9:18 AM
The bright morning sun seeps through the now-broken window, casting light on small cracks in the glass. Belle lowers her gaze to her collarbone, noticing the more pronounced bruises than usual. This isn't the first time she has woken up with unexplained bruises, but it's starting to wear on her. She decides to take a shower, hoping it will clear her head. Perhaps it's time to see a doctor or seek some professional help.
As she heard the sound of shattering glass, she couldn't help but wonder how many times the window had been broken. This was the sixth time this year, which indicated that such incidents had become more frequent. However, it wasn't just the window. The bruises on her body and the strange dreams she'd been having lately made her realize that something was wrong. This realization filled her with a sense of determination that she had never felt before. She stepped out of the shower, dressed up, and resolved to figure out what was going on.
11:33 AM
Belle strolled down the street, absorbing the sights and sounds of her neighborhood. She passed by numerous shops, relishing in the busy atmosphere of the city. It was a tranquil morning, and she was grateful to have some time to herself. However, as she walked, she couldn't help but feel apprehensive. Her bruises still nagged her, and she couldn't shake the sensation that there was more to it than just a few mishaps.
KA-TING!
As she drew closer to the bakery, the sound of the bell hanging above the door filled her ears, signaling her arrival. Belle made her way inside and walked over to her usual seat, still lost in thought. The warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped her, making her mouth water with anticipation. She was eager to indulge in breakfast, especially after having so many questions weighing on her mind having so many questions weighing on her mind.
Belle was taken by surprise when Lucian suddenly appeared beside her without her noticing. She gasped and held her chest with her hand as she tried to recover from the shock. "Oh my goodness, you scared me Luci." she exclaimed.
Lucian laughed and apologized, saying that he was only trying to be funny. "I'm sorry Belle, I was just trying to annoy you and it seems like I did but anyway, your usual order?"
Belle smiled and nodded, indicating her approval of the order.
A few minutes passed...
Belle enjoyed the taste of her pancakes and hot chocolate. As she took a bite, she noticed her friend Lucian was looking at her with a worried expression. Belle realized that Lucian had seen the bruises on her collarbone. She felt embarrassed, even though she knew she had done nothing wrong. She tried to ignore it quickly and move on.
"Are those bruises again?" Lucian asked in a deep tone, startling Belle, who then nodded her head in agreement.
"I don't know, Luci. I initially thought it was mosquito bites, but these bruises don't feel itchy. It scares me a bit. Are these allergies perhaps?" Belle replied.
"Could you come closer to me, please? I need to check those bruises" Lucian requested.
Belle felt something stirring within her body as Lucian touched her collarbone with his soft and cold fingers. Each touch sent a wave of pleasure through her body, making her jump a little with her fast heartbeats.
Lucian felt pleased seeing the redness on Belle's face, which only made him more mischievous in teasing her. Although Belle attempted to conceal it, Lucian could not resist pointing it out. He playfully poked his finger at the blush that was spreading across her cheeks, smiling smugly at her reaction.
