Page 114 of Knot a Thief

I’ve had my difficulties with my brother, so knowing he has my best interests warms my heart.

“And then Garrett told me everything.”

I take a deep breath. “He had my permission.”

She’s quiet for a long moment, and I can almost see the wheels turning in her mind. Finally, she speaks. “You knew I’d go to him?”

“I’m more surprised it took you so long. But I saw the way your eyes roamed over the pink diamonds in my collection. I saw how much they affected you. Their value was inconsequential to you. They are worth much less than the red diamond, which you took without blinking.”

“It was a job, nothing more.”

“So you wouldn’t want that red diamond sitting on your finger?”

She laughs. It reaches her eyes before she shakes her head. “No, I’d prefer a blue diamond. Not too big. I prefer quality over quantity.”

“Noted. But you know I’m a billionaire, right?”

“You’re assuming an awful lot.”

“Oh right, yeah.”

She smiles at me. And I see her. Not just an omega looking at her alpha, she sees me like I see her. I just need for her to stop fighting us.

“What time does your flight take off?”

I sigh as I glance at my watch. “We have a slot booked in an hour.”

Her eyes meet mine as a dash of hope filters through the bond. “I can’t promise you anything long-term right now, Max.” She gulps. “I’m willing to give you a chance to prove yourself.”

“You are?” Relief washes over me. I want to dive over the table and kiss her, but I try to temper my reaction. “Thank you, Ava. That’s all I’m asking for.”

She nods, then glances at her watch. “I still need to get to Italy. Seb is waiting for me, and I’ve got to make him feel wanted again before I talk to him about packs, and about you and Silas.”

I see an opportunity and take it, careful to frame it as an offer rather than a demand. “I understand. My private jet is waiting. If you’re comfortable with it, I could fly you there. It would be faster and more comfortable than a commercial flight.”

“I’m flying business class.”

“Yet you can afford to fly first.”

“It’s a waste of money,” she quips. “Business is enough.”

Ava hesitates, and I quickly add, “I can get you closer to the Amalfi Coast, so it will be faster. No strings attached. I just want to make sure you and the baby travel safely and comfortably. If you prefer, I can stay here and have the pilot take you.”

She considers it for a moment, then nods. “Okay. I’ll fly with you. But Max,” she says, her tone serious, “this doesn’t fix everything. We still have a lot to work through.”

“It’s a start.” I nod, relief and hope surging through me. “I understand you’re hesitant but, Ava, I promise I won’t let you down.”

Chapter 34

Silas

With Lily in my arms, and the sun in my eyes, I stride down the boardwalk toward the boat now docked on the Amalfi Coast.

I’m not only here for Lily’s sake but also because Ava is mine, and I’m going to prove to her I am. Though it doesn’t stop my heart from pounding with fear. I momentarily stop walking and glance around.

It’s beautiful here, multi-colored houses cascading down the cliff side like a vibrant waterfall frozen in time. Smaller boats mingle with enormous super yachts, their hulls gleaming in the late afternoon sun.

But my eyes are again fixed on one vessel in particular. The white and navy boat docked at the end of this boardwalk.

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