Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 156

Don’t Poke the Luna

Chapter 156

Xena’s POV

“I believe you, Penelope. But you need to understand what this means. You can’t be angry with Logan. All of this is necessary so we can clear your name,” I said, struggling to keep my voice steady despite the storm of emotions churning inside me. I glanced up at Logan before returning my gaze to Penelope’s tear–stained face.

“I know. I just feel so guilty and ashamed,” Penelope whispered, her voice small and fragile, breaking my heart with each word.

“As the investigation continues, things might get harder, but trust that Logan will guide you down the right path.” I placed my hand gently on her knee, offering what comfort I could while watching tears silently stream down her cheeks. I felt her pain as if it were my own–the betrayal by her own family, a pain that made me both furious and heartbroken.

“We’re definitely continuing the investigation. Since your father was mentioned–Darius–we’ll start there,” I said firmly.

Alpha Benedict sighed as he took a seat. “Agreed. Keep us informed of any developments.”

Dad motioned for his companions to leave. Penelope stood, slipping her hand into Logan’s, and they walked out together. Logan gave me a nod, but I could see the pain etched across his features. Guilt and confusion clouded his face, and I knew no words could immediately fix this situation. Only time would tell. My heart ached for both of them, for this complicated mess we found ourselves

1. in.

“What’s the plan for this week?” Alpha Benedict asked us.

“Xena?” Ryder looked down at me, his eyes filled with questions and concern.

“I think I need to get my things from school, and then we can head home. It’ll be safer, and we can take all our exams here,” I sighed. The old me would have hated this–running away like a coward–but given the complexity of our current situation, it was the best option.

“That’s a wise decision,” Alpha Benedict said as he sat down.

Ryder and I walked out of the room, with William catching up to us. What are your dinner plans?”

“I don’t think we have anything specific…” I looked up at Ryder for confirmation.

“No, why? Did you have something in mind?” Ryder asked.

“Movie night?” William suggested, his eyes lighting up with anticipation.

“We could do that,” Ryder looked at me, and I nodded. Despite my exhaustion, the thought of spending time with friends lifted my spirits a little.

“Why don’t you grab something from the kitchen, and we’ll meet in our room?” I told William.

“No problem. Ama will be thrilled,” William answered.

“Perfect,” I nodded, and William turned and walked away,

Following Ryder, we made our way back to our room. As he closed the door behind us, I felt a wave of relief wash over me.

“Have you decided what changes you want to make to our room?” Ryder asked while pulling off his shirt. His defined muscles gleamed in the light, instantly distracting me.

1/2

Chapter 156

“I mean… like what? Looking around, all my belongings sat on my nightstand. Ryder had framed our birthday photo and hung it above the bed, but other than that, the room looked exactly the same as when I first saw it. I suddenly realized that despite living- here for some time, I’d barely ft any mark of my own.

Different colors? New bedding? Paint? Ryder tossed out suggestion

‘You chose sage green for your shop. That’s completely different from the style we have now,” he added.

“Well, that was the vibe I wanted for the shop. Not my bedroom,” I replied, walking to the closet to grab my favorite silk pajama set.

I began changing in the closet, enjoying the feel of silk sliding against my skin, which always helped me relax.

“Your previous bedroom was very basic,” Ryder commented.