Antonia took his card and smiled. “I’ll definitely consider it.”

“You should,” Aiden insisted. “It will give you a chance to attend more of these functions. Academics in Ireland know how to throw a party.”

Robert chuckled. “They certainly do,” he said, quickly swiping another glass of champagne from a passing waiter. “Doyle has hired a string quartet for a simple conference banquet. You don’t see that sort of thing often.”

As if on cue, the musicians started. Antonia was still in disbelief, holding Robert’s card in her hands. Had she managed to land a job position while avoiding another? She quickly tucked the card into her purse with trembling hands. “That would be lovely,” she murmured.

“I hate to steal Antonia away, Robert,” Aiden said, placing a hand on the small of her back. “But I was hoping to continue our conversation on the dance floor.”

“I’m not a good dancer,” she said, looking at the open area where couples were already gathered.

“I might be good enough for the both of us,” he said.

“You two go on,” Robert said. “They’ve laid out more salmon at the buffet. I’ve got to get there before Maguire.” He left them before Antonia could protest any further.

She looked up at him. “What have you done?”

“I’ve created another excuse to hold on to your coat,” he said, taking her hand.

Antonia was in a daze as she let him lead her to the dance floor. He took her empty glass and set it on a nearby table before resting her hand on his shoulder. He held her other hand aloft and moved slowly against her. “This could end badly for the both of us,” she whispered, keeping her eyes on their feet. “I’m wearing high heels this time.”

“I’m sorry, Antonia,” he said.

She looked up. “What?”

“I want you to be happy...but I’d rather it be with me,” he said solemnly. “I’m so sorry I didn’t say that when it mattered.”

A hot tear spilled down her cheek as she stared up at him. His eyes were earnest and warm with regret. She didn’t know what to say so she went back to watching their feet. She was amazed that she hadn’t managed to step on his toes yet. Her mind wasn’t on their movements, but on how she was going to say her piece without crying.

“Antonia,” he softly urged her to speak. “Please let me fight for you still. If you want me, I’ll do whatever it takes. Only a coward would let a woman like you leave him without a fight. I don’t want to be that man.”

She let out an exasperated laugh. “You’re right,” she said. “Only a coward doesn’t reach out and take what they want. I don’t want to be that woman either.” Antonia looked up, tears brimming her eyes. “I love you, but I can’t tolerate being with someone who can’t express themselves. If you’re hurting, you have to let people in. And dammit, you have to listen to them.”