Page 149 of Knot So Lucky
"Pirelli sent the new prototype slicks. We've been running simulations, but we need actual track data before the entry races."
I'm nodding along, mentally cataloging the information and already thinking about how these changes will affect performance, when Richard's voice booms across the garage.
"PLEASE TELL ME BOTH LANES ARE PRESENT!"
Richard Pemberton storms toward us with the kind of manic energy that suggests either very good news or complete disaster. His Alpha scent is spiking with excitement rather than aggression, which suggests good news.
Probably.
I smirk, unable to resist needling him.
"Aww, Richard. Thought I was gonna leave you high and dry?"
He groans, but there's genuine relief in his expression.
"Thankful you didn't run for the hills. But Rory—" he pauses, and I can see him visibly recalibrating, "—your Omega status being public knowledge was a complete surprise."
"Tell me about it," I mutter.
"But," Richard continues, his grin becoming almost predatory with satisfaction, "it just secured ustwenty-sevennew sponsors."
The garage goes silent again.
Everyone turns to stare at me with expressions ranging from shock to calculation to something that might be respect.
"What?" I blink, certain I misheard. "What do you mean, twenty-seven sponsors?"
Richard's practically vibrating with excitement now.
"We have a list of companies and organizations putting money into both the races specifically and our organization generally. They want to associate themselves with you, with this story, with the narrative of an Omega breaking barriers in racing."
He pulls out his tablet, scrolling rapidly.
"And five of them,five major corporate sponsors, want to talk to you privately about starting initiatives that will cater specifically to Omegas who wish to enter the racing realm. Not just drivers, but specialized positions like pit tech, engineering, race strategy."
The words leave me utterly speechless.
Initiatives.
For Omegas in racing.
In positions beyond just driving.
Recognition that people like me exist and deserve opportunities.
Everyone in the garage is gawking now—at me, at Richard, at the tablet he's holding like it contains the secrets of the universe.
"That's what I'm talking about!" Roran's voice cuts through my shock, enthusiastic and proud in ways that make my throat tight.
He pushes me toward Richard with both hands on my shoulders, propelling me forward with gentle but insistent force.
"He'll totally hold the fort and handle the press," Roran continues, grinning at Richard. "Make them think he's me if it means securing these deals. Go, sis. This is important."
I want to argue. Want to say I need time to process, that I'm not ready for this level of responsibility and public attention.
But the opportunity is too significant to dismiss.
These aren't just sponsors throwing money at a novelty. These are organizations willing to invest in systematic change,in creating pathways for Omegas who've been excluded from racing industries for generations.
