Page 134 of Knot Happening Again

"What did I say about need?" Troy interrupts, his fingers squeezing my thigh. "This isn't about need. It's about want. About making you feel good. You do want to feel good, don't you, Ophelia?"

The way he says my name, low and husky, sends a shiver down my spine. "Yes…”

Leon shifts beside me, a low growl rumbling in his chest. I turn to look at him, surprised by the intensity in his eyes.

"He's right. You deserve to feel good," he says, his voice rough with guilt. "To have nice things. To be taken care of."

I swallow hard, caught between them, drowning in their scents and their words. It's too much, too fast. I've spent so long taking care of myself, convinced I didn't need anyone.

And now...

"We're here," Troy announces, pulling into a parking spot.

I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. Saved by the mall, of all things.

As we walk through the entrance, I can't help but feel a bit overwhelmed. The last time I went shopping like this before the pack was... well, never. Even before Leon left, before my family disowned me, shopping was always a utilitarian affair.

Get what you need and get out.

But Troy has other ideas. He leads us straight to a high-end boutique, the kind of place I would have never dared enter before. The saleswoman's eyes light up as we walk in, no doubt seeing dollar signs.

"Welcome," she purrs, her gaze flicking appreciatively between Troy and Leon. "How can I assist you gentlemen today?"

Troy's arm snakes around my waist, pulling me close. "We're here for this gorgeous omega,” he says, his voice filled with pride. "Price is no object."

I open my mouth to protest, but Leon beats me to it. "Whatever she wants," he adds, his eyes never leaving my face.

The saleswoman's smile widens. "Of course. Let's start with some basics, shall we? What's your style, dear?"

I falter, suddenly feeling very out of place. "I'm not sure. I've never really had a style."

What I wore to the Scent Bar was one thing. I wore whatever would catch the alphas' attention, but now that I'm not that person anymore…

I'm really not sure who I am.

"That's what we're here to figure out," Troy says, his voice gentle. "Why don't you look around, see what catches your eye?"

I nod. As I wander through the racks of clothes, running my fingers over soft fabrics and intricate designs, I can't help but feel a bit lost.

Everything is so beautiful. So far removed from the practical, often secondhand clothes I'm used to.

How am I supposed to choose?

I run my fingers over a silky emerald blouse, marveling at how it slips through my grasp like water. The price tag makes me wince, but Troy's words echo in my mind.

This isn't about need. It's about want.

Do I want this?

The color reminds me of the lush forests surrounding the cabin, of lazy mornings wrapped in Rhys's and Maddox's arms. Before I can second-guess myself, I pluck it from the rack.

After that, the decisions flow a bit more easily.

I still feel guilty about spending someone else's money, but I'm pretty sure if I don't, Troy is going to go overboard.

"Now we're talking," Troy grins, appearing at my side. "How about a little fashion show, princess?"

I glance at Leon, who's pretending to be very interested in a display of scarves. His ears are tinged pink, and I can't help but find it... endearing?

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