"Rose, please," Belle pleaded again. Her daughter's room was silent.

"Belle, we should just let her calm down," her husband said soothingly. "She'll be ready to talk soon."

Belle wished she could trust that Rose would calm down, but she knew that Rose had inherited a quick temper. But her husband was right. It would be best to leave Rose be for awhile. Belle's head throbbed. She hated headaches. They made her so irritated. She massaged her temples, but the throbbing continued to grow.

"Are you alright, dear?" Adam asked in concern.

She nodded her head weakly. "It's just the stress."

Adam thought for a moment. He hated to see two of his favorite women in so much pain. "I know just what will calm your nerves." He whispered his proposition into his wife's ear. She nodded in reply.

"You're right. But while you be alright while I'm gone?"

"I'm sure I can manage," Adam said, kissing his wife's smooth cheek. " I love you. Be safe."

Belle brightened slightly. Her husband knew just how to make her feel better. " I love you, too. I'll be back soon."

The queen shuffled down the corridor to the stables. She hoped that the only other man, besides her beloved husband, that could make her happy could brighten her grave situation.