Gillian Dashwood's wastrel husband wagered away her fortune. His scandalous murder ruined her reputation. Even still, she'll do whatever it takes to protect her beloved elderly uncle from Lucian Joslyn, the cool headed gambler who's as mysterious as his newfound fortune. Luc has his own reasons for not trusting the lovely niece of his dear friend Silas and vows to protect him from the fortune hunting Mrs Dashwood. But the simmering desire that draws them ever closer proves to be an unexpected hazard in their plans. Will they ever learn to trust each other and give in to the feelings drawing them to each other?