Page 54 of Knot a Good Idea

Liam sits to my left. “And mine,” he says. “It’s not my fault you didn’t get to the table first.”

But Hunter doesn’t look annoyed, just entertained as his gold eyes fall to mine. “So, what do you think? Pretty stunning, huh?”

It is. TheNorthwest Fine Arts Institutehas its own banquet hall with crystal chandeliers that hang above us. The tables have beautiful cream rose centerpieces, and white French doors lead back to the entrance of the museum.

“Absolutely,” I agree.

A Beta man takes his seat across from us at the table, dressed in a dark maroon suit and sporting thick dark-rimmed glasses. A young blonde floral-smelling Omega joins him and she greets me with a smile, which reminds me of Devyn.

I recognize both of them immediately—Tom and Sophie, the couple that is good friends with the pack.

“I love your dress!” Sophie says excitedly, even though she’s stunning herself in an emerald green ballgown.

And just like that, the conversation flows.

I’m the April from a year ago. The April that can carry conversations, listen carefully, and share certain aspects of myself.

And, just like when I first met Donovan, Tom and Sophie have no idea who I am.

It’s freeing.

Donovan joins us eventually, taking his seat across from Liam as Tom claps him on the shoulder.

“Your girl isamazing,” Tom says. “Good job, man.”

Donovan raises an eyebrow, looking at me. “She’s almost too good to be true,” he says lowly.

I shift uncomfortably in my seat while Sophie beams at me.

“Right! These guys haven’t datedanyone. And Donovan, actually opening his heart to someone?” she gasps in mock horror. “Who would have thought?”

Donovan scowls while Hunter laughs, but Sophie continues.

“No, I’m serious, April.” She leans forward in her seat, her diamond necklace sparkling. “These three? They don’t date. Ever. And Donovan almost smiled.” She looks at him, and Donovan frowns deeper.

“I smile,” he grumbles, and Liam chuckles next to me.

I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to play the part of dutiful girlfriend, but Liam and Hunter make it easy.

Even if I catch Hunter looking at me a little too much and winking when no one else notices.

It makes me feel normal, which is a reminder that he wouldn’t be that way if he knew who I really was.

Neither would Liam, who has inched closer to me since we’ve been at the table.

Only Donovan knows the truth about me, and he’s been closed off since I’ve signed the contract.

“Anyway, April,” Tom interrupts. “You’re in good company with them. I’m glad they’ve finally found someone.”

I keep the smile on my face. “I appreciate it,” I murmur.

The auction starts, and I do my best to keep a straight face as the numbers grow higher and higher.

But once the bidding reaches into the millions, I can’t help but shift uncomfortably.

I don’t belong here.

Everyone knows I’m a fraud.

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