Page 160 of Knot So Lucky

"I don't exactly look very feminine to introduce to the family."

The comment makes me frown, something protective flaring in my chest.

"You look perfectly fine," I tell her firmly, letting my eyes travel deliberately over her features. "Beautiful, actually. And the last time I got to taste you, I confirmed you'reveryfeminine."

Her blush returns with devastating intensity, spreading from her cheeks down her neck in ways that make me want to trace the pattern with my tongue.

I lean in closer, voice dropping to a whisper.

"You taste as sweet as ever,Liebling. Like honey and vanilla and everything addictive."

"Adrian!" She groans, pushing at my chest to create distance. "You can't just say things like that!"

I chuckle at her flustered reaction, thoroughly enjoying this playful side of Aurora that doesn't emerge often around the others.

"Why not? It's true." I let her create space between us, not wanting to push too far too fast. "But speaking of sweet things—are you hungry?"

As if summoned by the question, her stomach growls.

Loudly enough that we both hear it clearly, the sound cutting through the quiet morning like a demand.

Aurora's blush intensifies, and I can't help but laugh as I stand, bringing her up with me. She squeaks in surprise as I adjust my grip, carrying her princess-style toward the kitchen.

"Adrian, I can walk!"

"I know. But this is more fun."

Shadow has apparently relocated during our conversation, because I find her sitting on the kitchen table—specifically on astack of car magazines that someone,probably Elias, left there—purring contentedly like she owns the place.

I set Aurora down gently in one of the kitchen chairs, making sure she's stable before stepping back.

"Would you like to go on a date?" The question comes out before I fully think it through, but I don't regret it.

Aurora blinks in surprise, clearly not expecting the invitation.

"A date? Like... an actual date?"

"Yes, an actual date. Not just pack time or work time or crisis management time. An actual planned outing where we get to know each other without the pressure of racing or external threats."

She's quiet for a moment, thinking.

"I have work. Training schedule is pretty packed leading up to the entry races."

"Alone time at work can be a date," I counter, already planning the logistics. "Lunch in the garage, coffee during diagnostic runs, stealing moments between simulator sessions. It all counts if the intention is there."

Aurora laughs—bright and genuine—and the sound makes my Alpha instincts purr with satisfaction.

"Accommodations for now," she concedes, that competitive spark returning to her eyes. "But I do want a real date with thee, Adrian Castellanos. The full experience—fancy restaurant, actual planning, you trying to impress me."

The challenge in her voice makes heat coil in my belly.

"Deal," I agree immediately, already mentally cataloging the best restaurants in the area.

I turn to the counter, gathering the pancakes I'd made earlier, warming them up and loading a plate with generous portions. Fresh fruit that I'd prepped this morning, bacon that'scrispy just the way I know Omegas typically prefer it, and a fresh hot cup of coffee made exactly how Aurora likes it.

Black, no sugar, strong enough to strip paint.

I bring everything to the table, setting it before her with the kind of care usually reserved for precious artifacts.