Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 33

Xena's POV

Ama sat on the ground, rubbing her injured ankle in frustration. "Damn it," she muttered, clearly annoyed. William was still pacing back and forth, patrolling the area with watchful

eyes.

Leonard's girl-Cindy-looked much better than before. She was now clinging to Leonard, sobbing into his chest as he comforted her.

Ryder and I straddled the fallen tree trunk. He gently tilted my chin up as I kept my hands at my sides to avoid flashing anyone. His movements were incredibly gentle as he

removed pieces of glass from my face one by one.

"By tomorrow morning, most of these marks will be gone," I said, trying to make it sound

like no big deal.

"What about your ribs?" He completely ignored my comment, his eyes flickering with

concern I couldn't ignore.

"They don't hurt that much, actually," I said, while mentally debating whether to tell him

the truth-that each breath felt like a knife slicing through me.

"Probably still the adrenaline working," Leonard mumbled. Looking up, I saw him

watching Ryder's "work" intently.

"Hmm," Ryder hummed softly. He'd moved to my neck and collarbone, even having to shift

my T-shirt. "Anywhere else?"

shirt open with one hand to check.

I wasn't about

checking?" Leonard joked. His date immediately slapped

arm.

It's not like

me," I said with a laugh as I

1/3

7:30 pm

Chapter 33

you two mates? The chemistry between you

between Ryder and me.

I felt a little disappointed when Ryder

saying nothing.

keeping my voice flat despite

Cindy clearly wanted to

house?" Ama suddenly interrupted. I

and felt relieved.

bit longer." William and Ryder were walking around like they were searching for danger. The hooting of

sat there, the more the adrenaline faded, and the soreness crept in. My back ached no matter

but it was better than the tree trunk. I was at a slight downward angle and had

rush to my

you okay?" Opening my eyes, I found Ryder looking at me. His hand twitched like he wanted to touch me, but with so many eyes on us, he

want to shower and sleep," I closed my eyes, letting my hearing amplify to sense

quiet of the night.

Ama joined me, and we huddled together. The next thing I knew, headlights were

boomed,

sat up, waving at my father and calling back loudly, trying my best