Page 169 of Knot Their Omega

I squeeze his hand, giving him a motivational nod before he swallows and turns his attention to his parents, who wait patiently for him to continue.

“It wasn’t until I started to see how selfish and negative Nate’s influence was on our group that I realized how fucked up my decision was. Watching us alienate Nathaníel, who was simply a victim in all of this, all because our images were on the line,” he reveals. “When that settled in, I didn’t feel the same passion for music. I didn’t want to perform or try to be on stage. To be honest, I didn’t feel the need to speak because what could words do? They couldn’t change what had occurred and what we allowed. They always say actions speak louder than words… and the saying is true. Until I had the balls to take action, there was no point associating myself with a band that couldn’t put the action in acknowledging all the wrong Nate was doing to get to the top.”

He holds my hand a bit tighter as he slowly bows his head.

“I ran away from my responsibilities. Away from my lineage, thinking I’d be cast away for my cowardly actions, but I knew deep down neither of you used my behavior when I was youngeragainst me. You always sent letters and gifts, telling me when I was ready to come home, I’d always be welcome. At any time. No matter the season,” he reveals.

I’m in awe at the revelation as I slowly look at his parents, who carry blank expressions as they listen to his admission.

“Whenever I wanted to return, I was afraid of the outcome. Not because I was scared of the potential consequences but because my current predicament hadn’t changed. The negative influence in my life hadn’t left. They were still there, rooted in my daily life like a toxic detergent sticking to every thread of my clothes. I knew that without removing that toxin from my life, the cycle would repeat itself, and I’d never be free of its captivity,” he confesses and lifts his head once more. “The woman standing next to me is Astraea. She’s an Omega who somehow waltzed into our lives, and the last few weeks have been a whirlwind of change upon her arrival.” He smiles, looking amused as he thinks of my abrupt arrival in their lives.

“At first, I was apprehensive. I didn’t want an Omega coming into our lives to abuse us. Another toxin that’d make things even more messed up than they were becoming, but Astraea was the tornado of change I realized we needed. Someone who entered our lives and moved our focus so we could realize our world shouldn’t be centered on this negative individual who is trying to lead us astray,” he summarizes.

“I started realizing what I wanted. That I was living in a shell of receipt, and I was tired of not being seen. The constant ridicule revolving around my actions for not speaking up added mockery in all the commotion, but truthfully, it annoyed me because it was the truth. That I barely spoke, not because there was nothing to be said, but because I’d lost that spark to engage and be listened to.”

He lets out a sigh before taking a deep breath, letting that air out slowly.

“I became the puppet you told me I’d be if I went down the path with Nate, and I guess it took Astraea entering our lives to realize how damaging it was becoming. How trapped I felt and that desperate need to be free from the cocoon I’d encased myself in for years,” he reveals. “So… that toxin is finally out of our lives, and well… I’m here to state I’m ready to be free. To show the bold transformation of who I wish to be, but I wanted my parents’ forgiveness and blessings.”

I can see the swaying emotion in his mother’s eyes as they soften with her son’s words. His father still has a blank expression on his face, but his eyes can’t lie.

The reflection of pride is very clear in his gaze.

Kai bows his head once more.

“I apologize for my behavior and actions from the past. Your words of wisdom and guidance were not only a blessing but something I’ll never take advantage of again. If you’d see in your hearts to give me a second chance, I’ll prove my loyalty and devotion in the aspects of my life that make me feel alive, loved, and honorable.”

I not only feel proud of him for gathering the courage to do this, but I support him enough to turn my attention to his parents and also bow my head in respect and support.

I can hear the slight gasps of surprise from the men in back from different areas of the room, but I remain in place, squeezing Kai’s hand in support. If we have to stay in this position for hours, so be it.

I’m here to support him but also to prove that through thick and thin, I’ll stand by his decisions and accept the consequences together as any Omega would for her Alpha.

“Raise your heads,” his father instructs, encouraging us to lift our gazes to him.

I’m relieved to see his curved lips as he smiles at both of us.

“It brings me great relief to see my son has not only found an Omega, but one who would bow in his stead, despite not knowing the full details of his circumstances,” he speaks to me directly. “Our culture is a lot different. Our traditions are usually hard to accept in this new world and country that changes so rapidly. However, seeing your presence and initiative to support my son and encourage his growth as a man leaves my heart in peace. It proves he’s ready for a new chapter of change, and as his guardian, it’s my duty to support and encourage him, as a supportive parent would,” he reveals.

He looks at his wife then, and she squeals in glee as she claps her hands.

“Which means you’ll visit with the rest of your pack soon, yes?” she asks Kai in delight.

The tension in Kai’s muscles fades as he relaxes while bobbing his head in approval.

“I guess so,” he admits almost shyly.

“Which reminds me,” his father speaks up and arches an eyebrow our way. “What’s this regarding you and Kenji?”

Oh, shit…

“Uh…” I end up speaking up while looking at Kai nervously. He doesn’t look worried about the topic, but I’m not sure how he’s going to reveal it.

“Whatever they’re saying about me and Kenji being together is valid,” Kai announces. “We like each other. Have for a long time. I wasn’t necessarily hiding it, but I guess neither of us was ready to be public about it. Nate sold it to any publicist who would give him cash. Took the pic of us in the studio as ammunition.”

“Interesting,” his father hums. I can’t tell if he’s mad or approving of such news. “And your Omega… Astraea approves of this relationship within your established pack.”

“Yes,” I say firmly and try not to blush at the intriguing topic. “Their love was solid before I entered their lives. Why would I interrupt that? If they’re happy with one another, I should be just as pleased with the connection. Besides, I have commitments that may not allow me to be there to support them if something arises that needs resolving. Therefore, they have one another’s support until I can return and do what an Omega does for her pack mates.”

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