Xavier Westruther, Marquis of Steyne, has a secret. Notoriously known as a sexy bachelor, Steyne actually has a wife. Forced into marriage eight years ago by his cruel mother, Steyne has no intention of ever actually settling down with the lady. That is, until Steyne is left without an heir he approves of to inherit his fortune. Hoping to keep his heinous uncle and cousin away from his estate, Steyne sets out to sire a son. But to do that, he must first seduce his wife, who is much more resistant-and beautiful-than he counted on...Lady Alexandra knows the sensual, magnificent Steyne has no interest in her. Undeniably attractive, she still cannot forget that he has not searched for her in the eight years since they were married. Living in a small village under the name Lizzie Allbright, she resigns herself to being a spinster. But when Steyne shows up at her door, all of her assumptions change. Lizzie is determined not to fall in love with the marquis. But he can be very convincing behind closed doors, and it will take all of Lizzie's strength to resist such a wicked lord...