Book excerpt: London, 1473 The time had come…duty called. Bound by his word, Sir Fergus Melrose would honor his betrothal, but first he must claim his betrothed…. His task wouldn’t be easy. Lady Nicola Coldyngham was no longer the young lass who had worshipped his every move. Nor, since he’d spurned her childish love, was she willing to give up her heart so easily again. Her defiance became his challenge—a challenge he was unable to resist. Spurred on by the promise of her fiery beauty, this was one contest Sir Fergus Melrose had every intention of winning.