In the midst of England's coldest winter in years, widowed Nell Simmons is relieved that her period of mourning is nearly over, but she cannot help worrying about her delicate young daughter, Delphine - especially when the heir to Meadow House is due to arrive and demand their removal from the estate. But when the new viscount sends his brother Charles in his stead, Nell is amazed to realize that the famously selfish bachelor is melting her long-frozen heart...As a younger brother, Charles's life has never held much purpose beyond pleasure - and keeping his creditors at bay. The dubious honour of meeting with his cousin's widow is simply an excuse to escape London for a few days, until a fierce storm traps him at the country house with Nell and her ailing child. Suddenly Charles is eager to make himself useful - and make Nell believe that he can be the hero who will make her every dream of love come true...