Alpha Hayley's Destined Mate novel Chapter 2

Chapter 2 You're Hayley, Aren't You?

"Enough! You ugly and uncultured Omega, stop acting so naive! I can't stand it anymore." Henry snapped, clearly fed up.

The disdain was palpable in the silence of his other brothers.

I had to bite my inner cheek to keep from laughing outright at their disgusted expressions. Masking my amusement, I portrayed a wounded facade as I followed them into the villa.

A servant showed me to my room, overly decorated in what they must have thought was every girl's dream—pastel blues and overflowing with brand-name fashion items.

I feigned awe at the designer labels, only increasing their revulsion.

As we descended the stairs later, I caught snippets of Henry venting to his brothers, "Thank goodness she's not triggering any mate bonds. Imagine being tied to such a tasteless Omega for life!"

I smirked inwardly, pleased with my decision to mask my scent beforehand. These brothers were definitely not what I was looking for, and thankfully, the feeling was mutual.

...

Before arriving, I had my people dig into the Southwells' background. Their elders enjoyed traveling, and Benjamin Southwell, the Alpha heir, was rarely home due to his duties.

Despite having their own places, their Alpha grandfather had summoned all of them back because of me.

I joined them at the dining table, served by the staff. Tanner, sitting opposite me, appeared to have reached his limit and addressed me.

"As a globally acclaimed fashion designer, Ms. Carson, there are numerous outfits I've coordinated upstairs. I recommend you try one on."

I glanced down at my simple dress and responded nonchalantly, "My grandmother made it. I think it's quite nice."

Tanner sighed and dropped the subject.

Henry then cut to the chase, "Look, Ms. Carson, let's be clear: none of us are interested in marrying you, and Ben will never like you. It's best you leave on your own."

I feigned a hurt look, biting my lip, "But how would I explain that to Grandpa?"

"I suspect you're just after our wealth," Henry accused, his face flushing with anger. "Stay, and you'll only invite trouble."

I adopted a meek Omega pose, silently continuing with my meal, giving no ground to his bluster.