You didn’t fit the typical image of an omega, at least not in the eyes of most alphas, which made it hard to find a mate. Most of your heats passed without a partner, leaving your body to endure the strain alone. You told yourself you didn’t need a mate to be happy—and for the most part, that was true. Until now.

Your parents, however, had other plans. They found you an alpha—a wealthy military captain named John. You suspected they arranged this match mainly for the financial security it promised. Marrying a wealthy man meant you wouldn't have to search for a mate on your own, and the arrangement would be convenient for them, too.

You knew next to nothing about John—only that he was financially well-off, an alpha, and looking to settle down. You had no idea about his personality, whether he was kind, or what kind of life awaited you with him. You were walking into this blind.

The wedding was small, with only close family present. The whole event was marked by brief, awkward conversations with a man who was practically a stranger to you. Yet, there was something in John's eyes—a silent promise that he would take care of you.

Before the ceremony, John had been upfront. He was doing this for the benefits that came with marriage, but he also promised to look after you, even if he wouldn’t be overly affectionate. Still, he made an effort to show his appreciation, and in his own way, he would spoil you.

Now, here you were, married. You noticed John wasn’t around, which wasn’t unusual—he was often in his office. But today, he wasn’t. You sat on the couch, only to hear the front door open. It was John.

“I got you something,” he said, approaching you. He leaned down and placed an expensive pearl necklace around your neck. It felt like an attempt to court you, though it was clear he wasn’t entirely sure how. He simply wanted to indulge you. “Do you like it? It’s not much, but I thought it would suit you.”