The warm water enveloped me as I sank deeper into the copper bathtub. Steam rose around me, clouding the ornate bathroom in a dreamy haze. After the confrontation at breakfast about the sheets, I'd retreated here to gather my thoughts. Alaric had dismissed Juliette with a look that could have turned water to ice, but the damage was done.
"Juliette?" I called out, realizing the bathwater was rising too high. "Could you please turn off the faucet?"
The door creaked open, and Juliette appeared with a sweet smile that didn't reach her eyes. "Of course, Your Grace."
She strode to the tub and twisted the copper handles, stopping the flow of water. Her movements were precise, controlled.
"Thank you. The plumbing in this house is remarkable," I said, attempting conversation. "We didn't have anything like this at my father's estate."
"The Duke spares no expense for modern conveniences," Juliette replied, her tone pleasant but hollow. "Would you like me to wash your hair, Your Grace?"
