**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 138: An Invitation**
[Evelyn’s POV]
Alexander inclined his head slightly, a gesture that spoke volumes. “Gregory never expected us to uncover any substantial evidence,” he stated matter-of-factly. “He was likely already aware of the tensions brewing between Michael and me. In his mind, I was merely acting out of spite, nothing more.”
I couldn’t help but shake my head, a soft tsk escaping my lips. “Unfortunately, I believe you,” I replied, my voice laced with concern. “The way he looked at you—it was as if he was harboring a secret that weighed heavily on his mind. His demeanor was dripping with arrogance and condescension. I honestly don’t know how you managed to maintain your composure through all of that.”
Alexander simply shrugged, a nonchalant gesture that belied the gravity of the situation.
“The King’s behavior is nothing new to me,” he replied, his tone steady. “His insecurities and concerns about me are clear indicators that he still feels threatened.”
My brows knit together, confusion mingling with concern. “And that’s what you want?”
It was hard for me to grasp why he would tolerate such blatant disrespect from anyone, let alone the King himself. Alexander had always struck me as someone who valued respect deeply. The unwavering loyalty of his pack was a testament to his character, and it seemed out of place for him to accept such treatment.
He nodded, taking a sip from my wine glass, his expression contemplative.
“As long as he feels threatened and insecure, it reassures me that I still hold the upper hand in this game. His snide remarks are nothing but empty words.”
That perspective actually made sense. If Gregory’s behavior was consistent, it was a clear sign that the Royals were not in a position of strength. From what I had gathered, the King was envious of Alexander for many reasons.
He resented the fact that Alexander commanded a much larger army, and he was deeply uncomfortable with the loyalty and contentment of Alexander’s pack. Even those who had once belonged to a rival pack, absorbed by Alexander’s strength, found themselves well cared for.
Another point of contention for Gregory was the undeniable popularity Alexander enjoyed among the public.
Even the reporters and journalists knew better than to overstep their bounds when Alexander was around. They treated him with respect, understanding his importance, never pressing too hard for a story.
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I couldn’t help but wonder how much it gnawed at the Alpha King to know that his fiercest rival had essentially won the hearts of the people.
Having delved into some Political Science literature previously, I understood that winning public favor was as crucial as wielding a formidable army. Without the trust and approval of the masses, any leader would struggle to maintain their grip on power.
“Alexander, do you… do you ever foresee a war against the King?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
This time, Alexander exhaled a heavy sigh, the weight of the world evident in his expression. “Honestly, it’s not a scenario I wish to witness. Yes, our soldiers are battle-ready, trained for combat. But I have no desire to see any of them suffer injuries that could easily be avoided.”
I bit the inside of my cheek, my mind racing. “If you’re not planning to fight, then how do you intend to dethrone the King?”
A sly smile crept across his lips, one that sent a shiver down my spine. “By dismantling his reputation and exposing his corrupt dealings to the public,” he replied confidently. “I’ve been watching Gregory for quite some time. I know for a fact that the man is involved in a plethora of illegal trades and underground operations.”
A cold wave of dread washed over me. The thought that the man currently ruling our region could be entangled in such nefarious activities was unsettling. Just the idea made my stomach churn.
“Ahem…”
My thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a soft throat-clearing sound. Both Alexander and I turned to see a staff member standing there, a white envelope in their hands, a look of apology on their face.
“Sorry to interrupt,” they said politely. “This just arrived.”
I stood up from my chair, my heart racing as I took the envelope from them. “It’s no problem, thank you,” I replied, though a sense of foreboding settled in my chest.


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