Orphaned at a young age, William Hawkins has known no other life than that of a gardener. His dream has always been to own a cottage of his own, but such a dream for a man like him can never happen. Or can it? When a mysterious stranger arrives at his place of employment, William learns that he is the long-lost heir to a massive fortune. And a dukedom he never knew existed. How can a simple man like him possibly take on such an important position? Miss Marianne Blithe, the daughter of a once-wealthy merchant, has wanted for nothing in life. The prospect of love has been elusive, but there must be a man out there for her who is not tedious. Or is there? With their family fortune faltering, Marianne and her mother are tasked with teaching the newfound duke how to navigate his new life. In exchange, her father will be given every business opportunity William has to offer. What was meant only as instruction has turned into much more for Marianne. William is handsome, intelligent, and adaptable. And more than just a simple student. William finds himself not only in control of a massive fortune but also under the patient tutelage of Marianne. Not only is she beautiful, but she cares nothing for his title or holdings—a fact he finds curious. And alluring… As the date of his introduction into society draws nearer, William has become a different man. Marianne fears that any semblance of the former gardener she has come to care for no longer exists. And William wonders if becoming the duke the ton expects is worth giving up the man he truly is.