Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 304. Fair Trade V
Lady Belle nodded reluctantly, her gaze fixated on the bracelet now resting in Angel's hand. She couldn't tear her eyes away from it.
Angel noticed her lingering gaze and, without a word, slipped the bracelet into his blazer, hiding it from sight. The gesture felt final, and a hollow ache settled in her chest. She had wanted to protest, to ask more about why he was so interested in it, but she knew better. She had to maintain her composure, to show that she believed his interest in the bracelet was purely coincidental and this was the king's request. His first personal request from her.
Lady Belle knew she couldn't possibly refuse out of respect and loyalty. Angel was not just her sovereign but also the man she had secretly loved for so long. Still, a feeling gnawed at her, a persistent unease that she couldn't shake. The bracelet had been hers, a symbol of her own hopes and dreams, and now it was gone.
She looked at Angel, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. "Are you going to give that to your wife, Your Majesty?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
The thought of something that had belonged to her being used by Rose irritated her deeply. It wasn't just jealousy; it was the notion that this bracelet, which she believed held a special charm, might now bind Angel even closer to someone else. If it really was a love charm, would it make Angel love Rose even more? The idea was unbearable.
Angel couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. It was hard for him to hold it in, given the tension that had settled between them. "No," he said firmly, his voice carrying a reassuring tone. "I don't think I would give a gift from one woman to another woman."
Lady Belle's shoulders relaxed slightly, though the unease still lingered. His laughter had momentarily lightened the atmosphere, but the underlying issues remained. Angel's words, however, provided some comfort. Despite not having romantic feelings for Lady Belle, he respected her and understood the basic courtesies that should be observed. He also knew the importance of maintaining decorum in the castle; he had no desire to fuel rumors that could disrupt the delicate balance of his court.
He observed her carefully, noting the mix of emotions playing across her face. There was relief, yes, but also lingering sadness and perhaps a bit of distrust. He wanted to explain further, to alleviate her concerns, but he knew that any additional attention might only complicate matters. Even as he stood there, he could feel the weight of potential gossip pressing in on him. This single act, requesting the bracelet, would likely be enough to stir whispers among the courtiers.
Lady Belle nodded, her lips pressing into a thin line as she tried to keep her emotions in check. "I see," she said, her voice softer now. "I'm glad to hear that, Your Majesty."
A wave of relief washed over her. At least Angel wasn't planning to give the bracelet to Rose. But the question remained: if he wasn't going to give it to his wife, what did he want it for? It was a woman's bracelet, and she knew Angel had never shown any interest in jewelry. The contradiction puzzled her, and she couldn't help but let her mind wander to the possible reasons behind his request.
Her eyes lingered on Angel, studying his face for any clues. She felt a blush beginning to creep up her cheeks, and she quickly looked down, hoping he hadn't noticed. The idea that he might have asked for the bracelet as a memento made her heart race. Could it be possible that he had feelings for her, after all? The notion seemed too good to be true, but it was hard to dismiss entirely.
Angel noticed the way Lady Belle's gaze lingered on him, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. It was clear to him that she was trying to decipher his intentions, torn between hope and uncertainty. He understood that his actions could be misinterpreted, that his interest in the bracelet might lead her to believe he was opening his heart to her. It was a delicate situation, and he knew he had to tread carefully.
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