Page 151 of Knot Like Other Girls

"It's okay," Beth says gently, noting my uncertainty. "Take your time. Touch everything. Trust your instincts."

I reach out to touch a bolt of deep blue velvet, sighing at the luxurious feel against my fingertips. Next, a lightweight cotton in soft green, then a plush faux fur in creamy white.

"What's calling to you?" Beth asks after I've examined several options.

"The velvet," I admit. "And that chenille." I point to a thick, ridged fabric in a warm amber color. "And maybe... that?" The last is a silky faux fur in a soft gray that reminds me of early morning mist.

"Excellent choices," Beth approves. "Very cozy. How much were you thinking of getting?"

I glance uncertainly at Savva and Cole, realizing I have no idea what a proper nest requires in terms of materials. Being with Braxley had suppressed so many of my natural omega instincts that I feel woefully unprepared.

"We'll take enough for a comprehensive nest," Savva answers smoothly. "Multiple yards of each preferred fabric, plus complementary options."

Beth nods, making notes on a small pad she's pulled from her pocket. "And will you be incorporating alpha clothing into the nest? Many omegas find their alpha's scent incredibly comforting during heat."

I feel my cheeks warm at the question, but the clinical way Beth phrases it makes it easier to answer honestly. "Yes. I will be."

Beth's smile is knowing but kind. "Of course you will. It's natural to want your alphas close during heat, especially a scent-matched pack."

Cole freezes beside me.

So do I, my hand stilling on a bolt of soft flannel. "How did you?—"

"Honey, I've been scent-matched to my Maggie for thirty years," Beth says, her eyes twinkling behind her glasses. "I know that look. Five alphas, one omega, all watching each other like you've found something precious? It's written all over you."

"Perceptive," Savva muses.

Cole shifts beside me, tense.

"It's recent," I explain softly. "We're still... figuring things out."

"The best journeys often have uncertain beginnings," Beth says with a sage nod. "Now, let's get you properly equipped for yours."

She begins pulling bolts of fabric based on what I've indicated I like, adding complementary textures I hadn't even considered. Savva follows along, occasionally suggesting a particular shade or material with his impeccable taste. I notice he gravitates toward the higher quality items without even checking the price tags.

"What about this?" Savva suggests, holding up a bolt of soft, thick woven wool yarn in a deep forest green. "Wool has excellent temperature regulation properties."

Beth nods approvingly. "Heat fluctuations are especially rough during a first full cycle."

As they discuss the merits of various fabrics—as if they're talking about the weather and not an impending orgy to get me through my heat—I glance at Cole, who stands slightly apart like he isn't sure what to do with himself.

"Cole," I say, turning to him, "what do you think of this one?" I hold up a thick, plush material in a blue shade that reminds me of his eyes.

He looks startled I'm asking his opinion. "It's... nice?"

"I want to know if you think it's soft enough," I say, extending the fabric toward him.

Cole hesitates, then reaches out with his left hand. He runs his fingers over the fabric, a look of slight surprise crossing his face. "It's softer than it looks."

"That's ultraplush microfiber," Beth explains, watching our interaction with interest. "One of our most popular options. It's incredibly durable too."

Cole gives a stiff nod. "Good choice."

It's small, but I count it as a victory that he's engaged at all rather than just standing guard.

"We should get that one," I decide, adding it to the growing pile.

A door at the back of the shop opens, and a woman emerges carrying a tray of cookies and tea. She's shorter and stockier than Beth, rosy-cheeked with curly gray hair sticking up in every direction and a warm smile that lights up her entire face.

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