Chapter 77

Isolde’s POV I might not be the smartest she-wolf in any pack gathering, but I possess one talent few others have—reading people, especially dominant males. Living in a world of Alphas and pack politics has taught me how to navigate the treacherous waters of wolf hierarchy. Darius's silence could mean many things—anger, acquiescence, exhaustion, disinterest. But the way he clenched his jaw and the slightly downcast angle of his eyes told my wolf one thing—he was beyond annoyed. His scent had turned sharp with displeasure, a warning any wolf with sense would heed. I softened my voice and leaned slightly toward him, releasing the calming pheromones my wolf had learned to use well. "I'm sorry if I misspoke, Alpha," I said, using the title deliberately. "I didn’t mean to avoid Lucian’s parents. But I don’t think visiting them right now is a good idea. The anniversary of his passing is approaching, and seeing me might reopen their grief bonds. I don’t want to bring more pain." I reached out