The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 229

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
By Sophia Reed
**Chapter 229: Borrowed Clothing**

**Judy’s POV**

“Matthew! What have you done??” Irene’s voice pierced the air, sharp and frantic, echoing from the back porch steps. I hadn’t even realized she was there, and a wave of curiosity washed over me—how long had she been observing us?

As I turned to Matt, I noticed the color draining from his face, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears that threatened to spill over at any moment.

“I’m so sorry, Judy,” he stammered, his bottom lip quivering as he struggled to regain his composure. “I didn’t mean to. I—” His voice faltered, punctuated by a hiccup that betrayed his distress.

In those fleeting seconds, I was reminded of how young he truly was. My heart softened, and a gentle smile crept onto my face as I knelt before him, lowering myself to his level.

“It was an accident,” I reassured him, placing my hand on his shoulder and giving it a comforting squeeze. “I know you didn’t intend for this to happen, and I promise, I’m not angry with you, Matt.”

“Dad is going to be so upset,” he murmured, his gaze dropping to the ground, a cloud of worry hanging over him.

“Your father won’t have to know anything about this,” I replied, my voice steady and warm. “It will be our little secret. I won’t breathe a word to him.”

“Really?” he asked, lifting his eyes to meet mine, a flicker of hope igniting within them.

I smiled widely, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.

“Of course,” I affirmed. “Now, how about you go clean yourself up? I’m sure the maids will have dinner ready for you soon.”

He wiped at his cheeks, brushing away the remnants of his tears, and nodded, a small smile breaking through his earlier distress.

“Okay,” he said softly, turning to head back toward the villa.

I let out a sigh, rising to my feet and brushing the dirt off my pants, feeling the weight of the moment lift slightly.

“You have a real gift with him,” Irene remarked as she approached me, her expression thoughtful. “I’ve never seen anyone connect with him like that. It’s no wonder he adores you.”

“I suppose I just have a knack for kids,” I replied, attempting to downplay the compliment as I turned my attention to my bag resting against a nearby tree. I started to gather my things, acutely aware of Irene’s gaze following my every move.

“I think it’s something deeper,” she mused, her voice laced with intrigue. “He sees something in you that he hasn’t found in anyone else. It’s honestly quite fascinating.”

A smile tugged at my lips at her words.

“He’s a remarkable little boy and truly deserves the world,” I said earnestly. I shouldered my bag and faced her. “I need to call an Uber and head out.”

Her eyes widened in disbelief.

“You can’t leave wearing that shirt!” she exclaimed, her gaze darting down to the fabric that clung precariously to my body. Thankfully, I had a sports bra underneath, but still, I felt exposed and vulnerable. “You’re hardly covered, and the last thing you want is a stranger’s eyes lingering on you. Come with me.”

Before I could protest, she seized my arm and pulled me along with her toward the villa. I surrendered to her insistence, allowing her to lead me into the house and up the grand staircase. I knew Gavin would be furious if he found me on their private floor, but Irene seemed utterly unfazed. She continued to guide me down the hallway until we reached a door that I assumed belonged to her bedroom.

With a swift motion, she pushed the door open and tugged me inside, practically making me stumble into the room. She then closed the door behind us with a soft click.

I wrapped my arms around myself, feeling a wave of uncertainty wash over me. The atmosphere felt charged, and the first scent that hit me was unmistakably Ethan’s. My stomach twisted at the realization as I glanced around, taking in the bed where they had undoubtedly shared countless intimate moments.

On her nightstand, a picture caught my eye—a snapshot of Irene and Ethan wrapped in each other’s arms, gazing into one another’s eyes as if they were the only two souls in the universe. I had to give Ethan credit; he was a master of deception. He didn’t care about Irene; he was merely using her to solidify his status as Alpha.

It felt unjust to Irene, and a part of me itched to warn her about him, but I knew it wasn’t my place. It would only cause her pain, and I feared she wouldn’t believe me anyway.

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