The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 71

Chapter 71

But Margaret was astute–too astute. She caught the flicker of change on Athena’s face and asked quickly, “Did something happen?”

Athena forced a smile and shook her head. “It’s nothing, Grandmother.”

Margaret eyed her with concern. “If something’s wrong, you must tell me.”

“Really, it’s nothing. I’m just a little tired,” Athena said, leaning lightly against Margaret’s shoulder. It felt like only in her presence could the chill in her bones be pushed back, even a little.

She had done everything she could to stay out of their way. Yet somehow, she still hadn’t escaped being used.

A familiar sting rose behind her nose, and she blinked rapidly to force the tears back. She couldn’t cry in front of Margaret- it would only make her worry.

Margaret gently patted her shoulder. “If you’re tired, then rest. Don’t worry about me–just take care of yourself.”

Athena nodded. “I understand, Grandmother.”

Her throat tightened, as if something were stuck in it, making it hard to breathe.

Not wanting to be seen like this, she made an excuse and stepped outside.

The cold wind hit her face, and the bitterness weighing on her heart was pushed down by the sting of it. In its place came a surge of burning anger.

She could accept that Eloise had arranged a marriage for her. What she couldn’t accept was being kept completely in the dark–manipulated like a piece on a chessboard. She wanted answers. She was ready to confront Eloise.

But after just a few steps, she stopped. No–she couldn’t act impulsively. She had to stay calm.

She took a few deep breaths, forcing herself to steady her thoughts.

She stood beneath a tree, letting the wind whip around her for the time it took to finish a cup of coffee. Only then did her thoughts begin to settle.

The Monson family wanted her to marry into the Mcgee family for one reason: power. Going to Eloise now wouldn’t change a thing. Besides, she hadn’t gotten what she came for yet.

She needed to wait–wait until Kelsey got hold of the evidence of Kurtis. Until then, there was only one thing she could do: stall for time.

Having made up her mind, Athena turned to leave—just as a voice called out behind her. “Lady Athena.”

She turned to see the steward approaching. “Lord Henry wishes to see you,” he said.

His face looked grim. Athena guessed it had something to do with her attempt to call off the engagement.

They were already calling her in before she’d even had the chance to make her move. She thought, ‘Fine–then it is time to

settle the score.

She straightened her back like a general heading to battle and said calmly, “Lead the way.”

The steward looked surprised. He wondered, ‘When has Lady Athena become so… resolute?‘ Though the thought flashed

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Chapter 71

through his mind, he didn’t show it on his face. He simply nodded and led the way.

By the time Athena arrived at the front hall, the room was already full.

Willow sat dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief, her quiet sobs clear in the heavy silence.

No one spoke. The atmosphere was thick with tension.

Nicolas sat stiff and silent, staring blankly into space.

Matthew looked ready to explode, his face full of righteous fury, like he couldn’t wait to stand up for Willow and crush Athena underfoot.

Eloise looked worried, stealing glances at Henry. Every time he met her eyes with a cold stare, she quickly lowered her gaze.

As soon as Athena stepped into the room, every eye turned to her.

Willow’s sobs grew louder the moment she saw Athena, as if she might collapse in tears at any moment.

“Father, let’s just drop it. I’m sure Athena didn’t mean it,” she said softly.

Before Henry could respond, Matthew jumped in. “Drop it? She publicly broke off the engagement without a second thought for your dignity! She’s selfish and cold–hearted—and you’re still trying to defend her?“.

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