Page 93 of Knot a Good Idea

April’s fingers intertwine with mine as she takes my hand.

The tension in me immediately dissolves, and a sense of pride swells in me.

April is staking her claim in front of Kelly.

It shouldn’t be a big deal. To everyone, she’s our packmate.

Still…

I squeeze her hand in reassurance.

Kelly notices and her eyes widen. “Oh! I thought you were his student,” she says to April. “I’m Kelly. Nice to meet you.”

“Likewise. You’re getting married? Congratulations.” April replies cooly, though I can scent her unease.

Kelly smiles. “Eh, it’s more of a formality thing. I’ve been with my pack for ten years. But, you know, sometimes you have to have a party on a private island, right?”

April remains silent for a bit too long. “Of course.”

“I wouldn’t have had to come here ifhewould have RSVP’d,” Kelly pouts, giving me a pointed look. “I could have ruined my red bottoms.”

“A tragedy,” April says, while Kelly nods enthusiastically.

“See? She gets it. So, you’re for sure coming?” Kelly bounces on her heels. “We can send a boat or a helicopter for you guys. Whichever you prefer.” She looks back to April. “Ooh, April. Has he taken you on his helicopter yet?”

“Yup.” April’s voice is clipped.

Then, Kelly smiles, genuinely. “Hell yes,” she says to April. “You’re in good hands with them. I’m surprised this guy finally found someone. Wait.” She cocks her head. “You look familiar. Have we met before?”

April’s scent is so spicy it’s overwhelming.

“No, just today,” April laughs, her voice slightly shaky.

Oh, shit.

There’s a chance that Kelly recognizes her.

An awkward moment of silence follows where Kelly stares at April cryptically before turning to me.

“Hmm. Well, I’ll see you at the wedding, right?” she says finally.

I nod curtly. “Yes.”

“Great. Well, it’s good to see you. And you, too.” She smiles at April warmly. “Take care.”

“You as well,” April replies softly, letting go of my hand.

She heads back to her car, and I turn to April as the engine revs. She flinches at the loud sound, and I can’t help but feel like an asshole.

Yes, the pack dated Kelly years ago.

Yes, we’re attending her wedding.

But it’s not because we necessarily want to.

It’s a show of good faith, because her pack founded a tech company similar to ours, and there are rumors of a rivalry.

Our software is just as good, if not better, but users like to compare the two.

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