Alpha Hayley's Destined Mate novel Chapter 8

Chapter 8 Hostility Toward Me

Hayley's POV

I could sense the coldness in her eyes directed at me.

Before arriving at the Midnight Pack, I had already learned about her feelings for Benjamin and how her parents had groomed her to be the future Luna of the Midnight Pack.

She never anticipated that someone like me, an Omega from another pack, would show up and possibly threaten her position with Benjamin.

She must hate me.

As we approached the Southwells' Residence and reached the villa, all the Southwell brothers were present.

They warmly welcomed Madeline back, having not seen her for a long time, and she handed out the gifts she had brought from abroad.

When it came to me, she hesitated slightly. "I'm sorry, Hayley. I didn't know you would be staying at the Southwells' when I returned, so I didn't bring anything for you."

Her demeanor seemed disingenuous to me, masking her dislike with politeness.

Before I could respond, Henry chimed in, "Maddie, you don't know her well anyway, so no need to apologize."

He unwrapped his gift and it was a new limited edition game console. "Wow, Maddie! You're too generous!"

Observing their close interactions, I felt like an outsider and decided to retreat to my room.

Shortly after, there was a knock at my door. I opened it to find Benjamin standing there.

"The Kilmers are hosting a welcome back banquet for Madeline tonight. Grandpa wants you to come along."

He was responsible for me today and had arranged everything.

Initially, I was not keen on going, but since their grandpa insisted, I had no choice but to accept.

I sighed and joined him and Madeline as we headed to the dress shop.

Upon our arrival, Benjamin was already seated on the sofa, waiting for us.

Acting like a caring older sister, Madeline took my hand and reassured me, "Hayley, don't worry about the banquet later. If you need anything, just let me know."

I barely managed to suppress my irritation at Madeline's transparent attempt to undermine me and responded with a polite smile, "That's reassuring to hear. I'm sure I'll be in good hands with Benjamin tonight."

Madeline's smile faltered slightly, and her grip on my hand tightened momentarily before she regained her composure.

"Absolutely, let's find our dresses quickly so we don't keep Ben waiting too long," she chimed in cheerfully. "I spend a lot of time studying fashion. How about I pick something for you?"

"Sure, that sounds great."

"What do you think about this?"

She eagerly presented me with a dark green strapless gown, a style more suited to an older woman, clearly not fitting for someone my age.

Her intention was clear—she was testing me.

"Don't you like it?" she asked.

She presumed that I, coming from the countryside, lacked knowledge of such matters. Moreover, as an 'Omega' beneath her in status, I would not likely contradict her.

Playing into her expectations, I nodded.