He never quite apologised, but he always seemed rueful once he had calmed, making a point of keeping a respectful distance until she was no longer afraid. It is not for silly children to be drinking wine with their elders and betters.”
He stormed from the room, leaving Rose both relieved and – for some reason – disappointed. XXX At dinner, when she noticed The Beast’s covetous appraisal, she would keep her eyes focused on her plate, allowing him to look for as long as he wished. Disgusted with herself, she withdrew them to find them coated in a slick moisture she did not recognise. You shall have your punishment. The Beast would cook for her and tend to the house’s grounds, while she gradually transformed its interior through the determined application of a soapy cloth. “I will accept whatever punishment you deem fit.”
“Punishment?” asked The Beast, standing up and looking down on her, “What punishment do you imagine I shall meet out for this crime?
