her Ambitious and lethally intelligent, Gideon Hawthorne has performed the Duke of Windemere's dirty work for ten years, all the while longing hopelessly for Messalina Greycourt, the duke's niece. Now Gideon's ready to quit the duke's service and strike out on his own. That is, until Windermere makes an irresistible offer: perform one last task and receive Messalina's hand in marriage. Witty, vivacious Messalina Greycourt is appalled when her uncle demands she marry the wicked Mr. Hawthorne. But Gideon offers her a devil's bargain: protection in exchange for a willing, true marriage. Messalina feigns agreement and plots her escape. Only the more time she spends with Gideon, the more her fierce, passionate husband arouses her affections. But will Gideon's final deed for Windemere destroy the love growing between them?