Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 80

Xena's POV

Sitting in Ryder's car, I could feel myself leaving that world behind with each mile marker we passed. A new chapter was beginning, and the first order of business was getting out of this damn dress and into something that actually felt like me. The second I stepped through his front door, I made a beeline for his bedroom to change. I could sense him following me, his footsteps quiet but purposeful behind mine, but I was too focused on my mission to care. Though I did leave the door open for him. That was intentional.

As I rummaged through my bag for the clothes I wanted, he brushed past me and started unbuttoning his shirt, his fingers working methodically down the row of buttons. Then came his pants. I tried not to look I really did - but my traitorous eyes couldn't help stealing glances at the sculpted muscles of his back, the way they flexed and shifted

beneath his skin as he moved.

Shit. I need to get out of here before I do something stupid.

I ducked into the bathroom, locking the door behind me with trembling fingers. When I caught my reflection in the mirror, I hardly recognized the woman staring back at me. Her lips were cracked, with healing cuts at the corners. Dark shadows hung beneath her eyes, and her skin looked dull, lifeless. I took a deep breath, steadying myself against the sink.

Get it together, Xena. This isn't you. You're stronger than this.

I stripped off the dress, relieved to be free of the fabric that felt like it belonged to someone else's life, and pulled on a pair of shorts and a sports bra top. My muscles protested with every movement, still sore and healing, but I ignored the pain. Today was a working day, and I wasn't about to let a few bruises stop me. And I sure as hell wasn't going to let Ryder tell me I couldn't.

Time to face him.

When I emerged from the bathroom, he was sitting on the edge of the bed, already changed into basketball shorts and a tank top that did nothing to hide the definition in

his arms and chest.

"What's your plan for today?" I asked, setting my bag down beside the door.

1/3

4:16 pm L

Chapter 80

resting on his knees, green eyes locked on mine. "Cleared my schedule.

up my shop," I stated, waiting for the argument I was sure

follow.

"Alright, let's go."

guard by his easy agreement.

nodded

inner alarm bells were ringing.

That I'd lock you in here?" He stood up

each step deliberate, predatory.

least try," I admitted, suddenly very aware of how little

separated us.

would have a hundred

he'd simply command it.

breath sending shivers racing down my spine.

an octave lower. "You'll be moaning my

betrayed me. Heat

him straighten up with that satisfied smirk

strode toward the door.

him. How does he do that? How can he make me want him