Lightness or Darkness? {1}

Belle was relieved when she didn't have to face anyone to get past. It was early morning, clouds were scattered across the gray sky and it was chilly. She pulled her shawl across her and rubbed her arms. She had been cooped up in the carriage for long time and she was anticipating the moment where she will soon be able to stretch her legs, eat and sleep. With the rattling, who could sleep?

The carriage came to an abrupt stop. She was finally there. Her stomach dropped and was instantly filled with butterflies. She never thought about the exact moment when she would meet the Sinclairs. She's never been face to face with them though she's heard a lot about them from her father, who is friends with Mr. Sinclair.

She climbed out, paid the coach driver with a few coins, and slowly walked up the steps. The house from the outside was beautiful. She pounded on the door knocker two times before a maid opened it. She gestured for Belle to come in.

"Bonjour Isabelle Marcou, I wasn't expecting you until two days," said Mr. Sinclair, who was standing nearby; he bowed. Mr. Sinclair was tall and a little bit on the portly side. He had a powdered wig, wore debonair clothing and had a small moustache.

"Bonjour Moisuer Sinclair. Indeed, I was supposed to come in two days but my parents thought it better I leave as soon as possible. Sorry for any inconvenience," said Belle and curstied back.

"Not at all. We are glad to have you early."

"Father, I-" Lumiere Sinclair added to the company and stopped talking when he saw Belle.

"Lumiere, we have a guest staying with us. This is Isabelle Marcou."

“Bonjour, ma dame Isabelle,” greeted Lumiere Sinclair while kissing her hand. Belle awkwardly smiled back, removed her hand from his and curtsied.

"No, please call me Belle," said Belle timidly.

"Belle, it suits you." Belle blushed. She wish she hadn't. She doesn't want to give the impression that she likes him even a little.

Lumiere was tall and thin. His face was framed with curly brown hair, he had a peachy complexion and his he had light brown eyes. He had this very warm and comforting glow about him.

***
Lumiere seemed very keen on making conversation with Belle. She was thankfully saved by Mr. Sinclair calling Lumiere. They were whispering together in rapid French.

Belle perked up when she heard her name. She couldn’t quite make out what they were saying because of their hushed voices but she heard the words “him, lock, door, son, cruel, and mother.” A feeling of curiosty took over her.

She was suddenly shook off from her thoughts when Lumiere spoke to her, "You must be hungry. Cecile will prepare you something." Cecile, the servant who opened the door happened to be passing at the room at the same time and nodded at Lumiere's order. "I think you'll like Cecile. She makes wonderful food and will give you some female company."