Page 49 of Knot Our Reality (Heated #5)

Emilia

I can’t believe how tired I am as I make my way toward the ballroom.

This week has been absolutely insane—even without going on dates with my suitors.

We’ve been away from each other and the compound so much as we try to help rebuild Rancho Mirage. And they’ve all gotten a crash course on what it’s like living in a busy household.

The damaged cabins have all been repaired and, with the power completely restored a few days ago, everyone is finally leaving the mansion. I’m sad to lose the constant contact with my boys, but I know it’s important to focus on the pack I’m building.

“There you are.” Bree shoots me a tired smile. “Right on time. Let’s get this done so we can all crash. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m exhausted. Our cabin might not be home, but it’s our home away from home, and I’m going to be so damn happy to get back to it.”

Tessa sighs. “I never thought I’d say this, but me, too. The pack suites are amazing, but they leave no space for privacy. And my entire pack isn’t even here. We definitely need to make sure to never take large packs on the show.”

“We wouldn’t.” Bree giggles. “Can you imagine an omega choosing an eight-person pack that’s already formed and sending everyone else home? That would be a disaster.”

I just shake my head as I join Camden and Wilder, resting my head on my alpha’s chest. He wraps his arms around me, purring quietly. It relaxes me, and I think I could fall asleep standing here if he doesn’t stop.

“Let’s do this,” Reginald says, and I lift my head off Wilder’s chest, leaning up to kiss him.

Taking Camden’s arm, we follow Reginald into the ballroom.

My heart beats wildly in my chest. Tonight is going to change things.

“Are we still in agreement with our choices?” I ask Camden in a whisper, and he nods. “Good.”

I glance over my shoulder to find Wilder watching both of us, giving me a nod to indicate he’s heard my question, and he agrees.

With the two of them at my side, I feel like I can do anything—even claim new members for my pack.

We come to a stop beside the table as usual, and my eyes flash to the vase of roses. I asked them not to hide the roses this time.

Black, red, peach, and lavender roses fill the bouquet—more than double the needed thirteen.

Tessa said something about not giving away what I’m doing immediately. I’d just rolled my eyes and agreed. What does it matter to me how many roses are in the vase?

“Welcome back to our suitors and viewers. This past week has been unlike any other we’ve had since Heated first aired.

On Sunday, during Emilia’s family day, we were hit by a devastating 7.

2 earthquake. At the compound, we suffered no losses, but were left with over twenty people injured—including one of the suitors, Dylan Whitlock, who managed to keep one of our crew members alive until emergency services could arrive, all while dealing with a dislocated shoulder of his own.

Dylan, we want to thank you for your efforts during the earthquake. ”

The cameras swivel toward Dylan, who waves awkwardly with his left hand since his right is still in a sling.

“Our cast and crew came together this week to serve the community of Rancho Mirage, which has been devastated by this event. There have been twenty-five deaths and hundreds of injuries caused by the earthquake. Before the ceremony begins, Emilia, Bree, and Tessa have an announcement to make. ”

I step forward as Bree and Tessa join me.

“The community in Rancho Mirage has proven themselves to be strong and resilient following this natural disaster. It’s been humbling to be on the ground, helping where I can over the last week, but they’re still in dire need of assistance.

Because of that, Reinhardt Incorporated and Fated Industries have teamed up to help raise money and awareness of the tragedy they’re going through right now. ”

“We will host a charity gala here at the Heated compound a week from today,” Bree says as she takes over for me. “All proceeds will be donated to the rebuilding and aid of those affected in Rancho Mirage.”

Tessa nods. “Both Emilia’s company and ours will each be matching the proceeds of the gala, tripling the money for those in need.

We chose Saturday to allow the attendees to see a rose ceremony live.

While our show doesn’t air live, we’re making sure to share this far and wide on social media.

If you’re unable to make it to the gala, we hope you’ll still consider donating. ”

“If you’re watching this and feel compelled to donate, you still can.

The amount of money it takes to fix the damage from this disaster is high.

I pledge that not only will Reinhardt Incorporated match the proceeds of the gala and all donations made in the week between now and then, but for the next year.

Every single donation makes a difference, so even if you can donate a small amount, I promise you the people of this city will be grateful.

