Hey y'all! I'm sorry that this took so long! My friend, the writer of this gorgeous story, has been EXTREMELY busy lately and hasn't had much time to write, so yes, it's short (like me) but it's there! Please forgive her! - Red
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Adam felt his heart break as he saw the horror and disappointment in Belle's eyes. Of course he expected it, but it hurt all the same. Aproxima was taken to a holding cell for interrogation and everyone left for them to be alone, which was frankly the last thing she wanted. Her mind felt like it was being torn apart wondering if she should slap him for needing to be this way again or kiss him for being so brave. Neither moved, frozen in place, as Belle uttered the word he dreaded leaving her mouth, "Why?"

His large shoulders slumped and he could not meet her gaze, "To protect you."

"Adam, I don't need protection! They are my family, I would die for them!"

"And I can't let that happen!" The last word coming out as more of a roar than her would have liked. "I'm sorry Belle, but I can't lose you...not again..." Belle's heart sank at the memory of her having to leave a month ago, tears forming at the thought, "And I'm sorry if you'd not wish to marry me in this state-"

At this she ran over and threw herself in his arms, "No! Don't ever think that! Of course I want to marry you!" She then held his head still as she looked into his eyes, more serious then she's ever been, "Man or Beast, you are my true love, and I would take you anyway I can have you. Because I would rather have a Beast who loves me for who I am, than a Prince who doesn't." She kissed his cheek and Adam felt relief pour into him in waves. She pulled away, "Besides, I fell in love with you this way. It's just going to take some getting used to again."

Adam pulled her close, "What did I ever do to deserve you?" In answer she pulled him down for a kiss and all was right in the world... for the moment anyway.

-

Belle wandered the halls of the East Wing, her mind in turmoil. 'All I want is to get married, is that to much to ask?' Was the question that circles her brain day and night. Her thoughts came to a halt as she heard music coming from Kate's room and she followed it, thinking some time with her best friend would do her good. As she got closer she could tell the song was 'I'm Already There (with messages from home) by Lonestar; one of Kate's favorites. When she got to her room she hid behind the door at the most adorable sight. Bucky was leaning on Kate's shoulder as they swayed to the music. Belle had no idea what brought this on but guessing by Bucky's tears, it wasn't anything good. Kate's eyes met hers and Belle couldn't help but grin. Kate held a finger to her mouth to shush her. Belle nodded and backed out of the room, their conversation could wait.

-

Later that night everyone gathered in the interrogation room. No matter what they tried Aproxima wouldn't say a thing. Even Wanda could not pry anything from her shielded mind. Then suddenly the door burst open and a woman came through, "Perhaps I can help."

Belle took a long look at her and her eyes went wide, "Agathe?" Belle leaned into Adam's shoulder, just about done with all these surprises.