**"The Bath"**

The carriage stopped in front of the lake in the center of town. Kris got out first, followed by the women, who lined up at the water's edge.

— **"Clean,"** he ordered, pointing to the lake.

They went in together, plunging into the clear water as one body. Kris followed, sinking to his knees before pulling Elena onto his lap.

— **"Wash me,"** he whispered, running his fingers through her hair.

She picked up an herbal soap from the bank and began to rub it over his chest, her hands lathering on his skin. Lena and Katia came to help, licking the hard-to-reach places.

On the nearby bridge, a tourist couple stopped to photograph the lake. The woman looked at the group, then at her husband.

— **"What clean water, huh?"**

He agreed, adjusting his camera.

— **"Great for swimming."**

They took a selfie and continued on their way. Kris laughed, running his fingers through Rosa's hair.

It was just another day.

And the city would never notice the difference.

The cart arrived at the mansion at sunset, its wheels screeching on the gravel. The women were exhausted, their legs trembling, but none complained.

Kris got down first, stretching before turning to them.

"Good girls."

They smiled proudly.

"Thank you, master," they replied in unison.

Elena picked up the soaked watermelon and followed Kris inside, her wet footprints marking the marble of the entrance.

In the kitchen, Marta looked at the fruit, then at them.

"Dinner?" she asked, as if it were just another common ingredient.

Kris stroked Elena's head.

"Yes."

It was just another night.

And, as always, just the beginning.

**"Dessert"**

The watermelon was on the dining table, cut into pieces, its juice dripping down the polished wooden surface. Kris sat at the head of the table, with Elena kneeling beside him, licking his fingers as he ate.

—**"Do you want some?"** he asked, holding up a juicy piece.

She opened her mouth like a hungry bird.

—**"Please."**

Kris stuffed the piece into her mouth, rubbing it against her tongue before pulling it out, letting her lick the dripping juice.

In the next room, the other women huddled on the sofa, munching on pieces of watermelon while watching a movie.

It was *normal*.

And, as always, just the beginning.