Chapter 21
Xena’s POV
“Around 11:30, I think,” Ama said, struggling to remember. “Why do you ask?”
“No reason. Just wondering why he was so pissed off.”
“Who knows.” She shrugged.
I sat up in bed, stretching with a yawn. “What’s the plan for today?”
“Do you have any appointments at the shop?” Ama asked, already bouncing with energy despite the early hour.
“One in the afternoon. Morning’s free.”
“Perfect! Let’s get you dresses for tonight and your birthday party!” Ama clapped her hands, looking way too excited for a shopping trip.
“Oh great. Can’t wait,” I replied, my voice dripping with sarcasm.
I climbed out of bed, carefully testing my range of motion. Better than yesterday, but still
sore. My phone buzzed as I headed toward the bathroom. I glanced at the screen and saw
two messages.
Samuel: Hey, how are you feeling today?
Ryder: Sorry about last night.
I’m not ready to deal with either of these, I thought, especially Samuel’s message. I can’t let myself fall any deeper. If we’re not mates, these feelings will only make separation more painful. And Ryder… his sudden appearance just complicates everything.
I decided to focus on getting ready instead. Too tired to put much effort into my
appearance, I threw my hair into a messy bun and pulled on sweatpants and a crop top.
“So sexy,” Ama teased, looking me up and down.
“I’m too tired to care.” I grabbed my wallet as we headed for the door.
1/4
Chapter 21
“I’m so excited!” Ama squealed.
When we reached the hallway, Logan, his friends, and my dad were there. I was momentarily happy to see them until Martha emerged from the kitchen.
“Where are you two going?” she asked sharply.
“Shopping for birthday dresses,” I answered.
“There’ve been more rogue attacks lately. Maybe one of the boys should go with you,” Dad said, concern evident in his voice.
“They’ll be fine. She needs a nice dress.” Martha looked me up and down with disdain in
her eyes.
“Maybe I could join you for a bit?” Logan suggested.
“We don’t need protection,” I snapped, frustration building. “I’ve had the same training you have.”
“Ama…” Martha said her name with disgust, “might need it. If she gets hurt under our watch, her current pack won’t be pleased.”
I really hate her. She always finds ways to get under my skin.
“She’s right,” Logan said, stepping forward and patting my shoulder. I felt betrayed that he was siding with Martha.
“Samuel will go with them,” Dad announced, and my heart sank. Space was exactly what I
needed right now.
Why Samuel of all people? The last thing I need is to be around him when I’m trying to sort out my feelings.
“Fine,” Samuel said, leaning against the doorframe. His eyes immediately found mine.
“Let’s go,” Ama said, seemingly oblivious to my discomfort as she dragged me out the
door.
“I’ll drive,” Samuel announced, walking toward his sports car.
2/4
Chapter 21
Ama climbed into the back seat, leaving me the front passenger seat. Just great…
“To the mall!” Ama directed cheerfully.
Samuel nodded and pressed the accelerator. Ama’s phone rang, and as she chatted away in the backseat, it felt like Samuel and I were alone in the car.
You didn’t reply to my text, Samuel’s voice came through our mental link.
Sorry, Ama forced me out of bed. I’m feeling okay, still sore but not too bad, I replied.
You’ve been avoiding me. It wasn’t a question; I could hear the certainty in his tone.
You’re imagining things, I deflected, turning to look out the window.
Don’t lie. It started after Ryder showed up. Is there something between you two? He sounded irritated.
No! It’s not about Ryder. It’s about turning eighteen, and reality setting in. We might not
be mates, and if we’re not-
What do you feel for me? Samuel interrupted.
This is exactly the conversation I’ve been avoiding, my heart raced.
I mean… you’re a good friend. We had an agreement, just kissing, nothing more. No feelings, and if one of us developed feelings, we should end it. Do you have feelings? I wasn’t sure I wanted to hear the answer I already knew.
You damn well know I do, he growled, anger radiating from him.
My mind was racing, uncertain how to respond.
“What kind of dress are you thinking?” Thankfully, Ama ended her call and started asking
questions.
“It’s a formal event. Well, until the party starts at 11!” I quickly answered, turning back to
smile at her, stealing a glance at Samuel’s dark expression as he stared ahead at the road.
“Exactly. I’m thinking all black with some sparkle,” Ama said excitedly, using her fingers to outline a sweetheart or strapless neckline.
3/4
Chapter 21
“I’m not sure what I want. Just something I can dance in.”
“Better not be too revealing or Luna Martha will flip out,” Ama rolled her eyes.
“Then that’s exactly what I’ll do!” The mention of Martha stirred my rebellious streak.
“What?” Ama looked surprised at my response. “Actually, I’ve been thinking about wearing a crimson dress. Just to stand out, make a statement.” She quickly changed the subject.
“That would definitely be a statement.” I turned back to face forward as we pulled into the parking lot. Samuel parked quickly, and I unbuckled my seatbelt. Ama was already outside, ready to help me out.
“Or maybe a white dress?” I suggested, leaning on her shoulder as I struggled to get out.
“No, save that for your Luna ceremony.”
“Luna ceremony? Did you forget Logan’s older and will take the position?” We started walking toward the mall entrance with Samuel trailing behind us.
“I still think you’ll mate with an Alpha. Preferably Ryder, so we can live in the same pack!” Ama leaned in to whisper in my ear.
“I doubt I’ll end up his mate. No, with my luck, I’ll probably be stuck in this pack forever.”
Samuel held the door open for us, and we walked inside.
“I’m sure your mate will want to travel with you!” Ama tried to reassure me.
I glanced at Samuel, who frowned deeply.
If Samuel and I were mates, he definitely wouldn’t travel with me. We’ve discussed it
before, though he did say he wouldn’t force me to stay.
Chapter Comments
