Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 99

Xena's POV

"Are you doing okay?" Ama pulled out a tissue, then dug into her bag and produced a white silky loose-fitting shirt with matching shorts. The back of the shirt had "Luna" emblazoned across it in elegant script.

"I have a matching set too, but mine doesn't say Luna! Ama held up her version, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"I love it," I whispered, feeling a rush of warmth spreading through my chest. It wasn't just the gift itself, but how Ama always seemed to know exactly what would resonate with me. Being Luna was still a new identity I was adjusting to, and this gift felt like an affirmation of that transition.

"Great! Now I'm going to shower, and we'll open the rest of the gifts when I get back!" She dashed out of the room before I could respond.

I grabbed the lotion and started moisturizing, slipping into the soft pajamas while my skin was still damp I was blow-drying my hair when Ama returned, her skin flushed from the hot water.

"Oh good, you've started already," she

"You wouldn't let me open presents," I replied, feeling a childlike anticipation bubbling inside me while simultaneously enjoying the suspense.

"Actually, we can wait until everyone's here."

"Fine." I smiled, knowing that gift-giving was Ama's love language, and I didn't want to ruin her excitement.

"Sit here." Ama pointed to the chair. I finished drying my hair and sat down. She started curling my hair, her fingers working with practiced precision.

A knock on the door interrupted us. Ama ran to answer it. A kitchen staff member stood there with a tray of fruit and vegetables.

"Alpha Ryder asked me to bring you ladies some snacks," she said, her voice respectful.

"Thank you," I replied.

"You're welcome, Luna Xena. If you need anything else, please let me know."

I still felt goosebumps rise on my skin.

"Odessa."

Odessa." I smiled at her as

Ama said, popping a strawberry

hair, she

happy here?" The question emerged from somewhere deep

me.

me through

happened so quickly, and. My voice trailed off, uncertain how to articulate

1/3

Chapter 99

kids. Your fear of commitment showing again. I thought you were happy with Ryder. He treats you like a

is to new.

him? Her

course," I

really told him? Not just 'I love you tho

just frowned. Had 1? I searched my memory, and

simply echoed the sentiment. i had never initiated that expression of

you need to make this place fee

of being separated from him left an ache I couldn't quite

always just a phone call away. Your twin brother isn't going to disappear. It'll be a change, but it'll be a good change."Ama finished curling her

she worked on my makeup, I couldn't talk, so we sat in comfortable silence. She gave me a smoky eye with perfect winged liner. My red lips would match my dress perfectly. Black earrings completed the look. Ama took down my curls, leaving a few strands to

up my artwork," Ama joked,

sat down to watch her work. She left most of her hair down, only pulling

as she finished her makeup, the door opened.

walked over to me. My heart raced-every time he looked at me like that, I felt like the

her makeup!" Ama shouted as Ryder leaned

anyway. His kiss made me forget all my worries, making me want