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."

to run away from this suffocating feeling of

I could

his breath. Then he 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

experienced.

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

was something I'd never felt with Samuel. It sparked hope within me - hope that Ryder could be my destined mate. Deep inside, a certainty

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

further," I managed to say, though everything in my

head, pulling him back up to my lips for another

1/2

Chapter 40

him. I could feel his hardness. pressing against me, and it took every ounce

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,

never felt

a sincerity that surprised even myself. Ryder didn't respond verbally, but he gave me several gentle kisses, each one like a silent promise