As they walked, Belle could not help but ponder how Christabel's tale had ended. Now that she had acquired the bracelet, she longed to ask, yet the opportunity had not arisen. She did not want to impose on her but she couldn't keep her curiosity in check either.
Lost in thought, she failed to notice a loose carriage rushing toward her. Cries rang out around her, urging her to move, yet she remained oblivious to their warnings.
"Belle!"
His voice cut through her thoughts, and she snapped her head up, frowning as she saw Quinn rushing toward her, his face taut with urgency. Turning away, she spotted the carriage but it was too late. A sharp gasp escaped her lips as she braced herself for the impact, shrinking back instinctively, only to be wrenched aside.