Chapter 3

I stood in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection.

I wore a simple pale blue dress that reached just above my knees and tied my hair into a ponytail. I slipped into my sandals and wore a gold chain with my initial on it. It was a gift from my late maternal grandmother.

Staring at my reflection, I saw nothing special but I knew I had to show up.

A soft rap and on the door was heard and I quickly ran over to get it.

A boy stood outside, his red hair glistened under the light and his tall frame loomed over me. His beautiful emerald eyes peered into my soul and I felt a warm feeling build up inside me.

“Hey, I believe we haven’t met. I’m Ryder, Jonah’s son.” He stretched out his hand to shake mine.

I hesitated then took his hand in mine and shook it.

“I’m Amara.”

“Yes, I know.” Of course he did. My face burned with embarrassment.

“Right.”

“I’m here to show you where the dining room is and give you a short tour around the pack house if that’s okay with you.”

“Of course!”

Ryder was handsome, his fiery red hair and his sharp green eyes held a hint of mischief. His frame was lean but strong.

I played with her fingers as I felt his gaze on me, a habit I had in awkward situations.

“Let’s go. I figured it would be better if someone your age showed you around instead of my dad. He could overload you with info and that’s boring.”

“Thanks a lot but I think your dad is sweet.”

“He is but don’t make the mistake of letting him corner you into one of his ‘pack history’ speeches. You would never escape him.” A deep chuckle left his lips and I laughed along as we went downstairs.

“What do you think of the place so far?”

“I adore my room.” I smiled. “It’s perfect.”

“I’m glad you like it.”

“Here we have the Alpha’s and Luna’s chamber.” He explained and I nodded.

“Further down the hall is the beta’s chamber. As my dad said, any issue you have, you can come to him anytime. And of course you can also come to me as well.”

“You both are so kind.”

We continued our walk and he showed me the entire pack house. Introducing me to the other members along the way.

Then he carried me outside, showed me the terrace, a sparring area, the pool and even the garden where they grew produce and farmed animals.

“It’s very beautiful out here. Is that a meadow?” I pointed and Ryder nodded.

“Notice how it’s fenced off? Please do not go there. We are currently in an ongoing battle with another pack and sometimes their scouts come into the meadow and that’s dangerous.”

“Oh, that’s too bad. It’s really beautiful.”

“It is but it’s off limits.”

“Dinner should be starting soon. Let’s head back.”

“Yes, of course.”

The pack members were already filling up the dining room as the table had finished being set.

The Alpha walked into the room, his head held high as mom clutched unto him. She exuded a deep sense of pride. There was a look on her face that stood out. Like she had something to prove.

I followed Ryder silently, trying to blend in.

“Ryder!” His father called. “Won’t you come here for a second?”

“Excuse me, Amara. I’ll be right back.” He walked over to his father, leaving me feeling lonely and vulnerable.

What do I do? Should I go meet mom? No that would draw too much attention.

I quickly sat in an empty chair I spotted. No one even looked or acknowledged my presence and I was glad for that. I wanted this to be over and done with.

“Amara,” Alpha Lucus’ deep voice cut through the hum of conversation like a knife.

“Yes, sir?” My voice came out softer than I intended.

“Your seat is here, with your family. Come sit with us.”

Everyone’s eyes were on me now. They turned to look at me, whispering about me, judgmental and curious looks on their faces.

I wished I could shrink into nothing.

I could hear the chatter, the undeniable questions.

Why is an omega sitting at the head of the table?

One of my stepbrothers, the same one I bumped into earlier in the bathroom decided to speak up.

“Since when do we bring strays to the dinner table?” He drawled coldly.

“Enough!” Lucus yelled. “Keep your snide remarks to yourself Thorne. Your rebellious streak has come to an end.”

Thorne’s jaw clenched but he remained silent. His dark eyes narrowed at me and I looked away.

I knew this was going to be trouble.