In Another's Skin

The Embered Basement.

Chapter 4: (Aaira's pov)

I woke up the next morning, cradling in Aimin's bed. The softness of the mattress and the warmth of my son's small body beside me brought a sense of peace I hadn't felt in a long time.

As I blinked asleep from my eyes, I searched for Jungkook, but he was nowhere to be found. I glanced at Aimin, his tiny face relaxed in sleep, and smiled, realizing it was still early for him to wake up.

Gently, I slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb Aimin. The soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a golden hue across the room. As I moved towards the door, a maid entered, her steps light and graceful.

Maid: Good morning, my lady. Shall we begin your morning routine?

I nodded, following her through the corridors to the bathing chamber. The room was a sanctuary of marble and gold, with a large sunken tub at its center. Steam rose from the bath, filling the air with the soothing scent of lavender and rose petals.

Two maids approached, bowing slightly before they began their work. One maid helped me undress, her hands gentle and efficient. She removed my gown and undergarments, folding them neatly on a nearby chair. The other maid prepared the bath, adjusting the temperature and adding fragrant oils to the water.

I noticed their eyes widening slightly at the sight of the wounds on my body. Bruises and cuts, some still fresh, marred my skin. They exchanged concerned glances but said nothing, respecting my unspoken wish to avoid discussing the source of my injuries.

As I was undressed, the maids guided me to the edge of the tub. I stepped in, sinking into the warm water with a sigh of relief. The heat enveloped me.

Maid: Please relax, my lady. We will take care of everything.

Their hands were gentle, skillfully avoiding the tender areas as they cleansed and tended to me. Despite their professionalism, I could sense their unspoken questions, but I remained silent, grateful for their discretion and care.

One maid began to gently wash my hair, her fingers massaging my scalp with a mixture of herbal shampoo and oils. The soothing sensation lulled me into a state of calm, and I closed my eyes, enjoying the moment of tranquility. The other maid used a soft sponge to cleanse my body, moving with practiced grace and care.

After my hair was thoroughly washed and rinsed, the maid applied a rich conditioner, leaving it to soak in while she continued to wash the rest of my body. The sponge glided over my skin, removing any traces of dirt and leaving a faint floral fragrance in its wake.

Maid: Would you like a massage, my lady?

I nodded, grateful for the offer. One maid began to knead the muscles of my shoulders and back, her hands skilled and strong. The tension melted away under her touch, replaced by a deep sense of relaxation.

Once the bath was complete, the maids helped me out of the tub and wrapped me in a soft, plush towel. They guided me to a padded chair by the vanity, where they began to dry my hair with gentle, careful strokes. Another maid brought over a tray with various creams and lotions, and they began to apply them to my skin, leaving it soft and moisturized.

Maid: Your hair, my lady.

One maid began to comb and style my hair, weaving it into an elegant braid that fell gracefully down my back. She adorned it with delicate pins and a small, jeweled comb. The other maid helped me into a fresh gown, a beautiful creation of silk and lace that felt luxurious against my skin.

As they finished, I glanced at my reflection in the mirror. The woman staring back at me looked serene, her face glowing with health and her hair perfectly styled. The elegant bath had done wonders, and I felt rejuvenated.