Chapter 278 Xena's POV "Thank you, Jericho whispered, his voice breaking with relief. 'Thank you so much.* 'We need to move quickly,' Logan said, already turning toward the exit. "If what you're saying is true about the bond, tis critical." Ryder stepped forward. "What about Wiley's remaining forces? We killed him and Tatum, but there could still be loyalists." "With both Wiley and Tatum dead, they'll be looking explained.
new leadership. Smight scatter, others might try to claim power for themselves, Jericho "Then we need to secure that facility completely," I said. "We can't leave those weapons and serums for someone else to find." Logan nodded. 'I'll send teams to sweep the entire compound. But first, let's get to Tansy." 'I want to go with you," I said firmly, my voice cutting through the sudden silence in the room.
Both Logan and Ryder turned to stare atwith identical expressions of shock and concern. "Absolutely not," Ryder said immediately, moving closer to my bed. "You just got out of surgery. You need to rest. Xena, you're in no condition to-" Logan began.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"I am the Luna," I interrupted, my voice growing stronger despite the pain radiating through my body. "I have the right to be involved in all decisions that affect our territory and our people. And let's not forget-I'm the one who killed both Wiley and Tatum." The words hung in the air like a challenge. Both men looked at each other, then back at me, clearly recognizing the steel in my voice.
"This isn't about your rank," Ryder said softly, his eyes pleading. "This is about your safety. You almost died." "But I didn't die," I replied coldly. "And I won't be sidelined anymore. Penelope is my friend, and this affects all of us. I'm going.
Logan sighed heavily, running his hand through his hair. "Xena-* "The decision is made," I said with finality. "Either you takewith you, or I'll find my own way there. Your choice." Ryder's jaw clenched, and I could see the internal battle playing across his features. Finally, Logan spoke up. "Fine," he said reluctantly. "But you follow medical protocols. No arguments." Ryder looked like he wanted to protest further, but he nodded grimly. "I'll get the doctor to prep you for transport." 'I'll take Jericho to the helicopter, Logan said, already heading toward the door with Jericho following behind.
After they left, I pushed the covers aside with my right hand. The moment I tried to move, every muscle in my body screamed in protest. It felt like I'd been hit by a freight train. Pain shot through my ribs, my legs felt like jelly, and my left arm... I caught sight of it in my peripheral vision, the stark white cast and the empty space where my hand should be.
My heart sank, and a dark cloud settled over my mood. The reality of my loss hitlike a physical blow, but I forced myself to push those thoughts aside. I had to focus on the task at hand.
Using my right hand to support myself, I muttered "Fuck" under my breath and began the agonizing process of moving toward the edge of the bed. Every inch was a battle, my body protesting with waves of pain that madedizzy.
Just as I was struggling to find my balance, Ryder returned with a m doctor. "What are you doing?" he said, his voice rimed with concern as he quickly moved to support me. "You shouldn't be moving on your own." 1/2 Chapter 278
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"Don't touch me," I snapped, irritation flaring in my chest. The words cout harsher than I intended, but m We couldn't stop them. I tried to push him crt with my good hand, desperately wanting to prove I could stand on my own. But Ryder didn't back away. Instead, he steadiedwith gentle but firm hands, his touch careful around my injuries. His refusal to listen to my harsh words only made my anger spike higher.
I said don't touch me!" I hissed, pushing against him with more force.
The movement threw off my already precarious balance, and I pitched forward toward the floor. Ryder's arms immediately wrapped around my waist, catchingbefore I could fall.
We were frozen like thatleaning against his chest, his strong arms holdingsteady, I looked up to meet his eyes, those beauts h thes eyes eyes that were looking atwith such tenderness and concern. There was no anger there despite my outburst, no frustration at my unreasonable behavior, just love and worry. Chapter Comments 3