CHAPTER 67
None of them dared to utter a word in response to Xander's chilling command. His presence alone was enough to silence them into submission.
With a cold indifference, Xander glanced at Ronald, issuing his directive.
"Since they're so fond of fighting, let them settle their differences in a fair match. Only one of them will be leaving this room today. The victor earns her freedom."
Ronald nodded in acknowledgment. "I'll handle it, Mr. King."
Turning his attention back to Arianna, Xander's gaze softened slightly, his eyes reflecting a myriad of complex emotions.
"Can you walk?" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of concern.
Arianna nodded hesitantly, her mind still reeling from the sudden turn of events.
"Yeah, I can walk," she managed to reply, her voice slightly shaky.
As she mustered the strength to rise from her seated position, Arianna was taken aback by Xander's abrupt intervention.
"No... wait!" he exclaimed, but before she could protest further, Xander scooped her up into his arms, effortlessly carrying her out of the room.
Arianna's heart raced with a mixture of disbelief and gratitude as she gazed up at Xander. His unexpected gesture left her speechless, her eyes wide with astonishment.
For a fleeting moment, Arianna wondered if she was caught in a dream, but the overwhelming reality of the situation quickly dispelled any lingering doubts. In the past two years, she had scarcely dared to imagine such a turn of events.
Xander carried her out of the detention room with a determined stride, his gaze fixed ahead as he navigated through the bustling police station hall. Arianna couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and apprehension as she clung to him, her heart pounding with each step they took.
As they approached the exit, Arianna couldn't shake the nagging worry that they might be spotted by onlookers or photographers. The last thing she needed was to become the subject of gossip in the media, especially given the delicate nature of her relationship with Xander.
Their marriage was nothing more than a facade. Any unwanted attention from the public could spell disaster, not only for Arianna but also for the esteemed King family.
Next, Arianna quickly said, “Xander, I can walk on my own. Put me down.”
Xander glanced at her, a hint of dissatisfaction flashing through his eyes. Despite her request, he said nothing and showed no sign of letting her go. Instead, he continued walking with determined strides.
Arianna felt a surge of annoyance; she truly couldn't understand his stubbornness.
As they drew nearer to the bustling crowd, Arianna felt a sense of unease wash over her. She knew there was no way to escape from Xander's embrace, so she made a decision. With a resigned sigh, she wrapped her arms around his neck, seeking solace in his presence. Her head nestled against his chest, shielding her face from prying eyes and ensuring her anonymity.
Xander couldn't help but be taken aback by Arianna's actions. The way she retreated into his arms, displaying her vulnerability, touched him in a way he hadn't expected. It was in that moment that he realized just how endearing she truly was.
A smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he observed her. Without a word, he tightened his grip around her, feeling a sense of protectiveness he hadn't anticipated. Then, with renewed determination, he strode out the door, his steps confident and purposeful.
As they moved, onlookers couldn’t help but notice the commanding presence of Xander King carrying a woman so tenderly. The sight was enough to make people whisper among themselves, but Xander paid no heed. His focus was solely on getting Arianna to safety.
The car was waiting just outside, and Xander carefully navigated through the crowd, making sure to shield her from prying eyes. Finally, he reached the car and gently placed her inside, ensuring she was comfortable before sliding in beside her. The door shut with a definitive thud, sealing them off from the curious gazes outside.
"Let's get you home," Xander said, his voice soft but firm, as the car sped away from the police station.
Piper and Violet had been shopping the whole afternoon, and Violet had bought many new clothes and bags for Piper.
As Piper was in an excellent mood, she wanted to open a bottle of red wine that night and enjoy it with her mother.
However, just as they reached home, Violet received a call from the police station. They informed her that Arianna’s case was dropped, and it was all just a misunderstanding. Since she was not a thief, they let her go!
Violet was stunned, and she asked the person to repeat what he said.
"W-what did you just say?"
Piper pressed the phone closer to her ear, her breath quickening as the person repeated their words.
"How is that even possible? Who could have that kind of influence to resolve Arianna's situation so quickly?"
Violet's voice remained steady amidst the chaos. After a moment of contemplation, she posed the critical question,
"Who helped her to get out?"
The voice on the other end hesitated before responding, "I don't know who he is, but I overheard it was Arianna's husband who personally intervened."
"Husband?" Piper's disbelief echoed through the receiver, her tone rising with incredulity.
"Arianna is married? Since when? And who on earth is her husband?"
