Months of waiting

Kate is taking care of Lavinia in my room. The maids have brought dinner and set the table, lighting a candle in the middle for a better atmosphere.

I've taken a long, scented bath and combed my hair in an elegant braid that is now resting on my shoulder. The nightgown I've chosen is red and translucent, and there is absolutely nothing underneath.

Alexander is a bit late, but he'll be here in a moment or two. He's been away for two days already, and he wrote that he would come back in the evening.

I've chosen only food that is eaten cold, so it doesn't matter how long I wait for him. I'm only worried about the wine, but it's still in the bottle and not in the cups. It should be fine.

I relax on the sofa with my eyes closed until I hear the doors open.

Alexander storms in, already looking for our daughter.

«Where is Vinnie?» he inquires when he sees the empty cradle.

I sit up on the sofa and wait for him to realise.