Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 76

Xena's POV

"Your body is perfect," he whispered against my neck, his lips trailing a path of fire down my skin. The sensation sent shivers through me, but my mind was already miles away. Thoughts of the upcoming funeral, of our lost friend, filled me with a bitterness that made it impossible to lose myself in pleasure. Not now.

"No, I need to shower," I pushed him away and quickly got up from the bed before he

could pull me back down. Ama would be here any minute, and I needed to be ready. Since I couldn't find a robe and Ryder wasn't around, I grabbed one of his shirts and slipped it

1. on.

I had just managed to put on my underwear when there was a knock at the door. "Hey," I greeted Ama as I opened the door.

"Good, you've already showered," she said, her eyes taking in my appearance. "Yes, ma'am," I gave her a small smile.

"About your shop... I'm sorry," Ama set down the things she'd brought, her voice wavering slightly.

"Me too." The words felt like a stab to my heart. I sat down in the chair, watching as she

unpacked her makeup.

"So, you and Ryder..."

"Yeah, looks like it," I answered quietly.

"Can I call you Luna now?" she asked, a hint of lightness breaking through her somber

tone.

"Wait until tomorrow."

turned her attention to my hair, her hands

always knew you were destined to be Luna," Ama said softly, and in

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Chapter 76

shimmering in her eyes alongside a flash

again," I said, meeting her eyes in the

I've really missed

brought waterproof makeup," I half-joked, knowing we'd both be crying

though sadness lingered

silence, and I just stared at my reflection. None of this felt real. I never thought we'd be attending his funeral before we

we were learning

curling the last strand of my hair and finishing my makeup when

she was handing

going?" Ryder entered, pausing when he saw

to Ama, so

change," I said, noting how Ryder's eyebrow

with desire I

to get going. You girls should arrive early

eyes still fixed on

the bathroom, closing the door. Getting out

black dress, sleeveless and well-fitted. It hung a bit loose but

in to change as

them on. Ama changed into a similar dress and

her hair

There was a knock!

"Ready?" William asked gently.

opened the

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Chapter 76