He didn’t know I was awake yet. I hadn’t moved, still curled up with mt sheets and my pillow. From my vantage point, I had an excellent view of my boy dressed in his minimal uniform. He was so lovely all back-lit from the morning light, clutching the muslin curtains as he murmured his daily affirmation under his breath: “I am a good boy. I will serve today with respect and dignity. I will uphold Sir’s rules and orders and maintain his household. He has chosen me for this position and he loves me. I will not disappoint him.” He punctuated his little speech with a slow exhale.

I was smiling like an idiot into my pillow. He really makes me so happy, how seriously he takes this. I couldn’t wait to kiss him good morning.