9 - Once Upon a Betrothal: Scandalous Seasons

Frigid temperatures and an even more frigid reception...

Broden Burgess anticipated this upon returning to Society after his ignominious imprisonment and a loss that froze his heart. A logical fellow, Broden expects to never fall in love or marry. What he doesn't expect is Miss Elyse Caldecott.

Elyse is determined not to attend a powerful nobleman's holiday party, but her family forces her to go in a transparent effort to marry her to the host's criminal son. For his part, Broden has no interest in his parents' surprise for him, inviting some desperate spinster and her kin to their annual celebration. But Broden dodges that contemptible evening, or so he thinks, when a blizzard forces him to take shelter at an inn on the way to his family's home.

At this inn, Broden encounters a tart-mouthed beauty, not recognizing her as the match his parents have made for him. Elyse certainly meets her match in a hostile greeting as crackling as the logs roaring in the hearth.

It isn't long before a strong-willed Elyse and Broden, begin to warm to one another, and even regret having to say goodbye.

When they meet up again at the same house-party, sparks fly, once more.

But does that same heat have the power to thaw two wounded hearts? Or for Broden and Elyse, will the fear of losing again make the possibility of love a cold comfort?