Mia’s POV

I stood in the principal's office, my hands quivering at my sides as I tried to hold back tears. The room was claustrophobic, and every charge weighed down on me like a ton of bricks.

"I didn't do it, sir," I said quietly, my voice barely audible. "I swear."

Principal Sharma's eyes furrowed as he sat back in his chair, inspecting every aspect of me. "Mia, you were found with a stone near the smashed glass. Do you expect me to believe this was an accident?

"They made me do it," I responded, my voice cracking. "I didn't want to, but they—"

"Enough!" he said, his voice booming off the walls. "This is not the first time you've engaged in such activity. First, there was the false bombing, and now this! You must grasp the gravity of your deeds."

"I didn't—" I began, but the door sprang open, and Alpha Diego stepped in, controlling the entire room.

"Principal Sharma," he replied, his voice calm and authoritative, "I believe you're making a grave mistake."

As he stood up from his chair, the principal's eyes widened in surprise. "Alpha Diego, I didn't realize you were here. "This girl is—"

"My stepdaughter," Alpha Diego interrupted, his eyes sparkling as he looked at me. "And I guarantee you, as an Omega, she is incapable of accomplishing these things on her own. "She was forced by someone—perhaps an Alpha."

The principal blinked, visibly taken aback. "Stepdaughter? "I—I was not aware..."

Alpha Diego's stare intensified as he moved closer to the desk. "Did you bother to review the CCTV footage before accusing her?" Or did you simply accept the word of whoever reported this?

"I—um, no, we haven't reviewed the footage yet," the principal mumbled, obviously taken off guard. "But she was caught with the stone in her hand, and her previous record—"

"Her prior record," Alpha Diego interrupted, his voice as steel, "was likewise falsified. I know about the video that she was threatened with. "She has been bullied, and you have done nothing to stop it."

"I didn't—" the principal began to explain, but Alpha Diego raised her hand.

"Enough. I'm withdrawing her from this school, effective immediately. "She does not deserve this treatment." He looked at me, his eyes softening slightly. "You'll be safe with me now, Mia."

The principal was uncomfortable, his gaze darting between us. "Alpha Diego, I had no idea she was your—" "Stepdaughter," Alpha Diego corrected. "Whether she is my biological daughter or not is irrelevant. "I will not let her be treated like this."

Principal Sharma swallowed hard and nodded swiftly. "Yes, of course. I will analyze the footage straight away, and—"

"Do that," Alpha Diego replied curtly. "And you'll understand what I'm talking about. But it doesn't matter any more. She is leaving with me, and she will not return."

I felt a sigh of relief sweep over me as Alpha Diego placed a protective hand on my shoulder. I looked up at him, my eyes still full of tears.

"Thank you," I muttered.

He nodded, and his countenance softened. "Let's get you out of here, Mia."

As we went to leave, the principal said, "Alpha Diego, I'll make sure those responsible are punished." "I promise."

Alpha Diego hesitated and looked back at him. "See what you do. One other thing: take better care of your students. Nobody should have to go through what she did."

With that, we departed the office. The hallway was unusually silent as we proceeded toward the exit, and I could feel the students' glances, muttering behind their hands.

"Mia," Alpha Diego murmured gently as we approached his car. "I'm sorry you had to go through this."

I shrugged, attempting to keep the tears from spilling. "It's not your fault."

"No, but it's now my responsibility to make sure you're safe," he added, his voice firm. "And I will."

I glanced at him for the first time. His jaw was fixed, and his eyes, while ferocious, were full of concern. He wasn't simply stating these things; he meant them."Do you really think your pack will accept me?"

He beamed a soft smile as he opened the car door for me. “I know they will be. You have my protection as well as that from my pack. "‘You’re not alone anymore, Mia"

When I got into the vehicle, I looked back at the school one more time. Having felt as though I were in a prison, that place was only a memory as we drove away, triggering a strange feeling in my chest.

Hope.

There’s a chance that this signifies the beginning of a new chapter. It’s possible, just possible, that I might actually have a true family and a sense of belonging.

I believe that Alpha Diego detected my anxiety. He checked on me through the rearview mirror while flashing a sweet meaningful smile. "Mia, I understand this is a considerable change for you," he kicked off, his voice warmly supportive. Just wanted you to know that you have company now. Now, thanks to your family and a home, you will be able to say, "You’ll have a family now, a home."

