Chapter 8

“Are you sure she doesn’t know?” asked Hector, leaning against a counter with his arms crossed. She ducked back out of sight, afraid of being spotted. This was the perfect opportunity to get some insight into their private relationship.

“Positive,” Julie replied. Something bubbled on the stove, its delicious perfume wafting through the house. “Our secret is safe.”

“For now. Belle’s a brilliant woman. She’ll figure it out. Though I give you props for trying to pull this off.”

A sigh from Julie, followed by the ringing of plates being gathered. “Soon enough, yes, until then, just keep your mouth shut. I need this. I need you.”

“I hate lying to her.”

“I know. Me too.”

Belle decided she’d heard enough, peering around the corner again to see the two of them occupied, Julie at the stove and Hector setting the table in the adjoining dining room. She crept by, waiting until she was halfway up the stairs before making noise.

“Belle?” Julie called.