Chapter 55
Xena’s POV
The movie started, filling the room with eerie sounds and dimmed lighting. I think I lasted maybe five minutes before my eyes closed.
“Is she asleep already?” I heard William ask.
Ryder walked over and nudged me gently. “Xena?” he said softly. When I didn’t respond, he tucked the blanket around me more securely. “It’s been a rough day for her,” he said in
a low voice.
“Amara’s out too,” William whispered.
“What exactly are you planning to do here? This isn’t just some girl you brought home,” William turned to Ryder, his voice accusatory.
“I know that. I’m certain she’s my mate. I couldn’t leave her there,” Ryder responded.
“So you brought the danger here instead? I’ve heard about Tatum. The guy is brutal, and once she turns eighteen, he’ll mark her against her will.”
“I know!” Ryder hissed. “Logan and I have been talking. He’s extremely protective of her. Though he won’t tell me exactly why, she’s been on the radar of the pack Alphas for
years.”
“Amara says it’s because she’s too smart. She can see patterns that no one else can— makes her a deadly threat to any enemy. How do you think her father climbed to where he is now? Sure, he’s ruthless and kills without mercy, but she’s his secret weapon.”
“That’s not why we’re protecting her. No matter how smart she is, she’s our ally and we’ll
honor our agreement,” Ryder said firmly.
“Not because you want to sleep with her,” William muttered.
“She’s just business.” The words hit me like a punch to the gut, my stomach rolling in
response.
“That’s a lie and you know it. I’ve seen how you look at her. If you truly believe she’s your
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Chapter 55
destined mate, then this is personal, William called him out.
“I’m trying to keep my distance in case I’m wrong.”
“Regardless, even without considering her brain, she’d be your perfect match. She has all
the qualities of a Luna,” William said, raising his voice slightly.
My heart raced at that. Luna qualities? Did they really think I could be the mate of a pack Alpha? I’d always been trained as a warrior, not an Alpha’s mate.
“Shh. I know. I’d be proud to show her off to everyone. But once we confirm our
connection, Tatum will challenge me,” Ryder said.
“At least it won’t be to the death, but it’s still serious as hell,” William said quietly.
“I know. I’ll spend the week preparing, just in case. William, you need to make sure she’s ready for the fight with Helen on Saturday.”
“Can’t you train her?” William asked.
“I’ll observe, but I don’t think I can do everything that’s needed.”
“You’re already treating her like your mate, aren’t you?” William asked.
There was silence then. A silence that made my thoughts race even more.
“Go to bed. I’ll see you tomorrow. I’ll stay home with the girls tomorrow,” Ryder dismissed them.
“Need help taking care of her?” William asked.
“Get out,” Ryder said.
I heard William pick up Amara, and the three of them left. I expected to feel Ryder pick me up, but after cursing under his breath, he walked into the bathroom and closed the door. When I heard the shower start running, I quietly got up and went back to my own room. I had just pulled on my silk shorts and tank top when my bedroom door flew open.
“You could have told me you were awake,” Ryder said.
“Just business, right?” I asked, moving my things to the chair.
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His body went rigid as he realized I’d heard everything. I hated being seen as weak or as a pawn. I’d been raised to be a warrior, not a princess to be manipulated.
“Listen,” I said, walking toward him, “care about me or don’t, but don’t fucking pity me.
I’m capable of defeating Tatum on my own. The only person who’s ever beaten me is my
father. Not even Logan has. I’m not a princess–I’m a sharp–tongued girl who was raised like a man but with manners. I don’t need to be coddled or treated like I’m helpless. I don’t want a mate who tries to stop me from being who I am. I’m not Amara. I won’t lie
down and let people control me. I—”
And then Ryder grabbed me.
