From Slave To Queen (by Karyn Anderson) novel Chapter 230

At the Monson Manor, Athena had stepped out of the courtyard aher settling Margaret clown,

Her eyes landed on a figure not far away, and she froze in place.

She’d never known anyone could pull off black so flawlessly. Xander was regal and dignified, like nobility personified. Even if he was just standing there, he was a sight to behold.

Xander seemed to notice Mhena’s gaze. Turning to hot, he inquired, “Have you settled Lady Margaret in?”

His deep voice was intoxicating.

Athena walked up to him, curtsied gracefully, and said, “Thank you for your assistance, Prince Xander,”

Deep down, Athena felt a pang of bitterness. It was humiliating that what Xander could do with such ease had nearly cost her her life.

Athena wondered when she would be able to reach Xander’s level.

“What’s on your mind?” Xander asked.

Athena fluttered her long lashes and answered truthfully, “I’m thinking about the day I can finally rise to the top and crush every who’ve wronged me beneath my heel, one by one.

one of those

Even though Athena could barely protect hersell, there were so many people she wanted to protect, like her grandfather and grandmother Xander curved his lips into a subtle smile, his piercing eyes softening as the usual frostiness in his gaze gave way to a hint of warmth.

“Never letting a slight go unpunished. Good,” Xander said.

Xander’s praise made Athena a little flustered. “But I’m still far from capable, instead, I keep imposing on you, Prince Xander. How improper of me.”

Xander frowned at her words. “I did all this of my own volition. There’s no need to keep thanking me, Athena.”

Athena was about to say more when Xander changed the subject. “I heard you’re investigating General Perkins’s case

ze was frank, completely unreserved. Athena know Xander was utterly unconcerned with others opinions.

His gaze

Athena felt a warmth bloom in her chest and nodded. “Yes.”

“This case is quite delicate, Even if you investigate, you won’t uncover anything substantial. You might even face some opposition,” Xander spoke softly, his gaze on Athena unwavering.

Xander continued, “I’ve already sent people to look into the matter. You should keep a low profile on your end to avoid drawing attention.”

Athena’s voice trembled as she blurted out, “is my grandfather alright? Is there any hope of overtuming the case?

Athena’s grandfather was exiled for embezzlement and has been in exile for three years now. Over these three years, any evidence would have been obliterated.

Athena thought to hersell, I know can’t bring Grandfather back right away, but at the very least, I just need to know how he’s doing.”

Overcome with urgency, Athena impulsively grabbed Xander’s hand, her eyes wide with desperate concern.

Unlike most women whose hands were always cold, Athena’s wore surprisingly warm, and were smooth and soft to the touch.

Xander glanced down at her hand. Athena, as if scalded, jerked her hand back.

Chapter 230

Athena took a moment to compose herself, then said apologetically, “My apologies, Prince Xander. I let my actions get the better of man

After speaking, Athena looked up at Xander, her eyes wide with eager anticipation.

Faced with her pleading expresion, Xander found it impossible to refuse. He said, “Lean’t guarantee the case will be overturned, but give you my word. Your grandfather will come to no harm.”

“The arranged covert protection for him. The conditions in the Northwest are harsh, and he’ll have to endure some hardship. Make sure you don’t give anyone reason to suspect anything,” Xander said.

Athena understood that Xander was warning her

Someone had deliberately set up and framed her grandfather back then. If the old case were to be reopened now, it would only tip off the real culprits. Although Mhena could investigate, it had to be done covertly.

Athena gave a firm nod. “Understood, Prince Xander

Sunlight bathed her in a golden halo, softening the edge about her.

Standing before Xander, Athena looked as docile and innocent as a young fawn, her wide eyes full of trust and uncertainty.

Xander reached out and gently stroked her head. “It’s time to go.”

His hand withdrew in an instant, as light and fleeting as a dragonfly skimming the surface of the water.

Athena stood frozen for a heartbeat. Snapping back to her senses, she hurried after Xander, “Prince Xander, let me walk you out,” she called, a

Xander didn’t say a word, but he deliberately slowed his steps, clearly waiting for Athena to catch up.

“Though we’re in the imperial capital under the Emperor’s watch, sinister forces lurk everywhere,” Xander warned. “I can’t always be by your side for protection, so you must stay vigilant. If anything happens, send word to the Xander Manor immediately.”

It was as if, the moment Athena left his sight, she’d instantly fall into danger.

Though she remained silent, a quiet radiance of dawning hope began to glow in her eyes.

Athena watched as his cariage disappeared from sight before finally turning back inside.

Marquita thought to herself, “If Lady When could marry Prince Kander, the would surely find true happiness

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