I nodded at a slow pace, attempting to understand what he said. Tossing everything aside and embarking on the unfamiliar felt just as strange.

"You also need to hear," he went on, his mood turning more serious, "you have four stepbrothers."

I was taken aback. "four?"

He replied with a quiet chuckle and said, 'Yes.' "They are all over your age, and I’m sure they’ll feel just as surprised to connect with you as you are with them."

“Will they... like me?” My fingers were twisting nervously in my lap as I asked warily.

Alpha Diego’s smile faded slightly, and he sighed. “It might take some time for everyone to adjust, Mia. They’ve been through a lot, and this is a big change for them too. But they’re good boys, and once they get to know you, I’m sure they’ll come to care for you. It’s just... well, they’re very protective of the family.”

I nodded, though his words didn’t fully ease my anxiety.

MIA'S POV

I took a deep breath and stepped into the stately mansion, the door closing softly behind me. My heart was beating from nervous anticipation. I was finally here, eager to meet my new family. But before I could take in my surroundings, I found myself in a large, artistically cluttered space.

"Hey, you're here early," a strong voice interrupted me. I turned and froze. There he was, standing in the center of the room—a breathtakingly attractive young guy, perhaps around 20. His chiseled form appeared to be carved from stone, with broad shoulders and abs that would make anyone's knees weak. His dark eyes were keen and penetrating, adding to his frightening presence.

"Um, I—" I began as my words failed me.

"Don't worry," he said, giving me a once over. "I asked the agency to send the model in something sexy, but this..." His eyes lingered on my basic white shirt. "We can work with it. "You just need to show a little more." He smirked, a fun yet confident smile spreading across his lips.

"What?" I blinked, attempting to grasp his words. Did he just say...?

"The bra," he said, as if this were the most natural topic in the world. "Take it off. It will improve the appearance of your breasts throughout the photo shoot. Trust me."

"I-I don't think—" I swallowed hard and felt my cheeks flame up. I didn't know what to say. My heart beat in my ears as I searched for an answer, but my thoughts went blank.

"Here, let me help." Before I could respond, he was standing directly in front of me, his towering presence making me feel tiny. His fingertips stroked against my back, and he quickly unhooked my bra. I let out a gasp as he eased the straps down my arms, his touch delicate yet commanding.

"I-I'm not..." I attempted to speak, but he was already moving, running his hands up my sides and lowering the hem of my shirt. His fingers touched my exposed skin, sending shivers down my spine. I stood frozen as he slid the garment halfway up, revealing my breasts behind the thin, flimsy material.

"See? Perfect." His voice was low and hoarse as he moved back, his eyes deepening as he noticed my nipples poking through the white cloth. "You've got an incredible body." He nodded, apparently proud of himself. "I was hesitant at first, but now... I think we can work together."

My brain was spinning. What was going on? I needed to say something, to let him know I wasn't the model he thought I was. But his intense look and the heat emanating from his body left me tongue-tied.

"Xavier!" A voice burst from the doorway, shocking both of us. I turned, my heart pounding in my throat. An older man with a big smile entered the room. "So, you've met Mia already!"

Xavier's expression changed from surprise to disbelief. "What?"

"Mia, your stepsister." Alpha Diego chuckled, as if everything was a big joke. "I told you she'd be coming today."

"Stepsister?" Xavier's eyes widened in surprise, then narrowed in rage. "You've got to be kidding me."

"No joke, son," Alpha Diego replied, still smiling. "Mia is Lillian's daughter."

The room became silent. My heart was beating so hard that I feared it was going to burst. Xavier's face twisted with wrath, and before I knew it, he grabbed a wine glass and threw it against the wall. The glass shattered, and I leaped, frightened.

"How dare you!" he said, his voice hoarse with wrath. "You brought that woman's daughter into our house? After what she did and what she caused?"

"Xavier, calm down!" Alpha Diego raised his hands, attempting to pacify him. "I told Lillian that I would care for Mia. "She has done nothing wrong."

Xavier scowled at me, his eyes filled with rage and something else I couldn't identify. "And you," he snarled, his voice filled with contempt, "were you enjoying the spectacle earlier? "Are you staring at my abs, chest, and pants?"

