A Marriage of Convenience Such is the agreement forged between Lady Jessica Stanton and Simon Warland, Earl of Northcote. Jessica needs a husband strong enough to protect her inheritance from her avaricious stepbrother. Simon needs money to restore the family legacy his father squandered. United by necessity, emotional attachment isn t part of the deal. An Unexpected Passion Yet once the reluctant newlyweds are living under the same roof, Simon can t ignore the startling intellect, gentle strength, and graceful beauty Jessica keeps so carefully hidden from the world. And Jessica is intrigued to discover Simon s formidable temper masks a kind, noble heart. But when Simon s true motive for their marriage is revealed, Jessica is devastated by his betrayal. Because, despite her best intentions, she is falling in love with her husband. And love is the last thing either of them wants though it may be exactly what they need."