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

See you at lunch." Ama waved goodbye as

Ama holding William's hand,

changing.

asked, bringing my

students were arriving at school. I only

still needed to grab

to the library. See you at lunch!"

the door.

followed right behind me until we reached the library. When

arrangements, supply lists, and attendance statistics for each activity for the remainder of this school year and the next. Usually,

to universities.

Mr. Davis immediately put

1. me.

"Ms. Harris, late again?"

I have something for you." I smiled as I approached him,

Please

had been taken by Helen's followers, and the only empty spot was next to Ryder. Just great,

the only one taking advanced

courses were designed to entice you to stay,"

Though what he said wasn't completely

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Chapter 44

had been under discussion before I arrived; my father had just

chair, crossing my

ignore Ryder's presence.

all so awkward. We'd had that non-date, and that kiss, but now we were sitting here like strangers or enemies. Worse still, he seemed to appear in almost

chance to stop me. I hadn't had time to go to my locker earlier, so now I needed to get my

the nerve to do something like this. My thoughts began to churn, wondering

Logan walked up

trying to