I felt as though I had been slapped. My cheeks flushed with humiliation as I shook my head, unable to form words. I felt as though I was drowning in shame.

"You're just like her," he spat, his tone harsh. "You're not welcome here."

"Xavier, enough!" Alpha Diego's voice was firmer now, but Xavier didn't listen.

"No, it's not enough!" he cried, his gaze fixed on me so intently that I took a step back. "You brought her here and expected us to accept her? "This... mistake?" He pointed at me, his voice full of anger. "She does not belong here. "Neither does her mother's memory."

I stood there, feeling exposed and vulnerable, tears welling in the corners of my eyes. How did things go so wrong so quickly?

Alpha Diego sighed and softly rested his hand on my shoulder. "Mia, I apologize. This is not how I intended things to go. "Just give him some time."

I nodded, but inwardly, I felt like I was breaking down. How was I meant to confront my other stepbrothers after this? Would they also dislike me? How could I ever fit into this household when my own stepbrother despised me?

As Xavier stormed out of the room, my heart sank. My new life was off to a bad start, and I didn't know how to remedy it.

Alpha Diego led me up the huge staircase, his steps light yet steady. As we reached the second level, he smiled at me and gestured to the lengthy hallway lined with doors.

"Mia, your room is right here." He opened a door to discover a huge room with a comfortable bed, gentle lighting, and tasteful décor. It appeared comfy, yet there was an underlying sensation of emptiness.

"You will be staying adjacent to your brothers' bedroom. If you require anything, do not hesitate to contact them."

paused, walking inside and glancing around, my fingers anxiously fumbling with the hem of my sweatshirt. "I doubt they'll want to help me, Mr. Atwood... "I mean, Dad," I explained sheepishly. "They already seem to hate me."

"They're just angry right now," he soothed me, gently placing his hand on my shoulder. "It has been a difficult transition for them. However, once they come to know you, as Alphas, they will protect you. That is their nature."

I nodded, but I was not convinced. "I hope you're right."

MIA'S POV

As if on cue, the door to my room sprang open, and a guy stormed in, his presence filling the room with overwhelming intensity. I gasped, my heart racing in my chest. He was tall and broad-shouldered, his shirt drenched in sweat, and his hands covered in blood. His eyes burned with rage and pain, and his jaw clinched painfully.

"Nathan!" Alpha Diego's voice cut through the tension, loaded with anxiety and frustration.

"Dad!" he exclaimed, his voice rocking the walls. "What the hell is going on?"

"Nathan," Alpha Diego stepped forward, concern on his features. "What has happened to you?" "Are you hurt?"

"Don't!" Nathan hissed, withdrawing his arm as Alpha Diego reached out. "Do not act as if you care! "You have already broken every promise you made to us!" His eyes flicked to me, full with anger. "And now you've brought her here? "The daughter of the woman who destroyed our lives?"

I flinched, feeling like I'd been slapped. His remarks were poisonous, hitting harder than the last.

"Nathan, listen to me," Alpha Diego replied firmly, attempting to keep his cool. "I told Lillian that I would care for Mia. "She has nothing to do with the past."

"Bullshit!" Nathan yelled and moved closer to his father. "You pledged to never mention that woman again! You said we'd never have to deal with her or anything related to her!"

"Nathan, calm down," Alpha Diego begged, his voice steady but straining. "This isn't her fault."

"I don't care!" Nathan exclaimed, pointing at me. "I will not accept her as a member of this family. She does not belong here. "She is trash, just like her mother!"

"Nathan!" Alpha Diego's voice was suddenly sharp and authoritative, causing Nathan to hesitate. "Enough! Mia is your sister, and you will show her respect."

Nathan's chest heaved with rage, his fists clenched, and blood dripped from his knuckles into the clean carpet. Before he could answer, two more individuals appeared in the doorway.

"Hey, what's all the yelling about?" Rolex entered casually, his two-toned hair tousled, a smirk on his lips. "Looks like the old man brought home a surprise." His gaze fell on mine, and his smirk broadened. "Okay, well, well. Who is this? "Who is Dad's new girlfriend?"

