He turned around to look at the house. Elspeth was behind one of the vellum-covered windows. Did she wonder where he was? If it had been high summer and the windows left uncovered to let in a breeze, would she have peeked out at him as he stood on the shoal, naked as God made him?He soaped up his groin. Just the thought that Elspeth might spy on him at his bath made part of him happier than it ought to be, considering the temperature.
The protagonist gazes at his house, noticing Elspeth behind a window, and contemplates whether she is concerned about his absence. He imagines a scenario where the warm summer air invites her to peek outside at him in a vulnerable state, creating a sense of intimacy between them. This playful thought brings him unexpected pleasure, despite the chill in the air.
This moment encapsulates a blend of desire and innocence, highlighting the...