Clara's feet ached, her cheeks hurt from smiling, and her mind was exhausted.
Ethan led her upstairs without a word, as the sound of their footsteps softened by the thick Persian carpet. He stopped before a wide door and pushed it open.
Clara stepped inside, expecting some sort of guest room. Instead, she was met with a grand bedroom, his bedroom she realised, warmly lit and far too intimate for the distance she still wanted between them.
She hesitated at the door. "I thought…" She swallowed. "I thought we would have separate rooms."
Ethan didn't look surprised; if anything, his mouth curved into a faint smile. "We're husband and wife now, Clara. What do you think my parents and brother will assume if we don't share a room?"
Her lips parted to protest, but he cut her off with a light, almost teasing tone. "Don't overthink it. You'll see, it's not as bad as you imagine."
He crossed to a side door and pushed it open, revealing a spacious bathroom. The bathroom counters were lined with familiar bottles and jars, the shelves stocked with neatly arranged toiletries, every single one a brand or scent she loved.
"Before you jump to any conclusions," he said, leaning against the door frame, "these were stocked yesterday for you, they were not for some other woman. I don't want you using this as grounds for divorce, claiming I was unfaithful." He laughed softly. "Get comfortable and if you need anything, I'll be in the study, the housekeeper will show you where it is. And… Axiel wanted to say goodnight to you. I hope you don't mind..He can be a bit enthusiastic."