Though her eyes reflected the shame and embarrassment the words had cost her, she didn’t back down. And though he was tempted to turn away at the indecency of her statement, he held her gaze. He saw then what he’d noticed the previous days. Accusation.

“Devil take all!” A burst of self-loathing exploded within his breast. He stalked away several long paces before stopping. Did she think he’d singled her out to be his assistant because he wanted to form an illicit liaison with her? What in the name of heaven above had he done to give her such an impression? He’d been nothing but kind and compassionate to her plight and those of the other poor women.

How dare she sling so unfair an allegation at him?

He spun around with every intention of berating her, but at the picture she made with the sunshine spinning her hair into gold, the sea reflecting in her eyes deep and blue, and her lovely features so pure and unspoiled, his anger blew away, leaving guilt in its place.

Even at that moment, when he didn’t want to think about her loveliness, the breeze molded her gown to her body like a sculptor, leaving little to the imagination—pressing her skirt against long legs, as well as outlining her thin waist and curvy figure. There was no denying she was a beautiful woman in every sense of the word.

He hadn’t wanted to desire her, hadn’t wanted to admit to any attraction. But perhaps, against his best efforts, he’d desired her anyway. And perhaps against his best efforts to hide it, she’d noticed.

At his lengthening perusal, her chin rose a notch and the accusation in her eyes shouted louder.

“Miss Wilkins,” he said, realizing he was only making matters worse, “I beg you to forgive me.” Even if he found her attractive—as any man would—he surely hadn’t meant to give her the impression he wanted her for his mistress. “Whatever I have done, whatever I have said, whatever my grievances, I assure you I have never given a single thought to—to ill-using you.”

She cocked her head slightly, seeming to study his face.

“Rest assured I never have and never would consider having a mistress.” Saying the word was enough to make him squirm. Although there were men of his station who indulged in such vices, his father had always been passionately devoted to his wife. He’d never hidden his deep love and adoration and had been openly affectionate with her. His father’s example in marriage, as in other areas of his life, was one Joseph aspired to emulate someday.