Chapter 69

Chapter 69
Isolde

"Is that so?" Evelyn asked, her tone casual though her gaze had sharpened with interest. "How fascinating."

"Simply good medicine," I demurred, not wanting to delve into questions about my possible heritage at the dinner table.

"The Stones have always been overreliant on empirical data," commented Gregory Hawke, Dorian's uncle, from further down the table. His tone held barely disguised contempt. "I'm surprised they allowed an outsider such access to their patients."

"Dr. Beck is hardly an outsider," Aiden responded coolly. "She is a physician of considerable skill who put the welfare of our pack members above politics. Something we could all learn from."

Gregory's eyes narrowed. "And yet she remains human, with no understanding of our ways or history. No offense intended, Lady Isolde," he added with a smile that didn't reach his eyes.

"She understands more than you might think, Uncle," Dorian interjected, his voice carrying a subtle warning. "And as my wife, she deserves your respect."

"Elissa was just telling me about some Stone territory traditions," I said quickly, trying to diffuse the tension. "The summer solstice celebration sounds particularly beautiful."

"Oh, it is!" Elissa seized the conversational lifeline gratefully. "We light hundreds of lanterns and set them floating on the lake. The reflection makes it look like the stars have fallen to earth."

Gregory snorted. "Typical Stone frivolity. While you're playing with pretty lights, the Hawkes are training our young to defend themselves."

"Actually," Elissa countered, her cheerful tone taking on an edge, "the ceremony dates back to the First Pack and honors the warriors who died defending our territories during the Great Hunt. But I wouldn't expect everyone to appreciate the historical significance."

I hid my smile behind my wine glass, appreciating her subtle return of Gregory's condescension.

"Speaking of defense," Dorian interjected smoothly, "Aiden's tactical assessment of the contamination sites was invaluable to our investigation."

Aiden inclined his head in acknowledgment. "The Hawke team's rapid response prevented what could have been a far more widespread crisis. Cooperation between our packs served everyone well."

I felt Dorian's hand find mine under the table, squeezing gently in silent support. The gesture warmed me more than I expected, reminding me of the connection we'd begun to rebuild in Stone territory.

"Indeed," Evelyn agreed, seamlessly steering the conversation toward safer topics. "Now, who would like to hear about the renovations we're planning for the east conservatory? I've been considering a winter garden with species that thrive during the full moon..."

As the dinner continued, I found myself increasingly aware of the complex dynamics at play—not just between Hawke and Stone, but within the Hawke family itself. Some members, like Gregory, clearly viewed my presence with suspicion or disdain. Others seemed genuinely curious, even welcoming.

Through it all, Dorian remained a steady presence beside me, his occasional touches and glances reassuring. Whatever challenges lay ahead, at least I wouldn't face them alone.

After dessert—an exquisite dark chocolate soufflé that even had Aiden offering rare praise—Evelyn suggested we retire to the drawing room for coffee. As we rose from the table, Elissa immediately linked her arm through mine.

"Isolde, I have so much gossip to tell you! You absolutely must hear about the ridiculous things Dorian did when he was younger. There was this one time at the inter-pack council meeting..."

Dorian frowned. "Elissa, Isolde needs to rest. It's been a long day."

"I didn't hear that," Elissa replied cheerfully, pretending not to notice his disapproval. "We can have tea in your room! Girls' night—no boys allowed!"

"Elissa," Dorian tried again, his tone strained, "the library has several new volumes on ancient magic that arrived while we were away. Weren't you interested in researching lunar rituals?"

"That can wait until tomorrow," she declared with a mischievous grin. "Isolde is mine tonight!"

Dorian shot me a helpless look, and I couldn't help but laugh at his predicament, caught between Elissa's enthusiasm and his own transparent desire to keep me to himself.

Just as I was about to give in to Elissa's demand for "girls' night," I felt a subtle pressure against my waist. Dorian had discreetly pinched my side, his desperate plea for help now physical as well as visual.

"Actually, Elissa," I began, coming to Dorian's rescue despite my amusement, "Dorian and I had planned to review some medical notes from the Stone territory cases." I offered an apologetic smile.

Elissa's face fell momentarily before I felt another subtle pinch at my waist. I had to resist the urge to elbow Dorian in the ribs. Instead, inspiration struck.

"Elissa, I just remembered—I have some new skincare products from the human world that are supposed to be particularly good for werewolf skin."

Her eyes immediately lit up with excitement. "Really? Where are they?"

"In my room, but..." I glanced at Dorian, who was doing his best to hide his relief. "I promised to go over those files with Dorian first. If you want to wait in my room, I can join you in about ten minutes."

Elissa looked between us suspiciously, her green eyes narrowing. "You two aren't just trying to sneak off for some alone time, are you?"

Before either of us could respond, a cool voice interrupted.

"Little sister," Aiden said, appearing seemingly from nowhere. "I believe you promised to help me organize the files we brought from Stone territory."

Elissa's face crumpled in dismay. "Brother! I can help you tomorrow!"

Aiden's expression remained mild, but his tone held unmistakable authority. "Now would be better. Unless, of course, you'd prefer Father to learn about your little 'mishap' during the last border patrol?"

I watched with fascination as Elissa's expression transformed from rebellion to resignation in seconds.

"Fine, fine!" She turned to me with a dramatic sigh. "Isolde, I'll find you at breakfast tomorrow! Don't try to escape!" As she followed her brother from the room, she made an exaggerated 'I'm watching you' gesture at Dorian.

Once they were out of earshot, Dorian exhaled deeply. "And that," he said, his voice low enough that only I could hear, "is why I say the Stone family gives me headaches."

"I think she's sweet," I replied, surprised to find I meant it. "Like an enthusiastic little sister."

Dorian's expression softened. "Thank you for understanding." His hand found mine as he suggested, "Now... I'd like to show you something."