Im just going to wash up a bit, if thats okay, said Bette. She pointed to the door that she had questioned as the bathroom as she made her request.

Yes, right in there. There are fresh towels in there if you would like. I think the ones on the rack are questionable. I actually have to wash up too, as you no doubt noticed. She laughed at her own self-deprecating remark.

Bette set down her day-pack by the door and entered the bathroom. She retrieved a towel from behind the curtain that covered the shelving unit and placed it on the edge of the sink. She turned on the hot and cold water adjusting the temperature to her satisfaction and reached for the soap. She had coated her hands lightly with the cleanser when Misha strode in and turned on the taps for the shower. That action in and of itself was not what startled Bette, rather it was the fact that Misha was nude.

I opened a bottle of wine for us. There are two glasses on the counter. Help yourself, and Ill get started with supper after I am done. The basket of bread is there too if you need something before the meal is ready.

She drew the curtain back and stepped into the deep claw foot tub. Bette looked into the mirror again. She could see the steam rise from the enclosed space behind her as she finished washing up.

Bette heard the taps turn off. She was sitting in the kitchen leafing through her Paris tour guide, hoping she could get some tips from Misha about ‘off the beaten path’ places to visit before she started her internship the following Monday.

It was only a few moments before Misha exited the bathroom. She had a towel wrapped just underneath her arms and she had towel dried her hair. Again she walked purposefully across the room, removing the towel as she walked. She didnt stop until she was standing in front of the dresser. She opened one of the drawers and drew out a fresh change of clothes.

Bette tried to concentrate on her book, but was fascinated by Mishas lack of inhibition and found herself stealing glances. Words and images on the page failed to penetrate, though she continued to try to focus her attention appropriately.