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

carried

our life together," Ryder said softly, placing a

my body, kindling hope for our future. Maybe, just maybe, home wasn't a place but a person-and with Ryder, I

are so sweet." I turned to see Logan with his arm around Penelope, both of

smiles.

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

Ryder replied, moving toward the box

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

an anguished wail pierced the air. "Her? You chose her over me?" Keira stood

air was palpable, and I felt a flash of concern for Penelope. Keira's desperation and anger were razor-sharp, and I worried what she might do

1/3

Chapter 97

emotional state.

destined mate, so yes,"

her glare venomous before she ran off sobbing. Penelope's face crumpled

Penelope to face him, concern

This must be so hard for her. Penelope

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. 'Maybe after you've completed

didn't look

Ryder said through our mind link. "I don't want