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."

worse than I'd anticipated. I stood up, ready to leave, to run away from

before I could take a

yanked me back, his movement so 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,

experienced.

around his neck as I surrendered

my destined mate. Deep inside, a certainty I'd never known before began to grow. Maybe this

bent down, his hands encircling my thighs. He lifted me up, pressing me against a nearby tree. The rough bark against my back was a stark contrast to the softness of his lips as they moved from my mouth to my

further," I managed to say, though everything

grabbed his head, pulling him back up to my lips for another scorching

1/2

Chapter 40

enticing him. I could feel his hardness. pressing against me, and it took every ounce of willpower not to grind against

He braced one hand against the tree above my head, supporting himself, while his other

don't regret it. I've never felt this way

The words rushed out of me with a sincerity that surprised even myself. Ryder didn't respond verbally, but