I think the first panel feels a bit odd? Three pages before, the shadows on the floor they cast flowed behind them. Since we could clearly see they were staring out the window. The first panel on this page feels like we are getting their backs once more with the simplicity and feel that there are raindrops in that panel? But Beauty and Beast seemed to have switched spots from each other in that one panel? Unless now it is much brighter inside than outside? Or perhaps I am reading it incorrectly and it's just a simplified interior?
I think you're right. This looks like it's supposed to be their backs as they face the window, in which case Beauty and Beast are backwards. Everybody makes mistakes sometimes. :)
You know what I love about this? That's not something a frightened or cowed or Stockholm-y or even cautious person would do. She's totally cool around him. (Doesn't hurt that I bet that'll be useful in confronting a later mutual enemy...?)
And the Beast isn't freaked either. He's just all "Huh whu' happen?"
In summary: yes good.
For a second I thought she was going to forcibly shake the depression from him, and I was very happy. But forcibly cuddling the depression from him is a good option too ;)
I love how his paws go into "scruffed cat" stance... his body is immediately accepting the authority and nurture in the gesture, even if his head hasn't caught up.
(Also, hi! I'm a new reader as of about a month ago, but I've been quietly lurking. I love what you've been doing with the story, using so much of the original folk tale, but fleshing out characters and motives beautifully... giving it so much more life. And now to eagerly await the next page...)
"Okay, enough of this pity party, it's time to cuddle!" Really, nothing Beauty could have said would have broken him out of the loop of despair he was trapped in (not that he was giving her much of a chance to say anything). Her taking the initiative to just grab him and pull him closer definitely surprised him, though - but not in a bad way, given the hint of a blush on his cheeks. I suspect we'll be seeing her stroking his hair/mane soothingly on the next page. It's not quite a hug, but it's undoubtedly gentle and comforting.
