The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 154

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 154: Stepping Out**

[Evelyn’s POV]

Emerging from that bedroom had turned out to be a far greater challenge than I had ever imagined. Miraculously, I had managed to drift into a peaceful slumber, one where not a single haunting memory dared to intrude upon my dreams.

As the sunlight filtered through the curtains, I awoke to find that Wendy had already slipped away, leaving me to bask in the quiet stillness of the room. I couldn’t express enough gratitude for her presence, for she had waited patiently until I could finally experience a semblance of restful sleep.

Yet, as I lay there, a new dilemma presented itself. The thought of stepping out into the world beyond those four walls filled me with a sense of embarrassment and self-consciousness. I desperately wished to avoid being seen by anyone. Still, the yearning to tend to my neglected responsibilities tugged at me.

I felt a profound longing for my plants in the greenhouse. Their vibrant greens and delicate blooms were a comfort I sorely missed. I ached for the quiet hours spent in the library, experimenting with new tea blends and discovering the perfect combinations to share. And, of course, I yearned for the cherished moments of afternoon tea with Wendy and Nina. Yet, above all, my heart ached for Alexander.

Today, it was imperative that we have a conversation. I wrapped my fingers around the cool metal of the door handle, letting that thought drive me forward.

Carefully swinging my legs over the edge of the bed, I rose with deliberation, slipping into an oversized t-shirt and a pair of comfortable shorts. My hair was a tangled mess, confined by the gauze wrap that Ian had insisted I keep intact until he deemed it safe to remove. I was reminded of his stern warning that I couldn’t shower until he had given the all-clear.

For now, this was the best I could manage.

Just breathe. You can do this.

It wasn’t as if the household was oblivious to what had transpired. What difference did it make if they caught a glimpse of me?

Glancing at the clock perched on the nightstand, I noted it was half-past six in the morning. Normally, Alexander would still be nestled in bed, perhaps lost in dreams. But there was always the possibility that he had already risen, attending to matters that required his attention.

With a deep breath, I turned the handle and stepped into the hallway. The brightness of the corridor was a stark contrast to the dimness of my room. I squinted, allowing my eyes to adjust to the sudden light.

My instinct was to head towards the master bedroom, but something in my gut urged me to check his office first. I moved cautiously along the walls, seeking their support as I navigated the space. My ribs throbbed with discomfort, but the urge to move was stronger than the pain.

As I rounded the corner, I spotted Oliver, a large file clutched in his hands. He caught sight of me immediately, his expression morphing into one of astonishment.

“Evelyn,” he exclaimed, his voice tinged with wonder. “You’re up and moving! How are you feeling?”

A smile tugged at my lips. It was rare to see Oliver caught off guard, and I found a strange delight in it.

“I needed to escape that room,” I replied, my voice steady despite the tremors of uncertainty within me. “I’m still quite sore and fatigued, but there are things I must attend to. Where is he?”

Just as Oliver opened his mouth to respond, a deep, grumbling voice echoed from further down the hall.

“Oliver, did you find those files? I swear, something needs to go right around here, or I’m going to start losing my motherfucking—”

My heart raced as Alexander appeared around the corner, halting abruptly beside Oliver. His eyes widened, mirroring Oliver’s surprise.

“Hey,” I managed to say, my voice a bit ragged.

Alexander’s gaze locked onto mine, unblinking. “What’s wrong? Are you alright?”

“I’m fine—well, as fine as I can be right now. I was just telling Oliver that I have things I want to do.”

A flicker of concern crossed his face, a familiar distress creeping into his expression. “Such as?”

“Such as talking to you. We have a lot to discuss.” My gaze fell to the substantial folder in Oliver’s grip. “But if you’re busy, I can—”

“No,” he interjected firmly. “It’s nothing important.” He gestured dismissively at the folder. “Just some old articles I’ve been gathering on Gregory. I’m more than willing to talk, but, Evelyn, are you truly up for this? I would prefer you to rest.”

“I refuse to be confined to a bed for the next week,” I asserted, determination lacing my words. “I’ll be fine.”

He looked as if he was preparing to argue, but I stood my ground, unwavering. Alexander clenched his jaw, releasing a long, resigned breath.

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