Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 150

Xena's POV

"I didn't say that,” I annotinced, pulling my helmet off as we approached the construction site. The air was filled with the sound of drills, saws, and the scent of sawdust. In the distance, we could see the top of the building taking shape against the sky.

"Oh?" Ryder's response was casual, but I could tell he was waiting for me to elaborate.

We began walking up the slope towards the site. I just meant that when we go on trips, we can take the motorcycle, Honestly, 1

mother said." wasn't giving much thought to what your

"Okay."

"What do you think we should do?" I asked, looking up at him.

you." Ryder wasn't budging. His words were like a wall,

said, trying to keep the frustration out of my voice, hoping he would

your way. If I said, we're doing it this way, you would immediately pull back. No, I know you. You need to do things your way, in

just silently followed behind him. What he said was true. Many times I thought I'd changed, but I hadn't at all.

past the warning signs and approached

were coming today." The burly man inside had an angry expression that instantly transformed into respectful deference when he saw Ryder. He extended his hand to shake Ryder's first. "Mr. Roderick, this is my wife, Xena."

said, extending my hand. He

married," he said, looking directly at Ryder. His belly hung over his jeans, somehow held up by

are we coming along? I'd like a tour, thank you."

us outside. I followed just a step behind, observing everything. "We've

examine them. The community center was massive. According to the plans, there would be a central space the size of a football field that could be divided into two separate

called out, still studying the

is it? A flicker of confusion crossed Ryder's eyes, but his