The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 275

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 275: Snooping**

In the dimly lit corner of the bustling party, Ethan’s expression as Judy departed with her father did not escape Irene’s keen observation. A profound sense of longing etched itself across his face, reminiscent of a lost child yearning for comfort. The sight tugged painfully at Irene’s heart, causing her to bite down on her bottom lip, resolutely holding back tears. She had already made a favorable impression on Ethan’s family, and the last thing she wanted was to tarnish that with her emotions.

“Irene, darling, don’t let that dreadful woman get to you,” Meredith chimed in, her voice warm and reassuring as she offered Irene a gentle smile. “She’s just a nobody, really.”

Kelsey, folding her arms tightly across her chest, added with a hint of disdain, “Yeah, my brother loves you. The mere thought of him being with her again makes me sick.”

Irene’s ears perked up at Kelsey’s words, and she narrowed her gaze at her future sister-in-law, curiosity piqued. “What did you just say?” she asked, her heart suddenly feeling heavier in her chest.

Kelsey looked up, her brow furrowing in confusion. “Which part?” she replied, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her tone.

“You mentioned that the thought of them being together again makes you sick. What do you mean by ‘again’?” Irene pressed, her voice steady but laced with urgency.

Before Kelsey could respond, Meredith interjected, gripping her daughter’s arm with a forceful squeeze that made Kelsey wince. “She didn’t mean anything by it. Just a slip of the tongue,” Meredith laughed, her tone overly loud and forced. “She must be exhausted,” she added, casting a pointed look at Kelsey.

Kelsey’s cheeks flushed crimson, and she nodded, murmuring, “Yes, I didn’t mean anything by it,” her eyes darting apologetically toward Irene.

Yet, Irene remained unconvinced, her mind racing with possibilities.

Her gaze drifted across the yard to where Ethan stood, still fixated on the spot where Judy had just vanished. A wave of frustration washed over her, and she pressed her lips into a thin line, turning back to face Ethan’s mother and sister.

“It was lovely to meet you both. I hope we can get to know each other better soon. Perhaps we could arrange a brunch?” Irene suggested, her voice brightening with forced cheer.

Meredith and Kelsey exchanged excited glances, their faces lighting up with enthusiasm.

“Yes, we would absolutely love that,” Meredith replied, her eagerness palpable.

“Fantastic! I’ll get your contact numbers from Ethan, and we can coordinate from there. Maybe we could meet at the Silver Crescent Country Club later this week or next?” Irene proposed, her mind racing with the possibilities. “If you’ll excuse me, I really should be going now.”

They both nodded eagerly, their eyes sparkling at the mention of the prestigious venue. The Silver Crescent Country Club was an exclusive haven for the elite, and receiving an invitation from Irene Landry herself was an honor they would never dream of passing up.

Before either of them could utter another word, Irene turned and made her way toward Ethan. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t notice her approach until her hand rested gently on his shoulder.

“Ethan, I’m feeling quite tired. Can we find somewhere to rest?” she asked softly, hoping to draw him back to her.

He remained in his reverie, barely registering her words. A shadow of sadness lingered in his eyes, which only fueled Irene’s growing anger.

“Ethan, I’m talking to you,” she said, her voice firm and unwavering, arms crossed defiantly over her chest.

Her stern tone jolted Ethan back to reality. “I’m sorry, what?” he replied, confusion flickering across his face.

“I said, I’m tired. Can you take me somewhere to rest?” she reiterated, her tone dry and unyielding.

He scrutinized her face, a mixture of concern and irritation crossing his features. He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling deeply. “Yes, you can rest in my room upstairs,” he offered. “But I need to stay here a little longer, so we can’t leave just yet.”

Irene nodded, already anticipating this arrangement.

He led her into the grand manor, ascending the winding staircase until they reached his bedroom door. This was a space she had never entered before, and a swirl of curiosity and apprehension danced within her. She had only ever spent the night in his house, never within the confines of his family’s manor.

As the door swung open, she was taken aback by the boyish charm of his room. It was a time capsule of his childhood—trophies proudly displayed on shelves, video game posters plastered on the walls. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips, a warm sensation blooming in her chest. If only she weren’t so upset with him, she might have allowed herself to appreciate the nostalgia of the setting.

“I have to get back to my family. You can rest here, and I’ll come back later,” he said, his voice trailing off as he turned to leave.

Irene nodded, wrapping her arms around herself as she watched him exit. The moment the door clicked shut, a wave of unease washed over her. She sank onto the bed, her eyes scanning the room, taking in the remnants of his past. It was a typical boy’s room, devoid of personal photographs, yet one picture on his nightstand caught her attention. It appeared as though someone had been deliberately cut out of the frame.

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