"Several streets away, but I am sure he's taking a carriage. That should hurry things along." She allows her thumb to slide along his skin, telling herself it's to be comforting and not simply because she's curious as to how a man's skin feels. Behind her, the cook clears her throat and Christine jumps a little, having forgotten she was there. She moves to sit back, blushing.

But then she hears the door open and she holds her breath until the door to the drawing room opens and in comes the doctor. She releases the breath and gives a joyous smile.

"Oh, Doctor! I knew you'd come!"

The man sets down his bag and starts rolling up his jacket sleeves while ordering fresh water and cloths.