Chapter 50: It was All a Lie
Adrian sat at the edge of the pool, the water still beneath the soft lights. A half-finished glass of wine rested beside him, its surface trembling with the faint ripples from the pool. His expression was blank-too tired to mask the ache that lingered in his chest.
Bravin entered quietly, bowing slightly. "Sir, I took him home," he said softly.
Adrian didn’t respond. His eyes stayed on the water.
Bravin hesitated before adding, "He’s been crying uncontrollably...non-stop." His voice wavered, then steadied. "Are you sure that was the right decision?"
Adrian’s jaw tensed. After a long silence, he said quietly, "Bravin, you know I don’t have another choice."
Bravin lowered his head and left without another word.
Adrian slipped into the pool, submerging himself until the water closed over his shoulders. The coolness did little to numb the fire inside him. He let out a shaky breath, whispering under his breath, "It hurts, Ash...I didn’t mean those words. But I had to, for your sake, and your mother’s."
He closed his eyes, the ripples spreading around him like echoes of everything he could never say.
...
In the morning, Ash woke to a dull ache in his chest; it was Adrian’s wedding day.
His eyes drifted to the bracelet still circling his wrist. The memory of Adrian’s voice echoed faintly in his mind: "Keep it. Always." His throat tightened. Slowly, he unclasped it and set it on the nightstand, as though letting go of the last piece of what they once had.
There was no school that day; the whole city buzzled with excitement for the grand wedding. But Ash couldn’t stay. He couldn’t bear to watch the Alpha his heart beat for promise himself to another.
So he packed lightly, took his bike, and slipped out quietly, the wind carrying his tears before they could fall.
When he arrived at his grandmother’s home, he froze at the sight before him; servants moving about, fresh cows in the yard, shopping bags piled inside, and even a personal doctor tending to her.
"Grandma, who did all this?" he asked, bewildered.
She smiled, eyes soft with warmth. "That kind Alpha."
Ash blinked, surprised, a single name echoing in his thoughts. Lucien.
His grandmother’s eyes lit up with excitement. "He’s the most humble Alpha I’ve met. Do you know, Bunny, he even washed my legs himself?"
Ash stared, speechless.
She went on, amusement flickering in her eyes. "We made tea together, mashed turnips too. He’s so daring. If he didn’t already have someone he loved; well, by now, we might have been married," she teased lightly.
Ash raised a brow. "Did he actually say that?"
She nodded. "He did. He even said he’d already taken a step toward that person. That boy’s heart is pure, Bunny-pure as an angel’s. Whoever he loves will never regret having him."
Ash silent. He knew his grandmother’s words were never thrown carelessly. When she admired someone, it came from the deepest truth in her heart.
His gaze drifted away, thoughts whispering quietly,
Did I misjudge him?
"By the way, Ash," his grandmother said, turning to him with a knowing look, "aren’t you supposed to attend your stepbrother’s wedding today? Why are you here?’
Ash froze mid-step, blinking. "Grandma...how did you know?"
He couldn’t help but stare. His grandmother barely knew how to turn on the TV, let alone check social media. The fact that she even knew about it left him stunned.
"Of course your mother told me, "she even sent me an invitation. I wish I could attend, but you know..." She patted her chest lightly. "Standing too long these days makes my sugar rise- and the heat, ah, that would finish me faster than old age ever could."
Ash didn’t know how to respond. He lowered his eyes, fumbling for words. "I...i just missed you," he said finally, forcing a weak smile.
His grandmother sighed softly, her expression tender but amused. "Oh, Bunny, what an excuse," she said, shaking her head. "But you should honor your family, hmmm? Not attending will only make your mother look bad."
Ash looked away, the sting of truth warming his cheeks. "Okay, Grandma," he mumbled. "But you’re chasing me off without even giving me breakfast?"
Her laughter filled the small kitchen like sunlight through clouds. "Why would I let you leave hungry?" she teased, reaching out to pinch his cheek and tap his nose. "A Bunny who visits Grandma without eating isn’t visiting at all."
Ash couldn’t help but smile. For a brief moment, the heaviness in his chest eased, replaced by the quiet warmth of her love.
...
The church was filled with restless murmurs. Alphas, Betas, and Omegas sat neatly in rows, the air thick with unease and the scent of impatient.
Celeste sat between her parents, her wedding gown flowing like quiet frost around her. But her eyes kept darting toward the main entrance, worry softening her carefully done face.
Her father leaned close, whispering sharply, "He’s supposed to arrive before the bride. I hope he doesn’t try to humiliate us again."
...
Outside, near the grand gates, Adrian’s father and Ash’s mother stood side by side. The bodyguards hovered close, glancing at the time every few seconds.
Adrian’s father’s jaw tightened, his thoughts heavy. If you don’t show up, son, we’re doomed.
Then, finally, the sound of engines rolled in. A sleek convoy of black cars came to a stop before the red-carpeted entrance.
