Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 184

"Dr. Pepper for me," I said.

"Iced tea," Ryder replied.

"Tea with lemon, please," Ama answered.

"Mountain Dew for me," William smiled at her, earning a light shove from Ama.

"Got it. Want any appetizers?" Yara asked, pretending not to notice the playful interaction.

"What did you bring us last time?" Ryder asked.

"Oh, those poppers?"

"Yes, could we get some of those?" Ryder requested.

"And fried pickles!" Ama said, a bit too loudly. Her face flushed as she leaned back in her

seat.

I watched Ama's reaction, thinking this must be pregnancy hormones at work.

"Of course! I'll put those in and be right back!" The server walked away.

the distance near the kitchen area. Just

who's over there," I said, nodding toward the kitchen area.

she still works here," Ryder

ready for gossip. The sparkle of curiosity in her eyes made

Said a bunch of crap before I gracefully introduced myself," I explained, placing my other hand over

I hadn't missed that!" Ama laughed. "I

and beans, Ama chose the day's special (half rack of ribs with fries), and William went for pulled pork with

you guys still want to go swimming

know what you two want to do. If you want to

you just got some big news and might want alone time," I

haven't hung out together in forever. I want

is then," I agreed. There was something satisfying about making a pregnant woman happy. I noticed Ryder seemed a bit restless, but he hid it well. I knew him-he probably wanted time alone, but he was willing to compromise for

for the week? I only know

need help designing the pool. We got approval, but I

be happy to help

immediately popped a pickle

too hot, downing half her tea before she

looked concerned. "Oh no! Are

but really good!" Yara visibly relaxed at Ama's

I brought some ranch dressing to dip

them down."

Ama smiled and started blowing

a pregnant woman and her food,"