The infamous Duke of Wadebridge always gets what he wants—even if he must play the scoundrel to do it. When His Grace encounters the lovely and demure Cassandra Staunton at a garden party, he is infatuated, not only with her outer beauty but with her inner strength. Determined to seduce her, he sets his sights on Longstone village with every intention of making her his own.

Considered to be the most beautiful woman in Britain, Cassandra believes that marriage is an unattainable dream due to her painful reproductive condition. Her heart, though, is not immune to Wade's irresistible charm. As the duke's advances grow more daring, Cassie feels torn between the safety of her quiet life and the allure of a man who promises a passion beyond her wildest dreams.

When Wade's pursuit reaches a fever pitch, he offers a provocative alternative: a journey to Cornwall, where he promises to cherish her however she chooses–even if that means never taking her to bed.

This daring proposition forces Cassie to face her deepest fears and secret longings. Can she recognize the real man beneath the reputation, or will Wade's bold proposal be the wedge that finally drives them apart?