Bravin turned slightly, his tone steady. "Sir, we should head inside. Let’s not keep them waiting any longer."
Adrian exhaled slowly, the weight in his chest pressing deeper. "Right," he murmured.
As the bodyguard opened his door, Adrian stepped out, his movement calm but heavy. His father’s eyes caught sight of him, and relief washed over his face.
"Finally," he breathed, then hurried forward, Ash’s mother matching his pace as they led Adrian toward the church .
...
Inside, the church fell silent. The announcer’s voice echoed through the speaker: "Alpha Adrian has arrived."
Instantly, everyone stood, A low hum of admiration filled the air.
"He’s even more striking in person..."
"The Alpha carries himself like royalty..."
"The future Alpha couple; perfect match..."
Adrian walked down the aisle, his presence commanding without effort. His father and Ash’s mother followed closely behind, their faces composed but proud.
At the opposite end, Celeste’s parents began their own walk, gently leading their daughter toward the altar.
When both sides met at the center, Adrian and Celeste stood face to face under the floral arch.
Their parents shared brief, formal smiles before stepping back; first his father and Ash’s mother, then Celeste’s parents, leaving the two of them standing alone before the waiting priest.
They knelt before the altar, the hall holding its breath in reverent silence. The faint murmur of prayers blended with the soft music filling the air.
Adrian’s gaze lowered, but his mind was far away. I know he won’tcome, he thought, pain tightening in his chest. But I hope that message...and the video eased him somehow.
At the front row, Adrian’s father leaned toward his wife. His voice was low but firm. "where is Ash? I wanted to introduce him today...as my son."
The priest had just begun the vows, his voice calm, flowing through the air, when he suddenly stopped mid-sentence, eyes fixed on the grand doors.
A murmur rippled through the crowd, soft gasps shifting seats, whispers spreading like wind.
Adrian frowned, turning his head slowly.
And there, framed by the golden light pouring through the doors-stood Ash.
He moved forward with quiet poise, every step measured yet sure. His clothes were elegant; a cream silk shirt with faint gold, tucked neatly into high-waisted trousers that outlined his delicate frame. His short-black hair shimmered under the chandeliers.
The hall seemed to still in his presence.
His omega scent drifted softly through the air; a blend of white blossoms and rain after dawn. Alphas tensed instinctively, their pheromones flickering; Omegas stared, mesmerized, some whispering in disbelief; even Betas couldn’t tear their eyes away.
Adrian’s chest tightened. His breath hitched, and for a moment his control slipped-his eyes flickered, revealing the hue of his suppressed instincts. He couldn’t look away.
Ash’s steps were graceful, his golden aura shimmering faintly as he approached his mother and Adrian’s father.
He stopped before them, lowering his voice. "Mother, I’m here."
For a heartbeat, no one spoke. His beauty seemed to draw even time to pause.
Then gently, he said again, "Mum."
That pulled her back from the daze. She smiled, patting the seat beside her. "Luckily you came, or else you’d have gotten in trouble with me."
Ash gave a faint smile and sat down between them. The entire hall still watched, quiet murmurs running beneath the silence.
Adrian’s father rose to his feet, clearing his throat, his tone calm but firm. "I had hoped to introduce him later," he began, his eyes sweeping the crowd. "But since curiosity seems stronger than patient..."
He rested a hand on Ash’s shoulder, pride softening his features.
"Allow me to present my son, Ash Kestrel."
A stillness settled once again, deeper than before. Even the lights seemed to dim in reverence.
Adrian’s eyes lingered on Ash, his thoughts tightening like a knot.
Why did you come? Your presence is driving me mad.
Then his father’s voice carried on, steady, guiding the hall’s attention back to the ceremony. The murmurs faded, and slowly, the crowd’s focus returned to the altar-yet for Adrian, the world had already shifted.
The vows continued. When Adrian’s turn came to accept Celeste as his wife, silence filled the church. The priest had to repeat the question, pulling him out of his thoughts. Adrian forced the words out.
"I do."
The ceremony ended, leading into the reception. Plates clattered, laughter filled the hall, and the cake was finally cut. Ash stayed close to his mother and Adrian’s father, though his eyes kept wandering toward Adrian and Celeste. Whenever Adrian’s gaze brushed his, Ash turned away quickly.
When it was time for the dance, Adrian and Celeste sat at the high table. Adrian’s father approached and asked Celeste for a dance. She smiled and followed him to the floor. A moment later, Lucien came to Ash.
"I want to steal your mother for a moment," he said, extending his hand politely before leading her away.
Ash was left standing alone, until a familiar hand appeared before him.
"May I?"
His heart hammered as his gaze lifted. Adrian. He wanted to refuse, but Adrian had already taken his hand, leading him toward the floor.
They joined the crowd, moving in quiet rhythm under the lights. Adrian’s fingers tightened slightly around his.
"Why do you keep staring at me?" he murmured near his ear. "Do you miss me?"
