**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 339: Stalker**
**Judy’s POV**
“Are you absolutely certain your foot is alright?” Nan inquired, her voice laced with concern as she trailed after me in our suite. The evening had settled in, and the first round of the competition had just wrapped up. I had managed to catch about an hour of it after my visit to the resort’s urgent care. With Nan by my side, we had found a couple of empty seats in the audience, where we cheered enthusiastically for the competitors.
Some of those brave souls had already faced elimination, and it was a heart-wrenching sight. I made a conscious effort to avoid glancing at Gavin, who was seated with the other Lycans in the front row. It infuriated me how effortlessly handsome he looked, and how fiercely I yearned to tear that suit from his body. Just the memory of his touch sent shivers coursing through me.
“Did you catch what I said?” Nan waved her hand in front of my face, pulling me back to the present moment.
“Sorry,” I replied, moving toward the closet. I rummaged through my belongings, retrieving a dress I had packed, and turned to face her. “What was that again?”
“I asked if you were sure your foot is okay. You really don’t have to attend this dinner. You didn’t compete today,” she reiterated, her brow furrowing slightly.
“I know, but I want to be there to support everyone,” I insisted. “You could always join me.”
“I promised some of the girls I’d hit a bar with them tonight,” Nan said, gesturing apologetically. “I’m really sorry.”
“Go have fun; don’t worry about me,” I reassured her, pulling her into a warm embrace. “And yes, my foot is fine. It’s already out of the cast, and it’s only been a few hours.”
While I could still feel a twinge of pain, it was manageable. If I took it easy and didn’t overexert myself, I’d be ready to compete again by morning. I began to get dressed, and Nan helped me with my hair and makeup, ensuring I looked my best for the dinner. Each night this week featured a special dinner for the competitors, and while attendance wasn’t mandatory, it left a lasting impression.
After exchanging farewells with Nan, I made my way to the party room. Once again, I found myself consulting the map, and a few wrong turns left me feeling utterly lost. But eventually, I located the room where the event was taking place.
**Gavin’s POV**
“Are you really set on going to this dinner?” Derek asked, a hesitant frown creasing his forehead as he gazed at me.
The elevator doors slid open, and I stepped out, Derek closely trailing behind. The flash of cameras erupted around me as paparazzi snapped pictures, pausing just long enough for me to pose. I wasn’t a total jerk, after all.
After a brief moment, Derek managed to guide me away from the swarm of photographers and toward the party room.
“I figured I should at least make an appearance at one of these dinners,” I murmured, trying to sound nonchalant.
As I entered the party room, I was met with enthusiastic cheers from fans and respectful bows. The room was exquisitely adorned for the competitors, and everyone was dressed to the nines. These events typically demanded formal attire, and tonight was no exception.
“Alpha Landry, it’s a pleasure to see you here,” Alpha Levi greeted me, handing me a glass of wine with a smirk.
I couldn’t help but scowl at him; my instincts told me to be wary, especially with Judy in the same resort. Who knew what he might do if he discovered the connection between us?
“We missed your presence at last night’s banquet. It was meant to kick off the competition,” Levi continued, taking a leisurely sip of his red wine.
“I arrived a bit late,” I lied smoothly. “I needed to rest.”
“Quite understandable,” Levi replied, his icy gaze sending a chill down my spine. “You must be very busy; I can’t hold it against you.”
The last thing I wanted was to engage in idle chit-chat. I could feel the other Lycans’ eyes on me, their jealousy and resentment palpable. I preferred to keep my distance whenever possible.
Suddenly, my attention was drawn to the entrance, and I froze in place.
Judy stepped through the door, her dress clinging beautifully to her athletic form. It was astonishing how she could transition from looking like a gym enthusiast to a stunning supermodel in an instant.
My gaze traveled down her slender legs, and I frowned when I noticed the absence of a cast on her ankle. She appeared anxious as she entered, her hands resting on her stomach as if she might be on the verge of sickness.
She was supposed to be resting her ankle. What was she thinking, coming here? It felt as though she was inviting everyone to discover our secret.



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