Belle Gold was busy organizing the library, her fingers brushing over the spines of countless books. The sun was dipping below the horizon, casting golden light through the tall windows. She hummed softly, lost in thought, when she noticed a small, folded note tucked between two ancient tomes. Curious, she picked it up and unfolded it.
"I’ve admired your love for books from afar. Every time you smile, it brightens the darkest story. – Someone who cares"
Belle’s cheeks flushed. She looked around the empty library. “Who… could this be?” she whispered to herself.
The next day, another note appeared, this time tucked inside her favorite book of poetry:
"You bring magic to every page you touch. I wish I could tell you in person. – Still watching"
Her heart raced. Someone was leaving her these little messages, but who? And why so secretive? Throughout the day, she found herself glancing over her shoulder, half-expecting to see the admirer. There was a thrill in not knowing, a warmth in the mystery.
Over the next week, small gestures appeared everywhere: a single rose on the library desk, a bookmark left in a book she’d been searching for, even her favorite teacup filled and ready when she arrived in the morning. Belle began to piece together the clues. The handwriting was familiar—she couldn’t place it yet—but each note made her smile, her heart fluttering with anticipation.
"You deserve more than words can say. Meet me by the fountain at dusk if you want answers. – Your Secret Admirer"
Her stomach twisted with nervous excitement. Could she really trust this stranger? But curiosity—and something more—won. As the sun dipped low, Belle approached the fountain in the center of the village square. The water shimmered, reflecting the fiery colors of sunset. She saw a figure leaning casually against the fountain, but the hood of their cloak shadowed their face.
“Belle,” the figure said softly, stepping forward.
Her heart skipped. “You’re… my secret admirer?”
The figure laughed gently, pulling back the hood to reveal your face. Belle’s eyes widened, a mix of surprise and delight.
“Yes,” you said, smiling warmly. “I’ve admired you for a long time… your love for knowledge, your kindness, your courage. I didn’t know how to tell you… until now.”
Belle’s hands trembled slightly. “All this time… it was you?”