Miss Maddie Smythe: My callous father wagered me to a stranger during a hand of cards, leaving me terrified. But Lord Wheaton was nothing like the baron who'd forced me into servitude and gave me away. The handsome marquess was compassionate, honorable, and my only hope for a future. I married him to save myself, not intending to lose my heart. Never thinking of the danger that loomed, threatening to tear us apart forever. Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton: The last thing I needed was an innocent to protect, but I couldn't leave the maid to her vile father's mercy. It didn't take me long to realize Maddie was everything I never knew I needed, sweet, caring and lovely. She made me whole. When her father tried to take her from me, I vowed to do everything in my power to save my wife. Even if it meant sacrificing myself.