Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Xena's POV

It took longer than we expected, but we finally finished. The seating chart was complete and emailed to the committee for approval. I'd signed my name to it, which meant it wouldn't be changed. After multiple calls between both sides, the preparations for the dance were completely set-all that remained was for the vendors to arrive and decorate.

I exhaled deeply, feeling the tension slowly leave my shoulders. This seating chart had consumed so much of my energy, with every detail requiring careful consideration. My muscles ached from hunching over the laptop for hours.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

I glanced at my phone-4:50 PM.

"I'm guessing that's Nolan," I said quietly as Ryder walked over to open the door.

"Luna, Alpha Ryder asked me to see you," Nolan said as William let him in. He shot a nervous glance at Ryder before approaching me, his shoulders hunched like he was trying to make himself smaller.

"Hey, Nolan. Did you bring the sketches?" I asked, keeping my voice calm and friendly to ease his obvious nervousness.

"Y-yes, Luna." He handed me his sketchbook with trembling hands.

"Why are you so nervous?" I asked while accepting the sketchbook and beginning to flip through it. The drawings weren't bad, but he needed to work on his shading techniques.

"Being called to the Alpha's office usually doesn't mean anything good... Luna."

Fair point, Nolan. I smiled inwardly.

"These are pretty good. What are your plans for the summer?" I handed the sketchbook back to him.

"Oh, um, not sure. Maybe warrior training by the end of summer."

skills, and maybe learn some responsibility to help you grow?

to surprise

think you have potential to grow and learn under my guidance. Gain some experience, really show

Nolan gave me a small

write down your phone number, and I'll call

as I asked. "Thank you, Luna!" He

turning to look

can go,"

bolted out, nearly slamming the door

1/3

Chapter 166

but difficult," William remarked with a smile as he sat

I found Ama, she was a handful too," I joked. I had to quickly jump up to avoid her swatting at me. I laughed as I

it, I saw it was from the school, informing me they needed in-person testing and wanted to

to take the school exams on Thursday with the teacher present, but we can

"No problem," Ryder shrugged.

number, and it rang three

"Hello?"

everything okay?" Something in his voice immediately set off

bit busy.

you can talk." I could sense something off in his tone.

too well, and this wasn't

pack in an hour. We can talk

"Okay."