Knot Her Reality (Heated Book 3)

Chapter One

Stop stealing our women!

Even omegas aren’t allowed to be greedy.

Ban woman/woman love!

How can two women make a baby?

Blinking away tears, I set the tablet onto the table, sliding it away from me. I can’t keep looking at the signs of the assholes outside of these gates who are protesting not just this season of Heated but my existence.

“I told you to stop looking at them,” Bree says softly, taking the tablet and turning it off before setting it back onto the table. “Everything they have to say is hateful and meant to upset you.”

I scoff. “Then it’s working.”

There’s a moment of silence before Bree sighs. “Are you sure you want to do this, Evangeline?”

My initial reaction is to scream out yes because I don’t want bigoted people to tell me how to live my life. But this is about so much more than me. I’m not the only woman who will be on this season, and my decision affects all of us. I’ve been on site at the mansion for a month, and it’s been nothing but this—protests and riots. Cruel words and threats against not just my life but those of everyone involved in the show.

Who would’ve thought that being a bisexual omega would be such a big deal?

If this wasn’t such a serious situation, I would laugh. I knew when I agreed to come onto the third season of Heated that it would be hard. There’s nothing about being a bisexual woman that’s easy, but by throwing me into the spotlight, it’s brought out a lot of very loud opinions. I know that most of it comes from a place of fear and not hate, but that doesn’t really make it any easier.

We’ve all been affected by the low birth rates and the limited number of female children being born over the last however many years. I understand people want to have the best odds at reproduction, but this is my life. I don’t have control over who I’m attracted to. I was born this way. I’ve always loved men and women equally, if in their own ways. I tried to hide it for as long as I could while growing up, knowing that it would cause issues. And cause issues it had.

Having your mother walk in on you going down on a woman on your eighteenth birthday isn’t the way most people would want their parents to find out they were bisexual. Hell, I hadn’t wanted my parents to find out at all. I knew what their reaction would be. Though, I missed out on the initial outrage as the stress of the situation caused me to perfume, revealing my new omega designation.

My parents had kicked out my girlfriend and locked me in my room to deal with my first heat all on my own. That had been strike one.

As soon as the heat had cleared, my mother dragged me from my room to speak with her and my father. My body was still weak, so the moment she released me, I fell to the ground. That’s what happens when no one bothers to bring you food for a week, and you’re left to make do with the candy and snacks you have hidden in your room. They left me on the floor as they screamed at me about my deviant ways and that if I wished to remain in the family, then I would need to go through a program or therapy of some kind to “cure” me. That had been strike two.

I cried, not believing how cruel my parents were being. They had been a little absent from my life growing up, and I was mostly raised by a nanny, but I thought they loved me. They made sure I had the very best education, and I wanted for nothing. Considering I went to private school and all my friends’ parents were the same, I thought that’s just how it was. But when my father stared down at me with disgust in his eyes and spat on me, something inside of me broke open. That had been strike three.

I didn’t bother waiting for them to kick me out. I forced myself to my feet, ignoring their screams as I walked away from them and went straight to my room. I packed a single bag of the things I couldn’t do without and then walked out the door, never looking back. Losing the only family I’d ever known because of who I loved had broken me, but I’ve never been one to let anything keep me down.

So here I am at thirty-seven, the only successful omega fashion designer in the business, finally ready to find my pack and settle down. Heated had seemed like a godsend. I’d watched the first two seasons and knew that it was exactly what I needed. I just hadn’t been sure that they would be accepting of my sexuality. It turns out I had nothing to worry about. Bree called me the day after I submitted the application, begging me to be the third season’s omega.

Now, here we are, before the suitors have begun arriving, needing me to make a decision.

Am I going to be the strong, resilient, proud bisexual woman I’ve become, or am I going to bow down to the hate and prejudice of those like my parents?

When I put it like that, the answer is easy.

“Yes. I’m sure.” I take a deep breath and straighten my shoulders. “I won’t let them win. Let them spew their hate. It’s not the first time I’ve had to deal with it, and it’s unlikely to be the last. I’m ready to have a pack and fall in love. I won’t let the haters stop me from having that.”

“That’s what I was hoping you’d say,” Bree says with a laugh, pushing to her feet.

I do the same, straightening out the material of the navy blue dress I’m wearing. Luckily, its silky material is covered in waves of tulle, so even if it wrinkles, no one will be able to tell. “Remind me what the plan is?”

Bree nods. “Of course. We’ll be following the same format as last season, where you will meet four suitors at a time. You’ll have dinner together after the initial meeting and a quiet evening of whatever the five of you would like to do. In the morning, you’ll have breakfast and then your date will begin shortly after. Once you return, you’ll get ready to meet with your second group of suitors while I interview the day one suitors.

