Page 108 of Knot for Me
“Plenty. Thanks for stocking up,” I say, realizing how much planning they did for me. “Do I need to apologize to you guys? I’ve been a bit of a jerk to Amelie and Frank.”
“No apologies needed.” Lucas takes a piece of pizza. “So long as you’re happy, we’re fine.”
“I’m good,” I promise, taking a bite. “How’s world domination coming?”
“Slow,” he says with a heavy sigh. “It’ll take time, but I’m hopeful.”
“We’ve met with a few royal packs who have a lot of pull. Most understand it’s time for change.” Marco takes the barstool next to me, arm brushing against mine.
I resist the urge to lean into the touch. “Cornelius?”
They all grimace.
“Work in progress,” Lucas finally says. “My dad is stubborn, but with enough convincing, I think we can get him on board.”
“The key is to get his friends on the revolution train first. Cornelius hates to be left behind.” Cory turns to grab a glass for water. “How was your day?”
“Oh, fine.” I don’t mention snapping at Amelie, hugging her, crying, and eating my weight in food. “Quiet.” I swear I hear Frank snicker. I shoot a glare to the hallway even though he can’t see it.
“You up for a movie?” Marco nudges me. “Maybe something funny?”
“Funny is good. Only a five percent chance of crying.” I nod and finish my pizza, ignoring the way my stomach rumbles for more. I’ve had plenty of food this last week. I’d be surprised if I didn’t go up three pant sizes. I know my body needs it though, so I try not to dwell on that.
* * *
Halfway through a movie about two step-brothers who hate each other, the first wave of warmth crashes into me. My entire body heats and a heady dose of omega perfume fills the air. My heat scent is stronger than my normal one, sweeter and laced with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. This is only the start though. It takes a full twenty-four hours for the heat to take hold. Three pained groans greet my ears. I stiffen, shooting my gaze to the big couch where the guys are sitting together. They’re all looking at me. Lucas with unabashed desire. Cory with hopeful curiosity, and Marco with playful intent. I carefully stand, backing around the oversized chair and holding up my hand.
“I’m fine,” I say, whimpering when my core clenches and a tingle of desire races through me. My panties are instantly soaked with my slick as the scent of freshly made caramel fills the room.
“Reagan, do you want us to help you?” Lucas asks, slowly standing, like he’s afraid he’ll spook me.
“No,” I rasp, wrapping my arms around myself and taking another step back.
“We’ll be here if you need us,” Marco says with a wink. “No need to be scared. We’ll do whatever you ask.”
“I need to go to my nest.” They haven’t mentioned the blankets yet, but obviously they don’t mind me stealing them.
“Text me if you need anything.” Cory holds up his phone.
All I can do is nod before I run from the room. A cramp shoots through me, and I clutch my stomach, taking the stairs two at a time. As soon as I’m in my room and the door is shut, I strip, dropping pieces of clothing on my way to the closet. My legs are shaking and my stomach quivers again, aching for the touch of an alpha. I turn on the lights and candles before burrowing into the pile of blankets and curling into the fetal position.
Already the heat is so strong, and it’ll only get worse. Tomorrow night, I’ll be too overcome by my hormones and needs to remember much of anything. The frenzy. I dread that the most.
I bite my cheeks to keep from calling to the alphas.
I close my fists to keep from opening the door and inviting them in.
I shut my eyes and try to sleep through the pangs of longing and aching need.
I’m stronger than this. I don’t need them. I don’t need to be a good omega. I don’t need a real knot. I have the vibrator. I can survive this alone. The thing is, I don’t know if I want to do it by myself. Deep down, I want them here with me. It’s why I stole their things. The closet smells like them, and if anything, it makes these feelings harder to deny.
No, that’s the hormones. You don’t want them.
No matter how much I tell myself the lie, I don’t believe it. Not one bit.
ChapterTwenty-Eight
MARCO
