Even though I knew he was teasing me, my heart lurched at the words “guilty conscience.” “Ah no, sir,” I interrupted him, the words gushing out of me. “I-I’m no burglar. I was just looking for books to read to Lily.” I gave a small curtsy. “I’m the new governess you sent for. My name is Nora Sweeney.”

His smile disappeared, and he let his hand drop to his side. He studied me in silence for what seemed like an eternity.

When he spoke again, his voice was gentle. “It is good to meet you, Miss Sweeney. I cannot imagine the horror you have been through. Even though you were listed as missing, I had the strongest feeling that you had somehow survived. You are very welcome to my home.”

His grin returned. “Oh, and just so we are straight on matters, I am Aidan O’Hanlon, Lily’s father, and your new employer.”

I muttered a quick thank-you. I couldn’t wait to get out of the room and flee upstairs. As if reading my mind, he took my hand in both of his and smiled. “You should rest for a few days, Miss Sweeney. Take some time to recover and get settled before you take up your duties. There is no rush.”

His hand had sent such a shock through mine I pulled it away immediately and moved to return the book to the shelf.

“Please take the book with you. As many as you like. In fact, I’m pleased to see you have such an interest in reading. It will be good for Lily.” He paused, and a cloud passed over his face. “I try to read to her when I can. But I am not often home in time.”

I nodded and waited. He straightened up, all business again. “You may go now, Miss Sweeney. Good night.”

Released, I almost ran from the room, but managed to control myself and walk slowly. Once I reached the stairs, though, I raced up two at a time and into the safety of my room. Panting, I sank down on the bed, still clutching the book in my arms. My thoughts collided with one another; I’d lied again about being Nora. The words had rolled so easily off my tongue, I would surely go to Hell. This was the first time in my life I’d ever felt a physical attraction to a man—but there again, Aidan O’Hanlon was the most beautiful man I’d ever seen. Ah, sure what did it matter what he looked like? I would never deserve such a man. It was several minutes before I calmed down.