The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 672

Chapter 672

Athena asked quietly, “Has the candidate and the date been finalized?”

“Confirmed,” Xander replied. “It’s set for the end of this month.”

It was already mid–month–only two weeks remained before Kendra would be sent off to distant Nortcold.

Issa, however, maintained a perfectly composed facade as he raised his goblet to the assembled guests. “This is profoundly grateful that you’ve all graced my humble abode today to celebrate my birthday. Come, let us share this toast.”

“Long life and happiness to Mr. Porter,” the guests lifted their cups and cheered in unison.

Kendra cast a resentful glance at Xander, only to find him not even glancing her way.

‘Of course he doesn’t care about me,‘ she thought bitterly, the thought of her own fate deepening the anguish on her face.

Tilting her head back, she downed her wine in one swift motion. When she set the cup down, her eyes were already rimmed with

tears.

Alexandra, sitting closest to Kendra, couldn’t help but feel a pang of pity seeing her so distressed.

She was about to offer some words of comfort, but then remembered Kendra’s feelings for Xander, and the words died on her lips.

‘It’s unrequited love,‘ she thought. ‘I’d better not interfere.‘

Alexandra ignored Kendra, but Kendra still moved to sit beside her and softly called, “Hi, Mrs. Cavendish.”

That single word nearly shattered Alexandra’s heart.

Alexandra had watched Kendra grow up under her watchful eye–the girl had always been sweet and sensible. To her, nendra was like the daughter she never had.

Alexandra couldn’t bear it any longer. She gently patted Kendra’s hand and murmured, “Hi, Kendra.”

Alexandra had thought there was so much she wanted to say to Kendra, but after that single, tender word, no other words would

come to her.

No matter how much Alexandra pitied Kendra, her loyalty to Xander came first.

Xander, newly wed and utterly devoted to Athena, had no room in his heart for Kendra.

Kendra gave Alexandra a tender smile and said softly, “Mrs. Cavendish, it’s just that Kendra hasn’t seen you in so long–I’ve missed you so much. But it seems you have grown so distant from me. Could it be that you no longer care for me?”

A pang went through Alexandra’s heart. She hastily denied it, saying, “Kendra, don’t overthink things. Your aunt will always cherish you, no matter what.”

Kendra raised her cup and said softly, “I will toast, Your Highness.” She drained her wine in one graceful motion.

Alexandra picked up her own cup, met Kendra’s gaze, and drank with her, their glasses clinking gently.

The party was now in full swing, with guests mingling and glasses clinking, the hall abuzz with celebration.

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Chapter 672

However, Athena kept stealing glances at Alexandra. Seeing her toasting with Kendra, she couldn’t help frowning.

‘Something’s off–way off,‘ Athena thought, her instincts on high alert. ‘If Kendra wanted to make a move, why isn’t she targeting me or Xander? Instead, she keeps clinging to Mrs. Cavendish. Could Mrs. Cavendish be her real target?‘

Athena gently tugged at Xander’s sleeve. He turned to her, and she motioned for him to lean in closer. Xander immediately obliged. Cupping her hand to his ear, Athena whispered, “Have Ansel shadow Mrs. Cavendish.”

Xander saw the gravity on Athena’s face and immediately understood she had sensed something amiss.

Without another word, he shot Ansel a meaningful glance, signaling him to keep a close watch on Alexandra.

Ansel gave a subtle nod and quietly relayed the order; several shadow guards swiftly melted into the shadows.

The party was still in full swing, but Alexandra was beginning to show the effects of the alcohol. Shaking her head, she slurred, “No more for me–I’ve had way too much to drink today.”

Kendra quickly reached out to steady Alexandra’s arm and said softly, “Mrs. Cavendish, let me help you to the private chambers so you can sober up a bit.”

“Alright,” Alexandra mumbled, staggering as Kendra supported her toward the private chambers.

Athena stepped forward and supported Alexandra’s other arm. “Mother, why did you drink so much?”

As she spoke, she discreetly checked Alexandra’s pulse, thinking with a hint of relief, ‘It’s just simple intoxication–no signs of poisoning.‘

“Mrs. Cavendish was in high spirits today and had a bit too much to drink. I’ll help her go and rest–please stay here, Your Highness.” Kendra politely but firmly declined Athena’s offer and firmly escorted Alexandra away from the party.

Athena was just about to step forward when two maids swiftly blocked her way. “Please rest assured, Your Highness,” they said deferentially. “Ms. Porter will take excellent care of Alexandra.”

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