The next morning Teddy dragged himself out of bed. He had walked Belle to her door, the two had talked some more and he had walked home to his apartment. The evening had been a glorious success and he was looking forward to getting to know Belle more. He walked down to the cafe and found Mason’s 2CV parked at the curb. He also found the normal morning crowd eagerly awaiting the new and improved menu items. As usual Marina was consulting with the cook bot and gliding between tables. Of course with Mason present she took time to chat with him. She happily greeted him and directed him to the table where Mason sat. He was a little disappointed to not see Belle at the chafe, but made the best of it.

“If it isn't Mr. Happy feet .” Mason began. “Rumor has it that you and Belle took on the machine at Spada’s.”

“Yeah, I’m still a little sore from it.” Teddy admitted.

“You are braver than me. I think Marina wants to go by Spada’s now.” Mason confided.

“The food is good and the machine is fun if you have a date.” Teddy replied. The machine had sat dormant for as long as anyone could remember.

After coffee and pastries Mason and Teddy commuted to work. Both men were surprised by a crowd of people who were congregated in front of the station. It was not a big travel day, so Teddy wondered what had happened. After pushing their to the front they were surprised to find Belle perched on a stool with her art supplies. This time she had a large watercolor pad and was sketching the train station. Mr. Calvert stood beside her watching over her shoulder with a look of wonder.

If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

“Good Morning Teddy!” she proclaimed happily when she saw him.

“Good Morning Belle! I did not know you were out sketching.”

“I went by the local gallery and they liked several of my pieces.” she shared happily. “I was going to tell you about it before you went to work. Mr. Calvert saw my work and commissioned me to make a watercolor of the station.” she explained.

“I thought it would spruce the waiting room up.” Calvert stated.

After wishing the artist luck Calvert walked into the station with Teddy and Mason. Teddy was uncertain what to make of their boss’s behavior. He did not seem angry.

“Mr. Labson. You have found a great treasure, take care of her.” he confided. “She’ll be safe out there painting. I instructed one of the guards to keep an eye. If another Fargle shows up he will find himself in a world of hurt. We must protect treasures.” Calvert added.

Teddy thanked Calvert for his consideration. He did not know what to make of his behavior or why he would be showing such consideration. Was he interested in Belle? Or was their something more to it? He suspected that he came from the same town as Mason. Both men had the same accent. Only time would tell.