Chapter 272: He’s In Love With Hayley

Christopher’s POV:

I couldn’t believe my eyes. My older brother, Benjamin, the usually composed and commanding alpha, was clearly smitten with someone. I was shocked. It didn’t seem real. Because of this, I pinched myself, and sure enough, it was true. “Ben, you’re not joking with me, are you?”

He looked at me and asked seriously, “Do you think I’m joking?”

I nodded vigorously. Benjamin had just confessed that he liked Hayley. A stunningly handsome alpha had fallen for an Omega who wasn’t traditionally attractive. The news hit me like a bombshell—it was so shocking that I struggled to accept it.

“What makes her worth it?” I blurted out. “She’s… well, she doesn’t exactly have the best looks.” I knew it was rude to talk about someone’s appearance, but I had always thought that if you didn’t have a pretty face, who would care about your beautiful soul?

“Ben, what do you see in her?” I asked, genuinely confused, looking at Benjamin with curiosity.

Benjamin was quiet for a long time before answering, “I don’t know. Maybe it’s just a fleeting feeling, or maybe I really do like her. I’m not sure yet, but for now… I’d like you to keep this between us.”

I had a hard time processing his words, but seeing the sincerity in his eyes, I realized that maybe, just maybe, Benjamin had truly fallen for Hayley.

“It’s getting late. You should get some rest. We’re going out tomorrow. And don’t look so unwilling like you did today,” he said as he headed back to his room.

I quickly explained, “I wasn’t unwilling. I’m just not used to hanging out with all of you.”

“Good. Christine is a nice girl. If you like her, go for it,” Benjamin added.

His words caught me off guard. I quickly denied it, “Ben, it’s really not what you think. Christine and I are just friends.”

“Well, all relationships start with friendship,” he said with a knowing look.

I decided not to argue further. Let him think what he wanted.

Once in my room, I lay on my bed, but sleep wouldn’t come. I was tired, but sleep eluded me. Standing by the window, I gazed out at the unfamiliar city, and it felt like the fog in my mind was slowly starting to clear. Some answers, I realized, could only come from within.

12:25 Tue, Jan 7 GG.

Chapter 272: He’s In Love With Hayley.

I had slept through most of the day to recover from jet lag and didn’t wake up until the afternoon. When I finally stirred, Christine had already left. I stretched and glanced at the note on the table, realizing that she had gone out for lunch. After freshening up and changing into fresh clothes, I was about to head out.

When I opened the door, Hera stirred excitedly. Just then, I looked up and saw Benjamin’s door open at the same time. Our eyes met. Benjamin was the first to speak. “Do you want to grab a bite together?”

I nodded, and we both closed our doors in sync, heading to the elevator to go downstairs. Once in the restaurant, I scanned the menu. In fluent French, I quickly ordered my favorite dishes.

Benjamin looked at me, surprised. “You speak French? And with such a perfect accent. Did you live in France?”

I casually replied, “I was an exchange student in Veloria for a year. That had been one of the happiest times of my life, and I still look back on it fondly.”

“I see,” Benjamin said. He didn’t ask more questions, and after placing our orders, the waiter took the menu away.

“I heard you went to college in Eastleyford?” I asked, trying to make conversation.

Benjamin nodded. “I attended Cryving University for both my undergrad and master’s. I completed both degrees in three years.”

“Wow, you’re a genius,” I said, impressed.

Benjamin smiled slightly and said, “You’re not too shabby yourself. First place in the national math competition—that’s not something just anyone can achieve.”

Just then, the waiter brought our steaks. “Here you go. Enjoy your meal!”

“Thank you,” I said, reaching for my knife and fork. But before I could start cutting, Benjamin had already taken my plate. He neatly cut the steak for me and placed it in front of me. “Try it. This restaurant’s pretty good. I think it’ll suit your taste.”

I looked at the perfectly cut steak, a warm feeling spreading through me. “Thank you, you cut it beautifully.”

As soon as I spoke, I overheard two locals sitting nearby gossiping in hushed voices. They were trying to keep their conversation quiet, but with my sharp hearing, I caught every word. “Look at that guy, he’s so handsome, but he’s eating with such an ugly woman. Doesn’t that ruin his appetite?” The woman sneered at me.