Book excerpt: Alec Winters, Earl of Harwich, wanted Miss Regina Rutledge for his wife, but there was one thing standing in his way—her betrothal to another man. Before he could sweep her off to Gretna Green, he lost her forever. It was then that he vowed never to love again. He’d marry only for duty and heirs. Miss Regina Rutledge loved Alec with all her heart, but her father refused to be moved by emotion. Before she could run away with Alec, her betrothed not only destroyed her home but killed her father. In fear for her life, and Alec’s, Regina needed to disappear, even if it meant that everyone believed her dead. With painful determination, she became someone else—a governess, hiding from Society. When Alec discovers her living in the home of his cousin, her betrayal cuts deep and Alec isn’t certain that he can ever forgive her. Will they find their way back to each other, or will the love and passion they once shared be destroyed for good?