A Reluctant Proposal — Violet Hamilton

SHE DEFIED CONVENTION

Surely it would be the lesser of two evils! To escape an arranged marriage to a hateful suitor, Miranda Houghton fled her father's home...and ran off with Peter Worthington instead. He promised, at least, to be a thoughtful husband, even if he did not set her heart afire. But en route to their marital destination, they were apprehended by Peter's guardian, the arrestingly attractive Lord Rupert Hastings. Though his haughty manner infuriated Miranda, she had to admit that his rakish charms made his unconventional proposal sound most inviting...

HE COURTED SCANDAL

It was Rupert's duty to protect his ward from the scheming likes of women such as the auburn-haired Miranda, even if that meant offering for the little baggage himself. Of course, their engagement would only be a useful ploy to escape a marriage-minded mistress; in return, be would sponsor Miranda's London Season. All was well -- until the dashing peer felt a most unexpected and tender stirring in his own jaded heart...