Chapter 28: May I kiss you, Belle?

The silent stare between them lingered for a long moment before Quinn finally broke it, stepping closer until their faces were mere inches apart. 

He gently placed his left hand on her neck, drawing her nearer. His gaze lingered on her lips before meeting her eyes once more. 

"Getting you intoxicated was intentional. Now, I have the opportunity to kiss you. Don't you think it's fitting?" He murmured softly. Belle, half-drunk and struggling to steady herself, absently rested her hand on his face and smiled. "You are quite handsome," she said dreamily. 

"I am well aware," Quinn responded with a smirk. 

"May I kiss you, Belle?" He asked, his voice low as their lips hovered close. He could no longer resist her allure, she was as captivating as the day he had first met her. He knew denial would serve no purpose. 

Belle smiled faintly and nodded, her restraint slipping under the influence of her unspoken desires.