11 The duke's return (2)

Amelia had to start getting ready just before the sun had fully set. Olivia filled the bathtub for her even though she had already washed herself previosly that day.

The aroma from the scented bath oil was stronger than usual and the it lingered the skin even long after she had gotten out of the tub. The strong smell, although pleasant, did not help with the nausea that she was already feeling.

Instead of having undergarments to change into there was a nightgown folded on the stool and unlike her regular one this was thin and made of a fabric that hugged onto her body and accentuated every curve. It looked lewd, not covering her arms nor her neckline. It had no frills or adornments, she could just as well wear nothing at all.

It was embarrasing to leave the bathroom. Flora who had come to aid Olivia in getting Amelia ready was standing by the vanity with a straight back and clasped hands.

The atmosphere was awkward. No one spoke unless it was completely necessary which was in stark contrast to Olivias usual aimless chattering.

Flora gathered Amelias hair into a loose side braid and tied the ends with a cream colored bow. She said it was best to keep the hairstyle simple. Meanwhile Olivia applied heavily perfumed lotion to Amelias arms and, to her horror, her legs. The maid did not visibly react even though Amelia was certain that she must've seen the scars.

Olivia dismissed Flora as soon as they were done with the preparations which Amelia thought was a bit strange. It came off rude, almost as if Olivia was driving her out. It seemed out of character for her who was usually so friendly.

Flora left after wishing Amelia a good evening. She closed the door behind her, and after it had shut the room became completely silent.

Olivia seemed nervous and fiddled anxiously with her hands. It was obvious to Amelia that she wanted to say something. The maid opened her mouth to speak several times, but quickly changed her mind and pressed her lips together.

Amelia thought that this action made her resemble a gold fish.

At first she did not want to say anything but the maids obvious hesitation to speak made her curious. "Olivia… is there something you want to say to me?"

"Ah, so you noticed."

Olivia anxiosly rubbed the back of her neck. She looked around the room several times, obviously cautious.

When she finally spoke she had lowered her voice almost into a whisper.

"Well… what I wanted to say was that… you'll be fine. I understand that you might be really scared, I know that I would be in your situation... Just… do what he tells you to the best of your abilities."

Olivia lowered her head and stared at her feet. Her forehead was shining from the drops of sweat that had formed and Amelia could see that her hands were clenched tightly.

"I am aware of what people say about His Grace, and I know that he comes off as cold and even frightening. But I have never seen or even heard that he has ever hurt anyone for personal reasons. He's only ever followed the emperor´s orders. So, what I'm trying to say is… I'm sure that he will not harm you."

Amelia was left speechless from what the maid was saying. No one had comforted her in a very long time. She thought that she had hid her fear from everyone, even from herself, but it seemed like Olivia had somehow noticed.

The maid could risk punishment or even jeopardise her employment by discussing her master's private affairs, yet here she was saying such things just to comfort someone lowly like Amelia.

"Thank you." Amelias bottom lip quivered when she smiled. "Olivia… will it hurt?" the question slipped ut without warning before she even had a chance to stop herself. How was it possible for anyone to lower her guard to this extent?

The maid looked at Amelia with a sullen expression.

"Probably… It hurts for most women"

"I see..."

"But it will hurt less if you relax your body. Try to breath slowly when… you know. That way your body will relax."

They became quiet after that. Amelia stayed seated by the vanity and fiddled with her hair to distract herself from the feeling of restlessness, while Olivia paced back and forth through the room.

After what felt like forever a loud knock sounded on the door.

"His Grace has ordered me to lead miss Amelia to his chamber" Gordon spoke from the corridor outside.