“Good, you’re both awake,” she says with a warm smile. “Come on up. I’ve laid out some breakfast.”
I climb the ladder first, grateful for the excuse to put distance between Sebastian and me.
The cabin smells of fresh bread. Sunlight streams through the windows, making me blink.
Sebastian climbs out, closing the trapdoor and replacing the skin.
My gaze drifts to the table, where Julienne has laid out bowls. There’s cheese, fruit, and a pot of honey.
“I thought you both might like some fresh clothing,” Julienne says, gesturing to two neatly folded piles on a chair. “They’re simple, but clean and should fit well enough.”
“Thank you,” I tell her, looking down at my torn, dirty costume. The sequins that once sparkled now look dull and sad. “I would love a chance to wash first, if that’s possible.”
“Of course!” Julienne’s eyes light up. “Actually, I know just the place. There’s a secret alcove down by the river, not far from here. It’s completely hidden from the road. Very private.” She pauses, looking between Sebastian and me. “I am sure you would both like to go.”
My cheeks heat at the thought of bathing anywhere near Sebastian. His eyes move to mine, where they lock.
I can barely catch my breath. It’s like all the air has left the cabin all of a sudden.
I swallow thickly.
“Come to think of it, I could use a good wash. We can go first, Isla. Sebastian can go once we ladies are finished,” Julienne tells me.
I have to hold back a sigh of relief.
“That sounds perfect.” Sebastian nods.
“Wonderful!” Julienne claps her hands together. “Sebastian, you should come with us now so that you’ll know where the alcove is. Then I’ll need you to stand guard at the cabin just in case any guards come this way. You’ll know because the bells will ring. We will do the same for you.”
“That is a good plan. Lead the way,” Sebastian says to Julienne.
We follow her out of the cabin and down a narrow path that winds through thick brush. The morning air is cool, carrying the scent of pine and earth.
The path opens up to a small clearing beside the river. It’s absolutely beautiful. Tall reeds grow along the water’s edge, swaying gently in the breeze. Smooth stones line a small pool where the river eddies, creating a natural bathing spot. Overhanging willows provide shade and privacy, their long branches trailing in the water like green curtains.
The water itself is crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky above. There are smooth pebbles and rocks on the bottom, along with small fish darting between them.
“This is perfect,” I say, a smile playing on my lips. I can’t wait to get in.
“I thought you’d like it,” Julienne says with a smile. She turns to Sebastian. “You should go back to the cabin now. Listen for the bells. If any ring, you need to alert us immediately. Don’t wait. We will not be long.”
Sebastian nods once. His eyes find mine for a brief moment before he turns and heads back up the path.
I watch him go, unable to stop myself from admiring the way he moves. The breadth of his shoulders and his confident stride.
“Come on, dear,” Julienne says, pulling me from my thoughts. “Let’s get you cleaned up. We shouldn’t dally.”
She produces soap from a small basket she’d brought, along with strips of linen that must serve as towels. She has a chemise in her hand, which she holds out to me. “I didn’t think you had one under there.” She uses her head to point to my costume, which is tight.
“I don’t.” I shake my head.
She quickly strips down to her undergarments. “I’ll go in first.” She turns and walks toward the pool.
I quickly pull my costume and tights from my body, dropping them on the floor, pulling the chemise over my head. Then I hurry in after her.
The water is shockingly cold when we first step in. I gasp, gooseflesh rising on my arms.
“It takes a bit of getting used to,” Julienne says with a laugh. “But you’ll warm up soon enough.”
