Chapter 103: Believe in you
Leaving the hall, Belle made her way to the garden in search of her father. She found him waiting, standing amidst the flowers as if he were a man of peace. She halted for a moment, silently observing the one who had made her childhood a living hell.
To the unknowing eye, he might appear gentle, even approachable, but she knew better. He was no father, he was a demon in a werewolf’s skin.
With a resolute expression, she stepped forward, stopping beside him.
"Your Grace... or should I simply call you Belle?" He said, acknowledging her presence with that same devilish smirk she had always despised. The very look that had once terrified her whenever he drew near.
She would never forget the horrors this man had subjected her to, nor how he had made her mother suffer. She could not fathom how one such as he could exist. And yet, no matter how deep her hatred ran, she was bound to him by blood.
"What is it you wish to say? I have no time for idle chatter." Her tone was void of warmth. She wished to be rid of him as soon as possible.
"Do not be so cold, child. Whether you like it or not, I am still your father."
"A truth I would erase if only I could," she retorted, her voice sharp as a blade.
Clifford chuckled and stepped toward her, prompting Belle to raise her guard. If he dared any foolish move, she would not hesitate to act.
"How did you manage to seduce the King?" He inquired, his voice dripping with disdain. "Tell me, perhaps your useless stepsisters might learn from you."
Disgust churned in Belle’s stomach. She had always thought he favored his other daughters over her, but now it was clear, he cared only for wealth and himself.