Page 106 of Knot Our Reality

“Stop.” This time, Nikolai uses a bark that has me narrowing my eyes as we turn back toward him. “It is unsafe back there. I will not allow you to hurt yourselves because you be brats.”

Wilder is at his back as Nikolai reaches up to collar both of our throats, and I can’t help the way I perfume.

Then again, so does Camden.

Both alphas let out dark chuckles, but it’s Wilder who speaks. “It seems our omegas want to be punished.”

“Of course they do. I will bring Camden. You bring Emilia.”

Before either of us can argue, I’m being lifted into Wilder’s arms while Camden goes over Nikolai’s shoulder. I don’t struggle because I don’t want to cause him to drop me or anything.

Camden doesn’t have that same problem as he struggles against Nikolai’s hold, but all it takes is the alpha bringing his hand down on Camden’s ass in rapid succession for my omega to go lax.

Yeah, I really do think we’re going to enjoy our punishment.

Chapter Thirty

Emilia

Ican’t believe how tired I am as I make my way toward the ballroom.

This week has been absolutely insane—even without going on dates with my suitors.

We’ve been away from each other and the compound so much as we try to help rebuild Rancho Mirage. And they’ve all gotten a crash course on what it’s like living in a busy household.

The damaged cabins have all been repaired and, with the power completely restored a few days ago, everyone is finally leaving the mansion. I’m sad to lose the constant contact with my boys, but I know it’s important to focus on the pack I’m building.

“There you are.” Bree shoots me a tired smile. “Right on time. Let’s get this done so we can all crash. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m exhausted. Our cabin might not be home, but it’s our home away from home, and I’m going to be so damn happy to get back to it.”

Tessa sighs. “I never thought I’d say this, but me, too. The pack suites are amazing, but they leave no space for privacy. And my entire pack isn’t even here. We definitely need to make sure to never take large packs on the show.”

“We wouldn’t.” Bree giggles. “Can you imagine an omega choosing an eight-person pack that’s already formed and sending everyone else home? That would be a disaster.”

I just shake my head as I join Camden and Wilder, resting my head on my alpha’s chest. He wraps his arms around me, purring quietly.It relaxes me, and I think I could fall asleep standing here if he doesn’t stop.

“Let’s do this,” Reginald says, and I lift my head off Wilder’s chest, leaning up to kiss him.

Taking Camden’s arm, we follow Reginald into the ballroom.

My heart beats wildly in my chest. Tonight is going to change things.

“Are we still in agreement with our choices?” I ask Camden in a whisper, and he nods. “Good.”

I glance over my shoulder to find Wilder watching both of us, giving me a nod to indicate he’s heard my question, and he agrees.

With the two of them at my side, I feel like I can do anything—even claim new members for my pack.

We come to a stop beside the table as usual, and my eyes flash to the vase of roses. I asked them not to hide the roses this time.

Black, red, peach, and lavender roses fill the bouquet—more than double the needed thirteen.

Tessa said something about not giving away what I’m doing immediately. I’d just rolled my eyes and agreed. What does it matter to me how many roses are in the vase?

“Welcome back to our suitors and viewers. This past week has been unlike any other we’ve had sinceHeatedfirst aired. On Sunday, during Emilia’s family day, we were hit by a devastating 7.2 earthquake. At the compound, we suffered no losses, but were left with over twenty people injured—including one of the suitors, Dylan Whitlock, who managed to keep one of our crew members alive until emergency services could arrive, all while dealing with a dislocated shoulder of his own. Dylan, we want to thank you for your efforts during the earthquake.”

The cameras swivel toward Dylan, who waves awkwardly with his left hand since his right is still in a sling.

“Our cast and crew came together this week to serve the community of Rancho Mirage, which has been devastated by this event. There have been twenty-five deaths and hundreds of injuries caused by the earthquake. Before the ceremony begins, Emilia, Bree, and Tessa have an announcement to make.”

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