Page 119 of Knot Happening Again

Before Ophelia can speak, Maddox steps forward. "We're here to outfit this lovely omega with an entirely new wardrobe. Price is no object."

The saleswoman's eyes light up, and she turns to Ophelia, who looks utterly bewildered "Wonderful! Let's start by finding out what styles you prefer."

As Ophelia is whisked away to try on various outfits, Maddox and I settle into the plush chairs near the dressing rooms.

"You think she'll like the cabin?" Maddox asks in a low voice.

I nod. "I hope so. It's secluded, peaceful. Might be good for her to get away from the city for a bit."

"And away from Leon," Maddox adds, his tone serious.

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. "Yeah. That too."

We fall silent as Ophelia emerges from the dressing room in a stunning emerald green dress that hugs her curves and makes her pale skin glow. My breath catches in my throat.

"Well?" she asks, twirling slowly. "What do you think?"

"Gorgeous," Maddox and I say in unison.

Ophelia blushes, but I can see the pleasure in her eyes. She's finally starting to enjoy this, even if she won't admit it.

The sight of Ophelia in that emerald dress makes my mouth go dry. She's breathtaking, a vision of beauty that steals the air from my lungs. I force myself to breathe, to remember why we're here.

"It's perfect," I manage to say, my voice rougher than I intend. "We'll take it."

Ophelia's eyes widen. "But you haven't even asked the price?—"

"Doesn't matter," Maddox cuts in smoothly. "It looks stunning on you, darling. That's priceless."

She blushes again, her pale cheeks turning a delightful shade of pink that makes my fingers itch to touch her. I clench my fists, reminding myself to behave.

"Go ahead and pick out some more," I suggest, trying to keep my voice steady. "We need to make sure you have options for every occasion."

Ophelia nods, disappearing back into the dressing room. I turn to the saleswoman, who's been hovering nearby with an expectant smile.

"We'll need more formal wear," I tell her. "Gowns, cocktail dresses, that sort of thing. We'll be taking her out often. If there's anything you think would look good but don't have in her size, take her measurements and get it tailored. We'll have it delivered to the house."

The beta's eyes light up at the prospect of a big sale. "Of course, sir. And what about casual wear?"

"Comfortable things for around the house," Maddox chimes in. "Soft fabrics, easy to move in. And some cozy sweaters for nesting. She seems to like blue a lot."

I nod in agreement. "And this is a secret, but we need enough cold weather gear to last a few days in the mountains. There's going to be plenty of snow."

I can see the dollar signs in her eyes flipping up with each item I name, like slides on a slot machine. The saleswoman hurries off to gather more options, leaving Maddox and me alone again.

"You okay there, Doc?" Maddox asks, a knowing smirk on his face. "You look a little... flushed."

I shoot him a warning glare. "I'm fine."

He chuckles, leaning back in his chair. "Sure you are. Just try not to drool when Ophelia comes out again, yeah?"

"I don't really see much reason to try," I concede.

Maddox's gaze softens, a knowing smile on his lips. "I know you've wanted this for a long time. An omega to pamper and spoil. I mean, we all wanted that, but I didn't realize how much until she came along."

"It's different with her," I say softly. "Special in a way it wouldn't be with anyone else. I think somehow, I always knew she was out there. Like I was waiting for her and didn't even realize it, you know?"

"Yeah," he murmurs. "I feel the same way." There's a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "And here I thought you were the scientific type, doc."

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