Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 206

Chapter 206

Xena’s POV

Alpha Benedict’s office door opened, and Luna Kestrel poked her head out, gesturing for us to enter. That’s when I realized where Leonard had gone.

Ryder stood before his father with his arms crossed, back straight as rod, determination flashing in those green eyes I’d grown so familiar with. Logan and I remained behind him, fully aware this conversation had evolved beyond just my situation—it was now about power dynamics and who would be included in them. This felt more like a chess match between father and son than a simple meeting.

“We’ve reached an agreement,” Alpha Benedict announced. “You two an attend any meetings and receive all information, but final decisions will be made by me.” His voice carried that unnistakable Alpha authority that made my spine stiffen automatically.

“As long as you understand our opinions won’t be dismissed and we have equal say,” Ryder responded, his voice steady yet powerful. “You need to respect the fact that our lives are

le ones at risk. Youve been grooming me to take your place.

“Which is precisely why won’t hand over power when things are this dire,” Alpha Benedict replied with unexpected calmness.

“Good. Now that’s settled, we need to finalize tonight’s plans,” Dad’s voice came through the speaker.

“We have a team, you have a team. This will happen in two waves,” Alpha Benedict told my father. “Since the building is a mechanical factory, my team will handle planting the bombs. You’ll be responsible for dealing with any remaining survivors.”

Each word made my heart sink deeper as memories of my captivity flooded back–the helplessness, the desperation. Revenge was now within reach, but why didn’t it taste as sweet as I’d imagined?

“Why did we decide to move a day early instead of waiting until the ball?” I asked, my voice shakier than I’d intended.

“Several reasons. First, there’s you. They kidnapped you.” Alpha Benedict looked me straight in the eyes, and I could feel the anger simmering beneath his words. “Second, striking when the place is full of their business operations will create maximum impact. We have someone posing as a vehicle delivery to get inside. That car will be rigged. Third, and most importantly, we need to gain the upper hand quickly.”

Every word felt like a hammer striking my heart. I wanted revenge, yes, but at what cost? Would innocent people get hurt? These questions swirled in my mind, but I knew there was no turning back now.

“What’s the next step?” Ryder asked, his voice breaking through my thoughts.

“I found someone who’s coming tomorrow,” Logan said. “He’ll install an upgraded security system that will alert us to any drones or movement within a two–mile radius. They’re motion detectors, so any animal could trigger them. Regardless, someone needs to monitor them constantly.”

“Is that where Leonard went?” I asked.

“Yes, he’s finalizing all the details.”

“Who’s your Beta?” Alpha Benedict inquired.

Leonard will be promoted in the next day or two after he proves himself, Logan answered. The news made me happy for Leonard, yet worried about the dangers ahead. If anything happened, I wasn’t sure I could bear it.

“What about Penelope’s father? Have we made any progress there?” couldn’t keep the urgency from my voice, knowing we wouldn’t be truly safe until all our enemies were found.

1/2

Chapter 206

We’ve heard he’s alive and nearby. No name or photo yet, but we’re working on it,” Dad said, fatigue evident in his tone.

“That’s Beta Ulysses‘ current assignment. He’s working underground ght now,” Alpha Benedict explained. I glanced at William, seeing his concern for his fathe written all over his face.