What Meg Smiles lacks in wealth, she more than makes up for in audacity and determination, both quickly harnessed when Jean-Marc, Count Etranger, and his sister take up residence across the square. Now gainfully employed as a companion to the count's madcap sister, Meg discovers it is not her charge who occupies her thoughts, but the girl's enigmatic older brother...

When Meg becomes the victim of a series of strange accidents, Jean-Marc finds his austere world turned upside down. And when it becomes alarmingly clear that Meg's very life is in danger, Jean-Marc's desire for this unsuitable but enchanting woman overcomes his sense of propriety. He vows to ensure her safety even if it means keeping her close to him, day and night...