Alaric slowly descended the remaining steps before stopping near the couch.
"What happened? I heard you two talking and now you both are… not talking."
The question was direct.
Simple.
But the sharpness underneath it made it clear he already knew the answer wouldn't be pleasant.
Isabelle looked up at him quietly.
For a brief second, guilt crossed her expression before she hid it again. "Nothing important," she said softly. "We were only discussing family matters."
The moment those words left her mouth… Elena looked at Isabelle.
A small look.
That small look itself indicated quietly.
Not for mocking her.
Not being cruel at her.
But unmistakably to make her aware that… You're hiding it again.
The understanding hit Isabelle immediately and somehow that silent acknowledgment from Elena unsettled her more than accusations would have.
Because Elena had seen right through her.
