Avowed bachelor Lord Guy Lovell has no interest in the married state. But when thrice-widowed Gemma Cooke rushes into his sanctuary, needing rescue from a boorish swain, Guy's outlook changes abruptly.

Gemma, having lost three husbands, purportedly because of her amorousness, has no intention of wedding a fourth time. Lord Guy provides a buffer against gentlemen with dishonorable intentions, and she looks forward to having him at her side.

When Gemma's aunt suggests Guy as the perfect husband for Gemma's beloved stepdaughter, Gemma realizes her friendship with Guy has become something more, and the heart she thought long dormant will soon be broken.