I made to draw the towel around me to cover myself, but it was all twisted up from how it had been in my hair. It felt like an eternity of embarrassment before I finally got my chest completely covered. My face burned crimson. “Excuse me,” I breathed, trying not to cry, and rushed to my room.

“Marina!” Jared’s voice followed me, but he did not. I relaxed a minute amount and quickly dressed myself—damn the consequences of wet hair on fresh linen. I hoped my clothes would not get stiff. I combed out my hair and twisted it up, pinning it neatly to the back of my head. Breathing deeply, to calm myself, I donned the most modest frock I could in the armoire. I was glad to find it laced in the front so I wouldn’t have to call for help. I didn’t want to leave my room, I was so embarrassed! Luckily for me, I didn’t have to leave my room. Georgette came to me.

Her knock was soft, but audible, and I appreciated the gesture. I opened the door for her; I didn’t know what to say, but with Georgette I didn’t have to.