Forced Marriage With The Ruthless Alpha

By Loner Hades

"You are my mate, Caroline." My heart flutters when Alex says my name, I love it when he says my full name.
"Alex ... I am your sister." I said quietly. "Are you crazy?"
"You still don't understand, Cara? Haven't you noticed all this time when I threatened every boy who wanted to approach you? When I hit Ioseph because he almost kissed you? You are mine, Cara."

All her life, Caroline used to believe werewolves are fantasy creatures. Not until her 18th birthday was Caroline told that she was adopted and to make her feel worse, she was adopted into a werewolf family. More importantly, she was her stepbrother's mate and her stepbrother is an Alpha. Just when Caroline was blending into the situation, she was found by a man who told her he is her real cousin. She was also told her identity as a Lycan- werewolf's most hated enemy and the only way to live is to escape.

What happens after Cara found out that her mate's grandfather is the one that murdered her parents? Although her mate is one of the leaders in the academy, what if other leaders did not accept Lycans? Will Caroline run from the academy or will she fight against them to be with her mate?

Book 1 of The Lycan And Her Stepbrother Mate Series 

• Language: English
• Publisher: supernovel
• Release date: Apr 19, 2023

Book preview

CHAPTER 1:

So ... has anyone asked you yet? asked Jen, my best friend, we were walking towards the school gate.

Her large, dark gray eyes looked at me suspiciously. Her golden hair was carelessly tied up to frame her face in a slightly messy way.

And yes, Jen was discussing Prom, her favorite topic for the past three weeks.

Ah ... not yet? I answered with a little hesitation, because I knew what she would say next.

You turn down anyone who asks, right? Her forehead furrowed in annoyance, Cara, honey, you need a prom partner!

How about I go with you? I replied with a sweet smile.

I'm going with the Dane. And you can't be the third person in my relationship. her eyes narrowed as she looked at me.

Then I'll go with Eric.

Eric? Cara, please, why can't you find another boy? Eric's probably going out with his girlfriend anyway. Jenna blinked with laughter.

Eric and Jenna are my two closest friends in high school, even though our class is different from Eric, we always meet during recess or weekends.

Of course it's been just me and Eric lately, because Jen prefers going out with her boyfriend. And Eric is gay-FYI.

Okay, that's for later. She continued impatiently. Now for the dress and…

Cara?

A familiar voice interrupted Jen's sentence. We both turned to the direction of the sound.

One meter behind me stood a tall man wearing a black shirt, jeans and jacket. He smiled broadly at us, his brown eyes beaming with a smile as well. Her dark brown hair, like mine, was left a bit messy.

My gaze shifted to the bouquet of white roses in her hand. Alex? I whispered in disbelief when I saw him standing in front of me, What are you doing here?

Alex is my only brother five years older than me. He graduated from college two years ago and started an apprenticeship at a property company out of town before later taking over Dad's business.

At first glance we may not look alike. The only thing Alex and I have in common is that our hair is brown which matches his eye color, while mine is a mix of green and a bit of blue.

Alex always said that my eyes are like an Angora cat. Exotic-aka weird.

Nice to meet you too, Cara. Alex hugged me tightly and kissed the top of my head. Hey, Jenna!

Jen smiled shyly while waving her hand, before going out with Dane she had fallen deeply in love with my brother.

Cara, I'll go first. Dane is waiting for me. Bye Alex! She waved at us before turning around and walking away, occasionally glancing in our direction.

Alex waved his hand back.

So? I turned my attention to Alex after he let go of his hug. The smell of mint and the scent of roses wafted from him.

Hmm? he replied before we walked hand in hand out of the gate.

You came home early and didn't tell me? Did Dad and Mum know? 

Yes. I will not miss your birthday again, not this year. Alex handed me the bouquet of flowers he had brought.

I paused for a moment staring at the cluster of white rose petals wrapped in an ivory white bouquet.

My birthday is still tomorrow, Al I said with a smile, Alex hates it when I call him Al. He only answered by rolling his eyes as I held his bouquet of roses in my arms.

So there's a party or something? he asked as he walked towards his car, BMW, and new. I didn't know Dad bought him a new car.

Just mum, Dad, Eric, Jen and now you I answered while looking at his bouquet of flowers, Thanks. I said sincerely.

Anything for you Cara-bear. He answered with a big smile.

***

Happy Birthday Cara! Jen stood at my door with a big smile.

