Veronica: Ugh, I'm so stiff...
I'd gotten so caught up in reading the books Sariel had left for me that I'd lost track of time, and I rubbed my aching shoulders as I walked. (Now I just hope I don't get too lost on my way to dinner...) I glanced around, trying to get all my bearings, and then I heard light footsteps coming down some stairs up ahead of me.
Nokto: Good morning, Belle.
(Nokto...) I studied him cautiously, remembering how flippant and flirtatious he'd been the last time we'd met. His smile was as sly as a fox, and he met my gaze directly, something challenges in his eyes. There was a saunter to his step as he approached me, and the white coat hanging loosely from his shoulders swirled around him like a cape.
Nokto: Are you searching for a prince already?
(I'm not sure I like the way you phrased that)
Veronica: No, I'm not. I already asked Sariel to arrange things so that I've got time to talk to everyone.
Nokto: You've made plans already? You move fast, I see. So what exactly did you beg the devil to arrange for you?
Veronica: I didn't beg him for anything, so stop twisting my words. I just asked him to let me dine with you all.
Nokto: Starting from tonight?
Veronica: Well, yes.
Nokto: Hmm.
Nokto's gaze travelled slowly down, taking in every part of me, and I felt oddly vulnerable, especially when he smirked suddenly.
Nokto: You're planning to dine with us, dressed like that? You must be joking, right?
Veronica: Why? Do I look that weird to you?
Nokto: I never said that. But you do look... well, don't worry, I can fix things.
The smile on his lips made me instantly suspicious, and as he leaned towards me, I took a step back.
Veronica: What?
Nokto: You're not a bad looker, you know. You should take a little more care of yourself.
Veronica: Excuse me?
Nokto: If you want people to notice you-to listen to you-you need to pay attention to your appearance. Trust me... it'll make all the difference.
YOU ARE READING
Beauty and her Beast (Nokto)
General FictionYou've been selected as "Belle" to choose the next king out of the eight princes. If that wasn't hard enough, the princes turn out to be hot...and deadly. In a world of war and intrigue, will you be able to save his heart and yours as you enter your...
