The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 192

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 192: A Mother’s Concern**

[Evelyn’s POV]

A sharp hiss escaped my lips, an involuntary reaction to the sight of Alexander lounging nonchalantly against his desk. His casual demeanor was infuriating, especially given the gravity of the situation. My eyes widened in disbelief, a mix of shock and irritation coursing through me.

“Have you completely lost your mind? You blackmailed the King?” I exclaimed, my voice barely containing my incredulity.

To my utter astonishment, Alexander chuckled, as if the weight of his actions was nothing more than a lighthearted joke. “I wouldn’t exactly label it as blackmail,” he replied with a dismissive wave of his hand. “I merely presented the man with a choice. A choice he should be wise enough to make himself before I take the reins.”

Oliver and I exchanged glances, both of us momentarily struck dumb by his cavalier attitude.

I had already been battling a throbbing headache, having just wrapped up an exhausting interview with one of the major news outlets. The experience had been taxing, yet I was relieved that the journalist had respected my boundaries, stopping short of prying too deeply into my past. Oliver had meticulously arranged everything, ensuring I could halt the conversation at any moment if I felt overwhelmed.

But I hadn’t needed to. I had navigated each question with poise, enduring until the very end. I had shared snippets of my life growing up under the shadow of Isabella, my Stepmother, and even offered a few thoughts on Samantha. Naturally, the inquiry about whether I believed Samantha deserved punishment for her role in my suffering had come up.

“Samantha is a victim of Isabella’s manipulation,” I had explained, my voice steady. “Her entire existence has been dictated by her mother. She lacks the knowledge of what it means to be a true Luna and has never developed an identity of her own. With Isabella now behind bars, Samantha will find herself adrift, forced to confront her own thoughts for the first time. For some, that in itself is punishment enough.”

It was clear that we had no tangible evidence to use against Samantha; Isabella had always been our primary target. Now, with her power stripped away, Samantha would be left vulnerable and directionless.

As I was ushering the journalist out, I caught sight of Alexander re-entering the house. A puzzled expression crossed my face; I hadn’t even realized he had left.

Oliver hovered nearby, concern etched on his features.

“Where were you?” I asked, my tone tinged with worry.

A hint of a smile danced on the corner of his lips. “I was summoned by the Royal bastard.”

My heart plummeted. “What? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“You were in the middle of your interview, and I didn’t want to disrupt your moment. It was crucial that you focus on that. Besides, the meeting was brief—ten minutes at most. Hardly worth the drive,” he replied, his tone calm.

Still, my irritation simmered beneath the surface. We followed Alexander into his study, where he began to elaborate on the details of his meeting.

It was no surprise to learn that the King was less than pleased to have been indirectly challenged by Alexander right after the court hearing. I half-expected him to issue a warrant for Alexander’s arrest, such was the tension in the air.

“Sir, I must side with Evelyn on this matter,” Oliver spoke up, his voice steady.

We watched as Alexander pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling deeply, the weight of the situation evident on his face.

“I understand how bold my actions may seem,” he began, his voice firm. “But I refuse to let this drag on any longer.”

I was aware of his efforts to compile evidence against Gregory, but I couldn’t help but wonder if it would be enough to force the man to relinquish his throne. A sense of unease washed over me, and I silently hoped Alexander wasn’t making a reckless decision.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Our heads turned simultaneously to see Nina peeking through the doorway, her expression apologetic.

“Apologies for the interruption, but it appears your Stepmother has arrived,” she informed us.

Caroline took a half-step back, her bravado faltering as she averted her gaze. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Spare me the denials. Gregory is just as culpable as Michael, and you are no exception.”

Her eyes widened, shock evident on her face as she pressed her hands to her lips. “I had nothing to do with that attack.”

“Save it, Caroline. We all know you orchestrated the entire plan. You’re the one who whispers in the King’s ear and fills Michael’s head with nonsense.”

“You have no evidence against me,” she retorted, her voice shaky.

“Really? Are you so certain?” Alexander’s expression darkened. “I have witnesses ready to testify about your role in the car crash. Or perhaps I should pay a visit to Michael in prison? How quickly do you think he’d sing if I struck a deal with him?”

“Why don’t you do everyone a favor and leave?” I interjected, my voice firm. “Just disappear. Step away from the King’s side, or you’ll end up like the rest of the Royals.”

Caroline shot me a glare filled with contempt, her eyes narrowing dangerously.

“She’s right, Caroline,” a strong feminine voice chimed in from the doorway.

Wendy stepped confidently into the room, her presence commanding.

“You have no place here. Once I decide to retire, all the finances and responsibilities will fall to Evelyn,” she declared. “You will never have the chance to tarnish the Kingston family name again.”

“Now, you have a choice to make,” I said, my voice steady, ready for whatever came next.