Women rarely refuse the wicked Earl of Hepplewood, whose daring exploits are only whispered about. But when his new governess answers his proposition with a slap, then stalks out, references in hand, Hepplewood finds more than his face is burning. Isabella Aldridge has brains, bravado, and beauty--but the latter is no use to a servant. Her circumstances are desperate, and with Hepplewood's words ringing in her ears, Isabella realizes she must barter her most marketable asset--her body. But when fate sends Isabella back into Hepplewood's arms, the earl must make an impossible choice--draw Isabella down into his sensual darkness, or behave with honor for the first time in his life.