The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 333

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 333: Arrival**

**Gavin’s POV**

“Alpha Gavin, what’s your take on the Gamma competitors this year? Any frontrunners catching your eye?”

“Is there anyone from your pack in the running?”

“Are you sponsoring any segment of the competition this time around?”

“Alpha Gavin, over here!”

The blinding flashes from the throng of paparazzi felt like a swarm of fireflies, each flash illuminating my face for just a moment. I maintained an impassive expression, my gaze sweeping over the eager faces of the reporters. I had no intention of entertaining their inquiries at this moment; the truth was, I was utterly drained from my journey. All I craved was the comfort of my suite and the solace of a quiet evening. The list of Gamma competitors had yet to cross my eyes, and I was in no mood to discuss it.

“Let the Lycan Chairmen breathe,” my head Gamma, Derek, interjected, stepping in front of me and creating a barrier between me and the relentless press. He was a seasoned veteran of the competition, having claimed the title five years back, and his protective instincts kicked in.

A sleek car was idling just outside, and I felt an overwhelming urge to escape the chaos of the airport. My wolf stirred restlessly within me, yearning for the peace of the resort. I attributed his restlessness to fatigue and a strong aversion to the thought of encountering Levi Churchill anytime soon. It wouldn’t be long before he made his appearance, and I wasn’t looking forward to it.

As we settled into the car, the world outside began to blur into a haze of colors. I let out a long, weary sigh and leaned back, loosening the tie that felt like a noose around my neck.

“The competitors are gathering for dinner tonight to get acquainted. Levi Churchill will be there too. Should I confirm our RSVP?” Derek queried, glancing at me through the rearview mirror, his expression a mix of hope and hesitation.

I shot him a look that clearly conveyed my thoughts. He seemed to shrink back slightly under my gaze.

“No,” I replied curtly. “The last thing I want is to deal with Levi tonight. I’ll meet the competitors tomorrow.”

“Have you had a chance to look over the competitor list yet?” Derek pressed, trying to gauge my readiness.

“Nope.”

Derek let out a resigned sigh but opted to remain silent, sensing my irritation.

—

**Judy’s POV**

“Wow, just wow!” Nan gasped as we approached the resort. “It’s even larger than Carter’s Resort!”

I had never laid eyes on palm trees before, and now they towered majestically around us, their fronds swaying gently in the breeze like nature’s own umbrellas, shielding us from the blazing sun. The ground was a soft, golden sand rather than dirt, and the pathways were paved with smooth cobblestones that gave the entire area a vibrant, welcoming ambiance. People bustled about, arriving in cabs and buses, their luggage in tow, all eager to step through the grand glass doors into the main lobby.

I had to tilt my head back just to take in the full height of the building; it loomed over us, not just tall but vast, as if it could stretch on indefinitely. The windows were enormous, reaching from floor to ceiling; some were adorned with curtains, while others stood open, inviting the sunlight inside.

From the map I had glanced at during our journey, I knew that just beyond the other side of the resort, hidden from our current view, lay the ocean.

“This place is absolutely breathtaking,” Nan breathed, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the sights.

“I’m off to find my boyfriend,” Sammy chimed in, a bright smile lighting up her face. “Thanks for the ride!”

“Of course!” I replied, mirroring her smile. “I hope we cross paths again soon!”

She nodded enthusiastically and waved goodbye before disappearing into the crowd. I turned to Nan, gesturing for her to follow me as we gathered our suitcases, expressed our gratitude to the cab driver, and slipped a generous tip into his hand before heading inside.

The interior was even more impressive than the exterior had suggested. My jaw nearly dropped as I stepped into the lobby. The floor was a stunning rose gold marble that complemented the towering pillars around us. A magnificent water fountain gushed in the center, surrounded by throngs of people. It was an overwhelming spectacle, to say the least. Gift shops and small boutiques lined the far side of the lobby, while hallways beckoned me to explore further. Grand spiral staircases flanked both sides of the lobby, and a couple of enormous glass elevators whisked guests up to the various floors. Each level boasted balconies that overlooked the lobby and some that offered views of the outside world.

The line at the front desk snaked across the lobby, stretching from one side to the other.

“We’re going to be here forever,” Nan complained, her voice tinged with impatience.

I glanced at the clock on the wall. It was only 1 PM.

“We have plenty of time,” I reassured her. “The dinner doesn’t kick off until 6.”

According to the itinerary Alpha Levi had sent, there was a dinner planned for the competitors at 6 tonight, a chance for us to mingle with the other competitors and the judges. I had to admit, nerves fluttered in my stomach at the prospect of meeting my competition.

To my relief, we didn’t have to wait an eternity. After about twenty minutes, we found ourselves at the front of the line. A friendly staff member waved me over, and I hurried toward her with Nan close behind.

“Hello! Checking in?” The woman, whose name tag read Stacy, greeted us with a warm smile.

“Yes, it should be under Judy Montague.”

She nodded and began typing on her computer.

“Oh, you’re here for the Gamma competition?” she inquired, her eyes lighting up with recognition.

“Yes,” I replied, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. It didn’t surprise me that this resort was shifter-owned; the absence of human scents was palpable, and many guests sported Gamma sweatshirts and gear that looked intimidatingly professional.

She continued typing, her brow furrowing slightly.

“The Lycan Chairmen has everything organized,” she explained, her fingers flying across the keyboard. But then she paused, glancing up at me and then at Nan. “However, the room was reserved for one. Is she staying with you as well?”

Heat rushed to my cheeks; I hadn’t thought to inform the hotel or Alpha Levi that Nan would be accompanying me. I felt foolish for not addressing it beforehand.

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