Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 57

Xena's POV

"Are you okay?" he asked me.

"Yeah," I answered softly, my body giving one final shudder before settling down. My breathing gradually steadied, and my eyes slowly drifted closed.

"Sleep," he said, his hand continuing to stroke my back gently as I quickly fell asleep. It was the most peaceful night I'd ever experienced.

The next morning, I woke up alone. It was still dark outside, but I felt a chill. The clock read 6:21 AM. I decided to work out, so I got up. Not wanting to smell like sweat, I took a quick shower and tied my hair in a messy bun. Dressed in a sports bra, tank top, and shorts, I was pretty much ready.

There were no messages on my phone. I tucked it into the running belt at my waist, put on my headphones, and slipped on my shoes. The hallway was pitch black and silent as I made my way to the training room.

Fortunately, the training room was empty. I climbed onto a treadmill, put on my

I noticed headphones, and started a slow jog to warm up. Halfway through my run, movement beside me. I glanced over to see a muscular guy nod at me before getting on the treadmill next to mine and starting to run. Soon enough, the place began to fill up gradually.

I got off the treadmill and picked up two 30-pound dumbbells to start my shoulder

workout.

"You sure you can handle that weight?" A cocky-looking guy approached me. He looked about 18, the typical player type.

Great, another know-it-all, I thought to myself.

"I think I'll manage," I said, removing one earbud so I could hear him clearly.

spot you?"

a cliché pickup line.

1/3

Chapter 57

don't think you'd be much

room stopped what they were doing to watch the exchange

What's

introduced himself politely, but that condescending attitude

out, continuing with

I can train you for free." He picked up a ten-pound dumbbell and held it out

Though it seems your legs need more work than

taunted.

her place!" His

use a good fight. "Let's see if you can take me down, pretty boy." I put down the dumbbells and stood up. I removed my headphones,

his credit, he caught himself in time and quickly got

his arm in a submission

was so loud I

the fuck is going on here?" He stood at the front. "Xena, let him

the

1. up.

said with a smile. I promptly released

2/3

Chapter 57

aside.

what happened?" Ryder