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.

protectively, and I didn't protest. Instead, I reached for his hand, drawing strength from his

the rush?" His smile remained fixed, his

packed today. If you'll excuse us.” I moved around Logan and walked

and I finally had a

today?" The secretary gave me a warm smile.

to let you know so you can email them to us, and we'll take

can be arranged. Who all needs this?”

and myself. I'm not sure about my brother's plans. I believe he'll do the same, along with Penelope

Leonard."

send everything over. Anything else?" Her pen hovered

I've cleared out our lockers, and we're still planning to attend graduation. I've submitted all the extra assignments, so

1/2

Chapter 160

supervise the exams. The secretary looked concerned, glancing toward

door.

me know, and I'll arrange a time that works for everyone. It really

"Thank you for understanding."

a nice day." I walked back out to join the

Ryder asked, his eyes never

I could tell he

I asked, eager to get away from

a little harder than usual. Though annoyed,