In dire need of a protector and escort, Irish princess Sorcha has no choice but to allow mercenary Hugh de Montagne to fulfill the role. Having been duped into marriage, then exiled in disgrace, Sorcha trusts no man. Yet something about the brooding warrior makes her yearn for his touch.... At the king's behest, Hugh must thwart Sorcha's enemies at all costs. He has no intention of taking a wife, but every day—and every night—he spends with the flame-haired princess leads him closer to temptation....