The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 92

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
By Sophia Reed
**Chapter 92: The Set-up**

In the dimly lit conference room, Alexander found himself grappling with a mix of frustration and unease. The sight of Michael, his stepbrother, practically drooling over Evelyn from the corner of the room, made his stomach churn. It was one thing to see Michael’s infatuation, but it was another to feel the weight of guilt pressing down on him. Just moments before Evelyn had stormed out, he had sensed the hurt in her eyes, and it gnawed at him. Had he truly inflicted that pain?

He had made it abundantly clear to her that his words were nothing but a façade, a necessary mask he wore to protect them both. But now, as he replayed the moment in his mind, he couldn’t decipher whether the devastation etched on her face had been authentic or merely part of the charade they were caught in.

When Evelyn had stormed out, a part of him had yearned to follow her, to check on her well-being, to apologize. But he quickly dismissed the thought. No, he had to maintain his composure. He couldn’t risk blowing his cover.

*I have to endure this tiresome meeting,* he thought, forcing himself to focus on the agenda at hand.

Fortunately, Oliver, ever the reliable ally, adhered to their pre-agreed plan. He cleared his throat and addressed the room, “Sir, perhaps I could reach out to your grandmother and see if she would be willing to accompany Evelyn. This way, she won’t be traveling alone, and someone could keep an eye on her.”

Alexander nodded, appreciating the suggestion. “That’s a solid idea,” he replied, his voice steady. “Have one of the staff contact her at once.”

As Oliver stepped out to make the call, Alexander found himself alone with Michael. He struggled to suppress his disdain for his stepbrother, knowing that he needed to project an image of trustworthiness. *This is a delicate game,* he reminded himself.

“Why don’t you take a seat, Michael?” he said, attempting to sound casual.

Michael hesitated for a moment, his eyes darting around the room, before finally lowering himself into one of the chairs.

“What is it you wanted to discuss with me?” he asked, his tone laced with curiosity.

“There’s some important business that requires my attention out of town for two, possibly three days,” Alexander explained, his mind racing. “Usually, I would have Oliver stay behind to manage any issues and oversee the soldiers. However, it seems I’ll need his counsel while I’m away.” He paused, gauging Michael’s reaction. “This leaves me in a bit of a predicament, and I need someone I can rely on to fill in—”

“I’ll do it,” Michael interjected without hesitation, his eagerness evident.

Alexander fought to keep his composure, forcing a smile that felt more like a grimace. *Of course, he would jump at the chance to seize control,* he thought bitterly.

“Are you absolutely certain?” he asked, maintaining a calm demeanor. “Michael, this is a significant responsibility. If any issues arise, you must be prepared to handle them efficiently.”

“I assure you, I am fully capable of taking charge should anything happen,” Michael replied with an air of overconfidence that made Alexander’s skin crawl.

Alexander hummed thoughtfully, letting the silence stretch for a moment before he raised his hands in mock surrender. “Very well, I’ll have the staff prepare a room for you.”

“Is that all?” Michael asked, a hint of disappointment creeping into his voice.

Alexander simply nodded, reaching into his desk to retrieve a blank sheet of paper. He gave Michael a curt nod, signaling that their conversation was over.

Michael’s smug grin was unmistakable as he stood up and strode toward the door, clearly pleased with himself. Once he was gone, Alexander finally allowed himself to exhale, releasing the pent-up tension he had been holding.

This was almost too easy.

Michael would technically be a temporary stand-in, but Alexander had already informed the head trainers and commanders of his army about this arrangement. He had made it clear that Michael was to be treated with the same respect afforded to any family member.

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