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Her courage was gone, though. Swept away by the madness of the moment. If there was ever a time to tell him how she felt, it was now, but she could hardly comprehend it herself yet. A few months ago, she had been pining for Henry. Now she could think of nothing else other than kissing Miles.

“I shall have to work hard for that forgiveness, I see.”

“No,” she blurted out. “No, that is not what.—”

“I think it best I leave you now.” He retrieved his hat from a nearby table and put it on. “And while I might not be the best of gentlemen, I shall see to it that Jenkins ceases his gossip, I promise that much.”

Twining her hands in front of her, she nodded. He dipped his head then left the room. She heard murmurs of him conversing with her mother but could not make out the words. At least her mother would have little idea what had just occurred.

She almost envied her mother. If only she could be in ignorance too. Expunge what had happened from her mind and move on with her life. Miles appeared to have no difficulties in doing so. She sank back onto the chair and touched her still tingling lips. If only she was still that naive, excited girl who could not wait to marry Henry.

But she had changed. Time had changed her.Mileshad changed her.

So what was she going to do about it?