Page 175 of Knot Happening Again

I pause, frowning at my phone. It's a warm evening. Why would I need a jacket? Curiosity prickles at the back of my mind, but I push it aside.

I've got more pressing concerns right now.

I settle on a deep blue dress that hugs my curves in all the right places. It's not too formal, but definitely a step up from my usual attire. Although after all these shopping sprees, even my sweats are designer now. I'm not used to feeling so… pampered. But I don't really mind it.

It's kind of nice being taken care of for a change.

I pair my outfit with strappy heels and minimal jewelry, letting my hair fall in loose waves around my shoulders.

As I'm applying the finishing touches to my makeup, I catch sight of myself in the mirror. For a moment, I barely recognize the woman staring back at me.

She looks... confident.

Put-together.

A far cry from the broken, angry omega I was just a few months ago.

And most of all, calm.

When was the last time I felt like this?

I can't remember. Even before everything went to hell and I was living the charmed life with my parents, there was so much pressure. I always felt like I was wearing a mask, playing a role, and the moment the mask slipped, the whole world would know the truth and reject me.

The Carver pack has seen me at my worst, and yet, they haven't. They make me feel so… safe. Wanted. Loved.

That word makes my heart flutter and my chest tighten. Is that really what it is?

Over the last few months, they've all shown it in their own ways. Every day. Mace with his nurturing and lovingly prepared meals, and those big, warm hugs that make me feel like I'm snuggling a giant teddy bear. Troy with his snarky banter and gentle teasing, and the way he makes me feel like a present he can't wait to unwrap the second we're alone. Sometimes before then. Maddox with his calm, steady presence and the way he makes me feel so held. So seen. Rhys with his worshiping tough, gentle words of affirmation, and constant, unwavering care.

And then Leon…

Pulling out all the stops. Spoiling me every chance he gets. Defending my honor in front of the press even when it could have cost him his career. Keeping me shielded from the circus I know is roiling out there, even now. Maddox admitted the other day that when Leon's not dealing with lawyers, he's working tirelessly to figure out who leaked my past to the press.

They all are. But Leon has made it his new mission in life.

When I descend the stairs, I'm met with a chorus of appreciative whistles and catcalls. The pack is gathered in the living room, clearly waiting for me. Even Rhys is home from work early, lounging on the couch with a glass of wine.

"Damn, princess," Troy grins, his eyes raking over me appreciatively. "If I'd known you were gonna get all dolled up like this, I would've insisted on Leon making it a double date."

"Technically, wouldn't that be a triple?" Maddox quips.

I roll my eyes, but I can't help the blush that creeps up my cheeks. "You've had plenty of dates, rockstar."

Mace lumbers over, enveloping me in a bear hug that lifts me clear off my feet. "You look beautiful, little one," he rumbles against my hair.

When he sets me down, Maddox is there, pressing a kiss to my cheek. "Leon's not gonna know what hit him," he says with a wink.

I turn to Rhys, suddenly nervous. He's been quiet, watching me with an intensity that makes my skin tingle. "What do you think?" I ask, hating how small my voice sounds.

He sets his wine glass down and stands, crossing the room to me in a few long strides. His hand cups my cheek, thumb brushing over my bottom lip. "You're breathtaking," he murmurs, his voice low and husky.

He pulls me in for a kiss that has my heart fluttering, and I'm grateful for his strong grasp when it ends, because I'm a little unsteady on my feet.

Before I can respond, the doorbell rings. My heart leaps into my throat. This is it.

I take a deep breath, smoothing down my dress. "How do I look?" I ask, suddenly unsure.

"Perfect," they all say in unison.

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