Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 38

Chapter 38

Xena’s POV

“She was my girlfriend freshman year. She had some attitude problems, got into some trouble, so her parents took her away, Ryder explained, his green eyes locked on mine.

“I can’t keep beating up your ex–girlfriends. Who else should I be looking out for? I tore at the napkin on the table, avoiding his intense gaze.

“Why are you so calm about what she said?”

I sighed. Wren’s comments had stung, but they weren’t untrue.

“Well, the rumors about Logan and me aren’t exactly false. Besides, she told us Helen wants to cheat. Now we can prepare,” I said dismissively.

“She’s in a cell. How can she cheat?”

“Never underestimate a woman with a grudge.” I smiled slightly, crumpling the napkin and tossing it into the trash can by Ryder’s feet.

Yara approached with our drinks and a plate of sausages. I brought you some appetizers to try. They’re new on the menu. Let me know what you think!”

When the plate arrived, I saw several thick, deep red sausages with a slight sheen, their cut surfaces revealing coarse black pepper and red chili flakes. Simple white bread and pickles accompanied them.

“Thanks!” I cut into the first piece, and juices immediately seeped out, releasing a rich smoky aroma. The first bite offered a slight resistance from the casing before it burst in my mouth with a “pop.” The meat was coarse yet juicy, and the coarse grains of black pepper and chili immediately exploded on my tongue, sending a wave of heat straight to my head. I reached for a napkin.

“Damn, this is amazing, Ryder almost moaned as he finished his portion.

“No way!” After swallowing that bite, I gulped down half my tea. Ryder watched me with amusement. I could feel my cheeks burning and my lips swelling.

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Chapter 38

“Can’t handle spice?” he asked playfully.

“Not at all. I’m such a baby. Even mild is too spicy for me!” My nose started running. Ryder laughed as I had to blow my nose and fan my face. I felt embarrassed.

“Seriously?”

“Absolutely.”

“Are you okay?” Yara asked, looking at my face.

I couldn’t answer, just drank water frantically. My tongue and cheeks remained in a

numbed state.

Ryder pulled the napkin holder from the next table and placed it in front of me. “These are really great,” he smiled at Yara.

“Wonderful!” Yara walked away, and Ryder grabbed another piece. I shook my head silently, wondering if his stomach was made of steel.

“Where’s that property located?” I asked.

“About an hour’s drive east.”

“That would make for a nice ride.” I leaned forward, gazing through the window. Spring sunlight bathed the distant fields, suddenly brightening my mood.

“Did you find a dress when you went shopping?” Ryder took a sip of water, his gaze fixed on me over the rim of his glass.

“Actually, I found two. One for my birthday, one for the dance.” I smirked.

“What’s that look for?”

“The birthday party is formal.”

“So…?”

“I have two dresses. One’s black, the other’s deep red,” I was deliberately teasing him.

“Let me guess, you’re planning to wear the red one for your birthday?”

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Chapter 38

“Even Logan approved. I’ll make one hell of a statement.”