Ash swallowed, trying to steady himself. What has gotten intohim?
He finally whispered, "Why should I? You said we’re not a thing, brother."
Adrian turned him in a slow spin, catching him by the waist as Ash stumbled into his chest. Their breaths mingled, faces close enough to feel each other’s warmth.
"Do brothers kiss?" Adrian murmured, his voice a quiet challenge. "Do brothers...fuck?"
Ash’s breath hitched. Adrian’s hand pressed gently at his back, pulling him closer until their lips hovered a heartbeat apart..."
Then the announcer’s voice cut sharply through the air.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for a bouquet toss!"
The spell broke.
Ash’s pulse was still unsteady from the almost-kiss, the announcer’s voice still echoing faintly in the hall.
Everyone turned toward Celeste, waiting for her to toss the bouquet. But instead of facing the crowd, she walked straight toward her brother with a soft smile. Gasps rippled through the guests as she stopped in front of him and gently placed the bouquet into Lucien’s hands.
Whispers broke out like wind through leaves.
Lucien exhaled slowly, clutching the bouquet. Then he began to walk forward; each step steady, deliberate. People instinctively moved aside, forming a clear path that led him straight to Ash.
Ash froze where he stood, unsure what was happening.
Lucien stopped before him, then lowered down on one knee. The hall fell into perfect silence.
"I’ve been waiting a long time to make this public," Lucien said, looking up at Ash quiet intensity.
"Will you be my fiance?"
The crowd held its breath.
Ash could feel dozens of eyes on him. Lucien’s parents watched expectantly. Adrian’s father and Ash’s mother were silent, but their faces showed approval.
Ash’s gaze flickered instinctively toward Adrian. He stood still among the crowd, staring at him in open shock. Their eyes locked for a heartbeat...before Ash turned back to Lucien.
Lucien smiled slightly. "Don’t worry," he added softly, glancing toward Ash’s mother. " When I danced with your mother, she approved me."
Then Lucien looked at Adrian directly, voice steady. "Will you disapprove me courting your brother?"
The attention of the entire room shifted like a wave. Adrian stiffened under the weight of their gazes, his jaw tightening. After a few seconds of silence, he let out a sharp breath.
"...It’s not my decision to make," he said finally, voice low. "It’s his personal choice."
Lucien’s expression softened with quiet satisfaction as he turned back to Ash.
"Decide carefully, Ash," Adrian added suddenly the edge of his tone slicing through the noise.
Ash’s heart twisted. If he rejected Lucien here, in front of everyone, he would humiliate a powerful Alpha and cause a scandal. Adrian was now married ; there was nothing to hold him back anymore. His grandmother had praised Lucien for years.
He had no real choice.
Ash’s voice came out barely above a whisper."...Yes."
The hall erupted in cheers and applause. Lucien rose quickly and pulled Ash into a tight embrace, strong enough to make Ash feel trapped, struggling for breath.
When Lucien finally let go, Ash’s eyes instinctively searched for Adrian.
But the spot where Adrian had been standing was empty.
A faint buzzing from his pocket broke through the noise around him. He blinked, lowering his gaze and murmured softly, "Let me check...I haven’t looked at my phone since morning."
Pulling out his phone, he saw a new message at the top of the thread:
Adrian: If you’ve made that your decision, fine.
Ash froze, his stomach tightening. Slowly, he scrolled upward; to the unread message waited, sent hours earlier.
The words I said to you last night-I didn’t mean them.
I was confused, not knowing what really happened. But after checking the hidden CCTV footage, I realized the truth.
When I said my eyes are only meant for you, I meant it.
The wedding couldn’t be stopped. Too many people were involved. My father’s company depends on Ironfang Enterprises, and cancelling it would’ve meant ruin.
All I can promise is this: I won’t touch her. I won’t take her to the penthouse. That will always remain your place.
I know what we have is forbidden, something that can’t be proven. But please, wait until I can stand on my own, free to choose you.
I know I,ve hurt you more than I can ever undo.
Don’t hate me, my puppy. I’ll always be yours.
Ash’s throat went dry. His trembling thumb hovered over a video attached at the bottom of the message. He hesitated; then tapped it open.
The footage flickered to life: a dim hotel room. Celeste dragged a drunk Adrian inside, his head lolling, barely conscious. She pushed him onto the bed, removed his shirt and pants then strip her own clothes.
Ash’s eyes widened as she pulled a small blade from her purse and sliced her own palm. Blood welled up instantly, running down her wrist. She pressed her bleeding hand onto the white sheets, staining them, then positioned herself close to Adrian, his still form unware of everything.
She lifted her phone and snapped several photos, the faint flash illuminating her face twisted in forced calm. Then the screen went black.
Ash stood frozen, the phone heavy in his hand. The cheers around him still echoed faintly, distant and meaningless.
Everything blurred; the music, the people, the lights, until all that remained was the hollow ache in his chest.
It was all a lie.