Gareth Alexander, Marquis of Heathgate, has spent nine years indulging every whim allowed the wealthy and wanton—also grieving five family members who died in the boating accident that left him with the title. To meet an obligation to a deceased friend, Gareth, a confirmed rake, must teach Felicity Worthington, an equally confirmed spinster, how to manage a brothel. Time is running out to ensure Felicity has the security the business will provide, but Gareth becomes increasingly reluctant to ruin a woman he respects as much as he desires.