We don't talk about it

Ailwin always felt awkward hugging, but Maeve was a dear friend so he wasn’t going to deny her either. He was never quite sure where to put his hands. They usually ended up on either side of a person’s arms versus a full around the back embrace. Once they were seated again he chuckled at her comment about her name.

Well, you’re an independent woman who married for love, not status. Honestly you’re a credit to the institution. Keeping your maiden name is a giant fuck you to more archaic practises of the institution and the busy bodies that like to gossip about you. He said with a grin. Personally he never could have married a human, let alone a noble, but then the heart wants what the heart wants. Moving on to the gossip.

Actually I’ve heard some things that may interest you. Specifically about your father. Apparently he’s fallen on hard times. Some say gambling, some say he made some poor investments. He also has another kid on the way and rumour is it’s with an elf. No surprise there really.