The Earl of Seaforth must face the promise he made to a dying friend: guard his daughter. Reid plans to send his new ward to finishing school... until he discovers the bonny heiress is a woman fully grown. Reid now has a new plan: find her a husband. The problem? Reid cannot unearth a single suitable candidate.

When Audrey's illegitimate cousin materializes and names himself as heir to her father's estate, she finds herself in the midst of a swindler's plot. Worse, if she discloses her cousin's blackmail and refuses to agree to his demands, not only could Reid's lands be forfeit, the estate her father worked to build will be ruined. Swallowing her revulsion, the lass bears her secrets alone, until the earl discovers her ruse. As the web of deceit builds, it is only together they can fight to save their lives...and their love.