Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Ryder's POV

"Alright, I'm off to work. See you later, kids!” Mom smiled at us as she walked out the door.

Xena turned in her seat, swinging her leg over to straddle my lap. Care to tell me why you're lying?" Her blue eyes locked with mine, blazing with determination.

"Can't there be a little mystery in our relationship?" I sighed, standing up and bringing her with me. I knew I shouldn't keep things from her, but my instinct to shield her from any harm was overwhelming. I grabbed her hand and pulled her up.

"No, there can't be," she replied-firmly, her voice carrying that edge finality I couldn't resist.

I led her up the stairs to my library, our hands still connected.

"Why are you bringing me here?" Xena asked, herreyes taking in the shelves of books lining the walls.

I closed the door behind us and locked it. "It's a relaxing place, and since I know you're not going to let me handle this on my own, I wanted to tell you here." I sat down on one side of the sofa and patted the other side for her to join me. My heart raced, uncertain how to begin this difficult conversation.

"I don't like this feeling," Xena said, sitting across from me with one leg tucked under her. She rested her arm on the back of the couch, supporting her head with her hand. Her beautiful face was etched with wariness, and I could practically feel her tension.

"I don't either, but I told you we're equals, and I meant it. Honestly, I'd rather not tell you this at all, just because I want you happy and unburdened." I tried to keep my voice steady.

"I appreciate that, but spit it out."

narrowed, and I could feel

could defuse the situation"

her eyes, looking out the

that what happened at Viola was just boys being

head back toward me in shock. I held up a finger and continued, “...he said his son has taken an interest in you and there's no harm in that. He essentially ended by saying, may the best

at me, astonished.

that you're my mate, but will try to win you instead. My hands curled into

just staring at me.

forbidden you from doing any work on his

"Obviously."-

to have a bodyguard with you at all times." Xena opened her mouth to argue, but 1 pressed my finger

1/2

Chapter 120

and warm

your dad... basically everyone agrees

sanity. 1-1 can't lose you, Xena. Please don't fight me on this. I grabbed her hand, being as sincere as possible. My voice trembled slightly with the intensity of my

joined hands. She was having an internal battle. I could see her brow furrowing slightly, her

and moved to straddle my lap. My hands went to her hips, and she