“But it’s so… big. And isolated. Don’t you miss the village?”
“Not even a little bit.”
“What about us?” Claude tries.
I look at my siblings…my lazy, self-centered siblings who couldn’t be bothered to help our father when he needed it most.
“I miss Papa,” I say honestly. “But this is my home now.”
“With him?” Margot sneaks a look at Pierre. “But he’s…”
“Careful!” I snap. “That’s my mate you’re talking about. And he’s being very kind to you right now.”
They both have the grace to look ashamed.
“Your sister is right,” Papa says gently. “She found where she belongs. And we should be happy for her.”
* * *
We settle in the drawing room for tea, and it’s surreal. My father and Pierre chatting like it’s perfectly normal. Margot trying not to stare too much. Claude eating his weight in pastries.
“So,” Papa says, setting down his teacup and turning his attention to me. “You’re happy?”
“Incredibly so.”
Pierre’s hand finds mine under the table, squeezing gently.
“Then that’s all I need to know.” Papa smiles. “I miss having you around but…”
My chest tightens. “I miss you too, Papa.”
“Actually,” Pierre clears his throat in a deep growl that makes my siblings jump, which brings a smile to my lips.
Everyone turns to look at him.
“The castle is large,” he continues. “Very large. Most of it empty. And with the curse being lifted, we can have guests. Residents, even, if they wanted, of course.”
I blink. “Pierre? What are you saying, my love?”
“I’m saying your father is welcome to live here. If he wants. There’s more than enough space. And staff to help him.” He looks at Papa. “You’d be taken care of. And Belle could see you every day.”
My throat closes up.
“You want my father to live here?” I manage.
“Only if you both want it.” His golden eyes are warm with love, his huge paw engulfing my hand.
Papa’s eyes are shining with unshed tears. “That’s very generous of you, Prince Pierre.”
“Just Pierre is fine,” he corrects, giving a regal nod
“What about us?” Margot asks. “Can we come too?”
I instantly turn to my siblings. “You can visit.”
They must read on my face that I’m in no mood to be messed with, especially with my monstrous mate at my side, and just lower their gazes.
Papa reaches across to rest a hand on top of mine. “Thank you. Both of you. This is more than I could ever have dreamed of.”
