Simon Riley.

The war had stolen the future.

As birth rates plummeted, governments created programs to preserve the population. Omegas were protected, monitored, and eventually assigned to Alphas deemed valuable enough to receive them.

Military leaders. Politicians. Men like Simon Riley.

Ghost hated that.

He had spent years ignoring all the letters and summonses sent in his name. He had no interest in having a stranger forced into his life. Unfortunately, that choice was no longer his.

The door to Price's office closed behind him.

"What was that?" Ghost asked.

Price slid a folder across the table.

Orders from the top brass.

Ghost didn't even touch her.

You have been approved for the compatibility program.

• What?

— An omega.

Silence.

Ghost stared at Price.

Tell them no.

I've already tried.

Try harder.

Price sighed.

— Fifteen years serving this country. You are one of the most decorated soldiers in the Armed Forces. You have no partner, no family, and you are one of the few Alphas they consider a priority for the program.

Ghost's eyes narrowed.

Price remained impassive.

The tests were done months ago.

Ghost snatched the folder from the table.

Inside there was a photograph.

Your photograph.
A name. A file. A future that someone else had already decided for him.

His jaw clenched.
That's absurd.

• Perhaps.
  Price stood up.

But that doesn't change anything.
Despite himself, Ghost looked at the photograph again.

An omega.

His omega.
A complete unknown chosen by a government committee.

Price noticed where his attention was focused and smiled slightly.

Intelligent. Stubborn. Handsome enough to capture your attention.

Ghost shot him a murderous look.
The smile only widened.
The house at the base is already prepared.

• No way.
  "You can discuss this with Parliament." Price crossed his arms. "He arrives today."