Page 7 of Clashing With The Grumpy Wolf

"You're missing out." He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "Being tamed isn't half-bad."

"I'll take your word for it." I flip open the file on the security detail about the wedding.

“We’re already preparing for a sizeable crowd wanting a peek at the next Draak matriarch.”

I pause for a moment, wondering if now is the right time to bring this up. Then I decide now is as good a time as any.

“Should I be worried about people looking for Kraxon as well?”

Percy’s natural, warm smile stiffens and his eyes lose a bit of their softness. The scent of smoke coming from him increases subtly, enough to tell me I’m right to bring up the issue.

"You’ve heard?"

I study Percy more carefully. His posture remains relaxed, but there's tension around his eyes and his heartbeat has picked up a fraction.

"Not directly. There are rumors, of course. Some scandal with an elven royal client?" I keep my tone neutral, watching for reactions. "Should I be concerned about any impact on the wedding security?"

Percy's scent shifts again, the ashy undertone growing stronger.

"He's keeping a low profile. Trying to avoid fueling the press. You know how it is. Guilt by association. But so far, the clan thinks we can keep the disruption to a minimum. I’ll let you know if things change."

His heartbeat quickens almost imperceptibly. The smile on his face tightens at the corners.

"I understand discretion," I say carefully. "My team will handle everything professionally."

Relief visibly washes over him. His scent warms again as he squeezes my shoulder in gratitude. "I knew I could count on you."

I've known Percy long enough to recognize when he's not telling me everything, but I also know when not to push. Whatever's going on with his brother, Percy will share when he's ready. Or when he needs to.

One way or another, a wolf knows better than to intrude on a dragon’s business.

"The town’s aspect of the security measures are all covered," I assure him. "We'll coordinate with your private dragon security for the ceremony itself."

“Perfect. I should get back before Seraphina sends out a search party.” Percy stands, his smile genuine once more. "Or worse, comes looking herself."

He moves toward the door but pauses with his hand on the knob.

"By the way, have you met the wedding planner yet? Julia?"

"No," I reply, returning to my maps. "Been focused on perimeter security rather than the event itself. I'm meeting with her this afternoon to go over the sequence of events."

A smile spreads across Percy's face that immediately puts me on guard.

"She's certainly something. Organized as hell. Impressive for a human."

I offer a noncommittal grunt, but Percy doesn't take the hint.

"Actually, I think you'd like her," he continues. "Doesn't take nonsense from anyone. Reminded me of you, actually."

Then Idon’tsuppress my growl.

"I don't need another matchmaker," I retort. "My mother is more than enough."

Percy raises his hands in surrender, but the amused gleam in his eyes remains.

"Just making conversation. See you at the walk-through tomorrow."

After he leaves, I stare at the door for long moments. Just what I need, Percy joining my mother's campaign to get me mated off.