The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 132

**Chapter 132: A Wedding Announcement**

[Evelyn’s POV]

Days had slipped by since the trial, yet the air felt thick with unresolved tension. The formal statements released by both the King and Alexander had ignited a media frenzy, with every news outlet scrambling for an exclusive interview. It seemed as though the world was clamoring for a glimpse into their thoughts, eager to dissect the aftermath of such a shocking event.

Alexander, however, stood resolute against the onslaught of requests. He had made it abundantly clear that he would not entertain any media outlet, no matter how enticing their offers were. The answer was a steadfast ‘no,’ and nothing could sway him.

Curiosity gnawed at me, prompting me to confront him one afternoon. I settled into the chair across from him, a mix of concern and frustration bubbling inside me. “I mean, would really one interview hurt?” I pressed, trying to gauge his perspective. “I understand you want to move on from this, but this was a huge shock, Alexander. It’s not every day that someone literally takes their own family member to court and has them sent to prison.”

He leaned back, a weary sigh escaping his lips as he pinched the bridge of his nose, a gesture I had come to recognize as a sign of his mounting stress. “I understand that. Really, I do,” he replied, his voice measured. “However, this trial was not about gaining attention from the general public. Yes, I know that everyone wants more details; but the whole point was to ensure that Michael was properly dealt with and no longer posed as a threat. Nothing more.”

His reasoning was sound, and I couldn’t help but admire his commitment to the principles he held dear. Yet, as the days wore on, I found myself wondering if, deep down, this entire situation weighed heavily on him. Did he harbor any lingering feelings for Michael? Had the brotherly bond been irrevocably severed by the truth that had come to light?

It was undeniable that Alexander had made numerous attempts to help his brother over the years, always holding out hope for a reconciliation that never came. Perhaps that hope had withered away once he uncovered the reality behind the car accident.

I was certain of one thing: Alexander had no regrets about the court case. He was right; Michael’s imprisonment was a necessary measure for everyone’s safety. Now, Alexander was determined to put this chapter behind him.

His public statement had been carefully crafted, outlining the key events of the investigation with precision. He even allowed a glimpse into his own emotions, emphasizing that Michael had been struggling with his mental health for some time and needed professional help while incarcerated.

I had no doubt that Alexander could have easily used the opportunity to further tarnish Michael’s reputation, but he chose to remain focused on the facts, refusing to indulge in sensationalism.

In stark contrast, the Alpha King’s statement was a study in hypocrisy. During the trial, he had exuded arrogance, his smug demeanor palpable. If he could have laughed at Alexander’s expense, he undoubtedly would have, showing utter disrespect. Yet, in his formal remarks, he suddenly appeared to share Alexander’s concerns about Michael’s mental state.

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at his two-faced nature. “This man could not be any more two-faced if he tried,” I muttered under my breath, frustration bubbling to the surface.

Alexander snorted softly, and Oliver, who had been listening quietly, shook his head and released a deep sigh. “That’s just him playing the part of the concerned King, looking out for his people,” he remarked.

“So, it’s all just an act then,” I observed, a hint of disbelief in my tone.

“Pretty much,” Alexander confirmed. “The man will lie straight through his teeth if it means trying to stay in the proper limelight with the general public.”

I shook my head, incredulous. “Jesus Christ. That’s actually terrible.”

I felt a swell of gratitude for Nina and Wendy, who were wholeheartedly supportive of our decision. Their involvement would undoubtedly ease some of the more challenging aspects of planning.

“Have you two talked about when you’re looking to have the ceremony?” Oliver asked, his pen poised over paper.

“Well, Alexander mentioned before about the idea of possibly having the wedding outside in the gardens,” I noted, my heart racing at the thought. “I think it’s a wonderful idea, and I’m all on board with it. But that being said, I believe the best time for that would be sometime in late Spring to early Summer. By then, the flowers and plants will be in full bloom.”

“Sounds beautiful,” Alexander mused, nodding in agreement. “Oliver, I would just have it mentioned that we’re thinking either late Spring or early Summer then.”

Oliver jotted down the details, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me as we moved on to a more enjoyable topic.

Yet, lurking in the back of my mind was the shadow of Caroline. I knew she had seen the articles and tabloids regarding Michael’s situation. For days, I had been anxiously awaiting her response—if she would even respond at all. It was startling that she hadn’t stormed into the manor yet.

I tried to convince myself that perhaps it was a good thing. Maybe Caroline had taken this as a warning, realizing that testing the waters further would only lead to trouble. She must have understood that where Michael was concerned, she was not far from Alexander’s watchful gaze.

If she was wise, she would keep her distance. Otherwise, I feared that Alexander would ensure she ended up sharing a prison cell with her son.