Returning home, warrior-Laird Clyde Munro faces a pain deeper than any battlefield wound—his beloved betrothed has abandoned him. Desperate to win her back, he meets Cora Henderson, his sister's intriguing new friend with a daring plan.

Cora, a fallen noblewoman whose father was slain and castle seized, seeks refuge in Munro's realm. She needs a powerful husband to reclaim her lands and people. Proposing a bold ruse, Cora suggests they pretend to be betrothed. For Clyde, it's a chance to rekindle his lost love's interest; for Cora, an opportunity to mingle with noblemen and find a suitor strong enough to restore her heritage.

But as their faux engagement unfolds, boundaries blur. Clyde fears Cora might truly fall for him, but she assures him her heart is safe. Yet, neither anticipates the shadows gathering around them—an unseen enemy weaves a perilous trap.

As they navigate courtship's charade, will they uncover the treachery before it's too late? And when pretense gives way to real emotion, will they risk everything for love?