Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has learned to live with being a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, the place seems empty. Enter Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming 'widow' who has purchased a cottage in the neighbourhood during Arthur's absence. Arthur is entranced. Here is his chance. He proposes.

But Teresa refuses. And because she cares for him, trusts him, and hates hurting him, she confides that she has a secret. Just as Arthur learns his own heart, a threat from Teresa's past arises. All is lost, until Arthur steps up to win his bride.