I recoiled, the heat rising to my cheeks. "I—"

"Shut up, Rolex," Sean said, entering the room with an annoyed groan. His curly black hair fell over his forehead as he fixed his glasses on his nose. "Can't you see she's just a kid?"

"Kid or not, she's trouble," Nathan muttered, still staring at me. "And she's not welcome here."

Sean looked at me, his expression unclear. "So, you're the daughter of the woman who ruined our family." It wasn't a question; it was a statement, cold and devoid of emotion.

"That's enough!" Alpha Diego's voice broke through the tension, strong and powerful. "All of you, listen to me."

The brothers focused their attention on him, but the tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife.

"Mia is your sister, and you will respect her," Alpha Diego declared, his voice hard and unyielding as he gazed at each of his sons. "Nathan, the boxer, you are about to become the Alpha King of the West. It's your responsibility to protect people under your care, including Mia."

Nathan clinched his teeth, fists still balled at his sides, but said nothing.

"And Xavier," Alpha Diego said, turning to face the eldest, who was leaned against the back of the couch, his eyes focused. "As the eldest, you are a role model for your brothers. You are destined to become the Alpha King of the East. You must lead by example, not only for them, but for the entire pack."

Xavier's expression was unreadable, but a glimmer of emotion flashed across his eyes before he immediately concealed it.

"Rolex," Alpha Diego said to the one with the two-toned hair, who was watching everything with a sneer.

"You are a businessman and the next in line for the North. You are in charge of our family business, but this does not excuse you from your Alpha obligations. You must demonstrate your ability to protect our property, especially your sister."

Rolex arched an eyebrow, obviously suspicious, but nodded nevertheless.

"And Sean," Alpha Diego softened his eyes as he turned to face the youngest, who stood quietly in the corner. "You're the future Alpha King of the South, as well as the doctor for our pack. Your role is critical not only to the health of the pack, but also to its togetherness. You must help heal these wounds, even those that are not visible."

Sean shifted uneasily and adjusted his glasses without saying anything.

Alpha Diego took a long breath, casting his gaze over his kids one final time before settling on me. "Each of you is responsible, not only to your pack, but also to this family. That includes Mia. Whether you like it or not, she is now a member of our community. It's time to start acting like it."

The room went silent. Nathan scowled at the floor, his jaw clinched so hard I thought his teeth would break. Rolex crossed his arms, seeming amused, but said nothing. Sean adjusted his spectacles, his gaze shifting to me and then away.

"Fine," Nathan said between gritted teeth. "But don't expect me to treat her like family."

Alpha Diego groaned and nodded. "It's a start. But make no mistake: anyone who disrespects her will have to account to me.

He turned to face me, his countenance softening. "Mia, I apologize for everything. I understand it's not simple.

I forced a grin, even though my heart was sad. "That's okay. "I understand."

"Welcome to our perfect little family, little sister," Rolex murmured, his tone full of despair. He ran his hand through his hair and gave a strange grin before turning to leave the room.

Sean gave me a quick nod and followed Rolex out. Nathan waited a bit longer, his gaze harsh and unwavering.

"You're not welcome here," he whispered quietly, his voice full of venom that made me shudder. "And you never will be."

He turned and went away, leaving me standing there, feeling more alone than before. Alpha Diego placed a soothing hand on my shoulder.

"They're good boys," he stated softly. "They just need time."

I nodded, but I wasn't sure if time would be enough to heal the profound wounds caused by my entrance.

As Alpha Diego left me alone in the room, I sat on the bed and stared at the door through which my brothers had just exited.

I still had a long way to go before I could call this place home.

MIA'S POV

I awoke thirsty, with my throat as dry as sandpaper. I tiptoed out of bed, intending to get a glass of water without running with anyone.

As I entered the kitchen, I saw one of my stepbrothers. Sean reclined on the couch, sound sleeping. His big chest expanded and contracted with each tranquil breath. I hesitated for a while, not wanting to bother him, before rushing to the sink.

Oh, I should not be staring at him like this! I thought, panicking within.I yanked my hand away, my heart beating and blood streaming to my cheeks. I could feel the fire spreading throughout my body. Oh no! I touched him...

I filled my glass, and the cool water felt good against my parched lips. As I turned to take a sip, I heard faint footsteps approaching. I looked over my shoulder and my heart skipped a beat. Nathan was shirtless.

