Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 160

Xena's POV

"Remember that tree at Samuel's house?" Logan asked, his voice low and gentle.

“Um,” I responded quietly, my mind instantly traveling back to countless afternoons spent beneath its sprawling branches.

"Samuel's dad is going to bury it," Logan continued, watching my face carefully.

"Where?" The question slipped from my lips in a whisper, my voice trembling despite my best efforts to remain composed.

"He wants to place it on the hilftop overlooking our territory."

I nodded slowly, picturing the peaceful hill with its panoramic view of the lands we'd grown up in. "That would be a perfect spot." In my mind, I could see the tree standing sentinel, watching over us all just as Samuel had always done.

"He also asked me to tell you that he forgives you. I think he'll call you soon." Logan offered me a half-smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

I stopped walking abruptly, my feet frozen to the floor outside the office. "What?" The tears threatened to spill, but I forced them back with sheer willpower. After everything that had happened at the funeral, this unexpected forgiveness felt like a weight lifting from my chest.

"Well, isn't this nice." A voice I'd hoped never to hear again tore my attention away from Logan. The office door swung open, and Tatum stepped out. A chill ran down my spine at the sight of him, my defenses immediately locking into place.

"Tatum." Logan's voice was firm, and I could feel the tension radiating from him, his body coiled like a predator ready to strike.

"I was hoping I'd run into you today." Tatum smiled at me, his slicked-back hair and tailored blue suit looking ridiculously out of place in the school hallway, yet somehow no one seemed to find it strange.

Ryder moving to stand in front of me protectively, and I didn't protest. Instead, I reached for his hand, drawing

remained fixed, his tone deliberately

my schedule is packed today. If you'll

one followed me inside, and I

I help you with today?" The secretary gave me a warm smile. She was an older woman with gray

need to take our exams remotely. I just wanted to let you know so you

can be arranged. Who all needs this?” She pulled out a sheet of

I'm not sure about my brother's

Leonard."

I'll send everything over. Anything else?" Her

out our lockers, and we're still planning to attend

1/2

Chapter 160

a teacher to supervise the exams. The secretary looked concerned,

door.

needed. Just let me know, and I'll arrange a time that works for everyone. It really wasn't

"Thank you for understanding."

nice day." I walked back

asked, his eyes never leaving Tatum,

tell he was restraining his

asked, eager to get away from

replied, gripping my arm a little