Chapter 46: Nathaniel’s Unexpected Intervention

Margaret Hawthorne chose her moment with surgical precision.

It came during the lull between courses, when conversation loosened and attention drifted just enough to allow cruelty to pass as observation. Catherine stood near the edge of the room, posture rigid, smile faintly strained, Henry pressed against her side like an anchor.

Margaret approached wearing concern rather than intent.

“My dear,” she said, her voice pitched for surrounding ears, “you look tired. These evenings can be demanding