Eighteen-year-old Genevre is heartbroken when she learns that her parents have died of fever whilst abroad. She is sent to live with a man who claims he is her uncle, but when he tries to trick her into marriage to get his hands on her money, Genevre runs away. She finds refuge in the home of handsome Lord Ashley, as governess to his young niece, Chloe. Lord Ashley is kindness itself to Genevre - but how long can her past remain a secret?