Page 122 of Knot Happening Again

"Our ride," Maddox says with a grin, hopping out of the car.

I help Ophelia out, my hand lingering on the small of her back. "We have a private jet," I explain. "It's easier than dealing with commercial flights."

She stares at me, her mouth slightly open. "A private jet? You're joking, right?"

I shake my head, unable to keep the smile off my face. "No joke. Come on, I'll show you."

As we approach the sleek aircraft, Ophelia's steps falter. I turn to her, concerned. "What's wrong?"

She looks up at me, her blue eyes wide. "This is... a lot. I mean, I knew you were wealthy, but this..." She gestures at the jet. "This is another level."

I take her hands in mine, my thumbs tracing soothing circles on her skin. "I know it's overwhelming. But please, don't let it change how you see us. We're still the same people you've gotten to know over the past few days."

Ophelia takes a deep breath, her eyes searching mine. "I just... I don't want you to think I'm here for your money or anything like that."

My heart aches at her words. I cup her face gently, tilting it up to meet my gaze. "Ophelia, we would never think that. You're here because we want you here, because you're part of our pack now. The money, the jet, all of this... it's just a bonus. It's not what matters."

She nods slowly, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. "Okay. I'm sorry, I'm just not used to all this."

"Don't apologize," I say softly. "We understand. Just try to relax and enjoy it, okay?"

A small smile tugs at her lips. "I'll try."

We board the jet, and I watch as Ophelia's eyes widen at the luxurious interior. Plush leather seats, a fully stocked bar, and state-of-the-art entertainment system greet us.

"Make yourself comfortable," I tell her, gesturing to one of the seats. "The flight's not too long, but we want you to be relaxed."

She sinks into one of the chairs, her hands running over the soft leather. "This is incredible," she murmurs.

Maddox flops into the seat across from her, grinning. "Wait until you see the cabin."

I take the seat next to Ophelia, close enough to feel the warmth radiating from her body. The pilot announces we're ready for takeoff, and I notice Ophelia gripping the armrests tightly.

"First time flying?" I ask gently.

She nods, her knuckles white. "Is it that obvious?"

I place my hand over hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "It's perfectly normal to be nervous. But I promise, we're perfectly safe."

As the jet begins to move, Ophelia's breath catches. I lean in closer, my voice low and soothing. "Just breathe, Ophelia. Focus on my voice. You're safe."

She turns to me, her blue eyes wide with a mix of fear and trust. I continue talking softly, telling her about the cabin, the mountains, anything to keep her mind off the takeoff. As we lift into the air, her grip on my hand tightens, but she doesn't look away from me.

Once we're at cruising altitude, Ophelia's grip loosens, and she lets out a shaky breath. "That wasn't so bad," she admits with a small laugh.

"You did great," I tell her, my thumb tracing circles on the back of her hand.

Ophelia's hand trembles in mine as the plane levels out. Her scent spikes with lingering anxiety, but there's something else there too. A sweetness that makes my mouth water.

I lean in close, my lips brushing her ear. "You're safe, Ophelia. We've got you."

She shivers, turning to face me. Her blue eyes are wide, pupils dilated. "Thank you," she whispers.

Maddox moves to sit on her other side, boxing her in between us. "How about a distraction, darling?" he purrs, his hand landing on her thigh.

Ophelia's breath catches, her gaze darting between us. "Here? But... the pilot..."

I cup her face, thumb tracing her bottom lip. "The cockpit's soundproof. And the flight attendant knows not to disturb us unless we call."

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