Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Xena's POV

"Logan?" Penelope's voice floated through the open doorway, Logan cooped up the photo album filled with memories and stepped outside to meet her.

I lingered behind, watching their interaction from my bedroom. Penelope's forehead was creased with concern as she asked, "What's wrong? You look worried."

"Just thinking about tonight's party," Logan replied, his voice carrying a casual tone that didn't quite mask his anxiety.

"Everything's coming along perfectly!" Penelope's face lit up with enthusiasm.

"I have no doubt. You're always excellent at whatever you do." The warmth in Logan's voice as he spoke to her made my heart swell. I left them to their conversation, returning to gather the remaining items I wanted to take with me.

Logan had placed a cardboard box in front of my bookshelf earlier. I methodically transferred my books into it until it was stuffed to capacity, feeling the weight of each memory as I packed away pieces of my life.

Without a word, Ryder moved the box to the doorway, his movements fluid and natural. "Anything else you want to bring?" he asked, those intense green eyes scanning the room.

think that's it," I said, surveying what remained. There wasn't much left. I'd always known I would leave someday, so I'd never accumulated many possessions.

The realization left a bitter taste in my mouth. Over eighteeen years of life, and everything I truly valued could be carried away in a few trips. What did that say about my existence here?

Ryder gently cupped my face between his hands. "Are you okay?" His ability to sense my emotions was uncanny, but he respected my boundaries, never pushing too deep without permission.

"Yeah, I'm fine. It's just... I suddenly realized I never really put down roots here. I always knew this was temporary, and everything

be carried

said softly, placing a gentle kiss on

hope for our future. Maybe, just maybe, home wasn't a place but

with his arm around

smiles.

Ryder dropped his hands. "We should go. Did you

toward the box

a quick hug before opening the door. Ryder picked up the box but insisted I walk ahead of him. Logan followed with Penelope's hand clasped firmly in

You chose her over me?" Keira stood there, her face streaked with

tension in the air was palpable, and I felt a flash of concern for Penelope.

1/3

Chapter 97

emotional state.

destined mate, so yes," Logan stated

glare venomous before she ran

upset?' Logan turned Penelope to face him, concern etched on his

is broken. You were together for so long. This must be so hard for her. Penelope gazed down the hallway where Keira had disappeared.

intended. The thought of what Keira might do in retaliation sent my protective instincts into overdrive. I couldn't let sweet Penelope walk into potential danger. 'Maybe after you've completed the bond,"

didn't look

Ryder said through our mind link. "I