The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 286

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 286: Consequences**

**Gavin’s POV**

Once Judy retreated to her room, I found my way back to the parlor, where Richard and his wife were engaged in a hushed conversation. Their faces were pale, a palpable tension hanging in the air as they deliberated the dire consequences of my potential withdrawal of funding. I could see the weight of their worries etched into their features; without my financial support, their entire operation would crumble, leaving them teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. The thought of them losing nearly everything they had built was not lost on me. They would be forced to dip into their profits to repay the money I had invested—a reality that would undoubtedly shatter their lives.

Turning my gaze to Michelle, I offered her a faint smile, though I could sense her apprehension. Her concern was solely for her daughter, and I understood that.

“Why don’t you take a moment to rest?” I suggested gently. “I need to have a private discussion with the Cash family.”

She nodded, albeit reluctantly, and soon left the room, her footsteps echoing softly down the hallway.

Once she was gone, I focused my attention on Richard and Meredith. My eyes narrowed as I assessed their anxious expressions.

Richard abruptly halted his conversation, redirecting his attention to Kelsey.

“Leave us,” he commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Kelsey pouted, her arms crossing defiantly over her chest.

“Can I stay?” she asked, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and challenge.

“No,” he replied with unwavering firmness. “We need to speak with Alpha Landry in private.”

She huffed but, realizing the futility of her protest, eventually exited the room. Just before she left, she shot me a flirtatious wink, and I recoiled slightly, suppressing a shudder. I waited in silence until she had disappeared from view, then turned my full attention back to Richard and Meredith, whose demeanor had shrunk under my scrutiny.

“I am far from pleased with what I witnessed tonight,” I began, my voice steady but laced with authority. It felt as though I was reprimanding wayward children. “How can I, in good conscience, allow my daughter to marry into a family I cannot trust?”

Richard rushed to reassure me, desperation evident in his tone. “You can trust us, Alpha. It was merely a misunderstanding. We will handle it appropriately.”

“Are you forgetting that I hold the reins to your financial stability?” I reminded him, my voice low and menacing. “I could withdraw my support in an instant, and you would be left scrambling to repay every dollar I’ve invested.” My investments spanned much of the Werewolf Kingdom, but only in those I deemed worthy. Most had proven fruitful, but I was not above pulling the rug out from under those who betrayed my trust.

“Of course, I haven’t forgotten, Alpha…” he stammered, his voice trembling slightly.

“If there is any further harm inflicted upon either Judy or her mother, rest assured, there will be consequences,” I warned, my tone brokering no argument.

They both nodded vigorously, fear evident in their eyes.

“Yes, Alpha,” Richard said, bowing his head in submission. He nudged Meredith, who followed suit, her gaze cast downwards. “No harm will come to either of them. You have our word.”

**Judy’s POV**

I spent the next hour meticulously packing my clothes and personal belongings, though I realized most of my things had already been placed in storage. The task felt surreal, and I found myself pausing frequently, grappling with the reality of my situation. The thought of moving into Gavin’s mansion without my mother was a heavy burden on my heart. Leaving her behind felt like tearing away a piece of my soul, and my stomach churned at the very notion.

Sitting on the small cot that had served as my bed for the week, I inhaled deeply, the air thick with the scent of dust and neglect. I would not miss this place, that was certain. The maids had treated me poorly, their disdain evident in every sneer and snide remark, for they believed I didn’t belong in their world. But no one had been as cruel as Kelsey. I had learned to bite my tongue, knowing that any display of defiance would only bring trouble for my mother.

I continued to pack until every last item was accounted for, my heart heavy with the impending change.

Suddenly, the door to my room swung open without warning, a familiar intrusion that had become all too common. Kelsey stormed in, her expression a storm cloud of fury as she glared at me.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” she spat, her eyes narrowing at the sight of my packed bag.

“I’m leaving,” I replied, refusing to meet her gaze.

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