Chapter 1: Homecoming Bombshell

I'm a self-proclaimed wild Alpha—the type who collects passport stamps and lovers with equal ease. My life was one endless party, until a late-night call yanked me back to reality. Chicago was waiting, with all its baggage.

My parents were at O'Hare to meet me, Mom standing tall and stern, Dad grinning like he had a secret. Before I could even protest, Dad popped a butterscotch candy into my mouth, same as when I was five. 'Son, we've found you a marriage partner.'

I tried to spit it out, but Mom pushed it back in with her finger—her tried-and-true move from my childhood. I smacked my lips, tasting both nostalgia and manipulation, and forced a grin. 'So, Mom, which omega is it? Maybe I’ve already dated her—God knows I’ve made the rounds from River North to Wicker Park.'

Dad’s smile turned sly, the kind that always meant trouble was coming. 'It’s not an omega. It’s an Alpha. Old Mr. Miller’s grandson—your mom’s best friend’s son. Nathan Miller.'

The butterscotch turned to ash in my mouth. Nathan. The guy I just broke up with two months ago. The one I’d been trying not to think about. Suddenly, all my bravado threatened to crack. My chest tightened, but I flashed a grin. If I didn’t laugh, I might just scream.