“Tuesday.” She shrugged into her jacket, then took his outstretched hand. “Somehow, and I’m not entirely sure how it happened, I’m going with Rogan.”

“Ah, you’ve settled the contact then.”

“I haven’t even read the contract. But apparently I have an appointment on Wednesday to have publicity photos taken. Plus I’m supposed to give him a list of my inventory, as he calls my paintings back in New York. He seems to think I’m having a show in the fall.”

“That’s grand.” Delighted for her, he swung her off her feet to kiss her. “Why didn’t you tell me before? We’d have celebrated.”

“If we’d celebrated any more, I don’t think we’d be alive to talk about it.” When he laughed, she tucked her arm through his. His unhesitating pleasure, for her, even though she was unsure of her own reactions, touched deep. “In any case, I don’t know if celebrating is called for. I haven’t signed—though the way Rogan talks it’s a done deal.”

“You can trust him, if that’s what’s worrying at you.”

“No, not at all. Worldwide’s reputation is top notch. And beyond that, I’d trust Rogan absolutely. It’s a big decision for me, and I like to make even small decisions after careful thought.”

“But you’re going to Dublin,” he pointed out.

“That one got away from me. One minute we were talking about Maggie and Liam, and the next I had contracts in my hand and talk about shows and publicity ringing in my ears.”

“He’s the cleverest of fellows, is Rogan,” Murphy said admiringly. “I’ll miss you, Shannon. Will you be gone long?”

“I should be back Thursday or Friday, from what he said.” They were nearly back at the inn when the first drops of rain fell. “I really wanted to talk to you, Murphy.”

“So you said. Guidelines, was it?”

“Yes.”

“They’ll keep.” He nodded toward the window. “Brie’s in the kitchen. I’d like to come in, but we won’t be alone, and I can’t stay long.”

“They’ll keep,” she agreed.

On Tuesday morning Shannon was packed and ready and wondering what she’d gotten herself into. She’d wondered that quite a bit since coming to Ireland, she realized. It seemed that every adjustment she made, or considered making in her life, required another.

Still, the idea of spending a few days in Dublin wasn’t a hardship. It had been weeks since she’d been in anything remotely resembling a city.

“You’ve an umbrella,” Brianna asked, hovering over the bag Shannon had set by the front door of the inn. “And an extra jacket in case the weather turns?”

“Yes, Mom.”

Flushing a little, Brianna shifted the baby on her shoulder. “It drives Maggie mad when I check her packing. Grayson’s given up and lets me do it for him.”

“Believe me, I’m an expert, and it’s only for a couple of days. Here’s Rogan’s car now.”

“Have a wonderful time.” Brianna would have taken the bag herself if Shannon hadn’t beat her to it. “The Dublin house is lovely, you’ll see. And Rogan’s cook is a magician.”