I could barely take my gaze away from him. His abs were flawlessly formed, with each ridge and muscle molded like a sculpture. His sweatpants dropped low on his hips, exposing the sharp V-line hidden beneath the fabric. My mouth felt dry again, but this time it wasn't from thirst. The sight of him, his muscular figure nearly burning under the kitchen lights, made it impossible to turn away.

"Enjoying the view, little sister?" His low, taunting voice jarred me out of my reverie. I realized, horrified, that I had been openly looking. His sneer deepened as he attracted my attention. "It's rude to stare."

I moved away, my face flushed with embarrassment. I had to go before making a larger fool of myself. But in my rush to flee, I ran directly into him, pouring water from my glass all over his chest.

"Oh no, I'm so sorry!" I gasped, my pulse beating as I reached out to wipe away the wetness, my fingertips brushing across his muscular abdomen. When my fingertips touched his warm, strong skin, I felt a chill run down my spine. I paused as the awareness of what I was doing hit me like a tidal wave.

I swiftly drew my hand back, my cheeks blazing. My eyes were stuck to the floor, too humiliated to meet his stare. "I didn't mean to—"

Nathan chuckled gently, sending another shudder through me. "Did you like what you felt, kitten?" His voice was low, almost purring, and I felt my face warm up even more. "It's not good to check out your stepbrother's body like that."

I opened my mouth to apologize, but no words emerged. My fingers were still tingling from the moment they brushed his flesh. He bent down, softly grabbing my hand and moving it away from his chest, his gaze never leaving mine. The intensity in his eyes caused my heart to skip a beat.

"I-I'm really sorry," I stammered, taking such a hasty step back that I nearly tripped over myself. My hands shook as I grabbed a towel to wipe the wetness off my fingers, urgently attempting to calm the rapid flutter in my chest.

Nathan moved closer, his sneer growing as he watched me fumble. "Don't apologize," he said softly, his voice silky. "Just try not to make a habit of it." He leaned in so close that I could feel his breath on my ear. "Unless, of course, you plan on drooling some more?"

My face was on fire. I could scarcely breathe while responding to him. I needed to get out of here before I melted into a pool of humiliation.

Before I could move, another pair of footfall boomed across the kitchen. I turned to see Sean stroll in, his eyes narrowing as he took in the surroundings.

"What are you doing here?" Sean inquired, his tone calm and slightly harsh. "We haven't exactly welcomed you yet."

"I—I was just feeling thirsty," I murmured, wishing I could sink into the floor. And, as if on cue, my stomach gave me a loud growl.

Sean cocked an eyebrow, and a little smile tugged on his lips. "Seems like you're hungry too."

"I was just going to grab some bread," I said hastily, my voice quiet. I looked at the counter, where a loaf of bread rested, and suddenly felt like an intruder in my own kitchen.

Sean shakes his head. "If you're hungry, you should eat proper food rather than bread. "Unless, of course, you're on a diet to attract boys?"

I looked at him, taken aback. "I'm not dieting," I explained quietly. "And I'm not trying to attract anyone."

Nathan, who had been observing silently, folded his arms over his chest, his gaze fixed on my. "Are you dating someone?" he inquired, his voice steady but with an edge that made my skin prickle.

I shook my head, speaking barely above a whisper. "No, I am not dating anyone. I'm... Waiting for my mate."

Nathan narrowed his gaze and took a step closer, making me feel even tiny. "Good. I do not want you dating anyone. And definitely don't sleep with random boys. "We have a family reputation to maintain."

My pulse hammered in my chest as he leaned forward, his breath warm on my cheek. "Did you understand, little sister?" His voice was like a growl, deep and threatening.

I nodded hastily, not trusting my ability to talk.

"Good, little kitten." He stood up, his lips curled into a smile. "Now, go. Unless you want to stand here and drool even more."

I grabbed the loaf of bread and rushed out of the kitchen, my face flushed with embarrassment and confusion.

My heart was still beating as I walked back to my room, the sound of Nathan's mocking laughter ringing in my ears.

Finally, I was starting over at a new school. The prospect of leaving the old one, together with all of the terrible memories, made me feel relieved and excited. A new location meant an opportunity to redefine oneself. I couldn't wait to try something new, and maybe better.

