Chapter 12: If your husband permits it
Quinn, unable to suppress his growing suspicion, cast a piercing look at the pair. His intense gaze caused Belle to swallow nervously. This was not the moment to provoke him, the divorce papers she so desperately needed would remain out of reach if she did. She had to act quickly before the situation worsened.
"What else could we possibly be discussing, save for you?" She replied, her tone calm but sharp. Then, as though shifting focus, she inquired, "Were you not able to get another gown for her?" Her gaze moved toward Sofia, who remained in the ruined dress.
Belle’s thoughts raced. Had the guard Hezekiah sent to delay them failed in his task? Why had Quinn and Sofia returned so swiftly? Or had Quinn grown suspicious?
"The guard who was meant to escort us was suddenly called away," Sofia answered before Quinn could. Her tone was light, almost dismissive, as she offered a smile in Belle’s direction. "So I told him not to trouble himself. I managed perfectly well." And added.
Belle stiffened at Sofia’s sudden friendliness. Sofia had never so much as acknowledged her existence before now. What has changed? The last time they crossed paths, Sofia hadn’t spared her a glance. Yet here she was, smiling as though they were acquaintances.
"Oh, I see," Belle replied, forcing an apologetic smile. "My apologies once again for the inconvenience." With that, she quickly moved to take her seat, hoping to clear the tension.
Quinn’s gaze lingered on her for a moment longer before he, too, took his seat. Yet unease gnawed at him. Something felt amiss. The way Hezekiah and Belle had been standing, their expressions taut with purpose, suggested a conversation of grave significance. It troubled him.
While Quinn trusted Hezekiah, he could not shake the feeling that some scheme was being hatched, one that he would undoubtedly disapprove of.
"So, Sofia," Hezekiah said suddenly, his voice cutting through the charged silence. "Pray, tell us, how was your experience at the border with that stoic fellow?" His question was accompanied by a faint smile, an effort to lighten the mood and redirect attention.