*Isadora* As we enter the big mansion, the scent of evergreen hangs heavy in the air, no doubt because of all the boughs and garlands that decorate the wide sweeping stairway. "The Alpha and Luna are in the parlor". A servant in a fancy uniform announces as he takes Micah and my coats. When Micah offers his arm, I do not hesitate to take it before we make our way to the huge room just off the marbled foyer. Once we enter, we stop and simply absorb it all. Sprigs of evergreen decorate various tables, garlands drape the mantelpiece. At the far end, on a small table, a fir tree is standing. Throughout the room, people are gathered in little groups talking. His family. Some are holding babies, jostling them in their arms. While I had known how many people to expect, it is a bit overwhelmin

