Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 40

Xena's POV

"Yeah. I just find it hard to open up," I finally said, breaking the silence between us. "I

want to. I want you to hold me and kiss me and tell me everything will be okay. But what happens when Friday comes and you can't give me that anymore because you've found

your mate? Where does that leave me?"

My voice trembled slightly despite my efforts to keep it steady. I'd never been this

vulnerable with anyone before. It felt like I was cutting open my chest and showing him

my heart, not knowing if he'd protect it or crush it in his hands.

Ryder sighed, turning to face forward, hands resting on his knees. "I'm sorry."

up, ready to leave, to run away

I

sudden it caught me off guard. One arm circled my waist, pulling me toward him; his other hand wrapped around my neck, fingers tangling in my hair, gently tugging my head back. And then his lips crashed against mine

experienced.

moment his lips touched mine, I melted into him. My arms instinctively wrapped around his neck as I surrendered to his embrace. A soft moan escaped my throat, my eyelids

Samuel. It sparked hope within me - hope that Ryder could be my destined mate. Deep inside, a certainty I'd never known before began to grow. Maybe this was fate's

rough bark against

to say,

head, pulling him back up to my

1/2

Chapter 40

filled the air between us, enticing him. I could feel his hardness. pressing against me, and

me to my feet. He braced one hand against the tree above my head, supporting himself, while his other hand remained on my waist. His touch was

I've never felt this way before,"

a sincerity that surprised even myself. Ryder didn't respond