The Rise Of The Unwanted Girl (Athena) novel Chapter 231

Chapter 231

Athena had initially considered asking the gatekeeper to deliver the e pastries to Xander, but thought better of it and carried them into the Xander Manor herself.

to Minister Beren about her grandfather that she failed to notice that someone was

Athena was so preoccupied with how to

talk t watching her intently from not far ahead.

From a corner of the long corridor, a regal, elegantly dressed woman fixed her gaze intently on Athena and murmured. Is that Athena?”“

The maidservant at her side replied respectfully, “Indeed, Your Highness, that is she.”

This noble lady was none other than Alexandra Cavendish, the Dowager Princess, who had freshly returned from her retreat.

Pidence City was bitterly cold and plagued by frequent sandstorms. As she was sensitive to the cold, Alexandra deliberately went on the retreat. Had Xander not sought an imperial marriage decree for himself and Athena, Alexandra would not have returned to the Xander Manor so prematurely,

A flicker of surprise crossed Alexandra’s face. Remembering the kindness Athena had shown her, the fierce glint in her eyes softened considerably.

She instructed the maidservant at her side, “Invite Lady Athena to my quarters and tell her I have matters to discuss with her.”

“Yes, Your Highness, the maidservant said before she turned and left.

The maidservant intercepted Athena at the next corner gate. “Lady Athena,” she said respectfully.

Athena looked at the maidservant before her with surprise. Though she had visited the Xander Manor several times, she did not recognize this particular servant at all.

Athena stood her ground, eyeing the maidservant warily.

“Lady Athena, I am a servant serving Her Highness, the Dowager Princess. Her Highness wishes to speak with you and has specially asked me to extend her invitation Jane Brown spoke with measured composure, every gesture impeccably proper.

Athena set aside her doubts. Since the Dowager Princess herself had summoned her, there was no way she could refuse.

“But Athena hesitated as she looked anxiously at the pastry box in her hands, feeling a bit unsure.

Jane caught on quickly and asked, “Are the things in this box meant for Prince Kander?”

Athena nodded.

“Lady Athena, you may entrust the pastry box to me. I shall deliver it to His Highness on your behalf,” Jane assured

Athena suddenly realized that the Dowager Princess must have sent someone to intercept her to prevent her from getting too close to Xander.

She handed over the pastry box, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Many thanks,” she said.

Jane tilted her head slightly and gave another maidservant a meaningful glance. The maidservant promptly took the pastry box from

Athena’s hands and retreated to the side.

Athena followed Jane and soon arrived at the West Wing

Alexandra’s residence stood in stark contrast to Xander’s. While his exuded understated elegance, hers was flamboyant. The interior layout was virtually identical to that of the royal palace.

The moment Athena stepped inside, she was enveloped by a comforting warmth that stood in sharp contrast to the chill outside.

She looked toward the seat of honor, where Alexandra sat in lavish, resplendent robes upon a plush armchair, watching her with a subtle, knowing smile.

Her face, which bore a distinct resemblance to Xander’s, though showing the gentle marks of time, was still stunningly beautiful.

She was pushing fifty, but could easily pass for someone in her early forties.

2:17 PM

Chapter 231

“Your Highness, Athena greeted as she curtsied with impeccable precision.

Alexandra might appear approachable, yet there were not many people who hold such an exalted position who are easy to deal with.

Athena kept her head bowed, her demeanor so reverent that it was beyond reproach.

Alexandra let out a soft chuckle and said. “Take a seat

With a word of gratitude, Athena took her seat,

“Lady Athena, you’ve grown even more radiant since we last met.” Alexandra remarked amiably, her gaze upon Athena deceptively warm. Yet somehow, she remained strangely unapproachable.

Athena knew Alexandra wasn’t here for idle chatter. With a faint smile, she replied, “Your Highness flatters me.”

Sure enough, Alexandra sighed and said, “Alas, what a pity that such beauty is so often cursed with misfortune. Were it otherwise, you might have married well and lived in comfort.

Alexandra was insinuating that Athena, after three years of military service, was no longer pure in the eyes of society. She was also subtly warning Athena not to entertain any illusions about Xander, as Athena was far beneath his standing in Alexandra’s eyes.

The very issue Athena had long dreaded finally surfaced. Yet, to her own surprise, she felt no trace of nervousness, only a profound sense of relief. She knew she wasn’t worthy of Xander and never dared to entertain such presumptuous thoughts.

So, when Alexandra subtly made her point, Athena remained unfazed. “Your Highness speaks true,” she responded calmly. I’m well aware of my humble circumstances and harbor no grand ambitions. In this life, if I can simply find a considerate man to share my days with, that would be more than enough”

Alexandra was a little taken aback. As she met Athena’s gaze, she was struck by the clarity and sincerity in those eyes. They were so open and unclouded, not a trace of deceit or ambition to be found. It was like Athena had said, she had no grand ambitions.

“You are a sensible woman who knows her place, and I have no wish to make things difficult for you,” Alexandra said. “I summoned you here today to lay all cards on the table. Xander’s wife must be a lady of impeccable background and unsullied reputation. Though I am grateful for your kindness, when it comes to my son’s marriage, I will not take such matters lightly.”

Upon hearing Alexandra’s words, Athena offered a faint smile. “Your Highness” she replied. “I know my place and would never presume To cause you any trouble,”

Alexandra exhaled in relief. “Excellent. It would be best if our conversation today remained strictly between us. My son need not know of this. I trust you understand, Lady Athena?”

Though Xander was her son, his immense power and lofty status had transformed their relationship. It was no longer the simple bond between a mother and child like it once had been.

Alexandra owed her present glory to Xander. Simply put, her entire life now depended on Xander.

For his 11

prospects, Alexandra would never allow Xander to marry a woman with a tainted reputation. The woman Xander marries muSĖ be a nobirwoman of impeccable virtue and unblemished lineage.

Athena nodded obediently. “I understand, Your Highness.”

“It’s such a relief to talk to someone so perceptive. At last, Alexandra finally let a genuine smile grace her features.

Alexandra gracefully gestured toward Athena and said with a gentle smile, “This coffee is simply delightful. Lady Athena, do have a

taste.”

After thanking Alexandra, Athena had just lifted the cup to her lips when hurried footsteps sounded from beyond the door.

“Mother” Xander’s voice rang out before he even appeared.

Apowering silhouette strode in, backlit by the sunlight. His cool, distinct scent preceded him as his anxious gaze met Athena’s.

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