The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 184

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
By Sophia Reed
**Chapter 184: Dirty Trick**

Evelyn recognized that unmistakable look on Alexander’s face all too well. It was as if she had developed a sixth sense for his moods and desires. There was something about his gaze that sparked a thrill within her, a thrill she had only recently come to acknowledge as part of herself. It was curious; he seemed to revel in her more dangerous side, a side she had never fully embraced until now.

This fascination of his had first revealed itself after their audience with the King. In that brief moment, a spark ignited between them, and Evelyn could feel the urgency radiating from Alexander. The silence that enveloped them spoke volumes, and she quickly recognized the unspoken need he had for her.

His eyes—those smoldering, intense eyes—would often strip away the layers of his noble facade, reducing him to a man driven by raw desire. They roamed over her figure, igniting sensations beneath her skin, as if his very gaze was caressing her. Each time, it sent a wave of heat coursing through her body, pooling between her thighs. It was a reaction she had come to anticipate, yet it never failed to catch her off guard.

When Alexander suggested that Erik give them some time alone for ‘training,’ Evelyn sensed an ulterior motive. She crossed her arms defiantly, raising an eyebrow in challenge.

“Really? Hand-to-hand?” she questioned, skepticism lacing her tone.

Alexander nodded, a boyish grin threatening to break free. “Yes, I’ve heard from Erik and Thomas that you’ve been making impressive progress in your defense training. Now, I want you to show me what you’ve learned.”

She bit down on her cheek, doubt gnawing at her. This felt like a ruse, and she was determined to play along. Just as she settled into a fighting stance, she feigned a move, swinging her arm toward his left shoulder with the intent to strike.

But Alexander was quicker. In a flash, he caught her wrist, and her breath caught in her throat as chills raced across her skin. The surprise in his eyes quickly morphed into a hunger that sent her heart racing.

“Nice try, sweetheart,” he said, his voice low and ragged.

Evelyn inhaled sharply as he released her. Her mind raced with possibilities for her next move. Perhaps she could employ one of the distraction techniques Erik had taught her.

Just as she prepared to swing her right hand back, she noticed Alexander’s focus shift to that very motion. What he hadn’t anticipated was her swift shift in weight, allowing her to strike him low on the jaw with her left hand.

Alexander stumbled back, his surprise evident. He shook off the sting, glaring at her, only to find her expression mirrored his shock.

“S-Sorry,” she murmured, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.

He beamed with pride, his expression softening. “Don’t be. That was impressive. Did Erik teach you that?”

“Yes, he and Thomas have been fantastic, showing me various techniques,” she replied, her confidence slowly building.

“Have you managed to take anyone down yet?” he inquired, curiosity piqued.

She shook her head, a sheepish smile creeping onto her lips. “Not yet. And even if I could, I doubt it would be against someone like you.”

“I think you’re only saying that because half the guys around here are twice your size and weight.”

“Exactly my point,” she laughed, a lightness filling her. “How could I possibly take someone like you down?”

“I’m confident that Erik and Thomas will teach you the right methods for someone of your stature. But for now… I want you to try and get past me,” he said, his tone turning serious.

Her brows knitted together in concentration as he elaborated.

“Your mission is to get past me by any means necessary,” he instructed, his eyes glinting with challenge. “Understood?”

The initial attempts were a comedy of errors. Each time she tried to dash past him, Alexander would effortlessly snag her waist at the last moment, pulling her back against him with an unyielding grip.

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