He heard their plans when they passed the library, his book dipping down as he concentrated on their conversation. Chip's happy chatter and Belle's gentle attempts to curb his growing noise made him shake his head. The boy had finally agreed their idea needed secrecy but by then, his stage whisper had given it all away.

"The Master seems sad Belle. Maybe all the rain is making him unhappy."

The brunette agreed and his heart squeezed at the compassion in her tone. "What should we do to cheer him up then?"

The small teacup thought hard for an instant before voicing his idea and the two scrambled off, his giggles and her laughter ringing down the hall.

Curiosity made the wait a challenge. He forced himself to read two more chapters before making his way down to the kitchens to see their progress.

Their work space was covered with the remnants of egg shell, flour and batter. A couple cookie cutters lay on a cutting board with a rolling pin beside. A bowl, fully scraped waited to be washed.

The strong vanilla-cinnamon scent of baking cookies made his nose prickle and mouth water in anticipation.

Belle and Chip were now gathering ingredients to fill another bowl when the teacup's exuberance caused further chaos. He tripped over a wooden spoon and, tottering frantically, bumped into the bag of icing sugar Belle had just set down, making it fall.

A great cloud of white powder rose into the air, shimmering like falling snow. Chip began to cough while Belle blinked rapidly, her palm waving before her face to stop the fine sweetness from resting on her. The effort didn't keep it from coating her ribboned hair though.

They both looked frosted when the sugar finally settled and he couldn't contain his mirth.

Both Belle and Chip heard his rumbling laughter and turned. If anything, their embarrassed expressions magnified the ridiculousness of the situation and he allowed his humor full reign. If they were shocked by his boisterous laughter, they didn't say so.

Wheezing slightly, he stepped forward and offered a handkerchief to Belle.

"Je suis impatient de raconter cette histoire."