Page 5 of Knot in Their Wildest Dreams: Part 1

But she wasn’t satisfied. “And what direction would you say you areheaded, Miss Harringday?”

I folded my hands neatly over my knee, offering the kind of polished response I’d rehearsed countless times. “Well, as always, I see myself continuing to lead Harringday Industries, expanding the brand, and improving lives - regardless of designation.”

Her gaze sharpened as she held her recorder closer, clearly searching for any crack in my facade. “Speaking of Harringday Industries,” she began, her voice edged with faux sweetness, “you’re widely recognized as the first omega to serve as acting CEO of a company in the Eastern Province. Some have described your leadership style as... colorful.”

My smile didn’t waver, though her words stung. I knew exactly what she was implying, and I refused to let it show. I couldn’t afford to.

“Colorful, brilliant, extraordinary, yes, I’ve heard it all!” I responded with a laugh.

“And how,” she continued, her tone deceptively innocent, “do you manage to lead one of the largest multinational corporations in the world while balancing the needs of your omega designation?”

It was a calculated move - a question designed to undermine my authority, delivered with an air of feigned curiosity. I could feel the weight of her intent, her attempt to plant doubt about my capabilities.

The Eastern Province was ruthless. Compared to the other side of the country, omegas rights were practically in the dark ages. Unless, of course, our families were important or we were wealthy. And even though I was one of the wealthiest people in the country at this point, people still doubted my capabilities because of my designation. They always did.

"Well," I began with an easy smile, "it’s not much different than how anyone else manages their needs. I’m diligent with my schedule, disciplined, and constantly engaging with various stakeholders to ensure things run efficiently. I also have an incredible team, and Harringday Industries is known for its innovation. And what could be more innovative than having a traditionally underrepresented voice at the helm as CEO?”

I knew that bringing up designation rights would resonate with many readers. I leaned forward slightly, maintaining my poise. “This company is my family’s legacy, and I fully intend to carry it forward, making it my own.”

The beta stuttered before catching herself. A sly smile curled up on one side of her mouth. “Speaking of schedules, one of your ‘needs’ takes you out of commission for up to a week at a time. Do you really think you can provide leadership when you are unable to be available, or even coherent, during these times?”

I secretly burned inside at her words. She was referring to an omega’s heat - a vulnerable time, and something very private. Also something that should not prevent an omega from having the same rights and opportunities as other designations. I kept my voice calm and looked at her sweetly as I answered.

“Aw, you can say the word. We are both adults here. You’re talking about a heat.” I could see her discomfort, but I pressed on, knowing this would be controversial. In the Eastern Province, omegas were seen more than heard. And heat cycles were not often spoken about in detail. Especially not publicly.

“Every person, no matter their designation, has times in their life where they will be incapacitated. Lest we forget that alphas themselves are involved in most heats!” I said with a laugh. The interviewer sat back, flustered at my directness. “Alphas run most major organizations, and if they can be out for a week tending to biological needs, what is the difference?” I asked as she sat back, her hand on her chest as she grasped for words.

“Also, most people should take time off occasionally. No one is a machine. Vacations are a necessary part of work life balance. And let's not forget taking time off to give birth. You would know about that. Your children are what, four and two now?” Her mouth dropped open at my mention of her family. “I’m sure you took time off to recover from their births,” I added smoothly, my tone unwavering. “And that’s exactly as it should be. Work-life balance is essential for everyone. It’s a cornerstone of my philosophy, and I believe anyone, regardless of designation, can excel in any role they set their mind to.”

Her mouth tightened as she tried to regain control of the conversation, but I wasn’t finished. “Since we’re on the topic, I’ll take this opportunity to announce something new at Harringday Industries: extended maternity leave and guaranteed job security for all parents, regardless of designation.”

She sat back and nearly dropped the recorder. The Eastern Province wasn’t well known for workers' rights, especially not for mothers. If Harringday Industries made this change, many other companies would have to follow suit to stay competitive.

She stammered, pushing her glasses up her nose as she struggled for a response. I could see the frustration in her face as her attempt to undermine me had backfired spectacularly.

And that is why I was still head of my company. No matter how hard people tried to take me down because of my designation, or my family connections, or my supposed reputation, I would always stay one step ahead. “Any more questions, Jessie? Don’t tell me we’re over already.” I smiled brilliantly.

She had to report on my new policy now. It would be groundbreaking in our region. If she didn’t, someone else would get the scoop. I knew she was burning up at her failed attempt to drag my reputation in the article they were going to publish. She quickly moved the topic toward the new colors of lipstick that the brand that sponsored the photoshoot was coming out with. I played along, my tone light and cheerful. After all, anything connected to me sold out instantly, and I wasn’t about to let her derail the rest of my day.

After keeping my cool through that excruciating interview, my assistant finally came to the rescue. “Celeste, you’re going to be late for your next meeting!” She quipped, and I stood, holding my hand out to the journalist.

“It was lovely speaking with you,” I said, the lie slipping through my lips easily. The journalist took my hand, squeezing it so hard that I swore she nearly broke a bone. She leaned in, whispering harshly through gritted teeth.

“Appalling of you to bring up my family. Don’t ever do it again.” She said, then pulled away and gave a strained smile. I smiled back at her, then leaned in and gave my response.

“Then perhaps don’t be so rude as to bring up biological functions, Jessie.” Straightening my back, I turned away, casually brushing my hand against my dress as if to wipe away the lingering trace of her handshake. Journalists always loved trying to bring me down, poking at my life and my designation like it was open for scrutiny. But this was just one more hurdle in my endless fight to prove that omegas deserved the same respect and opportunities as anyone else.

I quickly followed my assistant through the building. I was supposed to meet with my uncle, but as always, I got caught up as some of the magazine staff stopped me for a photo. Finally, I finally found my way out to the waiting SUV, and slipped inside. I set my head back, reminiscing on the path it had taken to get here.

I was always in the news, but lately, the spotlight had grown relentless. Between running my family’s company, maintaining a constant presence on the social circuit, and managing one of the largest accounts on social media, I rarely had a chance to take a step back. But I had to keep going.

Visibility was my armor.

In the Western Province, being a celebrity made me aspirational. In the Eastern Province, where omega rights were still caught in the past, fame served as a safeguard. Any attempt to interfere with my inherited company in the Eastern Province would instantly become headline news, just like the attempted kidnapping had. As long as I wielded the social influence I had, no one would dare to touch me.

No one expected me to want the position of CEO.

My father had inherited Harringday Industries from his father, who had inherited it from his. It was a legacy built over generations, and in a society that prioritized alphas and betas, no one had prepared for the possibility of an omega heir.

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