Happy Birthday! Eric trailed behind Jen. His slightly long black hair was neatly combed back. Two dimples were visible in his cheeks when he smiled.

You didn't bring me a present? I asked in a tone of feigned disappointment.

Your gift is coming, Eric and I have prepared something for you. Jen and Eric alternately kissing me on the cheek.

Sorry that I suddenly replaced it with lunch. Alex wants to invite me to dinner. I said while walking towards the dining room with the two of them.

Ah, I wish I had a brother like Alex. Jen sighed enviously.

I wish you had a brother like Alex-and he was gay. Eric's interjection had us laughing out loud.

Lunch today went great with Mum, Dad, Eric, Jenna minus Alex. He had little to do and had to skip lunch.

Mum made my birthday cake herself, like all previous years. I looked at my parents with a big smile before blowing out the candles on my birthday cake.

Dad and Mum are 46 years old, but they still look 30 years old, and sometimes people think they are my brothers. And that kinda sucks.

Mum was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen, her shoulder-length golden brown hair framing her face gracefully,and her light blue eyes always made me a little jealous of Mum's beauty.

While Dad is similar to Alex, he has brown eyes and dark brown hair. Dad is my hero. I remember when I was 7 years old, Dad used to take me out every week to buy all the candy I wanted, unbeknownst to Mum and Alex.

We call them secret missions, although after that I always have a stomach ache. I love them very much, they are the best parents.

After eating lunch and talking for a very long time, Jenna and Eric finally came home. I helped Mum clean up the leftover lunch.

Cara, you already know where Alex will take you? Mum asked as she stacked the clean plates.

Not yet, Alex just told me to get ready. Normal dinner I guess.

Mum was silent for a moment, busy continuing her work. Alex will live here again, in this city, he wants to buy his own apartment. According to him he is no longer fit to live with his own parents. Mum said with a laugh.

He didn't tell me anything ... I grumbled with a frown, usually I'm always the first to know.

Lately Alex has been calling me less often, I think because he is busy with his work.

Oh yeah? Maybe he forgot. How about I help you get ready? Mum asked, wiping her hands on her apron.

Prepare for ... ? I asked confused.

Your dinner with Alex?

Mum, I'm just going to have dinner with Alex. He won't even mind if I'm just in some tattered pajamas. I said laughing then left Mum and headed for my room on the second floor.

I can faintly hear Mum grumbling to herself behind me.

After half an hour lying in bed waiting for Alex to pick me up, my cell phone vibrates next to me. I glanced at the clock on my desk that showed 6 pm.

Alex? I replied when I saw his name on the cellphone screen.

Are you ready, Princess?

Ew, you sound gross. I replied with a laugh which was answered with a laugh too.

I'll be there in 15 minutes. Don't forget to bring your jacket. he ordered.

Yes, Your Majesty. I replied with a smile to myself then disconnected.

After half an hour lying in bed waiting for Alex to pick me up, my cell phone vibrates next to me. I glanced at the clock on my desk that showed 6 pm.

Jen said I had an 'okay' face. My eyes are a clear bluish green, Mum and Dad always say I have a same color with Mum's great-grandmother.

I do have a slightly different face from Mum, Dad and Alex. The only thing that makes me look alike is that I have the same hair color as Dad and Alex.

Tonight I'm wearing a white t-shirt with the logo of The Strokes, Alex's favorite band which is now my favorite band, and black leggings.

I'm not wearing any make up because it's just dinner with Alex. Not a date.

I grabbed my black jacket that was on the bed and went downstairs. Dad, Mum and Alex were talking in the kitchen even though I couldn't hear what they were saying very clearly I frowned as they whispered loudly. 'Alex?" Say hello from behind. Alex turned around and smiled at me.

He wore a semi black suit with a white shirt and black pants, minus a tie. His usually messy hair was now neatly combed back, his brown eyes looking at me warmly.

I know my brother has the allure to make all the female species in this world fall in love with him. Sometimes I'm not immune either, although I hate it too.

It's disgusting and fun at the same time? Who knows.

What is it? he asked, still smiling with his annoyingly handsome face. I felt my cheeks heat up a little. Cara, he's your brother!

Oh, so, um, I think I got the costume wrong? I asked frowning slightly to hide my embarrassment after thinking about Alex.

No, you look perfect. Mum, Dad, we're leaving now. Alex kissed Mum on the cheek as she said good-bye.

Mum rubbed her nose when she saw us both, she looked like she was going to ... cry?

