Chapter 7: They’re Investigating Me
Hayley’s POV
Benjamin was clearly dissatisfied and eager for a rematch. However, I wasn't interested in humoring him further. After all, the outcome would likely be the same no matter how many times we raced.
“I’m sorry. I don’t have time for another round,” I said with a smile.
Dropping my helmet, I walked over to Thomas and instructed, “Take me back, please.”
“Sure, Alpha,” he responded quietly and respectfully, cautious not to let others catch onto my real identity.
Back at the Southwells’ residence, after securing a quick payment of 750 thousand, I settled into a satisfied sleep. The next morning, I donned a simple disguise and wig and found the house abuzz with activity. Everyone was there except Benjamin, all discussing last night’s race.
“Check out this photo – she isn’t just beautiful, she’s got killer racing skills too! I can see why Ben lost to her,” Henry was saying, clearly impressed.
“She’s stunning, and that physique would be perfect for our fashion line,” Tanner, the third brother and a clothing company founder, added.
“A face like hers belongs in the entertainment industry,” Christopher, the actor and fourth brother, lamented.
“I forgot to ask her name last night, but Ben’s already looking into it. We should hear something soon.”
Hearing their praise felt satisfying, yet I wondered what their reaction would be if they knew this amazing racer was the same Omega they despised – me. Imagining their shock amused me, but I had no intention of letting them see the real me.
Descending to the dining room, their faces twisted with disdain as soon as they saw me, and their conversation abruptly stopped. I could not help but smile to myself, thankful for my makeup skills. If only they knew, they might have fallen for me instead.
After breakfast, the phone rang. It was Thomas, my Beta.
“Alpha, can you believe it? Henry is so shameless. He actually paid to get your contact details from me.”
“He’d never guess that the Alpha from the Shadow Pack he’s looking for is living right under his nose, and ranks above him.”
“Also, Benjamin is on the hunt too. Alpha, you might want to watch out.”
I just smirked, wondering if Benjamin really had what it takes to find me.
Chapter 7: They’re Investigating Me (continued)
It was Friday, and Benjamin was due to pick me up for school. We rode in silence. Then, as school ended, Henry seemed to follow me.
“Why are you tailing me?” I asked.
Henry scoffed, “Don’t be delusional. Maddie is back, she’s with my big brother. I’m going to meet her.”
Maddie? I was not familiar with that name.
Seeing my puzzled look, Henry gleefully added, “Maddie grew up with us. Her dad is Grandpa’s Beta, so we’ve always been close. She’s been studying abroad for the last two years and just got back!”
It seemed Henry really admired Maddie. The brothers could like whoever they wanted – it made no difference to me.
I strolled to the school gate. There, I saw Maddie sitting in the passenger seat, stylishly dressed, her hair styled in flowing waves, and her face perfectly made up – every inch the affluent young woman.
Maddie warmly greeted Henry, then turned to me. “You must be Hayley. I’m Madeline. I grew up with Henry and the others. We’re all friends now. If you’re feeling a bit lost in the Midnight Pack, just give me a shout.”
I nodded politely. “Thanks.”
“Maddie, why waste time with her? I’ve missed you so much. You’re staying this time, right?” Henry rolled his eyes at me, then looked at Madeline with affection.
Madeline beamed, “I’m not going anywhere. I’ve finished my studies and I’m starting an internship at Southwell Group. Plus, your grandpa is grooming your big brother for the Alpha role, right? I’ll be his Beta.”
“Is that so? Ben, make sure you look after Maddie.”
Benjamin remained silent, started the car, and we drove off. In the rearview mirror, I caught a glimpse of Maddie’s fleeting look of disappointment. As she looked up, our eyes met!