Page 118 of Knot Happening Again

Ophelia's blush deepens, but she takes my arm. The warmth of her skin against mine sends a jolt through my body, and I have to remind myself to breathe.

As we head out the door, the sun hits Ophelia's face, making her eyes sparkle like sapphires. I can't help but stare, mesmerized by her beauty.

"So, where are we going first?" she asks, her voice soft and curious.

Maddox has a spring in his step, excitement radiating off him. "We thought we'd start with some clothes shopping."

"And then we have a surprise for you," I add.

Ophelia's eyebrows raise, a mix of intrigue and wariness crossing her face. "A surprise?"

"Don't worry," I assure her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "It's nothing too extravagant."

As we walk to the car, I can't help but notice how Ophelia's scent changes subtly. There's a hint of excitement mixed with her usual alluring fragrance, and it makes my heart race.

Maddox opens the car door for her with a flourish. "Your chariot awaits, m'lady."

Ophelia giggles, the sound like music to my ears. She slides into the backseat, and I join her while Maddox takes the wheel.

As we drive into the city, I watch Ophelia out of the corner of my eye. She's looking out the window, her fingers tracing patterns on the glass. There's a faraway look in her eyes, and I wonder what she's thinking.

"Penny for your thoughts?" I ask softly.

She turns to me, a small smile playing on her lips. "I was just thinking... it's nice to get to spend time with you guys. You're all so busy, I didn't think you'd be around often."

"You really thought we'd just shove you into your nesting room and go about our lives?" Maddox asks, raising an eyebrow.

She shrugs, picking at a loose thread on the hem of her sleeve. "Most alphas only acknowledge we exist when we're in heat, or they want something."

"Not any alphas worthy of having an omega," I say, taking her hand. "Especially one as special as you."

Her lips purse together and I can tell she wants to argue, but she doesn't. "Well… it's nice."

My heart aches at the vulnerability in her voice.

Maddox pipes up from the front seat. "Oh, honey, you have no idea. We're going to spoil you rotten."

Ophelia laughs, the sound filling the car and making my chest feel warm. "I'm not sure I know I could possibly be spoiled any more than I am now."

"Don't worry," I say, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "We'll teach you."

As we pull up to the first boutique, I can see Ophelia's eyes widen. It's one of the most exclusive shops in the city, known for its designer clothes and exorbitant prices.

"Oh, no," she says, shaking her head. "This is too much. I can't?—"

I cut her off gently. "You can, and you will. Please, Ophelia. Let us do this for you."

She bites her lip, looking uncertain. "I don't want to be a burden you guys have to take care of."

Maddox turns in his seat, his expression serious for once. "Listen, darling. You're part of our pack now. Taking care of you isn't a burden—it's a privilege."

I nod in agreement. "He's right. We want to do this."

Ophelia's eyes fill with tears, and for a moment I worry we've upset her. But then she smiles, a real, genuine smile, as small as it is. "Okay…"

As we enter the boutique, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. Ophelia looks around in awe, her fingers trailing over the soft fabrics of the dresses on display.

A beta saleswoman approaches us, her smile wide and welcoming. "Good afternoon. How may I assist you today?"

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