<p>The knock brought bad news.</p><p><br></p><p>And so early in the day.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>Worst of all Father is home from the sea.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>So what is she hiding? Where has she gone? And how can he find her and get her to say yes?</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>