Xena’s POV

My father walked in, his tall frame filling the doorway, and the atmosphere in the shop instantly changed. Both Ryder and William straightened up, William immediately rising to his feet while Ryder carefully set down the paint can he was holding, preparing to stand.

Dad stood there, expressionless, watching them with that imposing stare. William and Ryder hastily extended their hands. Dad slowly reached out, shaking Ryder’s hand first.

Ryder’s demeanor instantly became respectful. “Ryder Nash, Alpha Benedict’s son. Pleasure to meet you, Alpha Hank.”

Then Dad shook William’s hand. “William Millier, Ryder’s future Beta.”

Dad waved his hand. “Relax, boys. I’m just here to check on my daughter.” He walked over to inspect my work, nodding with approval as he examined the Harley. “Nice work.”

“How much longer will you be working tonight?” he asked, turning to me.

I shrugged, wiping my hands on a rag. “Not sure. I’ve finished the base coat and the main color. Just need to apply the clear coat.”

“Good. I brought you dinner.” Dad placed a bag on my desk.

“Thanks,” I replied, focusing back on my work. The scent of burgers wafted from the bag, making my stomach growl. I hadn’t realized how hungry I was.

“No need to come to my office later,” he added. I looked up, surprised. Really? No punishment?

Dad turned his attention to Ryder and William. “I shouldn’t need to tell you boys to be respectful.”

“Yes, sir,” William replied promptly.

Dad gave a curt nod and left without another word.

I let out the breath I’d been holding, silently relieved to have escaped punishment. Dad must know about the incident with Luna Martha, but he wasn’t going to make an issue of it. Maybe he realized she’d struck first, or perhaps he just didn’t want to deal with more drama over a minor scuffle. Either way, I felt lighter.

William cleared his throat. “Mind if I order pizza to be delivered here?”

“Sure,” I nodded, gesturing to the business cards near the register. “Address is on my card, but go outside to call. Signal’s terrible in here.”

William grabbed a card and headed outside. The moment the door closed behind him, Ryder turned to me. He reached out, his fingers gently touching my split lip. The unexpected contact startled me, sending a tingling sensation through my body. His green eyes studied me intently.

“Who hit you?” he asked, his voice low.

I pulled back slightly, not wanting to reveal my family drama. “Nothing you need to worry about.”

“I’ve heard rumors,” Ryder said carefully. “People say your father hits you.”

My jaw dropped. “What? No!” I was genuinely shocked. “My father has NEVER hit me like that. Ever.” I said it with such conviction that Ryder seemed to believe me.

“Your mother, then?” he pressed.

“She’s not my mother,” I corrected him. “My real mother died when I was little.”

Concern flashed across his face. “Do you need help?”

I laughed without humor. “I’m fine. My brother and his friends are protection enough.”

At the mention of Logan and the others, Ryder’s intense gaze finally shifted away. He stood up and walked to the cabinet where I kept supplies, picking up an unopened pack of sandpaper. “Are you with Samuel?” he asked suddenly, his tone serious.

The direct question caught me off guard, but a small thrill ran through me. I decided not to give him a straight answer, wanting to see where this was going. “Like I said, no… but I’m not sure why you care.”

He smiled, and damn if that smile didn’t do something to my insides. He casually replied, “Just don’t want to step on anyone’s territory.” He opened the sandpaper box and handed me a sheet.

I took it naturally, then countered, “Is Helen your girlfriend?”

He grimaced. “She wants to be. I don’t.”

Ryder sat down beside me again, his arm brushing against mine. I rolled my eyes. “You seem to let girls hover around you. What’s your deal? Different flavor every week?”

His green eyes fixed on me, his expression unreadable. “I’m actually very selective about who I date.”

“How old are you?” I asked, changing the subject.

“Just turned eighteen last month,” he replied.

“Found your mate yet?” I asked, trying to sound casual.

“No,” he said. “Still looking.”

I raised an eyebrow skeptically. “Are you really looking? You seem busy with training.”

“This training is only for a week,” he explained. “After that, I’m home for good.”

The door jingled as William returned. “Pizza’s ordered. What are you two talking about?”