We had gotten to Shoreditch before nightfall and I lay here, in my bed, thoughtless. Luke had gone to his study to sort out some business related issues and had promised to bring our dinner to my room as soon as he was done.

I get down from my bed and tip toe to my bedside mirror and I unconventionally stare at myself when my eye falls on my neck. I touch it and tilt my head to properly get a good view of it. It was a love bite. There's a knock on the door. "Come in." I say, turning to look at the door. It's Emmanuele.

"Madam?" She...