Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 148

Xena's POV

"You didn't need to come out with me," I said, leaning against the rough bark of a tree trunk. The images from the dungeon still churned in my stomach. I knew those people deserved what they got but witnessing it all firsthand left me unsettled.

"No reason to stay down there," Ryder shrugged, his eyes studying me carefully.

"I'm not going to break down," I lifted my gaze to the sky where birds flew carelessly, envying their freedom.

"I know."

"Then what are you waiting for?" I turned toward him, impatience bubbling up inside me.

He frowned slightly. "Waiting for you to snap at me."

"Who's using sarcasm to avoid the issue now?" I challenged.

"Thought I'd try your style for a change." Ryder attempted a smile. "If I can't use sarcasm, neither can you."

"Waiting for you to acknowledge what we both can feel."

"Nothing to acknowledge. It just feels weird. I know they had to die or else similar things would happen again, but seeing it, witnessing it all... it feels different." My voice trembled slightly as the dungeon scenes flashed through my mind-their fear, their screams, the scent of blood-all of it refusing to leave my thoughts.

I didn't want

never said I couldn't handle it, and I think I did pretty well down

got them talking, but that doesn't mean there's

Really. I did what needed to be done. Once your dad gets the phone back,

"Alright. Let's go."

pushed away from the tree, the door opened again, and his father and Alpha Benedict emerged. My heart rate picked

just about to check on the construction progress,"

to gather some warriors to search for this tree." Alpha Benedict held up a piece of paper. I wondered what was on it and if it related

me informed of what you find," my

Once we know, I'll contact you, and then we can

ask a question that had been bothering

"What is it, child?"

1/2

Chapter 148

the right words. "Everything will be... arranged soon. Just know that I love you. You'll be safe, even if it's the last thing I do!" He kissed my forehead and

he meant, Ryder grabbed my hand. “Let's head back." I glanced between Alpha Benedict and Ryder, then back at my father's retreating figure, figuring

following Alpha Benedict toward the pack house. The walk was quiet. Only the birds' calls prevented the world around

were parked outside the pack

told Ryder. He

As soon as they saw us, they glared