“Well, I thought it was time to try something new,” she said, trying to sound engaged. She was actually grateful that the elderly man stopped to chat. It was definitely better than standing around by herself.

“I can understand that,” he said. “I’m in my eighties and wondering what retirement will look like.”

“I wouldn’t look at it that way,” Antonia said, taking a sip. “I think we’re all capable of exciting change at any time.”

“I hope so,” said a deep voice from behind her.

Robert looked over her shoulder. “Aiden, come and meet this enchanting woman. My dear, tell me your name again.”

A warm glow flowed through her body and she was certain that it wasn’t the champagne. “Antonia,” she said, turning to face Aiden. He stood over her flashing a beautiful smile. It had only been less than a day since they last saw one another, but his expression was that of a starved man.

“Yes, Antonia Harper. She’s a publisher,” Robert said. “She’s come all the way from America for this conference.”

Antonia kept up the act, holding her hand out for him to shake. “Dr. Byrnes,” she breathed.

Aiden took her hand and brought it to his lips. She shivered as his kiss brushed the back of her fingers. “I’ve had the pleasure of bumping into Ms. Harper more than once.”

“You know, Aiden,” Robert continued. “With Professor Brennan gone, we still have a vacant position in our department. I’m currently talking to Doyle about setting up a publishing track for our students. What do you think?”

Aiden didn’t take his eyes off her. His hands still gripped hers, sending a wave of heat throughout her body. “I think it would be a perfect addition to the English major.”

Antonia swallowed as she pulled her hand back. “It could give your English students more options on the job market,” she said, trying to direct her attention back to Robert.

The old man nodded. “My thoughts exactly! Our Vice-Chancellor is just as interested in increasing enrollment as I am in expanding the department.”

“You know, Robert, if you’re thinking of offering Ms. Harper a job, you’d better be quick about it.” Aiden’s voice was low and silky. “She’s very close to accepting a position as a head editor with another publisher.”

Antonia’s gaze flew to his. What is he saying?

The old man looked alarmed. “Is that true?” he asked.

“Uh...it’s possible,” she said, searching Aiden’s twinkling green eyes. “I haven’t quite decided. My book has taken up a lot of my time these days.”

“Oh my,” Robert said, patting his jacket. “If I may, let me put my bid in right now.” He retrieved a business card from one of his pockets and held it out to her.

Antonia’s mouth fell open in shock. She looked from the card, to Robert, to Aiden. “Are you sure?”

“We’ll have to do the traditional job search, of course. But I’d love to have someone from the industry at the top of the pile. If you have a current CV, please consider sending it.”