The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 366

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 366: Tyler’s Rage**

In the heart of the arena, the buzz of excitement filled the air as the competition from the island flickered across a massive screen. It was day two of the much-anticipated event, and Nan had risen with the dawn, eager to immerse herself in the atmosphere.

Last night had been a lonely affair in the hotel suite; the silence had been deafening, and her mind had been a storm of thoughts. She didn’t appreciate the solitude, but she understood how crucial this competition was for Judy. She had come here to support her friend, and she was determined to do just that, wholeheartedly.

The arena was alive with spectators, all drawn in by the thrill of watching the competitors through the lens of drones soaring above the island. Nan had made the choice to attend the arena alone, seeking a momentary escape from Tyler and the girls. Being around him had become increasingly draining, and lately, he had been emitting unsettling vibes. His mood swings had been erratic, and there were hints of a more violent nature lurking beneath the surface.

She glanced down at her wrist, where a bruise from their last confrontation still throbbed—a painful reminder of the moment she had dared to ask for space. Tyler’s grip had been unforgiving, his voice a low growl as he had commanded her not to walk away.

Fear washed over her as she recalled the look in his eyes, a tempest of anger that had sent shivers down her spine. The thought of leaving him was daunting; she found herself counting the days until she could return home, where everything felt safe and familiar.

Home. The word resonated in her mind, a sweet melody that contrasted sharply with her current reality.

Her thoughts drifted to Chester, her mate—the one who had never truly wanted her, the very reason she had fled her own home. A pang of sorrow gripped her heart. She couldn’t help but wonder about his life now, who he was spending time with. Though they were not bonded, she imagined him with other women, perhaps that maid he had been involved with or Becca from the boutique. Nan was certain there were others; Chester was the type to indulge without a second thought. Did he even realize she was gone?

The thought deepened her ache, and she stifled a sob that threatened to escape.

“Hey, girl,” Mac’s voice broke through her reverie as she slid into the seat beside her, a frown etched on her face. “Where have you been? Tyler is upset. He’s been looking for you.”

Nan’s heart sank at the news. The idea of Tyler being upset sent a chill through her. She instinctively rubbed her wrist, recalling the last time his anger had erupted. Mac, oblivious to her turmoil, focused on the big screen, her expression thoughtful as she leaned back in her chair.

“I’ve just been here. I needed some space,” Nan replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Kelsey is trying to calm him down,” Mac said, rolling her eyes in exasperation. “He can be so dramatic sometimes.”

“Where is he?” Nan asked, scanning the crowd, desperate to catch a glimpse of him.

“Right outside the arena,” Mac replied, her tone casual.

Nan nodded, determination surging within her. She refused to let Tyler’s emotions create a scene. It was time to sever the ties that bound her to him once and for all. She stood, her head held high, though her nerves danced like fireflies in her stomach.

As she approached the entrance, the sound of raised voices reached her ears, and her heart plummeted.

“You’re acting irrational, Tyler,” Kelsey’s voice rang out, arms crossed defiantly. “What’s wrong with you?”

“I don’t like being lied to,” Tyler’s voice was a low growl, each word laced with fury.

“No one is lying to you,” Kelsey insisted, her voice firm. “Why do you think that?”

“She told me she’d be in her room, and she wasn’t. That’s literally lying!” Tyler snapped, his frustration palpable.

“Her plans must have changed,” Kelsey replied, narrowing her eyes. “Why does it even matter?”

Before Tyler could respond, his gaze landed on Nan, standing at the arched doorway. The darkness in his eyes deepened, and her heart raced wildly in her chest. How had she found herself in this predicament in just over a week? What was supposed to be a brief distraction had spiraled into a nightmare, and the realization terrified her.

Kelsey’s eyes softened as they met Nan’s, a flicker of sympathy passing between them.

“He’s all yours,” Kelsey sighed, stepping past Nan and disappearing through the arched door in search of Mac.

The space between Nan and Tyler felt charged, and although a few stragglers lingered nearby, most were captivated by the live stream. Yet, Tyler seemed to want her all to himself. Without a word, he seized her wrist, yanking her along with him.

The grip on her already bruised wrist sent a jolt of pain through her, making her wince.

“Come with me,” he ordered, his voice rough and unyielding.

With a sudden, rough motion, he grabbed her arm again, pulling her close. His lips descended upon hers in a crushing kiss that left her feeling nauseous.

“You’ve misunderstood,” she stammered against his mouth, trying to break free. “I’m not looking for a mate. I just wanted a distraction.”

His expression darkened dangerously, sending a shudder through her. She struggled to pull away, but his grip tightened, leaving her squirming in discomfort.

“You have no idea what I’m capable of,” he threatened, his voice low and menacing. “Don’t test me again. Did you really think I would let you go?”

Terror coursed through her veins; she wasn’t Judy, she wasn’t a fighter. She was just a waitress with dreams of becoming a chef, not someone who could stand up to him.

“T…Tyler,” she stammered, words failing her as the dangerous glint in his eyes rendered her speechless.

“Let’s go,” he commanded, his voice a harsh whisper.

“Where?” she asked, stumbling to keep pace as he pulled her along.

“Back to my place so I can properly mark you,” he growled over his shoulder.

Panic surged within her, and she fought against him, unwilling to leave the safety of the resort. Trust had evaporated, and the thought of screaming crossed her mind, but there was no one around—everyone was either engaged in resort activities or glued to the arena.

“Let me go!” she demanded, swatting at his hand in a desperate attempt to break free.

But he was quicker, and another devastating slap landed on her cheek, this time causing her to taste blood.

Everything spiraled into chaos.

Before she could fully grasp the gravity of the situation, Tyler was forced to release her as someone lunged at him, the world around her blurring into a whirlwind of confusion and fear.