｡♥   CHILD !

              _{the look in his eyes as he stares her down takes her back a step,   the SHINE that seems to naturally emanate from the girl dimming under his glare.      “ he’s HERE? ”   squeaky voice practically shouts it before she becomes small again,  brings her palm to her lips, collects herself.   when she speaks again,  it’s softer,   more subdued.   no sense in angering the doctor.     “ did somethin’ happen?    if he’s gotta cool off,   i’d THINK…  ”}

_{the girl’s OUTBURST makes him flinch,     &      hands curl tightly into fists.       columbia’s first inquiry will remain unanswered,     for if frank confirms her suspicions,      he’s absolutely CERTAIN she’ll be sniffing out the entire castle in search of her estranged beau.      ‘   i’m afraid you’re asking the WRONG PERSON,    ’      hums the doctor.        ‘      –     but considering the RIGHT PERSON is,     well,       ’        a morbid chuckle.        ‘       – not present,    i can only assume such       !        ’      a viper in sequined heels,      frank approaches the girl     ;   tucks a delicate ruby strand behind her ear,      a tender    &    twisted gesture.       ‘     perhaps he’s fallen out of love with you,     dearest one.         ’}