Bonded to My Ex's Alpha Brother Chapter 188

Erin's POV

The morning sunlight filtered through my curtains, waking me earlier than I'd planned. I lay in bed for a moment, replaying last night's confrontation with Derek in my mind. His desperate words about Alexander, his sudden confession of feelings—all of it felt like calculated manipulation. After a year of rejection and indifference, I wasn't falling for his games again.

I threw back the covers and got up. Today marked the beginning of my new path. The binding ceremony with Alexander was just weeks away, and I needed to start the process of transferring from Silver Moon Academy. The thought sent a pang through my chest, but I pushed it aside.

After showering and dressing, I found my mother in the kitchen, preparing breakfast. The familiar scent of pancakes filled the air, reminding me of countless mornings that would soon belong to my past.

"Good morning," I said, trying to sound cheerful.

Mom turned, her eyes scanning my face as if searching for something. "Good morning, Erin. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes," I lied, pulling out a chair and sitting down. She didn't need to know about Derek's late-night visit. "Mom, I need to talk to you about something."

She placed a plate of pancakes in front of me and sat down across the table. "Is it about the binding ceremony?"

I nodded, picking at my food without much appetite. "I'll be transferring from Silver Moon Academy soon. Since I'll be moving to the Silverpine Pack territory after the ceremony."

My mother's face remained composed, but I could see the sadness in her eyes. "I thought as much. Binding ceremonies are serious commitments, Erin. They're not just about two people joining together—they're about packs uniting through bloodlines."

"I know," I said, moving my food around on the plate.

"Do you?" She reached across the table and took my hand. "Do you truly like that man, Erin?"

The question caught me off guard. Did I like Alexander? He had shown me respect when others cast me aside. He had acknowledged me publicly, treated me as an equal rather than a lowly Omega. When I thought of how he had stood before everyone, accepting me despite my status, a sense of gratitude washed over me.

"Yes," I answered, the word coming easier than I expected. "He respects me, Mom."

My mother's expression softened. "I'm glad to hear that. But I worry about you being so far away."

"You could come with me," I suggested, hope rising in my chest. "You don't have to stay here alone."

She shook her head gently. "Your father gave his life for the Darkwood Pack, Erin. How could I leave? This is our pack. I want to stay here until I die."

"But Mom—"

"A pack isn't just a place, Erin," she continued, her voice growing more passionate. "It's also my memories of my parents and your father. Every corner of this territory holds a piece of our history."

Her words hit me harder than I expected. I hadn't fully considered what my decision meant for her—staying behind alone, surrounded by memories while I started a new life elsewhere. Guilt washed over me, but I knew I couldn't change my mind now.

"I understand," I said quietly, squeezing her hand. "I'll visit often, I promise."

My mother smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. "You'll be busy with your new responsibilities as Luna. But I'll be fine, don't worry about me."

We finished breakfast in companionable silence, both lost in thoughts about the future that awaited us.

---

The administrative office of Silver Moon Academy was quiet that morning, with only a few students waiting to speak with counselors. I approached the front desk, my transfer application clutched in my hand.

"I'd like to submit a transfer request," I said to the clerk, sliding the form across the counter.

The woman looked up, recognition dawning in her eyes. Everyone knew who I was now—the Omega who would become Luna of the Silverpine Pack. News traveled fast in werewolf circles.

"Of course, Miss Blackwood," she said, taking the form. "We'll process this and notify you when it's ready."

"Thank you," I replied, turning to leave.

As I walked through the hallways toward my next class, I noticed the changed atmosphere. Students who had previously ignored me now stared openly, whispering as I passed. Some looked curious, others judgmental. A few even seemed afraid, as if my newfound status made me dangerous somehow. It was unsettling how quickly perceptions could change.

"Erin!" A familiar voice called out. I turned to see Amy hurrying toward me, Jack following close behind.

"Hey," I said, forcing a smile.

Amy's eyes were red-rimmed, and even Jack looked unusually somber. "Is it true? You're really transferring?" Amy asked, her voice thick with emotion.

I nodded. "I have to. After the binding ceremony, I'll be living in Silverpine territory."

"But that's so far," Amy protested, tears welling in her eyes. "We'll hardly see you."

"I'll come visit," I promised, reaching out to squeeze her hand. "Don't be sad. This isn't goodbye forever."

Amy sniffled. "It won't be the same without you, Erin. We're best friends. How can you just leave us like this?"

Her words stung, making me feel guilty for a decision that was necessary for my survival. "Don't cry, Amy. You still have Jack, and I'm sure he'll take good care of you." I paused, looking between them. "Do you know why I'm going through with the binding ceremony with Alexander?"

Amy wiped her eyes. "Is it just to get revenge on Alpha Derek? That's not worth it, Erin. Will Alexander really be good to you?"

I nodded, though uncertainty lingered in the back of my mind. "I hope so. At least he's better than Derek."

Jack, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "There's nothing we can say about the binding ceremony. It's your choice, Erin. Just... good luck."

His resignation hurt more than Amy's tears. It felt like they had already written me off, already accepted that I was as good as gone. Perhaps that was for the best.

"Thank you," I said quietly. "I should get to class."

---

After leaving Silver Moon Academy, I decided to visit the Darkwood Orphanage. I hadn't spoken to Alexander since last night, and I was anxious to know if he was okay after the confrontation with Derek. He had sent a brief text earlier saying we would meet tomorrow, but nothing more.

As I approached the orphanage, I remembered that Ryan had mentioned wanting to introduce me to his girlfriend.

The familiar brick building welcomed me as always. Inside, the children greeted me with their usual enthusiasm, surrounding me with hugs and excited chatter. For a few hours, I lost myself in their world—reading stories, playing games, helping with homework. Here, I wasn't an Omega or a future Luna; I was just Erin, the girl who visited and made them smile.

As evening approached, I checked my phone and found a message from Ryan asking if we were still meeting tonight. I replied affirmatively and then said my goodbyes to the children, promising to return soon.

Before leaving, I knocked on Mr. Grayson's office door to say goodbye.

"Heading out already?" he asked, looking up from his paperwork.

"Yes, I'm meeting Ryan and his girlfriend tonight," I explained.

Mr. Grayson smiled. "That's nice. Ryan has been happier lately. Whoever this girl is, she seems good for him."

"I'm looking forward to meeting her," I said sincerely.

After leaving the orphanage, I called Ryan to coordinate our meeting.

"Where are we meeting?" I asked when he answered.

"I'll text you the address," Ryan replied. "It's a club downtown. My girlfriend prefers lively places."

"A club?" I repeated, surprised. "I thought we'd meet somewhere quieter, like a café."

Ryan laughed. "Sorry, not her style. But you'll like her, I promise."