Page 25 of Knot a Thief

Her gaze flickers around the café, ensuring no one is eavesdropping on our conversation. Satisfied with the lack of prying ears, she leans back and takes a deep breath.

“I’m searching for the perfect scent,” she says, her voice filled with mischief.

“Damn. And there was me thinking you were looking for a man.”

With a playful giggle, she brightens the atmosphere in the cafe. The sound is so infectious that I laugh along with her.

“Ah, sorry, I have one of those,” she replies, her eyes sparkling mischievously. “I keep my missions scent-focused.”

I hold back my need to growl at her for confirming she’s not looking for a man, not an alpha. Not that another man will stop me.

Ava Darling has always been mine, and I’m not waiting for her any longer.

And I find it hilarious she hasn’t recognized me yet.

Yes, this time, I’m not wearing a shirt and pants but shorts and a polo neck top. Though the baseball cap and sunglasses disguise me too.

I chuckle, leaning back in my chair, because I am thoroughly enjoying the banter between us and want to drag it out for as long as possible.

“Well, I must say, that’s a mission I can wholeheartedly support. So, tell me, have you discovered any promising contenders in your pursuit of the perfect scent?”

“Maybe this muffin.” Her smile widens, and she leans in closer, lowering her voice even more. “I’ve tried a few so far, but none have satisfied the criteria. I want unique, a burst of flavor that takes you by surprise.”

“A tall order indeed,” I respond with a grin. “But fear not, for I am an expert in all things scent-related. Consider me your personal guide.”

She giggles again, her laughter contagious and music to my ears.

“Well, you sound perfect,” she says, her eyes sparkling with a wicked glint. “It’s a shame you don’t taste like this muffin.”

“I taste much nicer.” I can’t help but chuckle at her playful response. Also because the omega she tries so hard to contain, is coming onto her alpha strong—almost flirting.

“Maybe you can’t find the perfect scent because you’ve been too busy wanting the ideal flavor to be sweet when it isn’t.”

She narrows her eyes and contemplates that, before shaking her head and laughing. “No way. It has to be sweet.”

Her sense of humor is infectious, and it’s clear that there’s more to her than meets the eye. As we continue to banter back and forth, I find myself being drawn more and more to her.

But between the laughter and lighthearted conversation, there are moments when her smile falters and a shadow passes over her eyes. It’s fleeting, barely noticeable, but it’s enough to make me wonder what lies beneath the surface.

“Do you have an alpha?” I ask the elephant in the room.

Her mouth opens and closes.

She takes a moment to gather her thoughts, her eyes searching mine for any signs of judgment or disappointment. Finally, she nods slowly, her voice soft when she speaks.

“Yes,” she replies, her tone tinged with worry. “I have an alpha in my life.”

Liar!

I would never let her be with another alpha.

“I see,” I breathe. “Well, I’m glad you have someone who makes you happy.”

She seems relieved by my understanding and returns my smile. “He does. And do you have an omega?”

I hesitate for a moment and nod my head. “I do.”

It’s a lie, but I like that the angst releases from her shoulders immediately.

---