Gerard has never shied from a challenge -- not from the threat to his lands and family by an old enemy, nor from the prospect of marriage to the enticing Lady Ardith. Of the two tasks, convincing Ardith to accept his suit might prove the more difficult, and claiming her in both body and heart the most rewarding prize of all. The king's decree seals her fate, but Ardith knows her betrothal to Gerard will end in tragedy because she...