Chapter 10: I want you to marry me, Your Majesty
Since Belle regained consciousness, she had remained silent, her gaze fixed upon the window, lost in thought from the moment the sun set until it rose again. The mansion seemed to return to its usual rhythm, as though the near tragedy had never occurred. What was more, Quinn had yet to apologize for his wrongs and had not come to check on her since that day.
Though Mia was frustrated by Quinn’s neglect, she took some solace in the fact that Belle was left undisturbed, allowed to do as she pleased in her isolation.
Mia tried numerous ways to lift Belle’s spirits, but none of her attempts succeeded. Eventually, she resigned herself to giving Belle the space she needed, hoping that when the time was right, Belle would be ready to speak.
*Knock knock* As Mia tended to Belle’s medications, a knock at the door broke the silence. Mia left Belle’s side to answer it.
"Your Grace!" Mia exclaimed, surprised to find him standing before Belle’s room. It had been days since he had shown any interest in her well-being, yet now he appeared to be dressed as though he were preparing for an outing.
"Is she awake?" He inquired, surprisingly polite, though his tone remained detached.
"Yes, come in," Mia responded, stepping aside to allow him entry.
Belle, however, remained by the window, not sparing him even a glance. Quinn felt his irritation rise, but he was not in the mood for confrontation, so he simply said, "I am leaving for the Castle with Sofia. The King wishes to see you, but you need not come if you do not wish to. I merely came to inform you."
With that, he made for the door, but his progress was halted when he heard Belle’s calm voice say, "I am going with you."