The libertine life of William Manners, Duke of Rutland, ends when he's defeated in a duel of honor duel with a cheated husband. Of course, he probably should not have bedded her.

Embarrassed in the aftermath of the challenge, William decides to abandon London and depart for Haddon Hall, the peaceful place where he grew up, hoping to find the solitude he so urgently needs; however, the arrival of unexpected news destroys that calmness and provokes the Duke to drink.

Despite the advice of his most loyal servants, he decides to go riding and gallop through his estate.

Opening his eyes after an unfortunate fall, he discovers that a woman has been caring for him somewhere remote on his lands. Her name? Beatrice. Her only desire? To live in solitude for the rest of her life...