14: Getting a bath ready

*Ben*

“Hello, my dear”. My father says.

“I wanted to make sure you were all right”. Her gaze darts between me and my father so I am not quite certain upon whom she is checking. She has changed into her nightdress. With her gown gone and only the thin fabric covering her, I can see that she is a bit more slender than I had realized, that she seems a bit more vulnerable.

I shake off that thought. There is absolutely nothing vulnerable about the woman who had challenged me this afternoon.

“Fine, my dear. Just tired”. My father waves a hand. “Go on, Ben. See to your bride. I’ll wait here for your mother”.

Closing my eyes, I sigh as I shake my head. When I open them, I am not pleased to see the

pity reflected in Sky’s expression.

“Sleep well”. She says before stepping into the hallway.

Joining her there, I close the door and twist the key.

“Is it safe to lock him in ?” She asks.

“Safer than not. the butler will unlock it before the sun comes up”. I am taken aback by the concern in