Page 47 of Knot the One They Want

I pause, my lips pursing as I ponder the question. The sensible part of me knows I should be careful, that I shouldn't push my luck too far too fast. But the petty, vindictive part of me, the part that's still smarting from Damien's rejection, wants to make him pay. Wants to show him that I'm not some meek little omega he can push around.

A slow, wicked smile spreads across my face as a plan begins to take shape in my mind. "I'm going to make him regret giving it to me," I say, my voice low and determined. "And if there's one thing I'm good at, it's shopping."

Addison's eyes widen, a spark of excitement igniting in their hazel depths. "Atta girl."

CHAPTER 23

EVIE

The next day, I stand at my vanity, gathering my golden curls into a loose updo. The reflection staring back at me looks pale and tired, the dark circles under my eyes a testament to the restless night I spent tossing and turning. The bites on my neck throb in time with my pulse, a constant reminder of my alphas' rejection.

Damien's mark is still the worst. I grimace, tugging at the high collar of my sweater. Looks like I'll be investing in a new wardrobe full of turtlenecks to hide this mess.

How chic.

But I refuse to let their cruelty break me. I have a mission today, and I'll be damned if a little discomfort is going to stop me. Squaring my shoulders, I head downstairs, the black credit card burning a hole in my pocket. And I intend to make use of it before Damien can change his mind.

Or cancel the card.

As I reach the foyer, Ellen materializes out of thin air, her sharp eyes narrowing as she takes in my appearance. "Going somewhere, Miss Blackwood?" she asks, her tone dripping with suspicion.

I resist the urge to roll my eyes. Of course she's keeping tabs on me, probably reporting my every move back to Damien like the loyal little watchdog she is. I suspected that from the start, but her showing up like some kind of cursed vampire definitely confirms it.

"Yes, I am. I wasn't aware I needed to clear my comings and goings with the staff."

Ellen's cheeks flush, clearly taken aback by my boldness once again. "I apologize, Miss Blackwood. I just wondered if there was an errand I could take care of for you."

I smile, but it doesn't reach my eyes. "How thoughtful of you, Ellen. But no, I have some shopping to do. The fresh air will do me good."

Her brow furrows, concern warring with irritation on her pinched face. "Perhaps I should accompany you, then. To help with the bags."

"Oh, I wouldn't dream of keeping you from your duties," I say, my tone dripping with false sincerity. "I know how indispensable you are to the household."

Ellen's jaw clenches, her eyes flashing with barely concealed resentment. I can practically hear her teeth grinding from here.

"But you're right," I continue, tapping my chin thoughtfully. "I could use an extra set of hands. Why don't you fetch Lori for me? I'm sure she'd be happy to assist."

She's the one person on staff Ellen hasn't yet fully poisoned against me and I wouldn't mind spending time with her. And it wouldn't hurt to try to get her on my side.

Ellen sputters, her face turning an unflattering shade of red. "Lori? But she's useless, Miss Blackwood. She can barely keep up with her regular chores as it is."

I arch an eyebrow, my smile turning icy. "I believe there's been a misunderstanding, Ellen. I wasn't asking."

For a moment, I think she might actually argue with me. Her hands clench into fists at her sides, her nostrils flaring with barely contained fury. But then she drops her gaze, dipping into a stiff curtsy.

"Of course, Miss Blackwood. I'll fetch her right away."

She scurries off, her sensible shoes clacking against the polished hardwood. I let out a slow breath, my heart pounding in my throat. It's a small victory, but a victory nonetheless.

A few minutes later, Lori appears, her eyes wide and confused. "You wanted to see me, Miss Blackwood?"

I smile, genuinely this time. "Yes, Lori. I was hoping you'd accompany me on a little shopping trip."

Her face lights up, excitement replacing the uncertainty. "Really? I mean, of course! I'd love to go."

"Perfect," I say brightly. "Go get dressed, then, and we'll leave in ten."

"I'll be right back!" She dashes off, her red hair bouncing with each step.

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