Page 72

"Okay, let's try," Belle says more firmly. "Let's see what dating looks like. But I have conditions."

"Name them," I say immediately.

"I stay in my own apartment for now. I keep my job and my independence. And we take this slowly with no pressure for physical intimacy beyond what I'm comfortable with."

"Agreed," Theo says without hesitation.

"And I want honesty," Belle continues. "Complete honesty about everything. If this is going to work, it has to be built on truth."

"Anything else?" I ask.

"If I say stop, if I decide this isn't working, you respect that decision. No arguments, no attempts to change my mind, no making me feel guilty for choosing differently."

"Belle," Felix says gently, "we would never try to force you to stay if you wanted to leave. The only relationship we want with you is one where you choose to be with us every single day."

She studies our faces, searching for deception or hidden agendas. Whatever she sees seems to satisfy her, because her scent shifts toward something warmer and more trusting.

"Then yes," she says. "Let's see what happens."

The relief that floods through me is so intense it's almost overwhelming. I want to pull her into my arms, kiss her until she's breathless, claim her in every way possible. But I can see the fragile hope in her expression, the way she's still holding herself carefully, ready to run if we push too hard too fast.

"Thank you," I say instead, putting all my gratitude and relief into the words. "Thank you for giving us a chance."

"Don't thank me yet," Belle says with a weak smile. "You might regret it when you realize how much I actually talk about library science."

"Never," Felix says fervently. "We want to hear every thought in your head, every story you want to tell, every passionate speech about literacy programs and community welfare."

"You say that now," Belle says, but she's smiling more genuinely. "Wait until I start explaining the intricacies of the Dewey Decimal System."

“We’re looking forward to it," Theo says, and the sincerity in his voice makes Belle's breath catch.

The sound of sirens is getting closer now, and I realize we should probably get back to the palace to check on the other guests and assess any damage. The staff will be doing headcounts, making sure everyone is accounted for.

"We should head back," I say reluctantly. "Make sure everyone's okay, help with cleanup if needed."

Belle nods, though I can see her reluctance to leave this intimate space where we've made such progress. "What about my dress? I still look like I've been through a war."

"You look beautiful," Felix says immediately. "Rumpled and champagne-stained and absolutely beautiful."

"Besides," Theo adds, standing and offering Belle his hand, "I suspect most of the other guests won't be in much better shape after hiding from a tornado."

Belle takes Theo's hand and allows him to help her to her feet. The simple gesture sends a jolt of satisfaction through me—she's starting to trust us, starting to accept our help and protection.

We make our way back up the concrete steps and into the storm-washed night. The air smells clean and fresh, washed by rain and wind, and the temperature has dropped enough to be genuinely comfortable. But as we walk back toward the palace, it becomes clear that the storm has left its mark.

Tree branches litter the carefully manicured paths, and several of the garden's ornamental structures have been damaged or destroyed entirely. The outdoor lighting system is partially down, leaving sections of the grounds in darkness. But the palace itself appears to have weathered the storm well, itssolid construction and strategic design protecting it from the worst of the wind damage.

The main entrance is bustling with activity when we arrive. Staff members are coordinating cleanup efforts and checking on guests, while several emergency vehicles are parked in the circular drive. The atmosphere is one of controlled chaos rather than panic—everyone working together to address the situation efficiently.

"Thank God," someone calls out as we approach. "We were worried about anyone who might have been caught outside."

A staff member with a clipboard hurries over to us, relief evident in her expression. "Are you all alright? We've been doing headcounts, trying to make sure everyone made it to safety."

"We're fine," I assure her. "Found shelter in the old bunker. How is everyone else?"

"A few minor injuries from people who panicked during the evacuation, but nothing serious. Most of the guests have already left, because their drivers came to collect them as soon as the all-clear was given."

Belle's scent spikes with sudden worry. "What about Adam Chen? He was here with a woman named Seraphina."