Page 19 of Knot Gonna Lie

Between his expensive business suit with a matching sapphire vest set and his tropical coconut scent, my instincts screamed for him to claim me right here and now.

My heart was already settled before I entered the arena.

My instincts were screaming that he was the one.

His nostrils flared, and his pale eyes darkened as he breathed in deeply, sampling my needy scent. A gentle, satisfied rumble radiated deep within his chest as his lips pulled into a slight grin.

Goosebumps chased down my spine, straight to my core at the sound he made—low and delicious. I squeezed my thighs together, trying to hold back the rush of slick threatening to gush out—earning him a warm welcome indeed.

“You’re here,” I whispered, lifting my hand to touch him to make sure this wasn’t some figment of my imagination. “I can’t believe it.”

“What is there not to believe?” He let out a deep chuckle, only for it to increase my need for him tenfold. “I was told you wanted me here.”

“I do,” I gasped. I could feel the weight of hundreds of eyes on me, watching as I came undone in front of him. “Does that mean you want me too?”

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t,” he purred and lifted his hands to my sides, halting them before they could touch. “If I may be bold to ask, does this mean you’re choosing me?”

“Yes, I choose you.” I nodded with confidence, knowing I wasn’t making the wrong decision. “And I don’t want any other alpha by my side.”

“Are you certain?”

His head snapped up, the low purr dying in his throat as he scanned the arena. A snarl curled his lip. His claws barely grazed my sides—controlled, but sharp with intent. He was already bracing to keep them from taking me.

Jaw tight, he bared his teeth at the ones he clearly saw as competition.

“You’re allowed—”

“No, the others don’t matter,” I stated firmly, cupping his cheek to lock his dark gaze with mine. “My mind was made up last night—before I even stepped foot onto this arena floor. The only thing you needed to do was show up, and I would’ve claimed you.”

Breathing a sigh of relief, he nodded as he tightened his grip on me. My hands found his back as I laid my head on his chest.

My body pressed against his, and he immediately pulled me closer, crushing the space between us.

His alpha scent hit me hard—piña colada and heat—so sweet it made my mouth water. I wanted to drop to my knees and find out if he tasted as good as he smelled.

Hopefully soon. My temperature was climbing fast, and this damn dress wasn’t helping. The itchy fabric clung too tight, suddenly unbearable against my skin.

“Do we have to wait for your caretaker to escort us out?” His voice rumbled through me, vibrating my hardened nipples against the silky fabric of my dress. “Or are we free to go?”

“That’s not needed.” I sighed and snuggled my nose against his chest as I breathed in more of his exotic scent.Myscent. “She’ll take care of everything. I have full faith in her.”

“Are you certain?”

My stomach fluttered with joy from the amount of concern that laced his voice.

“Yes.”

I pulled back from his chest, frowning slightly. Why was he hesitating? I’d chosen him. Shouldn’t he want to take me away?

“I don’t have any reason to stay here,” I said softly. “Will you take me somewhere private? I want to meet your clan. I want to knowyou.”

Flicking his gaze to those around us, he pursed his lips and nodded. “As you wish.”

Without another word, he released me and leaned over to pick me up.

A gasp slipped from my lips as he gathered me into his arms, holding me tight against his chest.

I didn’t resist. Icouldn’t.