‘Good. Go and pack a bag. You can show me Brighton Pavilion. And we can talk about our future.’

She stood glued to the spot. Our future? This was going too fast for her. She wasn’t ready to fall into bed with him yet, however strong the attraction between them.

He stared at her with narrowed eyes, seeming to guess what she was thinking. ‘We can have separate rooms, if that’s what’s worrying you.’

‘It is. I don’t…’ She couldn’t think of a tactful way to say it, so said baldly, ‘I’m not in the habit of sleeping with someone I’ve only just met.’ Even someone whose lightest touch turned her bones to jelly.

His eyes gleamed wickedly. ‘I’ll give my solemn word not to ravish you, if that’ll make you feel better.’

She could not help chuckling. ‘Thank you, Sir Jasper!’

The gleam in his eyes became more pronounced as he added casually, ‘Unless you change your mind, of course. I would never refuse a request from a lady.’

She stood very still, staring up at him. She had never believed that physical attraction could sweep you off your feet, but he had only to smile like that for her stomach to tie itself in knots. She tried for a more everyday tone, but wasn’t sure she achieved it. ‘Well – all right. Brighton it is. I’ll go and pack. Give me fifteen minutes.’

She fled towards the house, away from the hypnotic effect of his body and those dark gleaming eyes.

But she couldn’t resist turning at the door to smile at him and was delighted to see that he was watching her, smiling as well.

Inside she ran straight into Sandy, who screeched, ‘Who is he?’ and clutched her arm. ‘Oh, wow, what a hunk! And just look at that car!’

‘I met him in Northumberland.’

‘And you didn’t say a single word! You sly thing!’

Megan pushed Sandy gently aside. ‘I have to pack.’

But of course her friend followed her up the stairs. ‘What for? Where are you going?’

‘None of your business. And look, do me a favour, will you?’

‘Anything, as long as you’ll introduce me to the hunk.’

‘I’m not introducing you. Now will you do me the favour or not?’

Sandy sighed. ‘You’re mean and selfish and I’d do just the same if I were in your shoes. What’s the favour?’

‘Don’t tell my family about him. It’s too early.’

‘Is it serious?’

‘Could be.’

Suddenly Sandy hugged her. ‘All right, Meggie love. I won’t say a word.’ She turned at the door to wink and add, ‘Good luck!’