"I suppose a kiss of gratitude is out of the question?"  Widowed Lady Eleanor Peyton has chosen a life of independence. Living alone on her rocky coastal outcrop, she's cut herself off from the world of men--until William Rudhale saves her life and demands a kiss!  As steward to Lady Eleanor's father, Will knows the desire he burns with is futile--but he'll still wager he can claim Eleanor's kiss by midwinter. Yet when the tide turns Will realizes vulnerable Eleanor is far too precious to gamble with. Can he win his lady before it's too late?