Steel Rose

Chapter 21

Ptolemus Pov

   The sun seems to set slower then usual, as I finally find my way back to my residence dragging my feet on the cobblestone walkways, here in Archean. Father and I had traveled to see the city guards today, finding our free time the perfect chance to visit my officers. Spent long hours in meetings on how to find these wretched red rebels, and I hate them even more now due to the fact I feel so tired from just talking about them. How to end them.

   The winds are soft, and I feel the cold cling to my skin. Seeing Belle was out of the question, though I had thought about it all day. I hope her family kept her too busy to notice I hadn't kept my promise. And I hate the feeling as it eats away at my me. Guilt? Maybe. I stop at the front of my residence, staring at the front door. I hesitate to go in. I look further down the walkway, seeing Belle's house colors. I debate, staying in, or going to go see her.

   My choice is made for me when the door opens, and one of my uncles stands there. He is shorter, and thinner. But still built healthy and strong. "Get inside," he scolds walking away and I follow closing the door. "Why were you standing outside the door?" he chuckles picking up the expensive scotch on the table, pouring himself a glass. "Forgot how to use a knob." he adds sipping at it.

   "No," I start. "I was just debating with myself."

   He doesn't even bother to ask what about and points towards the back of the house. "The girl of yours stopped by," he said and my head spins with glee. "Invited her in."

   I'm moving before he can finish his sentence. Down the hallway, no longer tired. She came. I tell myself. On her own. Any person could take that mean that maybe Isabelle feels comfortable with my family. Or I could find her simply sitting awkwardly in a room. No, instead I stop by my cousin's room.  The boy is no older then 7, his father, my uncle who opened the door only moments ago. 

   Belle sits on the floor her legs tucked under her and bright smile on her face. Little Garrett places a foam colored block on top of an already decent looking structure. "I like this one," he says rising on top of his toes. 

   "Me too," Belle nods, picking up another block, placing it on top. Garrett smiles up at her, biting down on his bottom lip, as he drops another block. 

   The scene is so unexpected, yet I feel a smile a rise on my face. Belle tilts her head to the side, letting her curls cover part of her face. She watches Garrett, as she speaks, "Care to join us, Samos?" she glances up at me. I enter the room slowly, and Belle pats the spot next to her. I sit, crossing my legs. She looks at me, "Garrett was kind enough to keep my company," she tells me.

   "Is that so?" I say and Garrett looks up. 

   "Yep," his kid voice giggles. "We built this," he gestures to the structure. "Ms. Belle was sitting all alone, when I asked her to join me." he hands me a block. "You can help Ptolemus." 

   "He has been quite the gentleman," Belle adds, as Garrett goes back to building. She looks at me, her smile fading. 

   I sigh dropping my voice. "I'm sorry, Belle." I start, "Father kept me busy today,"

   "It's fine," she cuts in placing her hand on top of mine, and I lace our fingers together. "My parents kept me busy too. You know, unpacking and stuff," she chuckles lightly. "I only stopped by, to see if you were here. I didn't expect to be invited in."

   "How long have you been here?" I ask.

   She looks away, her lips twisting in thought. "Almost an hour," she admits. "Not very long,"