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.

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

really been the only thing that's kept us going. Kept me sane, kept Xena safe." Even Ryder was getting a bit

going to Italy?" Ama's eyes

"No," I laughed.

at their expectant faces, I felt a mischievous urge. Let

Florida?"

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

has always been your

don't have any

wait until next year," Ryder looked down

to stay calm, but I knew how thrilled he

Why?"

Ryder said like a proud

words left his mouth, I knew it would cause an uproar. I

going to cry...

Chapter 317

around a few times before putting me down.

said, and

even more intense than I'd imagined. Seeing him so excited warmed my

you weren't her brother, I'd cut your

Penelope," I said, hugging