Several candles flickered in the room. A glass of red wine shone with a bloody hue on the side of the tub.

Ezra wallowed in the chin high, bubble-topped water, his eyes closed, his features totally relaxed. He’d had an exhausting day and the effects of the warm water, and the strong wine, combined to make him drowsy.

He didn’t hear the door  to the room open. His wine glass was filled by his visitor and a cigar was left for him to enjoy. The visitor turned and left the room with a smile.

Ezra opened his eyes and smiled. “Ah, Santa Vin has been, lovely.”