Although Miss Pendleton introduces him to several beautiful young ladies, the cynical Mr. Dalton appears to have eyes only for his matchmaker. But Miss Pendleton has no interest in marriage, especially not to such a wealthy nobleman, due to her shameful past. Instead, Miss Pendleton makes arrangements to become a governess and thereby escape her abusive uncle on her own. But Mr. Dalton is nothing if not persistent. When Miss Pendleton faces unexpected troubles, he offers her the governess position for his young nephews in order to get closer to her.
Mr. Dalton's love, bordering obsession, for Miss Pendleton means that he won't give up until he can convince her to become his―despite all that is at stake.