'Mum? Are you all right?" I asked hesitantly.

Looks like it's just a cold. Have fun, honey. Mum replied. Dad put his arm around Mum's waist and whispered something.

I threw my smile at both of them before following Alex to nis car.

Alex opened the door for me which made me look at him questioningly. He didn't usually act like this.

he answered me by raising one corner of his mouth upwards. My heart is pounding again, somehow I feel like this is like a date.

CHAPTER 2:

EW! Cara, she's your sister, you idiot! I repeated in my head.

What were you thinking about that made your head contort like that? Asked Alex after sitting in the driver's seat, then he took something from the backseat of his car.

At this close distance the smell of aftershave and perfume faintly wafted up my nose. I always liked the smell of his perfume, Alex never wore expensive masculine perfume that actually smelled strong.

The smell of Alex's perfume made me think of the forest and trees. Smells of pine and a hint of mint.

HappyBirthdayCaroline Brennan. Alex held out a bouquet of blood red roses and a black velvet box with a small smile.

I stared at him stunned, too shocked to speak. If Alex wasn't my brother I would have stopped my thoughts quickly at this point, now I'm thinking about if Alex wasn't my brother? I feel disgusted at myself.

Usually Alex only gives me small things like perfume or sneakers on my birthday.

I stared at the bouquet of roses whose smell permeated the entire atmosphere of the car, joined by the smell of Alex's perfume, which for some reason always calmed me down.

Alex, you just gave me flowers yesterday. I laugh nervously, nervous? I repeated again in my head. I want to hit my own head.

You're not going to open it? Alex was still facing me, looked at me a little seriously.

Ok My hand opened the red velvet ribbon that bound the box, from inside tucked between the black velvet was a gold necklace with a green emerald pendant. Wow.

Wow...Alex...I couldn't say anything else, with Alex who was looking at me while smiling, the bouquet of roses in my lap spreading a nice scent, and the necklace that was nowin my hand.

I feel like this is all too much for me.

I thought emeralds would suit your eyes." He said with a shrug and put his car keys in.

Isn't this a bit much? You should give all this to your girlfriend, not your sister. I said jokingly.

Alex was silent for a moment.

I don't have any. He said while looking at me with a serious look. I could only meet his gaze with my brow furrowed.

How could a man like Alex not have a girlfriend? But now that I think about it Alex never introduced his girlfriend to me, he never seemed to have one ...

Oh. Not.

Alex, um, are you ... Look I'm not going to make a big deal out of someone's sexuality, but are you-

Cara! I'm normal! Alex cut in while emphasizing the word 'normal', he looked at me with what-you-crazy look?

Oh. Okay ... Great-I meant I was just asking I still glanced at Alex suspiciously. Alex among billions of women in this world, single? It doesn't seem possible.

Want me to pair it? asked Alex changing the subject.

Yep. Thanks. I curled my long hair with my hand then lifted it while turning my back to Alex.

Alex's hands wrapped around my body, he didn't touch me at all but it was enough to make my heart beat half dead. I was starting to worry that Alex would hear my heartbeat from this close.

The smell of pine and mint is getting stronger enveloping my sense of smell, making my brain a little foggy.

With great effort I turned my mind to anything other than Alex. I try to think of Jen, or Eric. Eric and his girlfriends.

But when his warm breath tickles my neck, it's all in vain, only Alex fills my head at the moment. He's your brother, Cara! For the upteenth time I repeated the mantra many times in my head.

Finished. he whispered. I turned my body to face him, a little grateful with the dim lighting of Alex's car because otherwise Alex would have seen my blushing face at this moment.

Cara ... Alex looked at me like he was going to say something. I returned his gaze with a questioning look.

Perfect. He said suddenly as he took his eyes off me and started his car engine. We drove in silence for half an hour in the direction toward the outskirts of town.

I turned on the music player in Alex's car, the song All Too Well Taylor Swift was the first to play softly.

Taylor Swift? Are you serious? I asked, frowning.

That's your playlist. Answered Alex short.

Then I remembered the playlist I kept in Alex's old car a few months ago, You still have it? I asked in a surprised tone.

Taylor Swift is not bad at all. Alex replied, The song makes me want to cry. He added sarcastically. I glanced at him annoyed before looking away.

Her songs always make me remember you he added in a more serious tone. I couldn't hold back my smile when I heard the answer.

