After I Torched Alive, My Alpha Went crazy novel Chapter 174

The mention of Odette sent a ripple of unease through me, but I quickly pushed it aside.

Carlos got upset, but he didn't argue further. Instead, I stepped in, forcing a smile despite the tension. "Your Majesty," I said, "I appreciate your concern, but I'm confident I can handle the challenges ahead. I'll do everything I can to fix this perfectly."

Queen Luna's gaze remained fixed on me for a moment before she nodded. "Very well," she said. "You may go."

Carlos and I bowed before turning to leave. The moment we stepped out of her chambers, I let out a breath I hadn't realized I'd been holding. "She's tough," I murmured.

Carlos chuckled softly, though there was a trace of bitterness in his tone. "She's always been like that. But you handled yourself well."

I glanced at him, "Thank you for standing by me," I said. "I know this hasn't been easy for you."

Carlos shook his head, his expression softening. "You don't have to thank me. I'll always be here for you, Grace. No matter what."

Carlos walked beside me, his steps slightly hesitant. His brow furrowed as we made our way down the hallway.

"I can't stop thinking about the exam," he admitted in a low tone. "Queen Luna is harsh, Grace. She won't hesitate to eliminate anyone who doesn't meet her standards."

I placed a hand lightly on his arm, stopping him mid-step. "Carlos, I'll be fine," I said firmly, meeting his worried gaze.

I will make sure I prepare well for the exam," I said, my voice steady. "I've been worried about it too, but now I truly believe I can clear it. Don't worry about me, Carlos, I'll handle this." He hesitated, then gave a reluctant nod.

I still can't believe Queen Luna put so much weight on this test," Carlos muttered, glancing at me. "What if something goes wrong? These exams aren't about just answering questions; they're about impressing people who've trained their entire lives for this."

I gave him a reassuring smile, brushing off his worries. "Carlos, I'll be fine. It's not the first time I've been underestimated, and it certainly won't be the last." I placed a hand on his arm. "Trust me, okay?"

Carlos nodded reluctantly. "I trust you," he said softly. "It's everyone else I don't trust."

As we turned the corner, we nearly collided with someone rushing in the opposite direction. "Odette?" Carlos said, his tone surprised.

Her elegant figure was adorned in a pristine gown, her hair perfectly styled, but her expression was anything but calm.

"Carlos, Grace," she said briskly, barely sparing me a glance before continuing, She said in a crisp, authoritative tone.

It wasn't a written test or a formal display of manners as I had expected.

Instead, it was a series of conversations and interviews designed to evaluate knowledge, behavior, and composure.

I walked into the grand hall where the exam was taking place, my heart pounding. The room was filled with nobles and scholars seated in a semi-circle, their eyes sharp and calculating.

Carlos squeezed my hand before letting go. "You've got this," he whispered.

I nodded and stepped forward. To my surprise, Odette was seated among the examiners, her posture immaculate and her expression calm.

She caught my eye and, to my shock, made a small face, playful and almost encouraging.

I couldn't help but smile slightly, though I quickly masked it.

Nova, seated nearby, didn't miss the exchange. Her lips curled into a sneer as she leaned closer.