Gerald heard the bathroom door open. Ariana was wearing one of Gerald's oversized bathrobes, and seeing her like that warmed Gerald's heart. Ariana glanced in his direction, her forehead creased. Her gaze was, of course, directed at the fabric in Gerald's hand. "I don't want the servants to fuss," she replied casually. She took the bathrobe from him and headed into the bathroom, but Gerald stopped her.

"Let me wash it later," Ariana insisted, but Gerald shook his head.

"I won't wash it. Just ...