Chapter 1: Choosing a Mate
Hayley’s POV
As the first female Alpha of the Shadow Pack, I knew my marriage path wouldn't follow the typical romantic tale. No waiting for Moon Goddess signs at eighteen for me. The moment I assumed the Alpha mantle, my priorities shifted toward preserving the pack’s legacy, even if it meant sacrificing personal happiness for strategic alliances. Yet, I refused to simply acquiesce as my parents had, sacrificing their happiness for duty with little to show for it.
Instead, one restless evening, I shifted into my wolf form and dashed through the forest, seeking solace in its familiar embrace. Caught during my restless run, my assistant approached. “Alpha, your grandfather wishes to discuss an urgent matter.” Acknowledging with a swift nod, I phased back to human form and sped across the plains, returning to our grand estate in a blink.
Upon entering his study, Grandpa laid out his plans. “To strengthen our bond with the Midnight Pack, you are to consider marrying one of the Southwells, who lead them.” He then insisted on a prompt engagement. Leaning back, I mulled over his words. After that, I met his gaze with a defiant smirk. “Fine, but on my terms.”
“First, the Midnight Pack mustn’t learn of my Alpha status. Secondly, if no genuine feelings develop within a year, and they show no interest in me, I walk away. I’ll handle my future engagements on my terms, possibly with the Moon Goddess’s guidance as any other werewolf.” “And should that happen, I’ll negotiate alternate terms for our packs’ alliance.” Grandpa pondered deeply but eventually nodded in agreement. Since losing my parents, he has always shown me great affection. To avoid being prematurely bound by any potential mate’s recognition, I masked my scent before departure.
Days later, disguised as a nondescript Omega, I forsook luxury travel for a budget flight to the Midnight Pack. Upon arrival, I spotted four striking men waiting for me at the terminal. Cold, aloof, cheerful—these men represented a range of personas. They captured the attention of everyone around. If not for the bodyguards present, numerous onlookers would have approached them to get their contact details.
“On such a hot day, Grandpa insisted we four come to pick up this girl. Does he think we have nothing better to do?” I overheard the rebellious-looking one among them complaining. I later learned he was Henry Southwell, the youngest of the five brothers.
“Since she came on a budget airline, she’s probably not even a direct descendant of the Phantom Pack ruling family. I heard she’s just an Omega,” added another, who wore a mask and hat. I soon recognized him as Christopher Southwell, the fourth brother and star of a popular Netflix drama.
“We five brothers are the Alpha heirs of the Midnight Pack. How can we let an Omega from Phoenix City choose one of us as a fiancé? I thought Grandpa was joking when he mentioned this yesterday!” said Tanner Southwell, the third brother, whose face I recognized instantly as I approached them. “I envy Ben for being the first Alpha heir. He doesn’t have to attend these sorts of meetings.” The quiet one beside Tanner had to be Irving Southwell, the second in line.
Pleased with myself, I checked my deliberately shabby outfit and rough makeup, grinning as I approached them. “Hello, are you the Southwell brothers? I’m Hayley Carson.” Their expressions froze, especially Christopher’s, who incredulously asked, “You’re Hayley Carson?” I nodded, playing up my admiration. “Grandpa wasn’t lying, you guys are so handsome.”
Henry looked at me, unimpressed. “Even if you’re an Omega with no taste, you shouldn’t be so crass.” “Ms. Carson, perhaps you should head back?” “What?” I feigned confusion and blinked. Finally, it was Irving, the deputy CEO of Southwell Group, who broke the silence. “Let’s just head to the car and go home.”
In the car, I sat in the middle row next to Irving. I caught a glimpse of his watch and deliberately exclaimed, “Wow! This watch is so nice! It must be about 50 dollars, right?” “50? This watch of Irving’s is worth 4.5 million!” Henry scoffed from the back seat.
Given my appearance, I guessed none of them wanted me to choose them as a mate, inching me closer to my goal. Delighted inside, I reveled in their disinterest. As we reached the Southwells’ villa, I exclaimed, “Wow, your house is huge!” Though internally, I scoffed, thinking the villa was nothing compared to my family’s estate. Just then, Henry next to me suddenly roared in annoyance.