Xena''s POV


    Ryder didn''t have an usatory tone, and I could feel his concern for me. He was right about this, but some things are worth the risk. Though a shadow had crept into my mind. I didn''t want to show it.


    "That''s probably why he was so insistent about us taking a vacation and not getting involved in his business,'' I said, deliberately ignoring thest part of what he''d said.


    "This whole thing feels strange. I don''t think we achieved what we wanted. Ryder sighed, sitting down beside me. This time, he pulled me close to him.


    "Tomorrow we need to find that third tunnel. They all need to bepletely sealed."


    ''I agree. I''ve installe cameras in case anyone tries to use them. Ryder lifted me onto hisp, then stood up. He carried me to our bed, gentlyying me down before rolling in beside me. His movements were so gentle, a stark contrast to his usual Alpha strength. "How are you feeling?"


    A bit sore, but okay," I said, snuggling into his chest. His arms wrapped around me, holding me tight. His hand began to gently massage my back, and I closed my eyes, enjoying this moment of peace.


    "Close your eyes. Sleep, my love, Ryder whispered in my ear. It was all I needed to sink into darkness. My consciousness faded, and everything went ck.


    The next morning, we were awakened by his phone vibrating. My entire body was lying on top of him, my head resting on his chest. His arms were crossed behind his head, while mine were draped on either side of him. Only when his phone started ringing did I realize howfortable this position was. I savored this intimacy, not wanting the moment to end.


    Ryder moved as little as possible, checking the message he''d received Though I didn''t want to move, I slid off him so he could see


    clearly.


    "Where are you going?" Ryder grabbed my thigh with his arm, stopping me from getting up.


    "Going to pee," I said, looking back at him. He nodded and let me go.


    After peeing, I took off my shirt and looked at myself in the mirror. The bruises were still visible, but had turned green and yellow. Some ces were even starting to fade. I thought hot water would make my whole body feel better, so I stepped into the shower. Within seconds, I heard the bathroom door open.


    "Not inviting me to shower with you?" Ryder said. His voice still carried the sleepiness, deep and sexy, making my heart skip a beat.


    "It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. I thought hot water would help rx my muscles," I answered, trying to keep my voice steady despite how his presence made my insides flutter.


    Ryder slipped in behind me, immediately cing his hands on my hips. He turned me around so he could fully see my shoulders. Pushing around, he was testing my range of motion. "How does this feel?"


    "A little stiff, but not painful. Like muscles that haven''t been used in a while. Speaking of which, I haven''t worked out in weeks," I said softly.


    "Wait until Monday. You should feel normal by the," Ryder said, grabbing the shampoo and starting to wash my hair. His fingers massaged gently through my hair.


    Mmm, that feels good," I moaned softly, cing my hands on his hips.


    "Don''t even think about it, Ryder sighed, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. My heart pumped as he saw through my little scheme, making me feel both mbarrassed and excited.


    "Think about what?" I pretende innocence, but deliberately pressed my body closer to his, letting my sensitive points brush lightly against his chest.


    "You''re not ready yet," Ryder pushed me under the water flow, his tone firm but gentle.


    "I''m ready for you," I said honestly, my voice carrying a hint of pleading. His eyes lingered on my face for a moment, as if weighing my words.


    Ryder took the conditioner and started applying it to my hair. I seized the opportunity to grab the body wash and started applying foam to both him and myself. His scent enveloped me. My hand slid down his body, slowly massaging, feeling his gradually hardening response.


    "Damn it, Xena," Ryder growled, closing his eyes and leaning slightly forward under the water flow. His reaction made my heart race, knowing I was igniting his desire.


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