As a governess, Ruth Henwood has always put her pupils first, sometimes sacrificing her own interest. The choice facing her now could become the highest sacrifice of them all.
Two men want her as their mistress. The Spanish war hero, the Duque de la Sombras, plans to wed the Princesa Isabella, Ruth's fourteen-year-old pupil, but promises not consummate the marriage if Ruth will come willingly to his bed. The English rake, the Duke of Richport promises help her and Bella to escape Isabella's tiny Pyrenean kingdom, but his price is the same.
Ruth's decision must be guided by what is best for Bella. No matter that one man repels her, and one man is a risk to her heart.
Richport lost his heart to his wife when he was seventeen, and had it broken and trampled on. He has managed very well without a heart in the twenty-six years since, gaining the nickname Duke of Depravity. His offer to Ruth is a heartless joke?he always intended to help her and her charge. But if she takes him up on the offer, he will be happy to school the governess in the ways of the flesh.
Little does Richport realise that his heart is back on the line once more.
But love is not their worst risk. The duque is in hot pursuit, and is determined to take back what he believes to be his own.
