First love

"You know," Hezekiah's voice broke the silence as he appeared beside her, making Belle turn her head sharply in his direction.

"Why didn't you tell me before? Is this the selfishness you speak of?" She asked, her tone edged with a mix of curiosity and frustration.

"Yes," he replied bluntly. 

Belle scoffed, swallowing hard as she processed his response. After a brief moment of silence, she stepped closer to him and, with quiet resolve, said, "I will give you a chance. Try to win my heart. I am yours now."

Hezekiah froze, his expression stiffening as her words sank in. His arms dropped to his sides, and he moved closer, his eyes wide with disbelief. He needed to confirm that he wasn't imagining things. 

"What did you just say?" He asked, his voice laced with shock.

"I said I will give you the chance. I have got nothing to lose anyway," she repeated softly.