The room was sinking between darkness and light.
The priest's voice echoed sharply, each word piercing through Thomas's fading soul like a blade.
Belle's heart trembled, yet her eyes carried not fear—but determination.
"Stop!" Belle screamed, her voice shaking yet filled with courage.
From behind the door came her father's furious tone,
"Belle! You don't understand what curse you've fallen into. This isn't love—it's deceit!"
Tears rolled down her cheeks, but her voice was steady.
"No! It's not deceit—it's love. True love… something none of you could ever understand."
Thomas's Last Strength
Thomas knelt on the cold floor, his form flickering like mist.
With trembling hands, he reached for Belle's fingers.
"Belle… don't be afraid. I'm still here. Even if the priest destroys me… my heart will always be bound to yours."
Belle pressed his hand against her chest, her tears glistening.
"No, Thomas! You can't leave me. I'll save you, even if I have to fight the whole world."
Her Parents' Command and Belle's Defiance
The door rattled violently, ready to break open.
Her parents' desperate voices echoed,
"Belle! This is about our family's honor! That spirit will ruin your life! Come out now!"
Belle stepped toward the door, trembling but fearless.
"If honor means watching the one I love die before my eyes…
then such honor—I refuse to accept!"
The door shook harder. The priest's voice grew louder,
"Unholy spirit! Leave this house!"
The Moment of Sacrifice
Thomas lifted his fading gaze; a dim light burned within his eyes—like the last candle in a storm.
"Belle… if this is my end, then let it be. I just want you safe."
Belle's voice broke, "No, Thomas… I can't be safe without you. My life begins and ends with you."
She threw her arms around him, as if trying to stop time itself.
But the priest's chants grew stronger, draining the last traces of his existence.
End of Chapter 🕳