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."

I stood up, ready to leave, to run away from this suffocating feeling of worthlessness that threatened to consume me.

my hand before I could take

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, gently tugging my head back. And then his lips

experienced.

him. My arms instinctively wrapped around his neck as I surrendered to his

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

The rough bark against my back was a stark contrast to the softness of his lips as they moved from my

further," I managed to say, though

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

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Chapter 40

his hardness. pressing against me, and

to my feet. He braced one hand against the tree above my head, supporting himself, while his

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