” I turn my attention to Bree, who will wrap this up for us.

“Because of Emilia’s generous pledge, Tessa and I have also agreed to match any donations made to the relief fund for the next year.

That means if you can only afford a twenty-dollar donation, you’re actually giving them sixty dollars.

” Bree smiles. “We spend a quarter of a year here in Rancho Mirage filming the show. This is our home away from home. The members of that community are our friends and neighbors. We will always take care of our own. So, please donate if you can. Thank you.”

Reginald rejoins me as Bree and Tessa leave the stage. “I’ve discussed it with my pack, and we’ve also decided to match donations for the next year.”

“What?” he asks when I gape at him, and he offers me a smile. “I’m a successful man, as are the other members of my pack. If we’re not willing to help those who have supported this show from its beginning, then what’s the point of having money?”

I throw my arms around him, fighting back tears. “Thank you.”

“We’re not doing it for thanks, we’re doing it because these people need our help. So, viewers, do you hear that? A twenty-dollar donation will actually mean eighty dollars for the aid of Rancho Mirage. Now, Emilia, I believe you have some roses to hand out.”

“That I do. No.” I shake my head, reaching for Camden. “We do.”

“Oh, look at things getting interesting. First, we’d like to invite Lee Campbell to the stage.”

It doesn’t take long for Lee to join us, and I cling to my omega’s hand. This one is going to be hard.

“Lee, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you better.

I was so happy when I saw you step out of the limo that first day because I knew what a good man you are—something you’ve proven repeatedly on the show.

” My smile falls away, and I’m suddenly fighting tears.

“Unfortunately, as much as I’d like to keep all my suitors, that just isn’t possible.

I’ve thought long and hard about this. Camden, Wilder, and I have discussed it in great detail before coming to the conclusion that we don’t think you’re the right fit for our pack. ”

Lee tries to stay stoic, but his disappointment is palpable as I hand him the black rose Camden plucks from the vase.

“I’m sorry, Lee.” I step toward him, wanting to hug him before freezing. He might not want a hug from me right now.

He shakes his head. “Don’t apologize. Am I sad to be sent home?

Obviously, but you have to do what’s right for you and your family.

Now I know that neither of you is the omega for me, I can continue my search.

I will admit, being on the show and rejected twice kind of sucks.

I might have to look into other ways to find a pack and an omega. ”

I snort, tears spilling over as he opens his arms for me.

I wrap my arms around him the best I can—at this point, I have to hug people sideways.

“You’re a good man, Lee, and I know they’re out there waiting for you.

Just because you’re not part of my pack doesn’t mean you aren’t part of my family.

You’re stuck with me and my brother now. We’re not good at giving up people.”

“Don’t think I haven’t noticed,” he says with a laugh before stepping back. He runs his hand down my cheek, a sad smile settling onto his lips. “Be happy, Emilia. They’d want nothing less for you than that.”

A fresh burst of tears spills down my cheeks as he leaves the stage, and Camden pulls me into his arms. I allow myself a moment before stepping away from him and nodding toward Reginald, who calls Paxton to the stage next.

I see the resignation in his eyes when he stops in front of me, and I sigh.

“Paxton, you’re a beautiful soul, and I don’t think enough people have given you a chance to prove that.

I am a firm believer in second chances, and you’ve proven that you’re determined to remain sober.

I can’t wait for your album to release and for others to hear your music and your words. They speak to my soul.”

I hesitate. “But finding a pack is about so much more than that—especially for me. This week has been hard on all of us with the tight quarters, and I think we’ve all handled it well.

But I’ve noticed that the boys and you have never connected.

I can tell you care about them, but they can’t.

They just see you as a really cool guy their mom knows, and that’s not enough for me.

I’m so sorry, but tonight, Camden and I will be sending you home. ”

Paxton nods his head as he takes the rose from Camden.

“I understand. I’ve never been around kids before, and this was a learning experience for me.

I wasn’t at all prepared for what being a parent means.

I’ll admit, I’m not ready for it, but I hope to be one day.

I know you’ll build the perfect pack for the two of you and your children. ”

He leaves the stage before I can say anything else .