Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 31

Xena's POV

"That red dress looks damn good." Samuel walked over to join our conversation. He kept a respectful distance, but it felt good to be talking with him again. Apparently I hadn't lost. a good friend after all.

"Martha is going to lose her mind. I can't wait to see her reaction," I said. "But there's been a change with the dance decorations. They didn't have the deep blue we needed, so they're going with emerald green and gold instead of silver."

"That makes your black dress even more perfect," Ama said excitedly.

"It does work well," I agreed. "You guys all have your suits ready?" I asked Samuel.

"Yeah, we're all set. We even rented a limo," Samuel told me.

"Nice. Ama, are you getting ready at my place or heading back to your pack?" I turned to ask Ama.

"I have to get ready with you. You can't handle your own hair and makeup. Whether it's at my place or yours, I'm not sure yet."

"I could... try..." I made a face that had both Samuel and Ama laughing. I could feel myself relaxing, finally starting to enjoy the evening.

"Want to dance?" Ama asked me.

"I'm good. You go ahead." My ribs were much better, but I still didn't feel like dancing.

"No, I was just checking if you wanted to." This was clearly a lie, but I decided not to call

her out on it. Ama was always like this, putting me first, sometimes even more than I did

myself.

bikes need maintenance," I

He was always good with things like

"Thanks!"

1/4

Chapter 31

practically becoming your personal server!" Jovie walked

tip you well!" I

thought. We have a bartender who

in for tonight!" It actually sounded fun. I turned towards Logan and called out, "Bartender called in sick, I'm going to

'Ugly Coyote'

burst out laughing. "Ugly Coyote?" William

danced on

good money that night, okay?" I tried to defend myself, but it wasn't

successful.

followed Jovie toward

Kade was our

"It's fine!"

would be an understatement. No one questioned me; they just greeted me and told me how good I looked. I made a series of

could see one of the guys watching me. Samuel, Ryder, and Logan took turns keeping an eye on me, like they were protecting me. Leonard was frequently distracted by some girl. If I didn't like

until last call that I realized how late it had gotten. Kade handled the remaining customers while I finished cleaning up the bar. It seemed to be Ryder's

now.

"Ryder!" I called out.

"What's up?"

Chapter 31

change out the beer keg? I can't lift it right now." I pointed to my ribs. They were much better, but I didn't want to risk it. And if I'm being honest, I liked watching him