Natalie gazed steadily back at him. His earnest expression made her want to believe him. But she had to be certain for Leo’s sake. “In the tower room the other day, you asked Leo if he recognized who was in that painting of Audrey. You seemed to be testing him.”

“Only because I’d promised Godwin that I would look into the matter, that’s all. I myself was already convinced.” He reached for her hand, gently squeezing her fingers as if to convey his sincerity. “You’re a woman of good sense and intelligence, Natalie. So tell me, would I buy the boy a pony if I truly thought you to be an imposter?”

Her pulse leaped at his warm touch, and she felt the tug of that peculiar connection with him, as if they were one mind and heart. It was illogical, considering they’d only met a few days ago and had so little in common. Yet the feeling persisted nonetheless, enhancing the pleasurable sensation of his strong hand around hers.

She scrabbled for the thread of their conversation. “I concede your point. However, we haven’t yet agreed that you’re buying Leo a pony.”

“Then I must devote myself to the task of convincing you.”

Bringing her hand to his lips, he brushed a soft kiss over the backs of her fingers. His gaze glimmered at her as if he were issuing a challenge that he fully expected to win. Her lips curved in response to his roguish air and she felt an irresistible longing sweep though her body. Just how did he intend to persuade her? And why did she feel so eager to find out?

Attraction sparked between them, as bright and intense as the sun. It melted her innermost depths and she glimpsed heat in the slight lowering of his dark lashes as he stared at her. That look held ardor and temptation and the promise of pleasure.

Then, just like that, his warm expression altered subtly. A cool mask came over his masculine features, a shuttering of the candor in his eyes, a restraint of his playful smile. It was as if he’d remembered that she was merely a commoner, the temporary governess of his cousin’s son. Natalie needed that reminder, too. She must never forget that Hadrian was the Duke of Clayton, a powerful nobleman who clearly had a talent for charming women.

He rose from the stone bench, drawing her to her feet before releasing her hand. “I’ve kept you long enough. We’ll talk about this another time.”

With a nod, Natalie matched his neutral tone. “Tell Chumley to wash your shoulder with soap before he bandages it. Audrey was a firm believer that cleanliness helps to keep a wound from festering.”

“Sound advice. Shall we go?”

They proceeded to the garden fence to collect Leo, who had acquired damp patches on his knees and a smear of mud on his face. He opened his grubby palm and excitedly showed them an earthworm, then had to be persuaded by Hadrian that the squirmy creature belonged in the dirt and wouldn’t make a very good pet.