Are you dressed,he asked.
Yes....
Alarik tirns looking me up and down. He nods.
That will do ,he said.
Thanks. I'll need help zipping it up.
I turn around gathering my hair so it's out of the way.
He steps in so close, his incredible heat waft over me.
But Alarik didn't zip the dress. He didn't move at all. He just stares at Beauty back.
How many times ,he asked.
what?
How many times did they beat you...he asked anger evident in his voice.
I twist my skirt im my hands , all to familiar with what he was looking at, The web of violent scars and fresh purple bruises that cover my back.
I don't even feel that anymore.....i said.
I don't believe that. how many times? tell me?he urge.
I hang my head unable to fight any longer.
Honestly i have lost count,i told him.
My twin brother died when we were seven. Mt parents blamed me for his death. They have taken out their anger on me ever since.
The memory stings. She felt tears falling from. she turn to face Alarik.
But i didn't do it. I didn't have anything to do with my brothers death.
I blacked out when it happened, so i didn't know who killed him. But i know it wasn't me. I....
Suddenly Alarik pulls me into his arms. My breath catches.
I'm sorry...he said.
His words are soft ,but his grips on me is strong and steady. An anchor in a raging sea.
I'm sorry you've only known pain Beauty.
Heat spreads over me as he threads his fingers through my hair, pulling me even close.
when was.... the ....last time some hugged me, I thought.
God, I want to turn away from Alarik.
Beauty tears betray her emotions, she turned away before he could see her.
Forgive me that was impulsive, he said.
No. It's alright. I guess I'm not just used to kind gestures
A bell tolls through the castle. Alarik sighs.
it's time let's get this dinner over with.
I think of Xander unsettling smile as Alarik pulls a suit from his closet.
Is that Xander guy really your friend, Beauty asked.
I have known him since we were young. But we have grown into very diffrent men,he said.
With his back turned, Alarik strips of his clothes. His shoulder blades,as big as battle axes ,glint in the candle lights.
I turn away unexpected heat rising to my cheeks.
When he finishes, he turns to face me.
I'm not sure he believes our story. This dinner may ne a test. Keep your head down at all times. Alright?
I'll be a total saint.Beauty said.
I'll settle for a well behaved servant that stays out of Xander way.he said.
With that Alarik unlocks the door and motions for me to follow him.
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