Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 100

Don’t Poke the Luna

Chapter 100

Xena’s POV

Ryder shrugged, his expression deliberately casual as he leaned against the doorframe. I picked Italy.”

“What?” My heart skipped a beat as I

at him, not daring to belleve what I’d just heard,

Ryder said, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth as he watched my reaction.

“We’re going to Italy for our honey

“Thank you!” I couldn’t contain my excitement, throwing myself at n with such force that he had to take a step back to catch me. Pure joy bubbled up inside me like a geyser. This was literally the place I’d been dreaming about! Ever since I’d seen pictures of those ancient cities and breathtaking coastlines, I’d wanted to witness them with my own eyes.

“Don’t mess up my masterpiece!” Ama shouted from behind me.

Ryder caught me easily, his strong arms wrapping around my waist as he pressed his lips to mine. The smug satisfaction radiating from him was impossible to miss, but I couldn’t bring myself to care

“Now open our gifts,” William sighed, shaking his head at our public display of affection, but I could see the fondness in his eyes.

“You still haven’t guessed my IQ correctly,” I reminded them, trying to keep a straight face.

I caught Ama flashing four fingers to William. “Hey! That’s cheating! I called out, secretly amused by her antics.

“147?” William asked hesitantly.

“Nope.” I picked up the envelope they’d handed me earlier and carefully opened it. Inside was a gift card with “Italian Shopping Extravaganza” written in elegant script.

“Thank you guys! But Ama, is this a gift for me or for yourself?” I laughed, tears of gratitude glistening in my eyes.

“It’s obviously for both of us,” she replied with a mischievous grin. “You can’t possibly wear anything you currently own to Italy. But I’m going to enjoy picking out clothes for you. Now, go change.” She shooed me toward the walk–in closet.

“144?” William called out as I disappeared into the closet.

I peeked my head back around the corner

and gave

him a thumbs up.

“Holy shit,” I whispered as I slipped into my dress, a laugh escaping my lips. The crimson gown hugged every curve of my body, making me look both elegant and seductive. The fabric felt smooth against my skin, the cut leaving little to the imagination while- still maintaining a touch of class.

“Guess What?” I said to Ryder through our mental link.

“Hmm?” His response was brief, but I could feel his complete attention focused on me.

When I emerged from the closet, only Ryder remained in the room. He’d changed into a sleek black suit with a crimson tie that perfectly matched my dress. His broad shoulders filled out the suit impeccably, making him look powerful and commanding. His blonde hair was combed back neatly, not a single strand out of place. God, he was one sexy man!

I noticed Ryder’s gaze traveling slowly up and down my body, taking in every detail. I deliberately slowed my steps, enjoying the heat in his eyes. “I’m not wearing anything underneath,” I teased, my voice dropping to a seductive whisper.

His eyes darkened instantly, meeting mine with an intensity that made my breath catch. I could feel his wolf stirring, that primal

1/3

Chapter 100.

desire threatening to spill over..

Ryder remained seated, his face expressionless. He’d closed off our emotional link.

“You don’t like it?” I asked through our mental connection, a hint of uncertainty creeping into my voice.

Finally, he stood and embraced me. His body heat penetrated the this fabric of my dress, making me shiver with anticipation.

“I’m trying very hard not to rip that dress off you and fuck you right here. Every man who looks at you tonight is going to have his eyes gouged out by me. This evening better end quickly so I can take you back and make sure you can’t walk tomorrow,” he growled in my ear, his voice thick with possessiveness.,

My heart raced. “So you like it?” I asked playfully, already knowing the answer.

“It fits your body like a glove. Fucking sexy.” His hands slid from my hips upward, then back down again. Each touch sent electricity shooting through my body, igniting a fire deep within me.

“Thank you,” I said softly, reveling in the feel of his fingertips against my skin.

“Damn, girl, you look amazing. Martha is going to lose her mind.” Ama emerged from the closet, admiration clear in her voice. She wore a strapless pearl–white evening gown that suited her perfectly.

“That’s what I’m hoping for,” I laughed, imagining Martha’s face when she saw me.

William opened the door and walked in, dressed in a royal blue suit. Ama, you look fucking gorgeous!” he exclaimed, rushing to embrace her.

Ryder released me, but his eyes never left my body, watching me as if I were the most precious thing in the world. “We should go,” he said.

Ryder took my hand, and we walked out of the room together. I felt like the most beautiful girl in the world, arm in arm with the sexiest man. The feeling was both foreign and exhilarating.

“Oh, one more thing…” When we reached the front hall, Ryder paused. He looked toward a group of children who were watching everyone leave for the ball. My Luna mark was fully visible, and I smiled at them confidently.

“Hey, Nolan!” I called out to the skinny boy standing at the back of the group. The children all turned to look behind them, shock evident on each face.