Chapter 33: Coming To America

POV Sophia

I am Sophia, sister of Isabella, Beta Ian’s Mate. Read to find out how Isabella and I tested her Mate. This time I chose to use a plane to New York instead of teleporting. Isabella's parents were not aware that she had more supernatural powers added to what she already had. After Isabella's telephone call, I agreed to take her place to test Beta Ian as she travels to Milan. I sat nervously in my seat on the plane, my heart racing with anxiety. I glanced at my reflection in the small window, my hair was now the same honey-blonde hue as Isabella's. She hoped the resemblance would be enough to deceive everyone, including Isabella's family and the Beta Ian.

As the plane descended, my excitement mingled with apprehension. I had never been to New York, let alone participated in a fashion show. But I was determined to make this work for Isabella and to protect my sister's relationship with Ian.

I exited the plane, took a deep breath, and composed myself. My heart was pounding with nerves and the weight of my secret. A family's excited cheers caught my attention as we entered the bustling airport. I turned to see them waving, calling out for Isabella. I waved back, a smile fixed on my face, hoping to maintain the facade a little longer.

I walked through the crowd, trying to keep my composure intact. When we reached the waiting area, I spotted Isabella's parents amongst the crowd. Excitement filled their eyes as they called out Isabella's name, their voices filled with anticipation and love.

Isabella’s parents, Gamma Aldolphus and his wife Sheri, were waiting at the arrival gate. My heart raced as I ran towards them, feeling guilt and anticipation. With an affectionate embrace, I held Isabella's parents close, hoping my actions would convince them of my identity. The warmth of their embrace and the whispered words of welcome sent a pang of guilt through my heart.

Isabella's dad’s eyes twinkled with excitement as he spotted me, but his face quickly turned into a puzzled expression. "Why did you colour your hair like Isabella?" he blurted out, revealing her secret instantly.

My heart sank, realising that my transformation wasn't as flawless as I hoped. I sighed, knowing that I would have to devise a convincing explanation. "It's a surprise, you are Isabella’s parents, of course and you would know that I am not her.” I replied quickly, trying to regain control of the situation. "I thought it would be fun to match with her for a while."

Her dad scratched his head, a sceptical look crossing his face. "Well, I hope she likes it. Let's get you home.

Isabella's parents looked at me anxiously, their eyes searching for their daughter's familiar features. I knew I couldn't keep up the charade any longer. I put a finger to my lips, signalling for silence, and whispered, "Sorry, Mom and Dad. Isabella had to go off on a gig. Please don't be disappointed."

The couple exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of confusion and concern. They hugged me tightly, their warmth and affection providing a sense of comfort. I could feel the weight of the secret becoming heavier, threatening to unravel everything.

Together, we walked towards the car, the air filled with a strange tension.

As we arrived at Isabella's home, my heart skipped a beat when I saw Ashton, Isabella's older brother, waiting at the front door. Will he see the difference. He approached me with open arms, welcoming me home, oblivious to the truth. Will he recognise I was not Isabella? I will have to play this charade by the ear.

"Welcome home, Isabella," Ashton said with a smile, his genuine happiness shining through. I tried to muster a smile and hide the turmoil within me. I hugged Ashton tightly, a sense of guilt gnawing at my conscience. Then I saw him.

Beta Ian is waiting to see his mate."

The front door swung open, and there stood Ian, his eyes filled with anticipation and worry. I took a deep breath and stepped out of the car, trying my best to channel my sister's energy. "Hello, Ian," I greeted him, my voice trembling slightly.

Ian's gaze flickered at me as he gazed at me. He could not smell his Mate's Scent, and Confusion clouded his face. I guess he wondered if I was back with Patrick. What was that scent he was smelling? It was not Isabella. The only explanation was that she was not Isabella. But he will play along to see how far these sisters will go to deceive him.

My heart skipped a beat. The Beta was waiting for me, expecting to see Isabella. As we entered Isabella's home, the tension grew unbearable. I knew this was a delicate situation, and any misstep could shatter the bond between Ian and Isabella.

My heart ached at the sadness in Ian's eyes, but I knew I couldn't reveal the truth just yet. I was filled with guilt. "I knew Isabella had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Milan that she couldn't pass up, but she sent me to her place." He reached a hand to me and pulled me into a tight embrace. "Thank you for coming back to me, Isabella. It means everything to me."

He bowed his head to kiss me when I said, “Can you bring in my suitcase, please!” Beta Ian was convinced I would not cross the line and kiss him.

I hugged him back, feeling a mix of emotions. I was relieved that Ian did not recognise that I was not Isabella, but simultaneously, a pang of guilt tugged at my heart. I knew that, eventually, the truth would have to come out. How will Ian forgive Isabella for deceiving him? I was sure Isabella had a plan.

As I settled into Isabella's life, I vowed to protect my sister's secret and keep our deception intact. Little did I know that this decision would lead me down a path filled with challenges, secrets, and unexpected twists that would test my loyalty and the strength of our bond.

The days ahead stretched out with the weight of deception, threatening to unravel at any moment. I knew I had embarked on a dangerous path that could potentially destroy the bond between Isabella and Ian. Yet, I remained determined to protect my sister's happiness, even if it meant sacrificing my own.

I would navigate the challenges of keeping the truth hidden as the story unfolded, knowing that each passing moment brought us closer to the inevitable confrontation. The stakes were high, and the risks were significant, but I was willing to face them head-on, prepared to protect the love between Isabella and Ian at all costs.

Little did I know the storm brewing would test my newfound strength and push me to explore the depths of my courage, all in the name of love. The challenges ahead would shape not only the lives of Isabella and Ian but also mine as I discovered the true strength of my loyalty and the sacrifices I was willing to make for my sister to be happy.

And so, the journey to preserve the fragile threads of Isabella’s and Ian's Romance continued. Would this lead them down a path of unforeseen twists and turns, where love and deception would intertwine, forever altering their lives?

My Beloved Readers,

Now that Beta Ian know thar Sophia is not his Mate will he confront her? Read on to find out.

Love always,

Your author.