Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 44

Xena's POV

It was a peaceful morning, nothing special. The fresh morning breeze was already beginning to warm. We'd arrived at school early, so after parking our motorcycles, we sat at the picnic table to finish breakfast. The sunlight fell gently on my face, feeling especially wonderful.

"Thanks for the muffin," I said to Samuel.

"Well, it wasn't actually for you. I snatched it while the kitchen workers were busy scolding someone else for stealing food." Though the kitchen staff was strict, the food

they made was truly amazing.

I couldn't help but smile slightly as I took a bite of the muffin. I thought to myself that breaking rules felt surprisingly good, this small act of rebellion bringing me a hint of pleasure, like finding a bit of freedom in an environment full of restrictions. "So, are you planning to wear that red dress?" Samuel asked, his eyes gleaming with some meaningful look.

My heart suddenly tightened as I remembered trying on that dress a few days ago. The

red dress was too eye-catching.

"Speaking of which, did Logan say something to Dad?" I narrowed my eyes, feeling uneasy

inside.

"Why do you ask?"

"Dad mentioned some things to me."

"So you'll wear the red dress." Samuel nodded, his gaze moving past me to look behind.

Ama was walking over with Ryder and William.

"You guys are here early!" Ama gave me a side hug but didn't sit down.

“Because I didn't have you holding me back," I teased. When I looked up at her, I had to

squint against the sunlight.

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Chapter 44

you at lunch." Ama waved goodbye as they

muffin. Watching them leave, Ama holding William's hand, made me feel a

changing.

Samuel asked, bringing

arriving at school. I only had five minutes of

I still needed to grab my books and print

to go to the library. See

the door.

whole way, he followed right behind me until

organizational arrangements, supply lists, and attendance statistics for each activity for the remainder of

to universities.

Davis immediately put down his glasses and

1. me.

"Ms. Harris, late again?"

something for you." I smiled as I approached him, handing over

Please have

discovered my usual seat had been taken by Helen's followers, and

the only one taking

to entice you to stay,"

body tensed. Though what he said

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Chapter 44

courses had been under discussion before I arrived; my father had just given the

I leaned back against my chair, crossing

ignore Ryder's presence.

had that non-date, and that kiss, but now we were sitting here like

up and rushed out the door, not giving anyone a chance to stop me. I hadn't had time to go to my locker earlier, so now I needed to get my books. When I turned the corner, I saw a group of girls laughing

something like this. My thoughts began to churn,

walked up

I sighed, trying to suppress the panic