“Reginald will do your interview before you meet the day two suitors. Then rinse and repeat until you’ve met all the suitors and been on five group dates. From there, we’ll hold the first rose ceremony where you’ll be able to send suitors home if you desire. Or invite them to your pack—whatever your little heart fancies.”

I hum, nodding. “Are you finally going to tell me why you’re here running things on your own? Not that I know you can’t do it—you’re a badass, after all—but where is Tessa?”

“As I told you when you arrived, Tessa has been dealing with some personal issues since the end of the last season. She’ll be joining us when she feels ready.” Bree’s mouth flattens. “Why do you keep asking? Are you afraid that something like last season will happen? Because I can assure you, it will not. There’s a reason that all went down, and while I can’t share it with you, I can assure you that it won’t be an issue.”

I shrug because what am I supposed to tell her? I certainly can’t admit the truth—that I met Tessa once for all of two minutes about ten years ago, and I’ve never been able to forget her. Part of me has been hoping that she’ll be one of the alphas on my season, but with what Bree keeps saying, my hopes keep dimming with each passing day. I didn’t say more than hello to her as she was introduced to the group of women I was speaking with, but it had been enough to fuel my fantasies for years to come.

“I’m just nosy by nature. I’d apologize, but I learned long ago not to apologize for my personality. It just pisses people off more.”

Bree snickers, trying to hide her laughter, but she fails spectacularly. “I get the feeling your suitors are going to love your personality. You’re one of a kind, and I’m glad you agreed to come on Heated. I am sorry that you’re having to deal with backlash from ignorant people, but we will keep you safe.”

“At least I won’t have access to the tablet anymore. Plus, the mandatory sessions with Dr. Abernathy.”

“Please tell me you call him that to his face.” Bree snickers again. “I’d pay to see it.”

It’s my turn to smile. “I do, and he gets mad every single time.”

Bree’s hand goes to her ear, telling me someone is speaking to her through her earpiece. “Got it. Thank you. We’ll be heading out in a few moments.”

“It’s time?” I ask, running my hands over the skirt of the dress once more.

“The dress is fine, and you look amazing. As much as I want to tell you that this isn’t a big deal and that you should relax, I know that’s not going to help anything.” Bree reaches over and takes my hand in hers, squeezing gently. “Instead, I’m going to tell you it’s normal to be nervous. This is a big deal and you get to feel whatever the hell you want. But I’m here for you, and so is Reginald. And Dr. Abernathy.”

I laugh with her, already feeling better. I don’t know what it is about this experience, but it’s the first thing I’ve felt nervous about in a long time. That, in itself, is exciting to me. And I do love to be excited.

“I’ve got this.” I nod, not just to assure myself but to assure Bree. “But I need a mirror before I go out there. I know you keep saying the dress is fine, but if I don’t see it before I walk outside, I’m going to be stressing out about it the whole time.”

“Okay, then we’ll make a pit stop in your suite.” Bree leads me out of the dining room and into the foyer. Instead of heading out the front door, she makes a right into the hallway that leads to my suite.

Laying my thumb on the sensor, I smile when the door pops open. I love the security Bree and Tessa have in place to make me feel safe. That’s something that’s very important to an omega. Stepping into the sitting area, I immediately relax. Bree had allowed me to redecorate the room when I arrived.

Instead of regular couches and chairs, I’ve filled the room with round, nest-like furniture of all sizes. Some are small enough for one person and the largest could fit at least four or five, depending on their sizes. They’re all made of soft materials and covered in pillows. The other decor addition I made was covering the walls with mirrors of various sizes. It might seem weird, but I like what I like.

Strutting over to one of the walls, I turn from side to side as I critique the dress. It’s one of my designs, as all of my clothes will be this season. I made sure it was included in my contract. Yes, I’m here to find a pack, but there’s never a bad time for advertising. Especially since I’ve just launched a male line, so all the suitors get to mix my line in with the wardrobe that they bring with them. I didn’t become a powerhouse in the design world by sitting on my laurels.

The dress has a sweetheart neckline and spaghetti straps, dipping low into a V at the base of my spine where the skirt starts. From the front, it looks demure as long as I’m standing still. As soon as I begin to walk, the hip-high slit beneath the layers of tulle is quickly revealed. Paired with the low back, it makes the dress sexy as hell. Bree was right—there are no wrinkles, and it’s falling as perfectly now as it was when I pulled it on. Usually, I wouldn’t pair this dress with panties, but it’s unlikely that I will make it through these meetings without the scent-canceling panties I’m wearing. Luckily, they’re also my design, so they’re barely noticeable.

