After her loveless marriage comes to an end with the death of her husband, the Duchess of Sedgewick is now heading on a desperate journey to beg the new duke for financial assistance. But when a storm strands Anna with her loyal driver, Oliver and a reclusive painter, Ezra, passions that have long been repressed will come to the surface. Oliver has been in love with Anna for years, but aside from one anonymous encounter in the darkened hallway of a hell, he’s not been able to be close to her. So when Ezra offers to pay them to pose for an erotic portrait, he sees an opportunity not only to protect her future, but to experience the passion with her that he’s always secretly longed for. Ezra has been unable to paint for anything but commission since a terrible personal loss, but Oliver and Anna’s intense connection gives him inspiration…and desire for both of them that is undeniable. Passion leads to emotion and if they can find a way to overcome past hurts and expectations, perhaps they can build a future on their own terms.