The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 45

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 45: Giving Something Back**

**[Evelyn’s POV]**

Good girl.

I really shouldn’t have read too much into it. I should have brushed it off as a fleeting remark, a mere whisper that carried no weight or significance.

But deep down, I knew that wasn’t possible. Alexander probably didn’t even realize the impact of his words. To him, it might have been an innocuous statement, but to me, it was so much more.

Yet, I couldn’t shake the feeling. Those two little words reverberated in my mind like a sweet melody, a siren’s call that pulled at my heartstrings. They ignited something within me that I had never felt before—a warmth that wrapped around me like a soft blanket, filling me with a sense of respect and recognition that I had longed for.

When Alexander uttered those words, he did so with such conviction that it felt like he truly meant them.

I knew it was silly to dwell on something so trivial, but how could I not? No one had ever spoken to me in such a way before.

Throughout my childhood, I took immense pride in the small acts of kindness I offered to others, always eager to lend a hand whenever I could. I never sought praise or accolades; it was enough for me to know that I was doing the right thing.

But the way he spoke, with that rich, deep timbre that resonated in my bones, combined with the intensity of his gaze, sent shivers cascading down my spine. It sparked a heat that simmered within me, and I could only hope that my cheeks weren’t too flushed when it all unfolded.

He had already witnessed my clumsy fall; he didn’t need to be aware of the effect he had on my very being.

Those simple words had ignited a fire within me, and from that moment forward, I was resolutely determined to excel in my etiquette lessons. It wasn’t merely about proving I could embody the noblewoman I was expected to be; it was the faint hope that I might hear those words again, that I might bask in that warmth once more.

God, how pathetic do I sound?

In the days that followed, Alexander and I continued our lessons, and I slowly began to grasp the nuances of what he was teaching me. Each piece of advice, every little trick he shared, resonated deep within me. Bit by bit, I was sculpting a new version of myself, one that could stand tall beside him.

Every morning, he would arrive at my door, helping me select the perfect outfit and a new pair of shoes to practice walking gracefully.

With each passing day, I felt a sense of genuine progress. Yet, amidst my own triumphs, I couldn’t help but notice the alarming amount of caffeine Alexander had been consuming. The dark circles under his eyes were a clear indication that he was not getting the rest he so desperately needed.

During one of our breaks, I mustered the courage to ask him about it, but he deftly sidestepped the topic. I understood that I had no right to pry, especially given my own struggles with vulnerability around him.

Despite my gratitude for his unwavering support and commitment, concern gnawed at me for his well-being. I even reached out to Wendy, hoping she might have some suggestions on how I could help him.

That day, Alexander informed me that our lessons would be paused due to some pressing business he needed to attend to. However, he assured me that he would join me for our customary formal dinner in the dining room.

To be honest, I welcomed the break.

It provided me with the perfect opportunity to meet up with Nina and Wendy, to share my progress and catch up on everything else that had been happening. I made my way to Wendy’s rooms for our afternoon tea, eager to fill them in on the details of my lessons.

As I prepared the tea, pouring it into each of our cups, I shared my concerns. “All that caffeine isn’t good for him,” I remarked. “I know I don’t typically interfere in his personal matters, but as Luna, his well-being has become my responsibility.”

Wendy didn’t scoff or roll her eyes; instead, she offered me a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with understanding. “I don’t think you’re overstepping at all. In fact, I’m glad you’re taking the initiative to look out for Alexander. It’s evident that he hasn’t been prioritizing his own health lately, and I’m relieved he has you to step in for him.”

“I’m looking for a few books,” I explained, trying to keep my tone casual.

His eyes narrowed in suspicion. “On what subject?”

I couldn’t help but smile serenely. “I’m considering trying out a new tea.”

After many hours of diligent research and numerous trials in the kitchen, I had finally mastered the art of crafting the perfect Louis-Bosch tea latte. It was the ideal alternative to the coffee Alexander had been consuming in excess. Wendy had kindly sampled my initial attempts, and although it was late, I was hopeful he would at least be willing to give it a try.

As I finished pouring the warm, frothy foam over the top of the mug, I turned to one of the staff members. “Could you tell me where I might find Alexander at this hour?”

“He’s likely in his office, but he doesn’t appreciate being disturbed,” they warned.

Wendy waved them off, shaking her head. “They’re right about him being in his office. Just knock before you enter.”

I nodded, gripping the latte carefully as I made my way to his office.

Upon arriving, I gently tapped on the door but was met with silence. Biting my lip, I made the bold decision to push the door open. The moment I stepped inside, my heart skipped a beat as I spotted Alexander slumped over, asleep at his desk.

As I approached, my eyes widened in disbelief, and I nearly dropped the glass mug from my hands.

What the hell?!