With a critical eye, I take in my honey-blonde hair pulled up into a messy updo with pieces falling around my face. It accentuates the long line of my neck and will be a tempting sight for my alpha suitors—a bare neck, free of marks, and no jewelry, will be a beacon to them. The smoky eye Allison had expertly applied makes my gray eyes pop. There’s just a hint of color to my cheeks and a nude lipstick on my lips, completing my look.

A smile slides across my face. I look good.

“See? You look beautiful.” Bree comes to stand at my side, and I laugh at our size difference. At five-foot-nine, I’m already tall, but I refuse to allow that to keep me from wearing heels. I’m nearly six feet tall today, and she looks so small compared to me. “Stop laughing at me. It’s not my fault I’m short and you’re the height of an actual goddess.”

It’s not the first time we’ve had this conversation over the last month. And this right here? This is why I agreed to come on the show and why I know I made the right decision. This isn’t just about pulling good numbers for the network to Bree. She cares about me and the other omegas she can help. She wants to help us find our pack, and she cares what happens to us. I know when I leave Heated, it’ll be with her friendship.

“I’m not sure that goddesses are tall. Is there some documentation that I’m not aware of?” I tease her as I turn toward the door. “I’m ready now. Thanks for letting me stop.”

Bree’s smile only grows. “You don’t need to thank me for that, but you’re welcome. All I want is to make this as easy as possible for you, and part of that is making sure you’re comfortable. That’s one upside to me having gone through this myself. I’ve been where you are right now. I remember what it feels like, and I know what it feels like when you connect with someone you know is yours. You’ll know that feeling soon.”

“One can hope.”

“There’s no reason to hope. It’ll happen. After all, you’ll have twenty men and women vying for your attention soon. Alphas, beta, and omegas, just like you requested. You’re going to have the time of your life.” Bree opens the door, gesturing for me to go ahead.

We make small talk as we head outside and over to the gazebo, where Reginald is waiting for us.

“It’s about time. Damn omegas are always taking their time.” Reginald grins, showing that he’s joking.

I run my hands down my body and spin around. “Looking this good takes time, honey.”

Reginald laughs, throwing his head back as he does so. “This is going to be an amazing season with you as the omega, Evangeline. I’m so looking forward to this.”

“Me too,” I tell him, taking his hand so he can help me up the stairs. I settle into the chair, glancing at the cameras. “There’s a big difference between knowing you’re being filmed when you can’t see the cameras and sitting down with them in your face.”

Reginald scoffs. “Oh, hush. We all know this isn’t the first time you’ve been on camera. I’ve seen the interviews.”

“Oh, are you a fan?”

“I am. Believe it or not, this isn’t one of the options you provided. I mean, it is, but this is mine. I bought it the moment your men’s line hit the stores. Your designs are to die for, and I’m glad that I can finally wear them.” Reginald runs his hands down the slick lines of his suit, and I smile. It looks good on him, and he knows it.

“It looks good on you, as you’re aware. But I’m glad you like it. Everyone told me that starting a men’s line would be risky—that I’d fail. But clearly, they were mistaken.” I snort.

Bree sighs. “Okay, stop using all the good stuff before the interview, please. You definitely need to repeat that.”

“Ma’am, yes, ma’am,” I say with a snort and a fake salute. “I’m ready.”

“Wait!” Bree comes running up the stairs. “I almost forgot your mic.”

Reginald’s eyes narrow on her. “You’ve been awfully forgetful lately.”

Bree helps me get the mic on and avoids meeting either of our eyes when she stands up. That’s not suspicious at all. “I’ve had a lot going on. Now, focus on the interview. The first suitor is set to arrive in thirty minutes.”

I shake my head, grinning at Reginald as Bree hurries back down the stairs. “I guess I’m ready now.”

“Good.” He shoots me a wink before focusing on the camera over my shoulder. His smile changes as he takes on his reality TV show host persona. “Hello, I’m Reginald Williams, and welcome to the third season of Heated.”

He turns to another, smile firmly in place. “We’re so glad to have each of you with us, whether you’re new viewers or old. As with the first two seasons, we have an omega who is eight weeks from her heat. She will spend those weeks getting to know the twenty suitors who have been selected for her so that she can find her pack. But this season is different from the others. You might have already heard the rumors, as they’ve been spreading like wildfire, but this season, we have our very first female bisexual omega. I’d like to welcome this season’s omega, Evangeline Deveraux.

“Welcome, Evangeline,” he continues as he turns back to face me. “It’s possible that our viewers aren’t aware of the events that have been transpiring as we readied for the start of the season. Would you like to share with them what’s been going on and what you’ve been facing?”

Taking a deep breath, I nod. “Of course. Thank you for being so welcoming, Reginald. You really know how to make an omega feel at ease. As far as what’s been going on since it was announced that I was bisexual… Well, that’s quite the story.”