The streets were dark and only lit by the moon made the situation in the car even darker, from where I was sitting I could only see Alex's silhouette with his brown eyes shining because of the reflection of the moonlight.

I didn't know there was a restaurant near the forest ... I muttered, trying to get him to say where he was taking me

His car sped toward Black Hill National Forest, one of the largest forests in the country that borders our citySeattle.

Alex was silent, his eyes focused on the road in front of him.

Don't tell me you took me into the woods tonight to kill me, Alex. I added with a chuckle.

I would never hurt you, Caroline. Alex answered seriously without taking his eyes off the road.

My heart pounded after Alex said my full name. I chose silence for the rest of the trip, calming my heart while filling my head with thoughts other than Alex.

what's wrong with me today?

Alex parked his car on the edge of the forest road, got outta open my door. My eyes were glued to the in the path leading into the forest which was lit by hundreds of tiny white LED lights.

My breath caught in my chest. I looked at the around me with my mouth agape. Was this what he been busy doing all afternoon?

Alex reached out his hand to me then led me into the forest. We walked hand in hand into a part of the wherethetrees were sparse. A wide expanse of in the middle of which there is a large rock lavender flowers. My nose can smell the pleasant fragrance of lavender. The scene before me stunned once again, I didn't know that in this forest there was a beautiful place. Crickets and owls could be heard calling in the distance, making the atmosphere not too quiet.

Behind the boulder, a table and a pair of chairs with tablecloths are neatly arranged, on top of whichare a bottle of wine, a glass filled with candles and a vase redrose. I looked back at Alex in disbelief. Alex smiled my expression and sat me down.

Alex, this is really too much ... I said with a big smile, really impressed.

For you, Cara-bear, nothing is too much. 

For a split second I saw the strange expression on Alex's face it was covered by his handsome smile.

Alex helped me sit down then filled my glass of wine. I didn't prepare food, I thought after here we can stop by nearby restaurant, how about pizza?

Yay! Pizzas! I replied while drinking a little wine-which turned out to be just grape juice-in my glass. "Thanks,

Alex."

We chatted about many things for halfan hour. Alex talked about his job and plans to take over Dad's business as soon as his business was over.

Cara-Caroline. His tone suddenly turned serious as he called my name.

Huh?

Actually I want to talk about something.

What? I asked curiously. Alex didn't usually talk like this.

About us. There's something ... we've been keeping it a secret all along. Alex seemed to be starting to doubt. What do we mean?

What do you mean?

Mum and Dad should tell you, but maybe it's better if I tell you. said Alex before placing his glass of grape juice on the table.

I don't understand. The small smile on my face started to fade. My head started to fill with worry.

But you have to promise you don't hate me, especially Mum and Dad. And don't think anything out of the ordinary. Okay? he asked carefully.

This is about Mum isn't it? Is she sick? That's why Mum was crying? Fear and panic gripped my chest.

What? No, not about Mum. Alex looked at me with a little frown. Promise Cara, no matter what happens, no matter how you feel, don't run away from me.

I nodded, trying to digest what Alex was saying. He took a deep breath before looking hesitant again.

What, Alex?!

Alex took a deep breath before answering me. Caroline, actually you are my mate.

I tried to process Alex's words then looked at him blankly.

Mate. Mate. Alex continued slowly.

I still look at him confused.

Cara, we're not siblings. You were adopted when you four.

Alex said was spinning in my head, it felt like just dumped a bucket of cold water over me. So ... you're saying Mum and Dad aren't my parents? I asked, very confused.

... Alex tried to calm me when my voice started to me more clearly, Alex. .

Mum and Dad adopted you from the orphanage after they took me too. After we met I asked our parents adopt you. Alex explained to me slowly.

silence enveloped us for a few minutes. Who are my parents? My eyes started to heat up.

I realize why I don't have any baby photos in our album.

I don't know.

How could you not know?! I asked in a trembling voice, must be data about my parents in the-"

Alex grabbed my hand with both of his hands me look up at him.

CHAPTER 3

He was silent for a full minute. Whoever your biological parents were, Mum and Dad are still your family. They love you as much as they love me. We can find out your parents' information later, I promise. There's something else I want you to know right now. His brown stared at me expectantly, while part of my brain has processing the information that just came out of his mouth

He looked at me fixedly with his brows furrowed

Cara, I'm a Werewolf.

I looked at Alex with a feeling between wanting to cry and laugh

Are you kidding me? My voice started to rise out of the anger I felt.