As I strolled down the hall, I noticed that the door to my stepbrother Xavier's room had a glass window that provided a clear view inside. My curiosity got the best of me, and I slowed down, peeping in without thinking.

"Whoa..." The word spilled out before I could stop it. Xavier had just emerged from the shower, a towel loosely wrapped around his waist. His damp hair clung to his brow, as beads of water ran down his muscular shoulders and chiseled chest. The sight of his well-defined abs and V-shaped waist made my heart race. How does someone look so good?

"Stop staring, Mia," I said to myself, pulling my gaze away. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't avoid it. My attention shifted back to him. He resembled a Greek god, his muscles carved to perfection. I bit my lip and felt the heat rise in my cheeks. You shouldn't be staring at your stepbrother like way.

Just as I was about to leave, he went for the towel and removed it to dry himself. My eyes widened as I took in the sight of his entirely naked body, my gaze shamefully moving down to his long, hard—"Oh no," I exclaimed, stumbling backward and losing my equilibrium. "Ah!" My back struck the wall with a jarring bang. "Ouch!" I gasped, grasping my head, embarrassed and in pain. What exactly was wrong with me?

I returned my attention to his chamber, and to my astonishment, Xavier had turned around. His eyes latched on mine, and his face was a mix of disbelief and wrath. My heart fell. Please let this become a nightmare.

He hastily grabbed the towel and wrapped it around his waist again, his jaw tightening. "Are you serious right now?" he growled, racing to the door. I stopped, too ashamed to move, my thoughts racing from what I had just done.

Before I could respond, he reached the glass door and jerked the curtain closed with a sudden, angry tug. I remained there, petrified, as his black glare ripped through me one more time. He's furious. Of course he is. You simply ogled your stepbrother like a creep.

"Get it together, Mia," I said under my breath, forcing myself to move. "You have already made a fool of yourself. "Don't make things worse."

Just then, my stepfather's voice rang out from downstairs. "Mia, are you okay?"

"I—I'm fine!" I called back, my voice trembling. No, I am not fine. I just seen my stepbrother naked. I cringed, felt the embarrassment rush over me in waves. What had I been thinking?

I looked back at the door, half expecting Xavier to rush out and yell at me, but the curtain remained firmly closed. I need to get out of here.

I sprinted down the hall, my pulse beating as I climbed the stairs two at a time. When I got to the bottom, Lord Atwood was waiting, his expression full with concern.

"Are you sure you're alright?" he said, his gaze drawn to mine.

"Yes, just clumsy this morning," I forced a smile as my cheeks burned. "I, um, bumped into the wall."

"Be careful," he said gently. "Remember, if you need anything, you can always come to me."

"Thanks, Dad," I said, lowering my head. If only you knew what had transpired. I had never felt so ashamed in my life.

I walked toward the door, attempting to shake the picture of Xavier's enraged expression. How am I meant to confront him again? The question echoed in my mind, making my stomach turn. I'd have to see him again, and just the thought made me want to burrow under a rock.

"Just forget it," I told myself firmly as I stepped outdoors. The cool air touched my face, relaxing me slightly. "You have a new school to worry about. Concentrate on that."

But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get rid of the image of his body or the angry expression on his face. Great job, Mia. Day one, and you've already made things awkward.

I took a big breath and squared my shoulders. Perhaps he'll forget about it, I reasoned, though I knew this was doubtful. "Just avoid him," I told myself, with a forlorn hope in my voice. "Avoid him and everything will be fine."

I was in the midst of my thoughts, trying to muster the strength to walk through those school doors, when Diego's words snapped me back into reality.

"Mia, I've asked Rolex to drop you off at your old school today," he remarked calmly but firmly.

I gazed at him, my heart dropping slightly. "But... I thought I was going to a new school?" My voice was barely above a whisper. The prospect of facing my old school and tormentors filled me with fear.

Diego nodded, detecting my hesitancy. "You will eventually. For the time being, however, you will return to your former school. It's close to Rolex's clinic, so you may continue your studies there while we straighten things out.

My face was emptied of blood. "My old school?" I repeated, my voice trembling. I could still see the faces of people who had made my life miserable, and hear their mocking laughter. The notion of going back made my stomach turn.