Alfred hesitated.

Belle gave a sheepish smile. “If it’s not...”

Almost simultaneously, Alfred spoke up, “I hope it won’t be a bother for you?”

Belle froze for a moment, quickly shaking her head. “As long as you don’t mind, I shouldn’t be a bother. I don’t snore, grind my teeth, or talk in my sleep.”

Alfred smiled, and it was like a spring breeze melting the icy surface of a lake, heralding the arrival of warmer ...