Page 35 of Knot Your Kismet

I don’t get a chance to read more than a line of the open email, but my heart sinks into my stomach because of it. It says the bonding application was accepted.

Confusion washes over me, and I stiffen in Nolan’s arms. What bonding application? I don’t understand. Did Nolan proceed with the official paperwork claiming me as an omega without even telling me? It would be in his right to do so no matter how much I protest.

“You don’t need it, sir. Everything is already set.” The lawyer chuckles, his voice grating on my nerves. Why does he sound so happy?

“Everything is set?” I ask, my heart racing out of control. “What do you mean everything is set?” I know Nolan’s lawyer can hear me if I can hear him.

“Oh, Calista. What a pleasant surprise and an honor to be speaking with you. Congratulations. I’m so happy things are now settled.”

I shove my hands against Nolan, pushing myself up. I can’t risk him holding me any longer. “What was the point of our conversation? You gave me hope. I thought I was bearing my soul to help you understand. Did you think I’d change my mind? I didn’t agree to this. Nolan, what have you done? I told you—”

“Omega, give me a minute.” Nolan frowns, revealing his emotions for the first time. I can’t tell if he’s annoyed by my reaction or by the fact that he got caught.

I clench my fingers. “No. I trusted you. Do your brothers know? You shouldn’t have done this without my consent. I can’t believe this.”

“Cali, wait. Please,” Nolan says, remaining at the desk. His muscles flex as he grips his phone. “I just need a minute to talk to the lawyer.”

I expected him to ask me to wait so he could explain, but he wants to talk to the lawyer? This is bullshit. This is utter bullshit.

“Take all the time you want. You better reverse whatever has been done. I mean it. I’ll never be your omega. Not like this. Not against my wishes.” I spin around and head to the door, my anger and disappointment battling for control. I should’ve known this is how things would be. The Kismet brothers need me to claim the Kismet Estate. My behavior probably made it easier for them. I opened myself up, thinking that it would help them understand. Instead, they took advantage.

I slam the door behind me, my eyes burning with unshed tears. I need to call Ivy. She’ll help me. At least, I hope.

Because I can’t just settle.

I need to get out of here.

If I don’t, I’ll never be able to make my own decisions again.

I’ll be exactly what everyone wants me to be.

I’ll lose myself.

21

Unapologetic Self

Calista

There is no escaping them. I can smell Jensen’s scent wafting up from behind me. They’ll never let me out of their sight, especially now.

All I want is to be alone.

I ignore Jensen and continue my stroll down the winding path that leads away from the Kismet Estate and to the private beach below. I’ve always thought it was strange how people can claim a shoreline, and I hope that will change one day.

Finding a spot with shade, I sit in the soft sand, facing the ocean. Jensen keeps his distance, though I can feel his eyes penetrating me. He’s going to wait for me to invite him over, and a part of me wants to.

I focus my attention on the blue water, the waves cresting against the light sand, creating foam. The sound helps slow the rapid beating of my heart.

“I hate that I’m getting used to you trying to flutter away from me, butterfly. What did my brother do? I heard a door slam and saw you leaving. I’m surprised he didn’t follow.” Jensen remains fifteen feet away, his shadow the only thing I can see in my peripheral vision without looking directly at him.

It’s hard for me to open up and admit what happened. Jensen should know.

“Is this about wanting to be sterilized?” His voice lowers with the question. It catches me off guard, because I haven’t told him yet.

“I found the inquiries while sorting through your Omega Resort paperwork. I haven’t told anyone. Promise.” Jensen steps into view, and I watch him kick off his dress shoes and take off his socks. He looks ready for a meeting, his tailored suit outlining his muscular frame.

“That doesn’t matter now. Both of your brothers know. I had intended to tell you guys together but…” I rest my chin on my knees. I don’t think Jensen is looking for an explanation or that he even cares that I didn’t tell him myself. I appreciate it. Especially in this moment where I can’t seem to get a grasp on my emotions.