Irene listened, heard what he said, rolled the words about like you did a good shot of whiskey on your tongue to get the full flavor, and she lowered her forehead to rest on her hands.  Her eyes were suddenly filmed over with tears and she felt like a complete idiot always crying, now.  She took a few deep breaths and rolled herself over to face Sam as he made his tentative journey into the very warm water.  When she felt she wasn't going to cry, Irene looked up at Sam and smiled.  "I think we have an understanding.  And, put that way, I'll not be easy about it, but I understand that your job is your job and I could be a liability in the field.  I'll do as you ask."  She frowned fleetingly as she heard her words.  "This time.  This time, I'll do as you ask."<br/><br/>"Now, we shouldn't waste this nice, hot water, Sam.  Please, clean at will and I will reciprocate," she said, grinning wryly as she handed him a sponge, so much better for teasing caresses than a cloth.  Irene met Sam's eyes once more.  "I think I'm up to the task."