Strings Attached

Part 2.3: Tangled in Love

After their exhilarating morning on the tennis courts, Belle and Edmund made their way back to his car, both still buzzing with energy and laughter.

"Ready for the next part of our day?" He asked, opening the passenger door for Belle.

"Always," she replied, sliding into the seat with a smile. "I can't wait to get back to the shop."

Edmund joined her in the driver's seat, and they set off, the drive was filled with them sharing memories and conversations with the lingering glow of their playful tennis match. When they arrived back in the store, Belle led the way inside, the quaint shop filled with vibrant colours and the soft scent of yarn.

"I'm never gonna get tired of this place," he said, looking around with appreciation. "It's like stepping into a cosy, colourful wonderland."

"I'm glad you still like it. C'mon, let's head up to the loft." Belle beamed.

They walked to the elevator at the back of the shop. They stepped inside, and Belle pressed the button for the second floor. The elevator moved smoothly, and Edmund grinned.

"Always nice to see this thing working perfectly," he teased, leaning against the wall with a playful glint in his eyes.

"Yes, yes, it's perfectly safe. And if we get stuck, at least we'll have plenty of yarn to keep us entertained." Belle laughed, rolling her eyes.

The elevator ride was brief, and soon they stepped into her home. Her beautifully decorated space, with large windows letting in natural light and shelves lined with books, yarn, and finished crochet projects. A cosy seating area with a sofa and a few armchairs invited them to sit and relax.

"The more I come to this place the more incredible it gets," he said, taking in the surroundings. "You have such an eye for design."

"Thank you," she replied, feeling a warm flush of pride. "Now, let's get you back to your crochet lessons."

They settled onto the sofa, Belle handing Edmund a skein of yarn and a crochet hook.

"Alright, let's see if you remember what we worked on last time," she said, her tone teasing.

Edmund took the hook and yarn, his large hands fumbling slightly as he tried to recreate the stitches she had taught him. Belle leaned closer, her shoulder brushing against his, and guided his hands gently.

"Like this," she murmured, showing him the proper motion. "Just take it slow and steady."

Edmund followed her instructions, and after a few attempts, he managed to get the hang of it.

"Look at that," he said, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. "I'm actually doing it."

"See? I told you, you're a natural," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "But I think your stitches could use a little... tightening."

She reached over to adjust his work, their fingers brushing. The brief contact sent a jolt through both of them, and they exchanged a glance filled with longing.

"You know," Edmund said, his voice dropping to a playful whisper, "I think I like crocheting with you more than I like playing tennis."

"Is that so? Well, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself." Belle laughed, nudging him with her elbow.

They continued crocheting, their conversation flowing easily. Edmund's occasional mishaps with the yarn led to bursts of laughter, and Belle couldn't help but be charmed by his earnest effort and the way he seemed to light up whenever he made progress.

"Oops," Edmund said at one point, holding up a tangled mess of yarn. "I think I've created a new kind of knot."

"I think you might be right. Here, let me help you." Belle giggled, shaking her head.