The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 165

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
By Sophia Reed

**Chapter 165: A Doctor’s Opinion**

[Evelyn’s POV]

What in the world?!!

I nearly launched my tea across the patio in shock. My hand flew to my mouth, stifling a cough that erupted uncontrollably. Henry’s eyes widened, filled with genuine concern.

He shifted forward in his chair, his hand reaching across the table to rest gently on my shoulder, a silent offer of support.

“Are you alright?” he asked, his voice laced with worry.

Grappling for control, I focused on my breathing, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly. I brushed away the sudden sting of tears that threatened to spill from my eyes and finally managed to articulate the words that had lodged in my throat.

“Did you just say Hemlock?” I gasped, my voice barely above a whisper.

Henry nodded reluctantly, a hint of dread shadowing his features.

“I didn’t believe it myself at first,” he replied, his tone grave. “I had the tests done at least half a dozen times, and each time, the results were consistent.”

I shook my head slowly, my mind racing to comprehend the gravity of the situation. My own harrowing experiences with Belladonna had been challenging, but nothing compared to the implications of Hemlock. While Belladonna was often utilized under the guise of medical treatment, Hemlock was a different beast entirely. It was a substance shrouded in danger, illegal to sell or possess due to its notorious lethality.

Its deadly properties were far more potent than those of Belladonna.

“That’s primarily why I needed to speak with you,” Henry continued, his expression serious. “I had to understand what we were dealing with because there’s no known antidote for Hemlock poisoning.”

Oh my God.

The realization hit me like a punch to the gut. I had suspected Isabella of sabotaging Edward’s treatments, but to think she would resort to Hemlock was unfathomable. Yet, in hindsight, I should have anticipated such a vile act.

Isabella was a master of malevolence, and I was determined to ensure she faced the consequences for her myriad of misdeeds.

“I had no inkling it was Hemlock,” I confessed, still struggling to wrap my head around the revelation. “I sensed something was off, but this… this is beyond my imagination.”

Henry regarded me with a cautious expression, as if bracing himself for the next words that might escape my lips.

“You know who was tampering with your brother’s treatments, don’t you?”

“Yes,” I replied, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me. “But I lack the evidence to prove it.”

He nodded, understanding etched on his face. “I think I might be able to assist you in uncovering it.”

My heart raced at his words. “How?”

“To properly administer Hemlock in Edward’s IV bags, it would have to be liquified and distilled,” he explained, his tone matter-of-fact. “That means they likely boiled the Hemlock leaves down in water. This method slightly diminishes its potency, though not by much. It’s still incredibly dangerous, but it would take longer to manifest its effects.”

“So that’s why it took longer for him to show symptoms?” I asked, piecing together the information.

“Most likely. Don’t misunderstand me; it’s lethal in any form. But this individual you suspect is cunning enough to manipulate the situation, making it seem as though Edward was simply reacting poorly to the treatments. They are intelligent and exceedingly dangerous.”

“One designed to help ease and diminish scars,” I explained, my passion igniting as I spoke. “In my readings, I’ve discovered that after sutures are removed, it’s crucial for the patient to treat the area like a burn—with a cooling element that promotes rejuvenation and healing. I’m using Aloe as a base to combat inflammation, and I plan to incorporate lavender oil to aid healing, along with Rosehip oil to reduce visibility.”

Henry looked genuinely amazed by my knowledge. “That’s incredible! I had no idea you were so well-versed in the properties of plants.”

“I’ve been studying them for a long time,” I admitted, a hint of pride creeping into my voice. “It’s a subject that has always come naturally to me.”

“That truly is remarkable,” he said, admiration shining in his eyes. “Have you ever thought about pursuing a career in the medical field?”

“Not really,” I replied shyly, feeling a tinge of embarrassment. “I have immense respect for those who dedicate their lives to it, but my responsibilities as Luna keep me grounded here. If my serum proves effective, I’d be more than happy to share it with anyone in need.”

Henry nodded thoughtfully. “Fair enough, I suppose. Well, I should be getting back to the office.”

We both rose from the table, and I helped gather his files, handing them over with a sense of gratitude.

“Thank you for taking the time to come here and speak with me,” I said sincerely.

Henry flashed me another charming smile. “The pleasure was all mine. You are not at all what I expected.”

My brows shot up in surprise. “I hope that’s a good thing,” I replied lightly, a playful tone in my voice.

He chuckled, nodding reassuringly. “It is. Your Alpha is a very fortunate man. I hope he realizes that.”

“He does.”

My stomach fluttered at the deep, resonant voice that echoed through the space. I hesitated to turn, fully aware that I was about to face a very displeased Alexander. And, as anticipated, I was right.