Page 72 of Knot All is Forgiven

"We're ready now," I snarl, slamming my menu into their chest. "I can order for myself."

Their blue eyes dart to the bonding mark on my neck and then back at Athena, probably finally realizing that Athena isn't a part of my pack. Reluctantly, they write down my order.

"That was fucking weird," Athena says, watching the server as they put our order in at the computer. "Why wouldn't they take your order?"

"People have been strange to me since I presented. Sometimes, it's like they're seeing right through me. This is the first time it's been so obvious, though." Somehow, now that I have an Omega scent and a bonding mark, I'm seen as a different, less capable person.

I know our government isn't the most progressive there is for Omega rights, but I had assumed that, as a whole, our society was different.

I guess I was wrong.

Scrubbing my hands down my face, I plaster on a fake smile. "Anyways, what did you want to talk about?"

My question seems to startle Athena out of her thoughts, and she rests her head on her hand. "I got this new job -"

I interrupt her. "Oh, that's wonderful! Have you told Vick?"

"No."

Just the one word carries a weight I can't identify yet. Still, I pick at it. "Why not?"

"I needed to tell you first."

Now, my interest is even more piqued, and I straighten my spine before smoothing my cream blouse down my front. "Well, let's hear it."

"I'm a PA for ABOSS."

"The sports channel?"

She nods tightly. "Yeah. Specifically, most of my tasks are for the Sin Bin team." I chew my bottom lip. Something in the back of my mind is lighting up with recognition, but I can't seem topull it to the forefront. She puts me out of my misery. "It's hosted by Cyrus Stargazer."

Well, there it is. That's the bomb. That's why she wanted to tell me in person and first. It explains the nerves, at least.

I inhale deeply, pushing past the conflicting feelings that are starting to rise in me like bile. "I'm happy for you, Athena. It's a great career move." Icarus has shared with me her struggle to find her passion, and this could be a good stepping stone for her future career moves. I genuinely am happy for her. But knowing that she'll be spending so much time around Cyrus sours my throat a little.

"Thanks. I didn't realize who he was to you when I applied. I hope you know that."

I reach my hand out to cover hers. "Even if you had, I wouldn't have stopped you. Your happiness is important. The Stargazers and Valentines will work something out."

I still get a little chill whenever I think of myself as a Valentine.

While I think this is a great opportunity for Athena, I know Cyrus. He's not always an easy person to be around. Rough around the edges is the nicest descriptor most people can give him.

"Is Cyrus an asshole to you?"

Through a mouthful of her burger, Athena responds, "Cyrus is fine. We've barely interacted. I doubt he knows my last name, so he's probably not put it all together yet."

"So that's why you called this lunch," I muse between bites of my buffalo chicken wrap. "You're not asking for my permission, are you? Because you don't need it."

She smiles broadly after taking a sip of water. "I know I don't need it, but I did want to tell you and not have you just stumble upon the information."

"Well, I appreciate you telling me all the same." We eat in comfortable, companionable silence for a few minutes before I casually say, "I'm meeting them for dinner tonight."

Athena nearly drops her burger, eyes wide.

"It was Icarus' idea to agree!" I insist. "I think he wants to know them."

"He's always wanted a pack," she says gently. "I know this situation is far from ideal, and I don't know the nuances of it…"

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