Erik had nodded in understanding at her request, though he had his doubts that her father would appear. Even if he did, he probably wouldn't linger long enough to tell him so much as a word. That man was terrified the first and last time the beast saw him, and he doubted it would change much. Little did he know...<br/><br/>Gerard ignored Gaston on the way back home, and as soon as he left, Gerard prepared himself for a solo trek. Grabbing a butcher knife, he prayed that Belle would be unharmed as he left town, avoiding everyone as he headed out to the castle.<br/><br/>Erik wasn't really able to concentrate on his territory with the thought of Belle WILLINGLY waiting for him back at the castle. After a quick sweep of the woods, he returned to the castle, eagerly going to the library, where Jaques had helped light the fireplace, and settling down beside the hearth and Belle. He watched her curiously, amazed at how nimble her fingers were as they threaded through the cloth.<br/><br/>Suddenly, his ears perked up, and he lifted his head. Something was wrong. He sensed a presence that was foreign, and he didn't like that. His ears pressed against his skull and he bared his teeth, a low growl emanating from him as he sped out of the room.<br/><br/>"Hello?" Gerard held the knife tightly, looking around the massive grand hall of this random castle in the woods. He had never noticed it in all the years he had lived here, and yet here it was! Out of nowhere, the beast jumped from the upper railing and landed on all fours in front of Gerard. Releasing a terrified noise, he fell on his butt and scuttled back, holding out the knife in his trembling hands. "P-please, give me back B-belle!" Erik growled angrily, "You gave her to me, and I will NOT give her back!" Just nearby, watching this entire conversation, was Jaques, hoping desperately that the father would leave and Belle would not see him. He could already see what was going to happen if she appeared.