Chapter 206: By Her Side
Benjamin’s POV
For a long time, I had been conflicted about my feelings for Hayley. But it wasn’t until today, when she was about to be taken back to the Shadow Pack, that I realized I couldn’t leave her. Even though she’s just an Omega, and even though she’s not my destined mate, I want to try making her my mate.
After hearing me out, Bill smiled and asked, “So, you’ve decided to choose Hayley as your mate?”
Before I could answer, Bill continued, “You better think this through. My granddaughter, now that she’s grown up, isn’t exactly ugly, but she’s far from a beauty. Are you sure you like her, just the way she is?”
At first, I found it challenging to believe. Hayley is just an Omega, and her appearance could even be considered plain. But for some reason, I couldn’t help but be drawn to her. I didn’t even know when it started, but gradually, I found myself noticing her more and more. Even my wolf, Lawrence, felt at ease when she was around.
“Bill, I can honestly tell you that I like Hayley,” I said, looking Bill straight in the eyes. “I like her for who she is, not for her looks or her background. I simply like her as a person.”
Bill smiled satisfiedly. After a moment of thought, he said, “I understand what you mean. As for whether you can keep Hayley, that will depend on your own abilities. Her grandmother and I won’t interfere with her decision.”
I knew that Bill’s words were his way of taking a stand. The outcome of my relationship with Hayley was up to me now.
“Thank you, Bill. I know what I need to do.”
Bill laughed heartily. “As expected from the Alpha of the Midnight Pack—smart!”
Later that night, the Southwell residence was silent, but in the guest room on the second floor, the conversation was lively. Bill and George were exchanging thoughts happily.
“Not bad; that brat of yours finally opened up to me. Looks like our pack will soon have the next little Alpha successor,” Bill said.
“Their kid will definitely be the strongest Alpha one day,” George added, unable to hide his smile. “Haha, yes! This will strengthen the bond between our packs, and it’s a good thing for both of us.” If things don’t work out, we old men can always help them along later.
Hayley’s POV:
The next morning, as soon as I came downstairs, Hera started wagging her tail excitedly. Sure enough, when I looked up, the dining room was empty except for Benjamin. I instinctively slowed my pace and glanced at him. I felt oddly nervous.
After taking a deep breath to steady myself, I greeted, “Good morning!”
Benjamin looked up at me, his expression softening slightly. “Good morning.”
I sat down at the table, noticing that breakfast was filled with all my favorite foods. After taking a couple of quick bites, Benjamin spoke up just as I was finishing. “Bill and Dorothy asked me to let you know they had some business to take care of, but they’ll come back to see you soon.”
That arrangement doesn’t surprise me. I’m used to my grandparents’ way of doing things. I simply nodded and said, “Okay.” Then, I put my fork and knife down. “I’m done; I’m off to school.”
But Benjamin stopped me. “Wait, I’ll give you a ride.”
I grunted and walked slowly ahead. When we got outside, I realized Benjamin was walking closely behind me. After dropping me off at school, Benjamin didn’t leave right away.
I was heading into the school when my sharp wolf senses picked up on him making a phone call. “Fiona, is the design draft I asked for ready?”
Design? I was confused. Before I could process that, Benjamin’s car started, and he drove off. I didn’t think much of it and continued into the school.
Just as I stepped onto the campus, I suddenly felt Thomas’s mind link with mine. I grew nervous. Thomas usually contacts me by phone, unless it’s something really urgent that requires the mind link.
“What’s going on?” I quickly asked.
Thomas’s voice was full of urgency. “Alpha, someone is attacking our defense system. They’ve breached the fourth level. If they get through the fifth, our internal data will be exposed!”
I demanded, "What's happening?"