A/N: To the question about the illustration Belle was copying with her embroidery, I imagined a mountain scene. Figured that would appeal to her since she wants to see the world. Thank you for all the reviews so far! You guys are great.
He enters the house, letting in a burgeoning spring sun, imagining the aroma the eventual flowers will bring. Already he's overheard a few "customers" who never outgrew talking with no one around to listen reassuring themselves that perhaps their next several minutes won't be so bad.
She's placed a vase of roses, a burgundy, bloody hue, on the foyer's table and he's not quite sure just where she scrounged those up, but he decides not to give it much thought. His mental efforts narrow in on why she is washing the windows wrapped up in her cloak and still shivering. He makes sure to close the doors behind him, before a crisp gust of air chills her more.
"I'm not sure those flowers will last out there," she says, half to him, half to herself.
"Why on earth are you so covered up?"
"It's drafty in here," she says with a shrug, trying to stifle another shiver.
"It's a castle." It wasn't nearly so drafty the night she'd all but flung herself into him, but he banishes that memory.
"You should consider another property." Finally turning to look at him, he can't help but smile when they reach eye contact. "A modest little cabin somewhere." A dreamy expression covers her face. "Small places are easier to heat...and cheaper."
"Not that I have to worry about that."
"Not that you have to worry about that," she repeats, resuming her washing and starting to hum.
Perhaps when it is all over, he thinks, when everything is the way it should be and all these ridiculous deals have finally come to achieve something—yes, going to a modest little cabin somewhere with her sounds so idyllic he broadens his smile.