Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 217

Xena’s POV

I watched Alpha Benedict walk away without waiting for any response, his broad shoulders tense with purpose.

“We need to solve this before someone dies,” I said through our mind link, feeling the gravity of the situation press down on me.

“Agreed,” Ryder responded before following his father inside.

I turned to see Ama and Luna Kestrel organizing everyone in the main hall. Some looked confused, others terrified. Children were being scolded for not staying put, while men moved in and out of the pack house with determined strides. I wasn’t sure what they knew or what Ryder and Alpha Benedict had told them, but they all made sure to keep their distance from me. Part of me appreciated this, while another part bristled with irritation. My inner wolf protested: Maybe if I were treated normally, I’d recover faster? Though it might also prolong my healing.

I crossed my arms, trying to ease some of the pressure on my shoulders. They felt better than this morning, at least. But if I wanted to be treated normally,‘ I should probably start acting normal. That meant letting Ryder do what he needed to keep the pack safe.

Walking back inside the pack house, I entered a scene of organized chaos. Men adjusted their gear, said goodbye to crying mates, or

but the men he gave themselves mental pep talks. I spotted Ryder in a far corner talking with a group of men. His back was to me, was speaking with glanced over and noticed me. One of them caught Ryder’s attention and motioned toward me. Confused, Ryder looked over, did a double–take, then told them he’d be right back.

“Xena?” He walked over and pulled me to the side. “What’s wrong?”

“Everyone is avoiding me. No one will talk to me or they’re keeping a healthy distance.”

Ryder looked even more confused. “I know. I thought that would be best to make it more comfortable for you. Xena, I am really busy right now.”

“I know, please listen.” I reached out and firmly grabbed his arm, moving quicker than I meant to. The sudden movement stung a little. “I really do appreciate it, and normally that would be exactly what I need. However, I’m finding it really off–putting. I realized if I want to move on, I need everyone to treat me like they would have before the incident.” I was aware that more than one pair of ears was listening in. “I need to feel normal in my own house. Normal means not being attached to you. Ryder, I can’t hold you back from going. If you need to be with our men as they go into battle, go I will be okay. I’m a survivor, and this will not break me either. If you need to go… go!” I looked deep into his eyes to make sure he understood I really meant it.

“I love you for this, and I’m happy to hear you’re ready to accept going back to normal, but someone has to stay here and make sure things are okay.”

“We both know there are others who’d benefit from having their mates stay behind,” I said, thinking of William. Ama was pregnant, and William would be distracted not knowing what was happening at home. He trusted Ryder to keep Ama safe, but it wasn’t the same as being there himself. I understood that tearing pain, as my own soul trembled at the thought of the coming separation.

“Are you sure?” Ryder’s eyes searched mine, concern and surprise flickering across his face.

I nodded. “Yes. Ama needs William here, especially now.” My voice dropped to a whisper. “She’s trying to be strong, but I can see the fear in her eyes every time she protectively places her hand over her stomach.”

Ryder stepped closer, so close I could feel the warmth radiating from his body. “And what about you?” he asked, his voice soft bu serious. “If I go, I need to know you’ll be okay.”

A lump formed in my throat. The wolf inside me whimpered anxiously at the thought of Ryder leaving, but I couldn’t show it.

“I’ll manage, I said, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach my eyes. Besides, you’ll always be in my head, right?” I tapped my

1/2

Chapter 217

temple, referring to our mind link.