“A good look. You and your father are quite a team.”

Because her hand was throbbing, she pulled some ice out of the freezer. “We are. And I have to add, Mr. Magee, I know Ardmore and what suits it.”

“I can’t argue with that, Miss O’Toole.”

She thought she caught a hint of amusement in his tone and braced herself. “Perhaps you could tell me what your thoughts are on my design, then?”

“It interests me. I have to look at it more thoroughly, but it interests me. Gallagher didn’t mention where you had studied design.”

She narrowed her eyes, then decided if it was a trap it was best to fall into it now as opposed to later. “On the job, sir. My father has worked in the trade all his life, and I learned at his side. I would imagine you had some of the same sort of experience with your own father.”

“You could say that.”

“Then you know a lot can be learned by the doing of things. Between the two of us, my father and I, we handle most of the building and repairing in Old Parish. And if we don’t, we know who does. As that, we’d be some considerable help to you with your project. You’ll find no better than the O’Tooles in Old Parish—or all of Waterford, for that matter. You’re planning to build in Ardmore, Mr. Magee, and it’s good business, I’m sure you’ll agree, to use local skill and labor when you’re able. We’ll be happy to send you references.”

“And I’ll be happy to see them. You build a strong case, Miss O’Toole.”

“I can assure you I build better with wood and brick than with words.”

“I’ll see that for myself, as I’m hoping to carve out a day or two to visit the site personally before too much longer.”

“If you let us know the particulars, my father and I will be happy to meet you at your convenience.”

“I’ll be in touch.”

“Ah . . . I don’t mean to worry you, Mr. Magee, but I’m wondering if you had a moment to look at the music I sent along to you.”

“Yes, I did. I’m not sure I understand. Are you representing Shawn Gallagher?”

“No, I’m not, no. It’s . . . a bit complicated.”

“Then he doesn’t have representation?”

“Ah, no. Not at the present time.” How the devil did this sort of thing work? “You could say I’m acting on his behalf in this particular instance on a personal level.”

“Hmm.”

She winced, thinking there was entirely too much knowledge in that small and casual sound. “Would you mind telling me what you thought of it yourself?”

“Enough to buy it if Gallagher’s selling, and to want a chance to negotiate for his other work. I assume he has other work.”

“He does, yes. Scads of it.” She forgot her throbbing hand, dropped her ice in the sink. While her feet danced, she fought to keep her voice cool and professional. “You’re saying you’d buy the tune. But for what purpose would that be?”