As promised, Kayana's tasks for Demetrius were simple—a far cry from toiling in the kitchen and scrubbing engrained grime from the tiles.
They included laying out her clothes, polishing her jewels, drawing her baths, and perfuming the water with rich essential oils that shone brightly on the crystal surface.
The pleasant aroma of sea flowers and salt now clung to him, ridding his skin of the stubborn tang of hay and excrement.
Even Alexios noticed, seeming happier to nestle close for longer. Despite the lift in status, he was the only true comfort Demetrius found.
The soft, warm bundle and even panting gave a comfort that nothing else could. And the knowledge that at least one creature could be trusted and depended upon.
'And he isn't superficial...' Demetrius tugged at the shirt as he prepared for another day. Each one merged into the other. 'The pull of a clean blanket doesn't turn his head.'