Jonas Blackburn is content with his life...until he discovers he must marry for the advancement of his career. Unable to strike out on his own professionally, Jonas proposes to the only person he could envision spending his life with: his close friend Nora.

When Nora Paget learns the brother she keeps house for is ready to marry, she finds herself at a crossroads: live with her brother and his new wife or set a different course for herself? Jonas's proposal offers a potential solution for them both. She can have a home of her own with a man she's fond of, and solve his employment problem simultaneously.

But Nora harbors an old family secret that could ruin both of them, just as they begin their new life together. Can they take the risk knowing the potential devastation that awaits them? Or will Jonas and Nora be forced to part ways to save their reputations?

This short (1-2 hour read) novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after and no cliffhangers. This is a stand-alone story that is not part of any series.

Previously published in the anthology Regency Summer - Secrets and Soirees.