He can work on the rougher edges, maybe even try to be softer in moments that call for it. But at his core, he’s never going to be gentle. With his words or his hands. It’s not in him to pull his punches.
And that’s okay.
That’s the beauty of a Pack.
There are days we’ll need Viper’s steadiness, or Blaze’s chaos, or Shade’s care. But today? We needed Knox.
A Prime Alpha who responds to threats with deliberate, controlled violence. One who doesn’t bluff or crumple under pressure. Who takes calculated risks, but would carry out every brutal threat if it meant keeping his Pack safe.
So, no, Knox doesn’t offer comfort or soft words. He offers control.
And that’s why we need him. Because when danger closes in, Knox doesn’t waver. He straightens his spine and goes toe-to-toe with the enemy.
Sometimes, a Pack needs a Prime Asshole. The one willing to make the hard calls and stand between us and the even bigger assholes on the other side.
Knox needs me to see him clearly and love him anyway.
And I do.
This is the fourth time I’ve stood in General Stone’s office, and for the first time I don’t feel afraid or alone. This time, I know I have an Alpha willing to break the bones of my enemies standing by my side.
I copy the Pack’s posture, bringing myself to my full five feet, and raising my chin.
“General Stone, I hope you didn’t doubt me when I told you the consequences of not making good on our agreement. Youhave one week left to give me proof of life, and, General?” I raise a brow at him. “The clock is ticking.”
His nostrils flare, but he doesn't reply. He's backed into a corner and he knows it. Before, when I made the ultimatum, could he tell that I was wavering? That I didn’t actually believe I could strike out on my own?
I bet he can see how serious I am now.
Unlike last time when I had to leave, I know without a doubt that my Pack, and Knox, will support me. If I leave, they’ll be right by my side.
The General's eyes flick to Knox, as if waiting for him to reprimand me for talking out of turn and making decisions for the Pack.
Knox's expression is cold, his posture screaming a threat. "You heard the Omega. She's the boss."
My mouth parts in surprise.
I'm the boss?
Me?
His eyes flick to mine, and he winks. Actually winks at me in plain sight of his commanding officer.
Except… that’s not his commanding officer anymore.
Because Knox defected.
For me.
I want to cringe at my earlier self. How could I doubt that he wants me as his Omega?
I spin back to the General with a hand on my hip and a smug expression etched on my features.
“That’s right, I’m the boss!” I shout, and I hear Viper and Shade failing to smother their laughter. Knox exhales loudly.
I sound silly, I know, but it’s an intoxicating feeling having a squad of super-soldiers ready to commit violence at my command. Ready to defend my honor. That was pretty hot.
Yes, the severed limb was excessive. Blaze went too far, as he always does. I’ve already pulled him aside, told him it was overkill. He’s cooling off in the medic bay with Everlyn keeping an eye on him.
