Dismissed from her job as a scullery maid and cast aside by her lover, pregnant Cara Morland has no choice but to return to her father's farm. While lies of widowhood keep her from disgrace, Cara is faced with a local landowner's unwanted attentions. Without the social status to do much more than avoid the vile man, she loses hope of ever finding happiness. A friendship based on mutual loneliness blossoms between Cara and James Elliot, a young farm hand hired by her father. He offers his protection, and one shared kiss reveals his heart, but propriety and her feigned grieving period hinders what they both desire. When Cara's stalker learns the truth of her circumstances, he gives her an ultimatum - submit to his possession or he'll ruin her second chance at love with James.