Chapter 54
Xena’s POV
“Whatever you want to call me is fine. Nice to meet you. Your house is beautiful,” I said politely, though my nerves were on fire. Being surrounded by an unfamiliar wolf pack felt more oppressive than I’d imagined. Even with their surface–level warmth, I could feel their scrutinizing gazes.
“Thank you for the compliment. I hear you’re quite the busy girl, organizing many activities?” Luna Kestrel continued as the food was being served.
“Yes, ma’am. I’m in charge of all the events organized by the school. Only until graduation, of course,” I replied, keeping my voice steady.
“Why haven’t I seen your name on any of the lists?” she probed.
“Anonymity was part of our agreement. I do it to help the teachers, to help students who need the extra credit for college applications, and because I like keeping busy,” I explained, fighting the urge to fidget under her stare.
“All that, plus a motorcycle shop?” Beta Ophelia asked, her eyebrow slightly raised.
“I plan to continue my business after graduation. It’s more than just a hobby for me.”
“I think that’s wonderful,” Luna Kestrel said with a smile, patting my shoulder and effectively ending the interrogation.
“You turn eighteen this Friday. I’m looking forward to your birthday party!” Gamma Saffron said, offering me a warm smile.
“It’s going to be a memorable day for sure,” I replied politely.
Ryder raised an eyebrow at that. He bit into a green bean, and the conversation gradually died down, finally allowing me to attempt eating in peace.
The food tasted amazing. Some kind of Asian–inspired meatballs with rice and roasted green beans. There was also a spicy sauce on top that I was curious about. However, my appetite was practically non–existent. I tried to eat as much as I could out of politeness, but I only managed about half. When the server came to clear our plates, I noticed Ryder
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frowning at mine, but thankfully he didn’t comment. The tension in the air had my stomach tied in knots, making it impossible to eat.
“Dad, if you don’t mind, I think we’ll skip the nightcap and have Ama show Xena where she’ll be staying,” Ryder said respectfully to Benedict.
“No problem.” I was relieved he agreed. Mike, William, Amara, Ryder, and I all stood up.
“Thank you very much for dinner and for allowing me to stay here this week. If there’s anything I can help with, please let me know,” I offered before saying goodbye.
“We’re delighted to have you, dear,” Luna Kestrel smiled at me before we turned to leave.
“Kiss–ass,” Mike whispered to me once we were out the door.
I playfully punched him in the arm, feeling the tension drain from my body as I finally relaxed a bit. “Maybe you should learn some manners?” I smirked as he rubbed his arm. It was so much easier dealing with younger wolves; they had fewer protocols and rules.
“Don’t piss off the princess, she’ll knock you flat!” William joined in the teasing.
“So I’ve heard. I’m more curious about what you have planned for Helen,” Mike said, racing ahead of us up the stairs.
“Oh! Me too!” Amara squealed.
“Nothing now. Since I’m staying here, I won’t disrespect any member of the pack,” I said as we walked into Ryder’s room, which was much larger than I’d imagined, decorated in reds and blacks, very masculine and very much Ryder’s style. I watched as everyone found places on the couch or armchairs, leaving another chair for me.
“Come on. An eye for an eye. Alpha Benedict won’t be mad,” William urged. He was completely relaxed, cuddled up with Amara wrapped around him.
“Fine. At this point, I won’t make a move unless she does first,” I said, leaning back in my chair.
“Movie?” Mike asked, remote in hand as he flipped through Ryder’s collection.
“Yes!” Amara cheered.
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“Action or horror,” I suggested.
“Whatever the lady wants, the lady gets,” Mike selected Silent Hill. Amara threw me a blanket before grabbing one for herself.
“What is it with women and blankets?” Mike asked.
“I’m guessing you don’t have a mate?” I raised an eyebrow at him.
Mike looked almost offended. “So?”
“Only single men ask such stupid questions,” William sighed.
“Exactly,” I smirked, turning my head to find Ryder watching me. He was the quiet type, just observing. When our eyes met, he didn’t look away, but his intense green gaze made me feel flustered enough to turn my head as I wrapped the blanket around myself and curled up on my side.
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