On their way back to the castle, Belle sighed repeatedly, her thoughts clearly elsewhere. Eventually, Hezekiah could no longer ignore it.
"Does his presence affect you that much?" He asked, his voice breaking through her thoughts. Belle jumped, startled by the sudden inquiry.
"Why would you say that?" She responded, quickly straightening her face.
"You have been distracted since we left," he pointed out. "Are you sure you are okay?"
Belle muttered a quiet "Oh," realizing her mistake. Taking a deep breath, she finally spoke.
"I just can't understand why he keeps doing this to himself. I thought he truly loved Sofia back then, but now it just feels like he enjoys toying with women."
"So, you are concerned about him?" Hezekiah asked.