A lifetime of struggling due to her father's poor decisions has left Elise Fulbright with no illusions about men. She's smart, independent, and determined not to rely on anyone—ever. Hugh North has learned the bitter lesson that women will do anything to better their stations in life, so he steers clear of those who might see his title as a step up the societal ladder. When an elderly benefactor pens a letter that throws them together, both are willing to reconsider their cynical viewpoints...until a dark family secret threatens to end their happily ever after before it can begin.