"A Date with Deception"

I stared blankly at the suitcase on my bed, my mind reeling with the sudden turn of events. Two days ago, my alpha mate, Ryder, had informed me that he had booked a "thoughtful" vacation for me, claiming I needed rest. I had been working non-stop for months, and I wasn't one to question his decisions. But now, as I gazed at the packed luggage and the departure details on the piece of paper, a sinking feeling crept up my spine. My eyes scanned the paper, and my heart skipped a beat as I noticed the date. Today. In two days, I was supposed to leave for a relaxing getaway, and Ryder would be handling the pack's affairs in my absence. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I recalled our conversation. "You're working too hard, Rowena," Ryder had said, his voice laced with concern. "You need a break. I'll take care of everything here." I had thanked him, assuming he was genuinely looking out for my well-being. But now, I wasn't so sure. My thoughts were interrupted by my phone buzzing on the nightstand. I picked it up, and my mom's name flashed on the screen. I hesitated for a moment before answering. "Hey, Mom," I said, trying to sound casual. "Hey, sweetie! I just heard about the vacation Ryder booked for you," she said, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What's going on? You didn't mention anything about it to me." I took a deep breath and let it all spill out. "Mom, I think there's something you should know. I overheard Ryder talking to one of his friends yesterday. He's getting married... to his beta mistress. And the wedding is scheduled for today." There was a pause on the other end of the line. "I'm so sorry, Rowena. I had no idea. What are you going to do?" I felt a surge of determination. "I'll accept the arranged marriage," I said, the words tumbling out of my mouth. My mom gasped. "Rowena, are you sure? You deserve so much better than that." I knew what I was getting myself into. As the alpha female of our pack, I had a duty to fulfill. And if Ryder was willing to betray me, then I would play along. For now. The conversation with my mom ended, and I was left standing in my room, feeling like my world had been turned upside down. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing thoughts. As I looked at the clock, I realized that I had only a few hours to prepare for my wedding. I began to get ready, my mind numb and my heart heavy. As I stepped out of my house and into the bright sunlight, I saw a convoy of cars making its way down the street. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized the lead car – it was Ryder's. Our eyes met as the car window lowered, and for a moment, time stood still. "Rowena… how could it be you?" Ryder's voice shook, his eyes wide with shock and confusion. I stood frozen, unsure of what to say or do next. The world around us melted away, leaving only the two of us, locked in a moment of awkward confrontation.