Irene's heart was thudding in anticipation and worry as she stepped into the room. Her eyes settled on the bed where the head maid, Ingrid, was standing at the Commander's bedside, cleaning off his shirtless body.
Not just shirtless, Irene realized as she stepped into the room, he was unconscious. He was lying on his stomach with his head facing right.
At Irene entering the room, the maid stood up.
"Oh, dear," she gasped. "I didn't realize you were returning, Lady Irene. Perhaps we should get out of the Duke's room. I'm not sure he would appreciate waking up to us looming over him. His condition has been bad."
Even though it was difficult to pull her eyes from the Commander, Irene turned to the maid.
"If you wouldn't mind, I would like to sit here for a few moments," Irene uttered, her voice uncertain but her expression resolute.
Ingrid seemed to size her up for a few moments, but didn't find anything wrong because she relented.
