Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder) novel Chapter 20

Chapter 20

Xena’s POV

“No.”

We arrived at a drive–in movie theater, the kind where you could order food while enjoying the film. Tonight’s feature was “2012.”

“Hope you like cheeseburgers,” Ryder said with a smile.

“I do, actually.” I wasn’t particularly picky about food, as long as it wasn’t something ridiculous like those Donut Burgers.

Ryder found a spot at the back of the parking lot. We got out and he pulled out a blanket and spread it over the surface to protect the paint job, then we climbed onto his hood.

“I bet you bring girls here all the time,” I couldn’t help asking, though I felt an odd twinge of discomfort, secretly hoping he would deny it.

“You’re the first. This is usually something I do alone.”

His answer surprised me, making my heart beat a little faster. “Then why bring me?”

“I just wanted to watch a movie,” Ryder shrugged, his tone so flat I couldn’t tell if he was

serious or joking.

Our food arrived as the movie started. I was really enjoying the film. My cheeseburger was

juicy and delicious, with burger juice dripping down my chin until Ryder had to hand me a

napkin.

“Charming,” he teased.

“I try,” I laughed as I wiped the juice away, feeling a subtle intimacy flowing between us.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” I replied, only half listening as most of my attention was on the movie.

“You mentioned earlier that you’re smarter than everyone else. What did you mean by

that?”

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Chapter 20

“Exactly what I said. I’m just smarter.” I answered casually.

“What’s your IQ?”

“That’s a secret only my mate gets to know.” I smiled. “I mean, it’s not a huge secret, but it

is a secret.”

“Hmm.” Ryder took a sip of his cola, not pressing further.

“Let’s just say I could have skipped high school altogether and gone straight to college.” I immediately regretted saying too much. I always felt conflicted when this topic came up- part of me wanted someone to understand my differences, while another part feared being

labeled a freak.

“Why are you so interested in me?” I tried changing the subject.

“I’m not particularly interested, just making conversation.”

“My life isn’t as exciting as you might think. What you see is what you get.” I shrugged.

“If you say so.” Ryder gave me a smile tinged with sadness.

“Besides, if Helen is your type, then I’m the opposite. We could be friends, but I don’t

“You’re welcome,” he replied, clearly angry about something.

I got out of the car, bewildered, and before I could even close the door, he hit the gas and quickly drove away.

How strange. Even though it wasn’t particularly late, no one was awake, so I didn’t have to deal with Luna Martha’s interference and easily made it back to my room.

After a difficult shower, I finally crawled into bed and quickly fell asleep.

“Blade… Blade?” I hazily heard a female voice calling my name.

“What the hell?” I opened one eye to see sunlight streaming painfully through the

curtains. I rubbed my eyes and saw Ama sitting on my bed.

“I came to spend the day with you,” she said, her tone hopeful.

“Where’s your mate?” I asked.

“I’m seeing him tonight. Ryder came home in a bad mood last night, and it’s still continuing this morning.”

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Chapter 20

“When did he get home?” I asked, remembering last night and feeling an inexplicable sense of loss. I didn’t understand why his mood had changed so suddenly, or why I cared so much. The date was supposed to be just a casual social activity between friends, but my heart uncontrollably wanted more.

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