Chapter 30: I hate it
On the other hand, Belle found herself unable to make sense of her emotions. She shouldn’t have been affected by him, yet she was, deeply so. Could it be the bond between them? It was as though she could feel his pain, burning like fire within her. If only there were a way to sever the bond, to make him reject her. Then she wouldn’t have to endure this torment.
It was that foolish connection that left her restless, compelled to ease his suffering. Why else would she feel anything for a man as cruel as him?
"I think I will step out for some air," Belle announced suddenly. Before Mia could stop her, she was already heading toward the arena’s entrance.
Even while battling the bull, Quinn’s focus never strayed far from Belle. He noticed her departure immediately, dissatisfaction clouding his features. Deciding to end the fight quickly, he tackled the bull with a final, decisive move and claimed victory.
Outside the arena, Belle heard the roar of cheers and shouts celebrating his triumph. She smiled faintly, not surprised in the least. Unlike Mia and Aurora, who had bet against him, she had quietly placed a wager in his favor. She could only hope they wouldn’t discover her secret.
Turning to return to her friends, Belle found herself caught in a crowd. The murmurs began immediately, some recognizing her from earlier.
"Aren’t you his woman? He’s looking for you," one person remarked, prompting several uniformed men nearby to take notice and approach her.
"We have been sent to escort you to him, Your Grace," one of them said, bowing politely as they moved closer.
"No! No, you have got the wrong person," Belle protested, her tone firm as she attempted to push her way through. "I need to get back to my friends."