Experience has taught Simon Beckham that love only leads to grief. Although he needs to marry someday and produce an heir, for now he prefers a fun dalliance. A smile, a wink, a pretty compliment, and women tumble into his bed willingly-except for one irritatingly attractive sharp-tongued harpy.

Lady Charlotte Talbot does not suffer fools, particularly the buffoon Simon Beckham, with his handsome face and roguish grin. The man doesn't have a serious bone in his all-too-tempting body. Although she has no intention of being leg-shackled to any man, when her brother attempts to foist an arranged marriage on her-to an abusive suitor no less-even that incorrigible rake Simon seems preferable.

After the two are discovered in a compromising situation, they strike an agreement. A marriage of convenience saving Charlotte's reputation in exchange for providing Simon an heir. Love isn't part of the bargain.

But some deals are meant to be broken.