Like a heroine in an ancient tale, Vivienne waited in the highest chamber of Kinfairlie-s tower for her fated lover. In the darkness he came for her, cloaked and hooded so that she would not see his face. He loved her sweetly, thoroughly, and Vivienne knew she had met her destiny. But in the morning light, her dream is shattered. Erik Sinclair of Blackleith is no romantic hero but a disinherited warrior who arranged her abduction to regain his own legacy. Outraged by Erik-s insistence that he needs her solely to beget a son, yet ensared by the passion he awakens, Vivienne realizes that there is more merit in her taciturn spouse than he would admit. Erik is skeptical of her growing faith in his honor and her desire to recapture his stolen birthright. Little does he suspect that his rare gem of a bride intends to capture his barricaded heart as well.