Chapter 824 The Match Began Monica’s POV: : The way everyone tore down Hayley while praising me made my mood lift. Confidence returned. $58 +8 Pears At every gathering before this one, I always dreamed of beating Truman. If I could win, maybe he’d notice me. Maybe he’d even ask me out. I let myself imagine being his Luna one day. But every single time, I lost. Last year, I spent nearly all my time studying chess. That’s why I believed this time would be different. I could finally beat Truman. Sit across from him. Catch his interest. I took a deep breath and steadied myself, then walked into the competition area. I couldn’t let Hayley distract me. She was just a side player. The real person I had to face was Mr. Kirk. If I wanted a chance against Truman, I had to beat him first. Hayley’s POV: Following Truman, I got introduced to a lot of big names from different packs. I carefully tucked every business card into a special pocket of my purse. Who knew? These people might come in handy later. Soon, the chess matches officially began. The first round was a random draw. And of course, the one person I least wanted to see was the one I pulled. Monica. Truman glanced at the ball in my hand and frowned. “If you’re not confident, I can talk to the organizers. They could cancel your match.” “No need.” I arched my brows, tossed the ball into the air, and caught it again with ease. He studied me for a moment, then gave up arguing. His voice softened. “Alright then. Just have some fun. I’ll be back soon.” He left to find his own opponent. When I got to my table, Monica was already there waiting. 9:16 Sat, Sep 13 Chapter 824 The Match Began 1533 +3 Pearle The second she saw me, she smirked. Her tone was dripping with mockery. “Well, look who it is. Hayley, want me to explain the rules of chess to you?” Her words instantly drew attention from nearby tables. noveldramaPeople turned, whispering about me. “Why is a low–ranking Omega even allowed to play?” “Unbelievable. I thought the only Omegas allowed in here were servers. Don’t tell me she doesn’t even know the rules!” Their sneers were sharp, and Monica soaked it in. She looked even prouder, her eyes full of ridicule. I frowned and shot a sharp glare at the onlookers. The moment they met my eyes, they froze—then gasped. “She’s gorgeous I gave a cold huff, pulled my gaze back, then smiled calmly at Monica. “Thanks, but no need.” She scoffed, clearly not believing I knew the game. Determined to flaunt her high–ranking background, she launched into an explanation anyway. “I’ll take black. You take white … I didn’t mind. I leaned back, relaxed, letting her waste her energy. Finally, the match began. Monica made the first move. I pressed my lips into a smile and lifted my hand to follow. By the fifth move, she was already on the attack. She captured one of my pieces and smirked. I only smiled slyly, then kept moving. Sixth step. Seventh. By the tenth move, I started eating her pieces one after another. By the time Monica realized what was happening, half her board was gone. Her confidence crumbled. She grew impatient, brows furrowed tight. Finally, she snapped, throwing her dignity aside. “Hasn’t anyone told you who taught me chess?” 9:16 Sat, Sep 13 Alpha Hayley’s Destined Mate Chapter