Page 38 of An Enchanted Spring

“How, exactly, are they related again?” she asked again, watching the spectacle with interest. Never having any siblings or cousins, Emma had never had the opportunity to argue with such enthusiasm before. All her relationships were businesslike; she’d never blown up at anyone like that before. It was fascinating to watch.

“Technically, Aidan is Colin’s uncle. Many times removed,” Reilly replied, draining the coffee cup.

“Really? You want to pull that out already?” Colin asked incredulously, turning on Reilly.

Emma’s head spun. How could that be? “Uncle?”

“Uncle Aidan, that’s me,” Aidan responded. “It’s a convoluted tale, lass, and I’m hardly traceable to Colin through bloodlines. Irish families—we’re enormous by default. No need to worry, though. His reputation is so clean, I think if anyone did associate us, it would be only for the good of mybrand.”

The reminder hit its target—Emma was his employee. She ignored the little stab of pain in her chest. He was right, of course. She had to remember that she was not a part of this family, or any family. She relied on herself, and while these interactions were interesting, they were not her concern. She gave a brief nod.

“We are done here,” Aidan said sharply. “Emma—get your coat. We’re leaving.”

“Save your commands for Cian,” Reilly snapped. “You’re not her laird.”

“No, I’m not,” Aidan snapped back. He leveled a stare at Emma. “I am her employer. And it’s business hours. So let’s go.”

“Where, exactly?” she asked, folding her arms.

“To my restaurant.”

“Another one?” Stunned, Emma watched him leave the kitchen.

“You really know how to put him in a bad mood,” Colin remarked, punching Reilly lightly on the shoulder.

“It’s a talent,” he agreed. “One which you seem to share lately.”

“Emma, before you go,” Colin said as Emma stood, “Aidan, Ry, and I have all had a chat about it, and it’s going to take a little time to get your apartment all fixed. Also, we’re concerned about your safety. We’d really like you to stay here. Longer-term.”

She started to protest, and he hurried on before she could comment.

“It’s not entirely altruistic. I was hoping you might spend a little time helping me with Celtic Connections. We’re trying to expand overseas, and I’m not sure how to present the business in foreign markets. I wonder if you might be willing to help with that, offering some advice.”

“That’s really kind, Colin, but…” She shook her head uncomfortably. Aidan must have put him up to it, and she wasn’t sure she liked it.

“This isn’t for pity,” Reilly assured her. “Colin knows what you did with that software company that expanded from California to Japan.”

“True,” Colin confirmed.

Despite herself, she grinned. “That was a fun account. I never got to go to Tokyo, though.”

Unsurprisingly, Heidi had gone in her place, after Emma did all the work of closing the account and creating storyboards, presentations, and contacts in the States. Now that she was out of the environment, Emma really saw how much she’d done for Price Publicity and how little she’d gotten in return. She had a momentary flash of relief that she’d never have to enter that office again.

“I have to see if it would cross any contract lines,” she replied. “But if it doesn’t, then I’ll help you out. Thanks.”

Colin gave her a nod, a lock of his hair falling over his forehead, and she couldn’t help but smile at him. Colin O’Rourke was an all-American heartbreaker, and nice to boot. It worried her a little that she wasn’t even the least bit interested in him.

“EMMALINE!” Aidan boomed, exasperation in his voice. He appeared in the doorway again, wearing his black leather jacket over his gray polo shirt.

Her mouth went a little dry, and, irritated, she knew why Colin just didn’t do it for her.

He wasn’t Aidan MacWilliam.

Later that day,while Aidan was holed up in the office with Reilly, Colin introduced Emma to the third floor of his massive house. The entire floor was one large room that spanned the length of the brownstone, with the same honey maple wood floors as the rest of the house. The stairs from the second floor led directly into the enormous space, which managed to be light, open, and airy, yet comfortable and welcoming. A gorgeous, highly detailed, light blue oriental carpet lay nearly wall-to-wall. The two armchairs were overstuffed, and a basket full of thick fleece blankets sat neara stone fireplace in the wall. The gas insert gave that end of the room a cozy feel.

The best thing about the fireplace wasn’t its ambiance, though. What made her heart beat faster were the shelves surrounding it. She gazed upon the titles lining the walls and felt a little like Belle did when the Beast showed her his library. She was surprised to find a myriad of subjects—just from her first glance, she saw historical texts, literary fiction, and a bestselling thriller novel.

Her eyes traveled to the bright double window at the back of the room, and she noted the inviting window seat. It was padded in a fabric that complemented the blue decor, with oversized chair pillows propped against it.

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