On September Hill — Leigh Michaels

His proposal was far from flattering

Under the circumstances, Carey had no alternative but to accept Brandon Scott's marriage proposal. Otherwise, her younger sister would find herself out of a job and facing criminal charges.

Brandon arrogantly admitted that he wanted a wife with poise and intelligence to run his house, host his parties and not fly off in a jealous rage when, occasionally, a rare and interesting woman would catch his fancy.

In return, Carey would have all the trappings of wealth -- jewelry, fashions, servants, power--and a husband who was not above blackmail.