Chapter 100: Will go to war
Belle allowed the maids to tend to her, choosing not to resist. Dismissing them would only burden Maddie, who oversaw the women of the castle. Though the idea of personal attendants unsettled her, having only ever had Mia as her maid back at the Duke’s estate—she decided to endure it for Maddie’s sake.
Once dressed, she made her way toward the dining hall, her maids trailing closely behind.
As she neared the entrance, a maid came rushing toward her, breathless by the time she reached her side.
"Your Grace, your presence is requested in the side hall," the maid relayed, causing Belle’s brows to furrow.
The side hall?
Could it be Hezekiah? But if he wished to speak with her, why not summon her to his chambers or the garden?
"What is this about?" She asked, watching as the maid hesitated, shifting her fingers anxiously.
Belle’s frown deepened. So, it isn’t Hezekiah? The only other possibility was the twelve elders.
"Very well, you may go," she instructed, choosing not to press further. The maid bowed quickly and hurried off.
As Belle made her way toward the side hall, her thoughts raced.
If the twelve elders were against her, it likely had something to do with her father. And if Hezekiah had truly resolved to marry her, going so far as to fabricate a pregnancy, there was bound to be conflict. How could she prevent both sides from having a conflict?