Alex shook his head quickly. You are my mate and I knew it from the first time we met. That's why I asked Mum and Dad to adopt you.

My almost exploding anger made me really want to punch him right now. I pulled my hand from his grip, Alex just replied with a slightly hurt look.

Show me. I almost laughed at my own words because I almost believed what Alex just said. He looked at me before standing up from his seat, Just a moment. he muttered then he walked towards the shadow of a large oak tree opposite, a few moments later there was a sound like a log being broken and a painful growl from Alex. My hands gripped my chair tightly when I heard a soft squeak from behind the tree.

Then silence.

Al-Alex? I called before standing up from my chair while continuing to look at the tree where Alex was hiding. Alex don't mess with me, I'm really mad-

A huge wolf appeared from behind the tree. Maybe the wolf was three times the size of a Great Dane. Its abnormal size made my eyes blink a few times then my feet took a step back until my chair fell to the ground. Its black-brown fur glistens in the reflection of the moonlight.

The beast walked slowly towards me with its eyes fixed on me, for a moment I couldn't breathe because of panic.

Oh, God. I muttered as my body froze. Then a second later my brain started running normally, with shaking hands I grabbed whatever was on the table and threw it at the beast-Wine glass, flower vase, grape juice bottle, chairs until nothing was left on the table.

The wolf only pauses every time I throw things. After a while the beast started walking towards me again, this time more slowly than before.

Al-Alex? Alex! My tears were flowing fast thinking about what happened with Alex. The wolf was getting closer, now only 10 meters away from me. Its huge claws traced the grass with certainty, shortening our distance.

Stop! Stop! Now I'm sobbing, dying from being bitten by a wolf in the middle of the forest is not a pleasant way to die. To my surprise the wolf followed my order and stopped, then let out a low yep.

You killed him. I muttered with tears still flowing, my body trembled because of my crying and fear. Its golden brown eyes stared at me with focus before the wolf finally turned around, then ran towards the first place it came from. I hugged my limp legs while crying hysterically. I don't know what happened to Alex, the wolf must have attacked him.

Suddenly a silhouette appeared from behind a tree.

Method? Alex's hoarse voice made me speechless, I wiped my tears with the back of my hand. Alex stood a few feet from me. His neat appearance before was now messy, he was only wearing his black cloth pants barefoot, his brown hair also looked very disheveled.

Alex! I stood up from my spot and ran towards him. Tears flowed again, this time more swiftly. Alex ... wolf ... you disappeared ... my words flowed indistinctly. I bumped into his body and hugged him tightly. Her body felt very hot in my arms.

The way ... that's me. Alex's voice still sounded hoarse, but I could hear it clearly.

I slowly let go of my hug and looked into his brown eyes ... the same eyes as the wolf. My face turned pale when I realized it, now my steps are away from Alex who still hasn't moved from his place. You ... are the wolf ... I repeated slowly.

Crazy. My brother has gone mad. Or am I the one who's crazy?

Alex nodded and walked towards me. The strange expression on his face made the hairs on the back of my neck prickle. The man in front of me was indeed Alex, but he also looked like a foreigner at the moment because of the wild look in his eyes. I looked at him with a look of confusion and fear. His hands cupped my cheeks and tilted my head slightly tothe right.

Cara, I'm sorry ... he muttered in a growl. Then what happened next I can only vaguely recall. Both of Alex's canines were elongated, he licked the hollow between my neck and shoulder then bit it.

After that my vision turned dark.

My head hurts-it really hurts. It felt like a huge drum was being hit so hard inside my head, the thump vibrated in my brain. My hands massage my forehead slowly while my eyes are still tightly closed.

A sudden feeling of nausea shot through my stomach, I slowly opened my eyes letting the bright light get used to them. Sunlight peeked through the curtains of the window in my room and the clock on the wall showed ten in the morning. A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I realized it was too late to go to school.

There's no use going to school any more than to do some stupid Prom anyway. I muttered while getting off the bed. I forced my legs to walk to the bathroom even though my whole body ached, the nausea still coiled in my stomach and this time it was worse than before. What did I eat yesterday?

I'm trying to remember what went into my stomach yesterday while trying to vomit my stomach contents into the toilet. But nothing came out of my stomach, only sickening nausea. I wash my face while looking at my reflection in the mirror, my hair looks disheveled andmy face is, well, there's nothing wrong with my face it's just ... there's something odd about my face.

