A Loveless Marriage Proposal to a Spinster (Lords of Convenience Book 3)

Description

Raised by a loving, widowed father, Madeline has never resented her lot in life. Though not wealthy, she and her father live in relative comfort and she has been afforded a high standard of education that others cannot boast. Not stunningly beautiful, Madeline has never attracted the eye of men but does not possess the vain disposition that requires such attention. Her only regret is that, at twenty-six, she is now almost guaranteed a future of spinsterhood, which will mean a lack of children. After teaching neighbouring youths to read and write, Madeline has always desired to become a mother. But without a husband, such a dream lies unfulfilled.

When an old friend of her father’s passes away, however, Madeline becomes an overnight heiress. Now, her age is overlooked by men near and far, as their greedy gazes fall upon her dowery. None are honest, courting and wooing her for her looks and temperament. Only one is honest: Damian Fairhurst, Duke of Cornwall. Damian’s brutal confession to wanting only her money is refreshing and his offer of a loveless marriage more tempting than the obvious deceit of other suitors. With his lands in financial ruins, Damian promises Madeline a life of rich comfort, once her dowery puts his businesses back on track. Madeline agrees under one condition: she wants a child.

Damian is reticent when the elegant Madeline Moore demands a child in exchange for her hand. As an illegitimate son with zero experience of a father’s love, Damian has no confidence that he can raise a child. But Madeline’s determination wins out and he agrees. At the very least, he hopes to provide for any child between them, even if he has no plans to fall in love with his new wife.