Isla’s Parents Return
The grand hall was alive with music and laughter when a hush fell over the crowd. Isla turned toward the commotion, her silver hair catching the light. Her parents stood at the entrance, dressed in regal finery that gleamed as if they’d stepped out of a forgotten court.
Her mother moved first, her silks trailing elegantly as she approached. “Isla,” she said, her voice trembling with an odd mix of pride and something unspoken. She clasped Isla’s hands tightly, her perfectly manicured nails pressing slightly into her skin. “You’ve grown into such a remarkable Luna.”
“Mother,” Isla replied evenly, pulling her hands back subtly.
Her father followed, raising his goblet high. “To Isla!” he announced, his voice loud enough to command attention. “The pride of our family and the future of Crimson Fang!”
A polite round of applause followed, but Isla’s stomach churned. She forced a smile as her father took a long sip of wine, his eyes glinting with expectation.
Draven appeared at her side, his hand possessive on her lower back. “I wasn’t aware we had guests of such… distinction,” he said, his tone polite but sharp.
Her father grinned broadly. “We couldn’t miss celebrating our daughter’s achievements, now could we?”
Draven inclined his head but didn’t reply. Isla, keeping her composure, exchanged pleasantries with her parents, but her mind raced.
Later, in a quieter corner, she leaned into Draven, her voice low. “They want something,” she murmured.
Draven’s expression darkened. “They won’t get it. Not if it hurts you.”
His amber eyes scanned the room, their sharpness a silent promise. Isla placed a hand on his chest, grounding him. “Let’s not cause a scene. Not tonight.”
As they returned to the table, Micah approached, her sharp gaze falling on the goblet her father had poured for her. “Don’t drink that,” Micah said firmly, gesturing to the goblet. “Even a little alcohol could harm the twins.”
Isla nodded, her trust in Micah unwavering. She set the goblet aside, the weight of her mother’s gaze burning into her back as she walked away.
