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.

didn't want you

couldn't handle it, and I think I did pretty well

amazing, got them talking, but that doesn't mean there's no toll," he

I'm fine. Really. I did what needed to be done. Once your dad gets the phone back, they'll need to analyze the information on it. We need

"Alright. Let's go."

father and Alpha Benedict emerged. My heart rate picked

about to check on the construction progress," Ryder

up a piece of paper. I wondered what was on it and if it related

you find," my father extended his hand

I'll contact you, and then

ask a question

"What is it, child?"

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Chapter 148

my shoulder. He seemed to be searching for the right words. "Everything will be...

he meant, Ryder grabbed my hand. “Let's head back." I glanced

following Alpha Benedict toward the pack house. The walk was quiet.

parked outside the pack

change clothes," I told Ryder. He nodded, opening

saw us, they glared and ran off. I rolled my eyes-yesterday's fight was still

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