Page 33 of Happy Valentine's Day, Omega
"Hello," I say, keeping my tone neutral.
Alpha Novikov smirks and leans down close, his hot air brushing the shell of my ear.
"That's a pretty scarf around your neck, baby girl."
The room slows to a stop, and a gasp catches in my throat.
Baby girl.
He said it.
The magic, spine-tingling words.
Alpha Novikov is my Alpha.
I stare at frozen in shock, holding my breath. I barely noticed his fingers lightly pressing something into my hand.
He straightens, winks at me, and strides confidently to the chessboard.
In my loose grip, cool petals of a rose brush against my fingers. The rose is a lovely deep red shade with delicate petals blooming from the center bud.
Before I can straighten my thoughts, the adjudicator clears his throat.
"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for gathering here today for this historical match. We're honored to have a number of important guests in our audience today."
I struggle to focus on the adjudicator's speech with blood rushing in my ears.
I ignored all of the signs, unable to reconcile the two characters.
It was Alpha Novikov who gave me thoughtful gifts and saved me from being ejected from The Omega Academy mateless with a massive debt. It was the stern, brilliant chess strategist that made me fall in love with him through letters.
"Omega Alvez?" the adjudicator says, and I realize he's waiting for me to take my seat at the table.
I pass the rose off to Cara, who cups it in her hands like it's a tiny bird.
I slip into my chair, settling before the familiar board. I rub my sweating palms against my skirt and take a deep breath.
"Ready when you are," Novikov says, his eyes glinting with satisfaction.
My skin flushes, and his smirk widens.
Did he… Was the exclusive courtship a twisted ploy to throw me off my chess game?
I shake my head. That's a little too manipulative, even for Novikov. No, it wasn't his ultimate plan, but he's not above using my shock as a strategic tactic.
Fine. If he wants to play dirty, two can play at that game.
My shoulders roll back as determination settles over me. I haven't come this far to be beaten by my biology and a sexy, smug Alpha.
I refuse to lose.
"Bring it on, Alpha."
He raises a brow and gestures to the board.
"Ladies first."
My brain clicks into competition mode.
