- maybe I should've been kinder to her. She was just doing her job, after all.

Ryder slid off the bed and reached for my arm, steadying me as I stood. "Let's go," he said, gesturing toward the door. I followed his lead, knowing the phone call we were about to make wouldn't be pleasant. Just thinking about telling my father I'd been in danger made my stomach twist into knots.

We walked in silence toward the pack house, Ryder's hands at his sides, yet maintaining at least three feet of distance between us. This physical gap seemed to mirror the emotional chasm that had suddenly appeared between us, creating an unexpected ache in my chest. I was still wearing that torn t-shirt, feeling exposed with every step, each movement a reminder of my vulnerability.

When we reached the pack house, a warrior stood guard outside-unusual, but that was an issue to address with Ryder later. For

now, I headed straight upstairs to our bedroom.

built-in bra. Ryder helped adjust my clothing so it wouldn't rub against the bite mark on my shoulder. The small gesture warmed something inside me, despite his eyes avoiding mine. I couldn't understand why he'd suddenly become so distant. Was it because I'd

office," Ryder said

this call privately, to avoid

encountered.

your father about those locations anyway," Ryder

sent to our room and go to bed early?" I asked softly, suddenly feeling exhausted beyond measure, not just physically but

his father's office. The coldness stung, but I forced

before opening

tell you," Alpha Benedict frowned. He

it down.

father's voice filled the

my chest, knowing he wouldn't like what he

happened?" The alertness in my father's voice

I don't want you to be angry," I said carefully, like I was approaching

Xena. What did you

words, hurt blooming in my chest. “Hey! I didn't do anything!" I defended myself, my