Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 36

Xena's POV

I was feeling exceptionally good today, which might explain why I decided to blow-dry my hair. Though Ama was always trying to teach me how to use a curling iron, I still preferred my curling rod. After setting it down, I applied a light touch of makeup, just a simple black eyeliner-the only makeup I ever felt comfortable wearing.

Glancing at my watch, I had about thirty minutes to prepare. I sat at my desk and started working, but even though the task wasn't complex, I found it difficult to concentrate with my mind completely occupied by thoughts of the upcoming date. After making three mistakes, I finally finished reconciling the accounts.

"Ryder is here," Dad informed me through our mental link.

My heart rate instantly accelerated, and my breathing quickened. Calm down, X, don't look too eager, I told myself. But the excitement bubbling within me was impossible to suppress, making my fingers tremble slightly.

"Give me a minute, I'll be right down. Is my motorcycle out front?" I responded.

"I pushed it out myself and checked it over."

"Thanks, Dad!” I quickly sent the account books and rushed to the bathroom to remove my curling rod. Looking at myself in the mirror, I silently thanked the Moon God for blessing me with a perfect hair day. My curls looked amazing, matching my excellent

mood.

Grabbing my lightweight riding jacket, I forced myself to walk out calmly, not wanting them to see how excited I actually was. Despite my efforts to hide it, I knew my eyes were probably sparkling with barely concealed excitement, and the corners of my mouth kept turning upward.

Fortunately, Ryder's style complemented mine perfectly-he wore riding jeans and a T-shirt. His leather riding jacket rested on his motorcycle, and he already had his riding

gloves on.

said, handing

1/3

Chapter 36

you're going?" Martha suddenly shrieked from the doorway. I mentally rolled

nonchalantly while putting on my jacket.

leave her alone," Dad

the account books yet," she

I swiftly straddled my motorcycle and started the engine. Dad handed me my helmet, which I put on after shaking out my hair. Ryder

transparent visor of my helmet, and we finally took

Samuel watching us from the training grounds. Thankfully, they didn't try to

look beautiful," Ryder said through the microphone. It felt good to be appreciated by such a

teenager.

I'm trying out. They breathe

couldn't see the smile hidden beneath

was a gentleness

lunch at The Salt Lick?" he

BBQ. The choice seemed too

avoid sounding too excited. "Your dad

you manage that? Asking my dad

asked if I could take you riding, said I