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."

run away from this suffocating feeling of worthlessness that threatened

my hand before I could take

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 in the

experienced.

My arms instinctively wrapped around his neck as I surrendered to his embrace. A soft moan escaped my throat, my eyelids fluttering at the intensity

destined mate. Deep inside, a certainty I'd never known before began to grow. Maybe this was fate's guidance? Maybe he was the

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

to say, though

more. I grabbed his head, pulling him back up to

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Chapter 40

his hardness. pressing against me, and it took every ounce of willpower not to

Ryder lowered 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 like electricity, making every

never felt

neither. I really hope you turn out to be mine." The words rushed out of me with a sincerity that surprised even myself. Ryder didn't respond verbally, but he gave me several gentle kisses, each one like a silent promise that made