The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 381

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 381: Phone Call**

**Judy’s POV**

As I focused on my weight training, Tabby’s cheerful voice broke through the clamor of the gym. “Sorry I couldn’t make it out with you guys last night,” she said, her eyes finding me amidst the sea of focused faces. “I wanted to have a clear head for training today.”

I waved off her apology with a smile. “Don’t be sorry. Honestly, you weren’t missing much.” I paused, recalling the evening’s lackluster events. “I probably shouldn’t have gone out either. The next and final part of the competition is crucial; it’s going to determine the overall winner. I should probably be focusing on keeping a clear head too.”

Tabby leaned in closer, her voice dropping conspiratorially as she glanced around the gym. “Have you been scouted yet?”

I frowned, shaking my head slowly. The thought of being overlooked gnawed at me.

“No, have you?” I asked, my curiosity piqued.

The reality was that anyone could recruit us into their pack or gamma force, regardless of whether we won the competition. However, only those who triumphed in the competition could join the prestigious Elite Force.

“No, but I heard Sherry was recruited already,” Tabby replied, her tone laced with a hint of envy. “She still wants to compete, though, and aims for the top.”

I lifted the weight, feeling its heft as it challenged my strength. It was heavier than I was used to, but today I was determined to push my limits.

“She’d be foolish not to,” I grunted between exertions. “She’s incredibly talented.”

Tabby nodded in agreement, her eyes fixed on my form as I struggled to lift the weight again.

“So, if you win and make it onto the Elite Force, where do you want to be stationed? You know you get to choose your starting base location.”

I paused, momentarily distracted by the question. “Honestly, I hadn’t given it much thought,” I admitted, my mind racing to the possibilities.

The Lycans were the ones in charge of the Elite Gamma Forces, so their bases were primarily located near their main packs. I knew there was an Elite Force station just outside the Silver Crescent pack, and that would be the ideal spot for me. But would Gavin even want me on that force? The mere thought made my stomach flutter with anxiety.

“You live near Silver Crescent, right?” Tabby asked, her voice thoughtful. “So, ideally, that would make the most sense. Unless you’re looking for a change of scenery?”

I sighed, feeling the weight of my decision. “I mean, my family and friends all live there,” I said, lifting the weight once more, my muscles protesting loudly. I knew I should probably listen to them; the last thing I wanted was to injure myself before the final rounds began. “So, yeah, it would be ideal. But I don’t know. I guess we’ll see. What about you? Have you thought about it?”

“I don’t live near any of the Lycans,” she shrugged, a hint of resignation in her voice. “So, I really don’t know. But I heard Alpha Landry has one of the better forces, so I’d probably try to get into the Silver Crescent one.”

Finally, I set the weight down, my arms feeling like they might fall off. I sat up, sweat dripping down my face, and I used the back of my hand to wipe it away, feeling the heat of the workout.

“We’d be neighbors,” I said with a grin, the idea brightening my mood.

She laughed, a genuine sparkle in her eyes. “Yeah, that would be pretty cool,” she breathed, her wide smile infectious.

Just then, a familiar voice called out my name from the entrance of the gym. I turned to see Matt’s beaming face as he sprinted toward me, Irene trailing closely behind. She looked like she hadn’t slept a wink, and my heart twisted for her. I knew she was still reeling from the heartbreak of the Ethan situation, not to mention the attack at the club the night before.

“Hey, what are you guys doing here?” I asked, sitting up on the bench and trying to keep my tone light. “Shouldn’t you be exploring the resort or soaking up the sun by the pool?”

“I wish,” Irene replied, crossing her arms and shooting Matt a pointed look. “He insisted we come see you before we did anything.”

I ruffled Matt’s hair affectionately, a smile breaking across my face. “Did Matthew miss me?” I teased, watching as he scowled in response.

“No,” he muttered, trying to brush it off. “I just wanted to see you in action… you know, for my own training.” His attempt to play it cool was transparent, and I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Oh, sure, I’m sure that’s all it is,” I teased again, earning an eye roll from him. “Hey, this is Tabby. My friend on the team.”

“I saw you on TV!” Matt exclaimed, his grin widening. “You were on Judy’s team when you were on the island.”

Tabby nodded, her expression brightening. “Yes,” she replied with enthusiasm. “Judy was pretty amazing with that bear.”

“It’s not like I did it all by myself,” I countered, brushing off the compliment. “But anyways, Tabby, this is Matthew and Irene Landry.”

Tabby’s eyes widened in surprise, her mouth nearly dropping open. “The Landry’s??” she asked in awe. “As in Gavin Landry?”

“They’re his kids,” I explained, a sense of pride swelling in me.

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