The water was warm—almost too warm—but Aurelia did not complain.
She sat quietly in the wide marble tub as steam rose around her in lazy coils, blurring the sharp edges of the room. The scent of lavender, chamomile, and crushed rose petals lingered thickly in the air, clinging to her skin, her hair, her thoughts.
Morning sunlight filtered through the tall arched windows, pale gold and hesitant, as though even the sun was unsure how boldly it was allowed to look upon her.
Gwen knelt beside the tub, sleeves rolled, hands careful as she dipped a silver jug into the bathwater.
"My lady," Gwen said softly, "lift your chin a little. Yes… just like that."
Aurelia obeyed, tilting her head back as warm water poured slowly over her hair, streaming down her temples and shoulders. She closed her eyes, letting out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.
