Besides, her heart was already taken.
Ferris was like a lingering splinter in Athena’s heart. Every time Athena thought of Ferris, a sharp pang of heartache would shoot through her chest.
“You’re overthinking it, Prince Xander. Her Highness merely engaged me in casual conversation, nothing more. And honestly, I quite enjoy her company,” Athena assured.
With Alexandra’s high position, any scheme would be effortless for her. Yet, she didn’t wield her considerable influence. Instead, she chose to be completely upfront and honest with Athena. For that very reason, Athena truly admired her.
‘She was much better than those backstabbers, from the duke’s estate, for example, Athena thought to herself in disdain.
Xander seemed to accept Athena’s words with a slight nod. “That’s good to hear,” he said gently.
Xander escorted Athena to the manor gates. After bidding him farewell, she turned and stepped into the waiting carriage.
Once her carriage was out of sight, Xander’s expression darkened. He turned on his heel and strode toward the Western Courtyard.
There were certain matters Xander needed to set straight with Alexandra before it was too late.
‘I’ve already let Athena slip through my fingers too many times. This time, I won’t let anything or anyone come between us ever again, Xander thought resolutely.
Xander returned abruptly, radiating a stormy intensity that sent a jolt through Alexandra.
Yet, masking her true feelings behind a perfectly amiable expression, she gently asked, “My dear son, is there something on your mind?”
“Mother, I must ask that you not interfere excessively in my marital affairs,” Xander stated.
Xander’s voice remained flat, but his formidable presence completely overshadowed Alexandra. “Athena has been my deepest desire for years. Only she is worthy of being Mrs. Cavendish. Mother, I hope you will see my sincerity and grant us your blessing.”
Alexandra was deeply shaken by his attitude. She could not believe that her own son was pressuring her, all for the sake of a
woman.
Alexandra thought bitterly, ‘But I’m his mother!‘
On the other hand, what truly shocked Alexandra was Xander’s resolute attitude toward Athena. It was clear he would accept no one but Athena as his bride.
Though Alexandra was extremely reluctant, she softened her tone as she spoke to Xander, “Your marriage has always been my deepest concern as your mother. All I ever hoped for is that you could start a family of your own soon. Since Athena is the one who holds your heart, how could I possibly interfere any further?”
Xander didn’t believe a single word of what she said, but since she was his mother, he kept up appearances and showed her due respect.
“As long as Mother understands. I was a bit out of line just now. I hope Mother won’t hold it against me,” Xander said.
Alexandra offered a light chuckle. “As if I ever would.”
With that, Xander gave Alexandra a slight nod, then turned and strode away.
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