Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 152

Xena's POV

"What are we doing out here?" I asked, following Ryder as we wove rough the dense forest.

"I have a surprise for you," Ryder said with a casual shrug, but I caught the glimmer of anticipation in his eyes. We continued along the same path we'd taken last time, moving deeper into the woods. The familiar scent of pine and earth filled my lungs with each

breath.

We reached a clearing between the trees and paused. I took in the breathtaking view that spread out before us, the city sprawling

below like a miniature model.

"I'll never get tired of this view," I said softly, my eyes scanning across the horizon where the city lights were just beginning to twinkle as dusk approached.

"You don't have to," Ryder replied, already a few steps ahead, waiting for me to catch up.

"What do you mean?" I quickened my pace to reach him, curiosity dancing in my chest like a restless fawn.

proudly in the

I could barely speak, my breath caught in my throat. In complete shock, I ran my fingers lightly over the wooden railing that would soon become

I was seeing.

getaway. Just for us. Our second home, if you want it to be," Ryder said,

to comprehend it all, my gaze shifting to

climbed higher. "This is the living room. The master bedroom is over there. Two more bedrooms on that side, plus two

though I already had a suspicion what his answer

our kids. Or if you want to invite Ama and William up here." Ryder picked up a blanket I hadn't even noticed was there. He walked to what would eventually be the front porch and spread it out. I followed his lead and sat beside him, my mind whirling with the implication of his words. Kids. He was already thinking about our future, a

of the sky and the city below. The treetops cascaded with the slope of the hill, appearing like waves. Sitting here, it felt like we were the only two people in

spoke, he was looking directly at me. When my eyes met his, I choked up. Tears of happiness threatened to spill over. I don't think Ryder was prepared for my

I am," I whispered against his neck.

flipped us over so I was on my back. One arm cradled

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Chapter 152

pull back. Placing my hand on his cheek, my thumb traced his lips, "I love you too,"

pulling my tank top free from my pants. Then it snaked upward, finding my breast. "I'll never get tired of you," Ryder murmured between kisses as his lips moved