When scandal forces the heroine, Magdalen Morland, to seek new employment, she seizes upon an opportunity that will keep her from a dreaded future as a governess or companion.

"You mistake me, my lord--"

Suddenly the carriage wheels dipped dangerously low, hitting a hole in the road full force. There was a tremendous lurch and she cried out as she was thrown violently from her seat. The breath was knocked from her lungs, and at the moment when she would have tumbled head first to the floor, a pair of strong hands reached out to grasp her shoulders, not letting go even after the wheels had righted themselves and they were on level ground again.

Before Magdalen had time to consider what was happening, she felt herself pulled to the other side of the carriage and hauled into the circle of Lord Amberley's arms, his hard thighs making brutal contact with her unsteady legs as he settled her in his lap. She had a glimpse of glittering dark eyes boring into hers before his head descended swiftly and his mouth closed over hers, the pressure of his hands increasing to bring her closer to him.