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 in

softly, placing a gentle kiss on my

my body, kindling hope for our future. Maybe, just maybe, home

see Logan with his arm around Penelope,

smiles.

said as Ryder dropped his hands. "We should go. Did you answer her

moving toward the box

you tonight, X," Logan said, pulling me into a quick hug before opening the door. Ryder picked up the box

an anguished wail pierced the air. "Her? You chose her over me?" Keira stood there, her face streaked with tears, looking like she'd been

but that didn't make it any easier. The tension in the air was palpable, and I felt

1/3

Chapter 97

emotional state.

so yes,"

glare venomous before she

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

for her. Penelope gazed down the

interjected, my tone perhaps sharper than 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.

didn't

said through our mind link.