As if there was a glow radiating from my face, there was not the slightest sign of sickness or paleness that could be seen from my face. I frowned when I saw the clothes I was wearing, T-shirt and leggings? I'm even still wearing a jacket. Where are my pajamas? Then the corner of my eye caught something at the nape of my neck in the reflection of the mirror, I brought my face closer to the mirror and examined it. Tattoos? A pair of small black dots with a reddish bruise covering part of my neck.

My face froze when I noticed a necklace hanging around my neck. The emerald green pendulum flickered under the light of the bathroom light. At the same time, my memories were rushing through my head. My breath caught in my throat, I felt a few drops of cold sweat running down my back. My hands squeezed the edge of the sink tightly while trying to balance my slightly unsteady body.

'Cara ... " A very familiar voice called me from behind the bathroom door.

Alex.

My body jumped when I heard his voice again, I slowly locked the bathroom door then backed away from the door until my back hit the wall behind me. My heart was pounding really hard, as if my body also had memories of last night. I leaned my back against the wall opposite the bathroom door.

Cara, open the door. Now Alex's voice was urgent. I covered my mouth with my hands to hold back the sobs that were about to escape.

I can break down this door easily .. he said softly.

Way.. Alex warned me one last time before a loud bang opened my bathroom door easily accompanied by a loud scream that escaped my mouth. And there he stood, Alex looked at me who was now slumped sitting on the cold bathroom floor trying to hug myself. Alex approached slowly while raising both hands, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you.

Don't-don't come any closer. I was a little choked by the tears that have flowed since earlier. The image of a brown wolf flashed through my head.

Alex froze in place at the sound of the tremor in my voice, his face hardening for a moment before he turned to leave me alone, disappearing from behind my bedroom door. He's not Alex, he's not my brother. He's a ... Monster. I stared at my bedroom door in a bit of panic, hoping he wouldn't come back again. A few minutes later Mum came into my room looking worried, her eyes red as if she had been crying.

Oh, Cara dear ... Mum walks over to me and hugs me, my trembling stops instantly. Even though she is not my real mother but Mum always has a calming effect. Cara, I'm sorry honey. Mum stroked my hair and then kissed my forehead.

Mum ... are you, you too mons-

No honey, I'm human too. And don't ever call Alex a monster, or Dad. Mum said softly. My brain was still processing Mum's words, then I realized that Dad ...

Dad- I paused before continuing, Dad too? I whispered in disbelief. My father can also turn into a wolf?

'We have a lot to explain. But it's better if Alex explains it to you. He is your mate." Mum is still stroking my hair.

'But ... he's not human Mum ... I-I can't." My answer stammered with tears still flowing.

Cara, give him a chance to explain. Alex would never hurt you.

Alex ... He bit me. My God, he bit me. My whisper shook again. Mum suddenly froze. 

I'll talk to Alex. Mum kissed the top of my head then helped me up. He left me to go downstairs. When I felt calmer I changed into shorts and a baggy gray T-shirt. A few minutes later I hear the sound of something breaking followed by Mum's angry screams, curiosity leading my feet towards the stairs where I can hear their conversation - Mum, Dad and Alex.

I can't help it! Alex hissed angrily.

You have no right to hurt my daughter. Alex." Mum sounded really angry.

'Alex didn't mean to mark Cara, honey." Dad's voice was soothing.

But he hurt my daughter! And ... You Alex! You didn't even give her a proper explanation! Cara was scared to death! Someone banged hard on the table, I'm sure it was Alex.

Cara is listening to us. muttered Alex short. 

I don't know what to do now, join them or go back to my room. But I've already been caught red-handed.

Alex emerged from the dining room and walked towards me Cara ... We need to talk. he said while trying to stand as far away from me as possible.

For a few moments I just looked at him, his face was still the same as the Alex I knew-my brother, not the monster from last night. I nodded then stepped back into my room, Alex followed me from behind then closed my bedroom door slowly.

How ... I don't know where to start ... He started hesitantly, a rare thing because usually Alex was always confident. He leaned against the closed door. His hair was messy as usual but a pair of dark circles were clearly visible shadowing the bags under his eyes, he looked tired. A few moments later he slipped his hands through his hair with a little frustration. Whatever Alex did, he always looked ... handsome. I ignored my pounding heart while trying to divert my thoughts.

Was-Was Mum and Dad just acting all this time? Because ... because I was your 'mate'? I asked slowly, just imagining it already makes my heart ache.

