Belle's life had now split into two worlds.
During the day, she lived with her parents, smiling, studying, pretending to be normal, while deep inside her heart a storm brewed restlessly. At night, she was drawn beyond the door of that forbidden room, where Thomas awaited her.
The barrier between them had almost disappeared. In their eyes glimmered a silent confession—deeper than any spoken word. Thomas's touch was no longer as cold as before; every night he felt closer to being human. For Belle, that change sparked hope… maybe one day, he would fully return.
The Parents' Concern
But Belle's parents had noticed her unusual behavior.
Her mother had often caught her smiling in front of the mirror, whispering as if speaking to someone unseen. Her father had spent sleepless nights, hearing faint footsteps and soft murmurs from the locked room upstairs.
"This girl is hiding something from us," her father said firmly.
"It's the same room we sealed for years… I fear she has fallen into the trap of some spirit."
With trembling fear in her voice, her mother added:
"We must save Belle. Even if she resists, we must act before it's too late."
The Conspiracy Begins
That night, they made a decision. They would call an old priest, one who could banish spirits through prayers and charms. Their plan was clear: to free the house of Thomas forever.
Belle knew nothing of this conspiracy. But that night, when she met Thomas, she sensed an unfamiliar unease in his presence.
Thomas whispered softly:
"Belle, I feel time is moving against us. I cannot bear to lose you… but your own people will soon build a wall between us."
Belle's voice trembled as she replied:
"No, Thomas… I won't let them take you away. Even if the whole world stands against me, my heart belongs to you."
A Night of Romantic Struggle
Belle clasped Thomas's hand tightly. The room sank into an eerie stillness, as though time itself had stopped. Tears glistened in her eyes, but a fragile smile lingered on her lips.
Thomas leaned closer, brushing his lips against her forehead. That delicate touch sent shivers down Belle's body, filling her with both fear and longing.
With her eyes closed, Belle whispered:
"If you ever leave me… my very soul will vanish with you."
Thomas's voice trembled with emotion:
"Love demands sacrifice, Belle… and perhaps the time is near when you will be asked to give yours."
A Shadow at the Door
Meanwhile, downstairs, her parents had already welcomed the priest into the house. Their eyes were filled with both determination and fear as they glanced toward the staircase leading up to the locked room.
Neither Belle nor Thomas knew that the story of their love was about to face its darkest trial yet…
✨ End of Chapter 18 – The suspense builds: Belle's parents are preparing to banish Thomas, while Belle is more in love than ever before۔