I go on to explain about the protests, the threats, and the media coverage they might have missed out on. They would have to be hiding under a rock to miss out on what’s been going on, but it’s good to talk about it. I know Bree’s goal is to shine a light on the hypocrisy of what’s being demanded of me because I’m a woman. My goal is to show the haters—including my parents—that their opinions won’t hold me back. They haven’t in the past, and I won’t let them going forward.

“Wow,” Reginald murmurs. “That’s a lot for you to have to deal with before the show has even started. How are you feeling about everything?”

“How am I feeling? Come on, Reginald, you can do better than that. We all know how I’m feeling. I’m stressed out, and I’m disgusted at the hate being spewed at me. As much as I try not to let their words hurt me, they do. This isn’t the first time I’ve had to deal with a situation like this.” Another deep breath, and I’m explaining my parents’ reaction. No matter how many years go by and how many times I talk about it, it never gets easier. “All of this because I’m a bisexual woman. The vast majority of our male population is bisexual, and no one has a problem with that. Do you know why? It’s because they can’t reproduce.

“Apparently, because I have a uterus that can possibly support a fetus, it gives others the right to tell me what I can and cannot do. Not just with my body but with my life. Because a woman can’t impregnate me, I shouldn’t be attracted to them. I shouldn’t want to fall in love with one because they can’t help me make a baby. I’m taking another uterus away that could be filled with a fetus. Because, as a woman and an omega, my only importance to this world is birthing the next generation. Forget the fact that I may never be able to have a child. Forget that I might not want to have children. Forget the fact that I could give birth to ten males and not a single female that they’re so desperate for.

“If they’re attacking me this badly for being bisexual, can you imagine the uproar that would be caused if I was a lesbian? It’s atrocious that there are people out there who think they can tell me who I can love. Who think that they can tell me what to do with my body? The worst part? It’s not even just men. My mother is a firm believer in this rhetoric. Or at least she was the last time I spoke to her almost twenty years ago. No one has a right to tell me what I can and cannot do. I am a person, and I am more than my reproductive organs. I don’t care what anyone has to say. This is my decision and my life. I’m going to spend the next eight weeks as the happiest woman alive, being surrounded by men and women who want to be with me.”

I shrug and smile. “And isn’t that the best kind of revenge? Here they are, out in the world, spreading hate. While I’m here, finding love. They can’t stop me from loving a woman. Just like they can’t stop me from loving a man. I will love whomever I want, and not a damn person is going to stop me. I think I’ll just step off my soapbox now.”

Reginald shakes his head. “No, I don’t think you should. I agree with everything you’ve said. I’m sorry that you’ve had to deal with that in the past and now. One would think we would’ve moved past all of this hate by now, but I guess there are just some things that will never change. Some people will always find a way to spread hate.”

“Yes, they will.” I settle back into my chair, hating that he’s right. The world would be a whole lot better if people would stop hating someone because they’re different. If they would just keep their damn opinions and hate to themselves.

“Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, why don’t you tell us a little about you?”

I can’t help laughing. “We probably should’ve started with that, huh? As Reginald said, my name is Evangeline Deveraux. I’m a thirty-seven-year-old omega and fashion designer. If you’ve not heard of me, where have you been hiding?” I laugh again, Reginald joining me this time. “You’ll see a lot of my designs during this season, as that’s all I’ll be wearing. After leaving my parents’ home at eighteen, I moved in with my girlfriend’s family because I was still in high school. I worked my butt off and was accepted into one of the most prestigious design programs in the world.

“Things didn’t last long with my girlfriend, considering I traveled to Paris for school, but we kept in contact and we’re still friends. She ended up revealing as a beta and is living her best pack life. Meanwhile, I focused all of my energy on becoming the best designer I could be. Do you know how many designers fail? It’s not an easy business, and I didn’t want to end up working under another designer for the rest of my life. I was lucky enough to be taken under the wings of an amazing alpha who owns one of the top lines still to this day. I was lucky because he didn’t look at me and see my designation. He looked at my designs and saw the talent there. He was the first to invest in my company, and we’ve even collaborated on some pieces for charity since then.”

“Oh? Anyone I might know?” Reginald asks as he leans forward in his chair.

I shrug. “Probably, but I’m not telling. He didn’t want me to be known as his protégé. He wanted people to know my name because of my designs, so we weren’t linked together often. If you dig deep enough, you might be able to find out the answer, but most people don’t care enough to do that much work. And that’s the way I like it. My work takes up most of my time, but when I’m not working, I enjoy exhilarating activities. I don’t want to share too much, as it will ruin the surprise of the dates I have planned for my suitors, but I’m definitely an adrenaline junkie.”

“It appears it’s almost time for our first suitor to arrive. Are you ready for this?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be.”

Reginald laughs. “Then let’s do this. Viewers, keep watching to meet Evangeline’s first four suitors.”