The next day I had to go to the office while she went off for yet more consultations. I’d spent the morning keeping her primed, little touches as we passed each other, my hand smoothing down her hair. I also kept calling her Kitten at every opportunity, getting her use to her new name.

“I’ve picked out your clothing for the day; they’re on your bed.” I imparted that news as we sat down to breakfast after our morning workout and baths.

I watched to see if there ...