What? No Cara! They really do love you. They have considered you as their daughter ever since you came to this house. Didn't you hear what Mum said just now?

I nodded. I really love Mum and Dad, and I can't imagine them just pretending to love me.

So what is mate? I still don't fully understand.

CHAPTER 4

mate ... soulmate. every werewolf has a soul mate, whether it's a human or a fellow werewolf. mates are predestined from the moment they're born, and nothing can change them. like a puzzle, nothing but their mate can complete them. he answered while rubbing the back of his neck.

and you are my mate, caroline. my heart flutters when alex says my name, i love it when he says my full name.

alex ... i am your sister. i said quietly. are you crazy?

you still don't understand, cara? haven't you noticed all this time when i threatened every boy who wanted to approach you? when i hit joseph because he almost kissed you? you are mine, cara.

i flinched when alex said i was his. i'm not an item. i replied with an angry frown.

you know that's not what i meant. he said softly. you are mine, because i am also yours. all ... all. mate is a once in a lifetime partner for a werewolf.

his words made my stomach feel like it was being surrounded by hundreds of butterflies.

that's why i begged mum and dad to adopt you when we met at the orphanage. he continued, i know this is wrong, you also think of me as your brother. but i can't think of you as my sister, cara. i never thought of you as my sister ... alex approached me and cupped one of his hands on my cheek, my skin felt like an electric shock which is fun. when i returned his serious look, i knew ... from this moment on i couldn't look at alex the same way i could look at an older brother anymore.

whoa, i thought in surprise, is it that easy? slightly staggered i sat on the edge of my bed.

i've never begged before. but if you want it i will. alex knelt in front of me, his hands resting on my knees. pleasant currents of electricity stung every time we touched. i know this is all too shocking for you and i explained so badly yesterday. but cara, give me one more chance. alex's voice sounded so sincere that it made my heart feel squeezed.

i don't know. this is all too fast for me. i answered honestly. just overnight my life changed. eventually i found out that i was adopted, and then it turned out that werewolves were real and-and i was my own brother's mate. mate, that word still seems foreign to me. what should i do? i muttered to him.

how about starting over? he offered while holding my left hand gently.

what is this? you feel it too? i asked while pointing at his hands.

alex chuckled. i don't know, but i feel it too. i guess it's because i marked you.

mark?

you remember ... when i bit you? i marked you. his voice sounded cautious. my body stiffens when i remember it, i'm sure my face is now pale.

alex noticed my change and squeezed my hand cara, i will never hurt you, that mark is just a ritual so other werewolves don't come near you. to let them know you are mine. that night i couldn't keep my wolf from marking you as it's mate.

i tried to ignore the last sentence. anything else too? i whispered as i let go of alex's hand. any other.

some. almost all my friends are werewolves too. you know paul? henry? lee? watson? annelise? ... jake?

jake too? jake is alex's best friend since they were born. the jake who used to pick on me, the one who always snatched my cereal, the one who pulled my barbie's head, the one that pushed me off the swing, the jake that accompanied me to watch friday 13th. that jake, also a werewolf?

jake too. alex replied softly when he saw the expression on my face. oh. anything you want to do today?

i want to sleep. i replied quickly. i really need sleep, with a clearer mind maybe i can swallow today's information.

werewolves, i thought. mate, mark, jake.

and alex.

ok. he nodded and looked at me hesitantly before smiling at me. the same smile that makes my heart feel squeezed every time i see him. mate, the word kept repeating itself in my head.

i waited for alex to close my bedroom door before dropping my head on the pillow, my mind still processing what we had just said. this whole thing still feels like a dream ... only i know i'll never wake up. slowly my eyes closed and my tired brain sent me drifting off to sleep.

***

the heat and pain that centered on my neck woke me up from my nap. i touched my neck with my hand to feel the source of the heat.

ow ... ouch!" i moaned as the pain got worse.

outside the sun was almost setting, its orange rays came into my room through my slightly open window. i tried to get up and walked out of the room and down the stairs.

mom? i called hoarsely.

mum appeared a few moments later with a worried look on her face. cara? what's wrong? are you hurt? she asked as he approached me and looked at me from head to toe.

my neck ... it feels so hot. i replied while back groaning in pain.

mum took my hands off my neck and breathed her cool breath on my neck.

felix? mum screamed for dad and a few moments later dad appeared from the kitchen.

call alex. cara needs him mum says to dad.

