Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 317

Xena's POV

"Ryder wants to give you something back. He and I contacted all your former clients we could think of and asked them to let us photograph their work, Penelope explained.

"I know what this shop meant to you, how heartbroken you were when you saw your portfolio destroyed. I wanted to give this back to you. Ryder walked over to me and took my hand.

My throat tightened. This man... how did he always know exactly what I needed most? Even when I didn't know it myself. "Thank you!" I shouted, throwing my arms around his neck. He caught me, holding me tight, letting me calm down.

In his arms, all the negative emotions melted away.

gratitude and love remained.

"You know, we really should tell them you're pregnant. Otherwise, they'll question why you're not drinking at tonight's barbecue," Ryder said through our mind link.

"You want to tell them that badly?" I laughed as he released me. I went to hug Penelope.

"Thank you, Penelope," I said to her.

"It's just a small repayment for everything you've done for me." Penelope had tears in her eyes.

"I do," Ryder said through our mind link.

I walked over and grabbed his forearm. Not his hand, just his arm. I wasn't sure why I suddenly felt so scared or nervous. But I was, and I couldn't say the

that's kept us going. Kept me sane, kept Xena safe." Even

finally going to Italy?" Ama's eyes went

"No," I laughed.

felt a mischievous urge. Let them guess-the answer would

to Florida?" Logan

that's not what he wants to say," I said, looking

where are you traveling? Travel has always been your dream," Leonard asked. Everyone nodded, looking at

Florida, we don't have any other plans for

wait until next year," Ryder looked down at me,

trying to

year? Why?"

Ryder said like a

it would cause an uproar. I held my breath, waiting for

Ama screamed. "I'm not going to cry... I'm

Chapter 317

basically pushed Penelope aside and picked me up. He spun me around a few times before putting me down. You're pregnantz

said, and he

I'd imagined. Seeing him so excited warmed my

weren't her brother, I'd cut your balls off,"

Aunt Penelope," I