Page 106 of Knot a Thief

“It’s okay,” Ella whispers as I sink into her embrace and I allow myself to believe that maybe, just maybe, it might be true.

As Ella and I finally pull apart, I wipe my tears and notice a tall, muscular man approaching us.

“Welcome home, Ava,” he says with a warm smile.

“Hi Jake.”

He smiles, liking I remembered his name, no doubt. “Let me take care of your baggage.”

Before I can protest, he’s already lifting my suitcase with ease. Walker and Gabe, Ella’s two other alphas, join us, their presence commanding but not threatening.

“Ava,” Walker, the older of the two, says, “pleased to see you again. We’re so glad you’re here. Ella has been on a high since you called to let her know you were coming.”

Gabe nods, his eyes kind. “Let’s get you settled in. Our car is waiting.”

As we make our way through the airport, I can’t help but notice how they form a protective circle around Ella and me. It’s comforting, yet slightly overwhelming.

The drive to their home on the coast is filled with excited chatter from Ella.

I watch the city fade away, replaced by lush landscapes and eventually, glimpses of the ocean.

When we arrive at their mansion, my breath catches. It’s right on the beach, overlooking the Atlantic, grand and beautiful. As we enter, I’m struck by the warmth of the place, despite its size. “I love this house.”

“It’s perfect for our growing family,” Ella says, patting her tummy.

“No way.” My voice heightens as I rush to my sister, holding her close.

“Finally,” Walker grumbles.

Ella chuckles at Walker. “Oh alpha, you know you only wanted a happy omega.”

Walker strides to Ella and presses a tender kiss on her temple. “I do.”

She’s so lucky.

And I could tell her about my pregnancy, but I don’t want to take away her special moment right now.

“Why did you really come here?” Ella asks, as she starts to make dinner.

Ella’s pack helps and I can’t help but observe how her alphas interact with her. They’re attentive, respectful, and clearly adore her. It’s a far cry from the controlling alphas I’ve always feared, and the two I just escaped.

“I have a job in New York. It’s just a flying visit and then I have to get back to Seb.”

Ella sighs. “Really. I was going to ask you to come to Miami with me. Lottie is getting married, and she’s having a bachelorette party at her future husband’s club.”

My hand slams against my breastbone. “Was she sold to the Perez man?”

I remember seeing the conversation on my stepfather’s laptop when I hacked into it while trying to find out what else he was up to.

“I believe so.” Ella nods. “And Emmie is beside herself at the moment. She’s called me at least five times a day since she found out it was happening.”

My heart sinks. My twin sisters are so close. This is going to tear them apart.

“She’s desperate for me to go.”

“When is it?”

“In two weeks, and the wedding is a week later.”

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