Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 234

I could feel the angry aura radiating from Ryder.

wasn't causing any trouble, I just wanted to make sure she was safe, Alpha Benedict said calmly, unfazed by Ryder's anger.

"After everything she's been through, you think sitting in the corner watching her work would make her feel comfortable? Ryder glared angrily at his father, his voice rising with indignation. William and several other warriors walked through the door. They all looked between Ryder and Alpha Benedict, then decided to stand with Ryder.

Seeing the warriors choose sides, my heart rate accelerated. I glanced at Alpha Benedict, whose previously calm face suddenly darkened, clearly displeased with the warriors' choice.

"Let's all go eat in the kitchen," I said, trying to break the tension.

"Good idea. Is there anything I can help with?" William immediately greed, walking to the stove and looking at me awkwardly, seemingly wanting me to assign him something immediately. Ryder and Alpha Benedict didn't break their stare.

"No need, everything's on the table." I grabbed Ryder's arm and pulled him away from his father.

Everyone sat down, but Ryder took the Alpha's seat, leaving no place for Alpha Benedict. I watched this scene with mixed emotions. Ryder was asserting dominance, establishing his position in front of everyone.

Alpha Benedict stood frozen for a moment. He seemed unprepared for Ryder to be so direct. His face expressionless, he slammed the table hard, causing the silverware at the edge to clatter to the floor with a crisp sound, then stormed out.

Ryder walked over, picked up the fallen silverware, placed it on the table, then returned to the Alpha's seat. “Let's begin," he said, his gaze sweeping over everyone.

salads, or steak sandwiches. However you want to eat them is

we all picked up our plates and began preparing food. I had already made myself a steak salad,

is really delicious," William said with

before you speak," I gave him a

looking at me, then back at

"What is it?"

"You... um..."

it, man," another warrior rolled

"Are you okay?"

like a physical weight, I set down my fork and

at all the concerned faces staring back

started, then paused. "I'm getting better every

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Chapter 234

satisfied with my answer, but could see in his eyes that

asking," I added softly. "It means more than you know that

cleared his throat. "We're a pack. We

another warrior chimed in. "You're our Luna. Your wellbeing