The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 65

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 65: A Helping Hand**

[Evelyn’s POV]

As I took a moment to soak in my surroundings, the vibrant colors and lively chatter of the market enveloped me. My gaze settled on the delicate hibiscus flowers, their petals unfurling like soft silk in the warm sunlight. The vendor, with a warm smile, carefully wrapped the blooms for me, and I felt a flicker of contentment. Yet, curiosity tugged at me—what else could I discover? Perhaps I should find something special for Alexander, a little surprise to brighten his day.

But deep down, I suspected that he wouldn’t be particularly thrilled with any plant or herb I might bring home. A fruit or vegetable, on the other hand, might do the trick. Maybe I could persuade the kitchen staff to whip up something delightful with whatever I found.

Leaving the floral haven behind, I navigated toward the fresh produce area, my senses tingling with anticipation. However, as I walked, I stumbled upon a stand brimming with essential oils. Suddenly, I was engulfed by an overwhelming cloud of scents that hit me like a tidal wave—lavender, mint, eucalyptus—all mingling together in a dizzying array.

I instinctively covered my nose with my hand, trying to shield myself from the onslaught of fragrances. I loved lavender and mint, truly I did, but in this moment, their intensity was suffocating.

Perhaps it was the remnants of my recent illness that made me so sensitive to these scents. My head began to spin, and I felt a wave of lightheadedness wash over me.

Desperately, I reached out to steady myself against the nearest stand, my heart racing. The last thing I wanted was to draw attention to my predicament, but the ground beneath me felt like it was shifting, unsteady and unpredictable. My knees threatened to buckle, and panic bubbled within me.

Why hadn’t I insisted that someone from the staff accompany me today?

I had no way of knowing if this dizzy spell was merely a fleeting moment or if it would escalate into something worse. Just as I contemplated this, a sudden wave of nausea crashed over me, and I braced myself against the stand, feeling as if I might topple over at any moment.

“Evelyn.”

A voice cut through the haze, calling my name. I was too disoriented to turn and see who it was, fearing that any movement might worsen my condition.

But then, I felt a firm grip on my upper arms, steadying me and guiding me away from the chaotic stands. The fresh air hit my face like a balm, and slowly, my head began to clear. My footing steadied, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me, mingled with embarrassment for having been in such a vulnerable state.

As I gathered my composure, I dared to lift my gaze, and there he was—Michael, with his familiar smile and those striking green eyes filled with concern.

“Michael?” I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Hey,” he replied gently. “Are you alright?”

I took a moment to inhale deeply, trying to calm the turmoil within me.

“I’m…I’ll be fine,” I reassured him, though I felt anything but.

“Are you sure?” he pressed, his brow furrowing with worry.

His tone reminded me so much of Alexander, and a pang of longing hit me. In moments like these, I missed him fiercely—the security he provided, the way he made me feel safe.

“I think so,” I said softly. “Honestly, I don’t usually have these moments. I was just a bit overwhelmed by all the scents around me.”

What is wrong with me? I barely know him, and yet I’m feeling all giddy. Get it together, Evelyn. You’re not attracted to him; you just aren’t used to someone giving you this kind of attention.

As sad as it was to admit, my inner voice had a point. I wasn’t the type to fall head over heels for the first guy who showed me kindness. And in truth, I had no business entertaining these feelings, not when I was a married woman. Alexander and I were working through our relationship, one step at a time, and I was genuinely happy with that progress.

Yet, these strange feelings toward Michael were a harsh reminder of what I yearned for with Alexander. I wanted him to look at me with the same intensity that Michael did, to feel that spark between us. But there always seemed to be some invisible barrier separating us.

He had expressed concern for my well-being during my illness, but afterward, he had retreated into his shell. I should have pressed him to share more about those feelings.

But then again, who was I to talk? I had been the one to pull away from him initially.

I just wished I could silence the doubts swirling in my mind. Our relationship hadn’t begun in the usual way. It was an arranged marriage, and Alexander had tested my devotion time and again, leaving me questioning if I was truly what he wanted.

Michael helped me to my feet slowly before we made our way toward the parking lot where my car awaited.

“Perhaps I’ll be lucky enough to see you again,” he said, a hopeful tone lacing his words.

I returned his smile but chose not to respond. It wouldn’t be fair to raise his hopes when I had no idea what the future held.

“Goodbye, Michael.”