what happened? asked dad which i answered with a groan.

felix, call me alex!

dad hurriedly walked to the nearest phone, if i wasn't moaning in pain i would be laughing now because dad got sprayed.

i really don't know what alex was thinking. he should have waited a few days instead of acting like a stray dog. mum muttered angrily as she led me into the living room then sat me down on the sofa. i'll get you some cold water, cara. mum said while walking towards the kitchen

i dropped my head on the couch and curled up like a cat trying to hold back my groans of pain. it felt like my throat was burning and melting all at once. moments later mum returned with a glass of water with dad trailing behind her.

cara, you have to drink ... mum said while helping me drink, i took a few sips but it didn't lessen the burning sensation in my neck at all.

ow ... ouch! ow!

dad knelt beside me his hand ran through my hair which somehow calmed me down. i don't know how long dad rubbed my head, it's clear that with this kind of pain it took a very long time.

suddenly there was the sound of someone opening the front door with a half slam, i didn't need to look up to know who had almost broken down our door. alex. he approached me with long strides on the couch, his brown eyes wide and worried.

how long has the heat been felt? he asked, kneeling beside dad. dad got up and walked over to mum's side to give alex room. alex's large hand lifted my head, then almost immediately the pain in my neck subsided.

a while. long time. my answer is ridiculous.

i should have stayed here. i'm sorry. he said while wiping the sweat off my forehead and then hugged me tightly. and as usual my chest started thumping loudly when it came into contact with alex.

what is wrong with me? i whispered in alex's ear. 

it's because of the mark, i have to stay by your side until we get used to it. he replied while still hugging me, i could smell a very familiar pine scent from him. i closed my eyes to concentrate on the warmth of alex's embrace and distract my pain.

now the pain and heat in my neck is completely gone, when i open my eyes again mum and dad look at us both in silence. i returned their glances awkwardly because alex was still hugging me tightly. mum who noticed my awkward expression averted her eyes and pushed dad out of the living room.

so i have to stick with you for a while, huh? i asked alex in a hoarse voice.

you're stuck with me forever, to be precise. he said, i could almost feel him smiling from his voice. his heartbeat was palpable against my hand, and i have to admit it wasn't just his chest that was pounding so hard right now. alex released his hug from me after a while making me almost protest.

you have eaten? he asked me, i just replied with a shake of the head.

that evening the four of us sat around the dinner table, mum cooking salmon and asparagus steaks. while the three of us ate, mum rambled on as usual. at least her chattering didn't make dinner awkward.

so when's your prom, cara? mum's question suddenly makes me almost choke on the salmon i'm swallowing. prom is the topic i've been avoiding the most lately.

two more weeks. i answered.

has anyone asked you yet? mum asked again.

ehh ... i felt alex stop his eating activity beside me. mum looked at us with a smile waiting for my answer. there are a few but i think i'll go with eric. i muttered quickly.

eric?that eric? whispered alex beside me, his words sounded a little annoying. i nodded at him while elbowing him.

after finishing the pudding mum shooed us away while dad helped her with the dishes. alex took me to his room, he opened the door and turned on the light. alex's room is now almost empty because some of the furniture has been moved to his new apartment, so i just stand awkwardly in front of his door.

he opened his bedroom window then half his body out onto the small balcony before turning towards me, are you coming or not?

since childhood alex and i had a very uncool secret base, which was the roof of our house. we climbed from the balcony of alex's room and sat on the top of the roof, carefully of course because if mum found out she would spray us all over. usually we go out when the stars are clear to look at the sky and talk about many things. but since i entered high school we never did that again, i think because we're too old to climb on rooftops.

like going back to our childhood, i followed alex up from behind him. we both leaned on the roof of the house staring at the twinkling stars that were clearly visible in the sky. our house is located on the outskirts of the city and is quite close to the forest so it is far from the hustle and bustle and light pollution, therefore the stars are clearly visible from this place.

i let my hair fall around my head while alex folded his arms behind his head. then suddenly he took off his black jacket and handed it to me, he was only wearing his black shirt with jeans.

tonight is very cold. he said briefly. without protesting, i took the jacket from his hand and then put it on. even though i used to borrow alex's jacket from a long time ago, but only now did i really notice the smell of peppermint and pine and the warmth from alex's body that was still left on his jacket.

you are okay? he asked breaking the silence.

how long has this been going on?

three days? a week? two weeks? i don't know. it depends. he said while turning to me.

"every