Steel Rose

Chapter 17 part 2

Belle Pov

   I stand waiting outside the thick wooden doors. I tilt my ear towards the door slightly, but the best that I hear are quiet mumbles. I can't distinguish Ptolemus' voice from his father's no matter how hard I strain to do so. I bit my lip, as ideas of what Ptolemus could be saying race across my mind.

   The door opens and I quickly step away from the door. Ptolemus slightly steps out, looking down at me. "Come in," he takes my hand leading my inside. My stomach twist and tightens, as he closes the door behind us. 

   I spot Lord Samos quickly, sitting behind a metal desk, everything arranged neatly. He sits very stiff, his eyes watching my every move, making my skin tingle, and I hold in a shiver. His house colors hang with pride behind him, blocking most of the light, giving the room more of a night feel. He wears his daunting black clothing. I see Ptolemus in him, although I suppose it should be the other way around. The strong bones, broad shoulders, thin nose, and the original silver hair. Only Volo has a beard, unlike Ptolemus who shaves. 

   He saves me the terror of saying the first words, "You must be Lady Isabelle," he says as Ptolemus leads me closer. His voice is low, and nearly dark. 

   "Yes, my lord." I answer feeling awkward. 

   He hums to himself, looking me over and he sits up. He gestures to the chairs in front of him. I take the seat and Ptolemus keeps standing behind me, one hand on my shoulder. Volo notices of course, his eyes ticking to his son's hand. 

   "Ptolemus tells me you and I have a few things in common."

   I'm surprised at that. But I can't help but muster a small smile. I glance up at Ptolemus and he shifts in embarrassment. "How so?" I ask.

   Volo cocks his head to the side. "I hear you're quite smart. Unique, if you want."

   "And this makes us similar?" I bit my tongue wanting to wince at myself. Ptolemus's finger twitches.

   Instead of the reaction I expect Volo sits up placing his hands on the desk. "I suppose it does."

   Feeling more at ease then ever I let my breathing relax. Ptolemus feels it too and sits beside me. "Quick as ever," he mumbles.

   "Tell me, how long have you been seeing my son excatly?"

   I let my braid fall off my shoulder exposing my other shoulder. "Close to three months. We met the night before Queenstrial." I smile at the thought. "I must say, Ptolemus made quiet an impression."

   Ptolemus chuckles. "Couldn't have. You forgot my name the next day."

   Volo's eyes widen. "Really?" he keeps his voice low and he looks at me intensely. For a moment I remember whom I conversation with a let my smile fall. Volo changes the topic quickly. "I presume you've met Evangeline?"

   I shake my head slightly. "No, not personally."

   "I thought it would be better if Belle met you first." Ptolemus says.

   Volo nods his eyes dropping. "Yes, well you know your sister. I would suggest you do it soon."

   Ptolemus nods, "Of course."

   "You staying for dinner, Ms. Nornus?" 

   I look at Ptolemus. He looks at me, raising an eyebrow. Up to me. I don't take too long to ponder it. "Of course."

   I sit between Ptolemus and Lucas. Ptolemus sits on the right of his father at the head of the table. Evangeline sits on the left. She glares at me from under her eyelashes, her lips twisting to the side in disapproval or a sneer I can't tell. Probably both.