"My hands are in fine shape, Elody..."<br/><br/>His words sank themselves deep, wrapping around her like the warm tendrils of steam rising from the tub. They soothed her in a way that melted her heart, yet stirred another part of her that had fallen dormant in grief, and in guilt. Was this the road? The way forward? Her eyes found his...<br/><br/>"With your permission, I'd like to repay your gentle kindness by taking away some of<i>your </i>pain. After dinner, I mean."<br/><br/>For a moment, she couldn't seem to respond. It wasn't for lack of wanting to, just...<br/><br/>No one had ever offered something like that to her before.<br/><br/>It was then she found her voice, and with a soft smile, found her way.<br/><br/>"I think I would like that."<br/><br/>With the subtle arch of a slender brow, she glanced down at Crixus, who by now had sprawled out at the foot of the tub, relaxed as ever.<br/><br/>"Crixus, keep an eye on Mr. Blackwood for me.."<br/><br/>Her eyes rose to meet Malcolm's before she slipped from sight down the hall.<br/><br/>Upon her return, she found Little John had set the table and was plating the chicken. With an appreciative smile, she moved to wash up some of the dishes.<br/><br/>A terrific, evolving magic...a magic she would let sweep her away.<br/><br/>As she glanced up, she noticed her dim reflection in the glass pane in front of her. Looking down, her soapy hands were weathered and browned from sun and sky, earth and wind. There was still beauty in them, though they were not the smooth cream of a young lady of society anymore. And Malcolm was right...they did ache. But they still held some softness, at least she hoped. She became aware of her hair, and her appearance, and part of her started to panic...<br/><br/><i>It's been a long time since you've cared...<br/>
</i><br/>A soft, baritone melody broke her trance as Little John gently plucked the bowl from her hands, his eyes smiling as he began to dry. The Christmas hymn was her favorite. With a smile, she finished washing what she could before she moved to set out the food. Potatoes, green beans, fresh rolls, and fried chicken. She silently thanked her mother and Little John for the help along the way.