The knock brought bad news. And so early in the day. Can life get worse for a poor family? Yes, Verbena discovers, it can, especially if it involves keeping a vital secret from the wealthiest family in the village. Adding to that burden, she now has another mouth to feed on her meager resources. Worst of all, Father is home from the sea. Wealthy Damon never asked to be the heir. But his brother is dead, and now it's up to him to marry well and ensure the family line continues. He doesn't want to marry well. He wants the poor beauty at the end of the lane. Surely his wealth will offset his injury. So what is she hiding? Where has she gone? And how can he find her and get her to say yes?