"Are you sure, My Lady?" Edith asked. "It will be a long night."
"I am sure," Ines said. She turned to Edith. "You should go back to sleep. You have done enough. You can come and check up on me in the morning."
Edith looked at her mistress. She saw the determination in Ines's eyes.
"Very well," Edith said. She curtsied. "Keep the cloth cool, My Lady."
Edith turned to the door. She had her hand on the knob when Ines spoke again.
"Edith?"
Edith turned back.
"Thank you," Ines said. Her voice broke slightly. "Thank you for everything."
Edith smiled, a warm, genuine smile that crinkled the corners of her tired eyes.
"You are welcome, My Lady. Take care of him."
Edith slipped out of the room, closing the door with a soft click.
Ines was alone.
She took a deep breath and turned back to the bed.
"Alright, Carcel," she whispered. "Let's get you comfortable."
She pulled the duvet down to his waist. He groaned at the loss of warmth, his teeth chattering.
