The Lost Alpha

"Cadence, he's home, honey! We finally found your brother! After 15 years missing, he's finally back! Can you believe it?" My mother's voice was filled with emotion as tears of joy stained her cheeks, but an ache settled in my gut, making it hard to accept. Not to mention the scent my mother carried from this man, most likely from hugging him, smelled so exquisite which had me worried.

As soon as he walked through that door, I knew two things: he was an imposter, lying about being my brother, and he was my fated mate. The worst part was not only did he look just like my brother, he shared his name, and even had the same birthmark. His background lined up too perfectly, and none of it made sense. My wolf was adamant-we were not related.

I felt torn. Do I tell my mother the truth, breaking her heart by revealing that he's not her missing son, and claim my mate, putting my own happiness first? Or do I lie, knowing she hasn't been this happy since he disappeared, and reject the bond that was pulling me toward him? The weight of my decision pressed heavily on me, leaving me lost between love and loyalty, unsure of where to turn.