My Brother, My Spouse

School let out early today. Everyone was preparing for something big in the werewolf community—a coming-of-age ceremony. Every werewolf underwent their first transformation at eighteen, a painful process that’s usually eased by the pack's support. So, each young wolf had a ceremony led by the Alpha and Luna to help lessen the pain of their first shift. "Avril Brooklyn's ceremony is tonight, and you know she'll flaunt it," Selina Crouch said, rolling her eyes. "I can already hear it. 'Look at my coat! I don't know why it's this gorgeous!'" Sylvia Anderson kicked a stone down the road, her expression weary. "Ugh, I know, right? So Annoying." "What's up?" Selina noticed Sylvia's gloomy look. Sylvia shrugged. "You're only going to see one irritating person. I'll have to deal with two—Avril and Brian. Total nightmare." "Brian Harrington, your stepbrother?" Selina's eyes sparkled at the thought of the strong, handsome man. "He's so hot. Didn't he go on vacation? Is he back?" "Yep. Coming home today," Sylvia grumbled. "I wish he'd just stay away forever." Selina laughed. "It's been, what, ten years since you two became family? How are you still on such bad terms? I haven't heard a single nice word about him from you." "Probably because he's never accepted me as a sister." Sylvia crossed her arms, a spark of irritation in her voice. "I was seven when my mom married Brian's dad, and the first time I came over, he tricked me into eating peanut butter. I was allergic and broke out in hives for three days!" "Did you let him get away with that?" Selina asked, shocked. "Of course not!" Sylvia grinned. "I ripped up his costume, so he made a fool of himself during his performance!" Selina burst into laughter. "You two are something else. I hope you enjoy tonight without letting your stepbrother and Avril ruin it." "Here's hoping." Brian's father, Arthur Harrington, was the Alpha of the pack, which made Sylvia's mother, Zola Harrington, the Luna. Naturally, Sylvia lived in the most luxurious house within the pack territory. As she entered the villa, she noticed a tall, muscular figure in the pool. Golden hair, deep blue eyes, chiseled features, and a chest covered in thick hair. It was Brian! He was making out with a blonde beauty in the pool. When he noticed Sylvia, he whispered something to the woman, who left with a giggle and a wave. Sylvia shot him a glare and started walking away. "Dear sister, you seem even more annoyed to see me after a month apart." Brian smirked, stepping out of the pool. Sylvia stopped, turning to face him. "Maybe that's because you're insufferable—a spoiled, womanizing brat." Brian scanned her from head to toe, taking in her chestnut hair, clear eyes, and figure perfectly outlined by her school uniform. She looked every bit the refined young lady. He then reached into her bag, pulling out a pack of cigarettes. "You? A good kid? Since when do you smoke?" Sylvia tried to snatch it back. "Give it to me!" He raised his hand, holding it out of reach. "What would Arthur and Zola say about this, hmm?" Sylvia knew Zola. Though she was her mother, she was also the Luna of the entire pack. She enforced strict rules and wouldn't approve of smoking. Just imagining the lecture made Sylvia tense and frown. She could already hear Zola's endless lectures. "What do you want?" she asked coldly. "Do me a favor," he replied. "What is it?" Sylvia asked. "Haven't decided yet. I'll let you know when I do." Sylvia thought it over. "Fine, but it can't break any pack rules or harm anyone's dignity." "Of course," he said smoothly. "Oh, but the cigarettes are mine now. Pack rules say no smoking for minors." "Whatever," Sylvia sighed, turning to walk away. But just then, a large golden retriever appeared. "Hey, Lucky!" Brian waved at the dog, who instantly bounded over. Sylvia stepped back, uneasy. She'd always been afraid of dogs, while Brian adored them. This particular dog, Lucky, had been a constant source of arguments between them. However, Zola always sided with Brian, especially since Lucky had never hurt anyone. After a month of peace while Brian and Lucky were away, Sylvia felt a bit of dread knowing she'd be facing them both again. "Lucky, go say hi to Sylvia. Show her how friendly you are!" Brian's voice held a mischievous note. Lucky seemed to understand. It wagged its tail, trotting toward her until Brian finally held it back. Sylvia tossed her bag at him in frustration. "You're absolutely childish. Always using that dog to get at me. You're the worst stepbrother!" Brian stood up, looking down at her with a smirk. "And you're such a two-faced girl. You've been acting like the perfect daughter for Arthur and Zola, but in secret, you smoke, drink, and probably think about a tattoo." Their eyes locked, sparks of fury practically flying between them. "Woof, woof!" Sensing the tension, Lucky barked at Sylvia. She recoiled in fear, stumbling back—right into the pool. Brian instinctively reached out to grab her, and they both tumbled into the water. Somehow, their lips met!