In an instant,

Belle smiled.

She leaned against the wall, staggering as she walked.

Victor heard Belle's mocking laughter and, unable to contain his fury, snapped, “Belle, what do you mean?”

Belle halted,

She leaned against the wall, lifting one arm to cover her eyes, “It’s nothing, Victor. Just leave it.”

She lowered her arm,

Hung up the phone,

And stood there for a long time ...