Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 25

Xena's POV

"You didn't reply to my text." Ryder's voice broke the silence as he leaned against the counter of my shop.

"No, I didn't." I moved past him, organizing the tools in my cart, the metal clanking as I put each one in its place.

"How are you feeling?" he pressed, his green eyes tracking my every movement.

"Just fine." I kept my voice neutral, focusing on my task rather than the way his presence seemed to fill the entire space.

"Damn it, Xena, can't you just give me a straight answer?" His voice rose in frustration, causing William and Ama to pause their flirting and look over at us.

I slammed a wrench down harder than necessary. "What do you want from me, Ryder? I'm fine. A few broken ribs isn't anything new to me. As a warrior, I go through this kind of thing every other week. I'm not some fragile girl who's going to fall apart or needs a man hovering over her. You disappeared after dropping me off at home. Maybe you're the one who should be explaining yourself."

The words burst out of me with more force than I intended, my anger rising to the surface. Ryder fell silent, and I refused to look at him as I aggressively wiped down my work cart. In my fury, I twisted too quickly, sending a sharp pain radiating through my ribcage. I had to brace myself against the wall, breathing deeply until the stabbing sensation subsided.

"Need some ice?" Ama's voice was soft, uncertain.

“I'm fine.” Not wanting them to see the tears pricking at my eyes, I hurried to the bathroom.

It was a mixture of pain and anger. The pressure of my upcoming birthday and finding my mate was making me irritable. The anxiety was like an invisible hand, squeezing my throat until I couldn't breathe. I pulled open the drawer and found the Tylenol. Two 500mg pills would help.

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Chapter 25

Eventually, the tears dried, and I fixed my face. Part of me hoped they would be gone when I returned, but they were all still there.

skip the club and have a picnic in the forest

full of concern.

all the Rogue attacks?" I doubted

know a safe spot I could take you girls,"

waist.

Sounds like a couple thing." I said, thinking how some time alone would help clear my head. These

don't want to

you out,"

head, looking at

go. Enjoy your time together. I'll finish

haven't done much," Ama

than I have. Really,

His offer seemed to seal the deal, and William took

candy store.

walked to the bathroom and tossed the rag into the sink. “What work do you have to do?" Ryder

exit.

everything's in order. Balancing accounts. That sort of thing." I didn't meet his eyes as I pushed past him,

you have left?" He followed close

of it. But it'll only take

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7:23 pm Chapter 25

any appointments?" Ryder checked

Both just finishing touches. Won't take long. You don't

a harsh

stay with you since the Rogues have gotten too close to town. I guess Samuel isn't up for the job."

mention of Samuel's name, my fingers paused over the keyboard for

reaction that didn't