Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

"Let's see if you've eaten lunch. We're heading down right now,' Ama said, poking her head into the office.

"We were just about to go too," I smiled, grateful for the interruption My brain had been swimming with logistics for hours.

"Perfect!" Ama beamed, waiting as I grabbed my phone. I set my purse aside, and we left the office together, heading toward the

kitchen.

The kitchen was packed with people, but we squeezed through the crowd to the buffet area. They had laid out the basics-pasta, salad, bread, and yarious sandwich meats. An entire section was dedicated to fruits and vegetables. I grabbed some bread, made myself a sandwich, added a little pasta, and sat down.

"So Ama, how's that pool project coming along?" I asked, eager to hear about something other than the chaos of the past few days.

"It's going well. We've finalized the expansion plans and construction starts in the fall."

"That's great. So what project are you working on now?" I took a bite of my sandwich, watching her face carefully.

be a new library," Ama said, popping a strawberry

That was exactly what I'd been thinking about. Ama

see if we can upgrade them or if we need to start over. I'd

to finalize those and follow up with everyone," Ama replied, her tone betraying a hint

you tell me?" I asked, shock washing over me. Why did everyone think they

know if I could take some of the work off her plate." Ama shrugged as if it were no big deal. "That system you organized for me really helps

run smoother."

the office this afternoon and I'll help you finish the seating chart and make the calls," I sighed, feeling guilt

going to, but she didn't want you to think she was a failure or weak. She idolizes you; she didn't want to disappoint you," Ama's words cut into my heart like a

of Penelope suffering silently just to

new life. She's grateful to you. Others

of all those young faces.

to bring his work to me today?" He didn't

relieve Penelope of all her duties to give her time to heal. She had taken over my shop, and now I needed to take it back. I just wanted her to recover and become the