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.

I reached for his hand, drawing strength

His smile remained fixed, his

to class, and my schedule is packed today. If you'll excuse us.” I

me inside, and I finally had a moment

gave me a warm smile. She was an older woman with gray hair, glasses perched

take our exams remotely. I just wanted to let you know so you can email them to us, and we'll

all needs this?” She pulled out

brother's plans. I believe he'll do the same, along

Leonard."

Anything else?"

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

1/2

Chapter 160

the exams. The secretary looked concerned, glancing toward the principal's

door.

arrange a time that

"Thank you for understanding."

day." I walked back out to

Ryder asked, his eyes never leaving Tatum,

tell he was restraining his

now?" I asked, eager to get away from

replied, gripping my arm a little harder than usual. Though annoyed, I