The Spinster's Secret Stake

He vowed to protect her-even if it meant risking her heart and his life. Roxina Danforth vowed long ago to remain a spinster rather than risk her heart to another selfish, reckless man. Abandoned by her much older half-brother Mitchel and forced to fend for herself, Roxina has built a life of independence through grit and cunning. As a founding member of the Ladies of Opportunity, she relies on the secret gambling society to secure her meager income. Trusting anyone-especially Shelby Tellinger, Mitchel's disreputable friend-is out of the question. Handsome, roguish, and as dangerous as he is infuriating, Shelby is the last man Roxina would ever depend on. Shelby Tellinger has devoted his life to shielding Roxina from the consequences of her brother's reckless actions-without her ever knowing. Though she despises him, he's secretly protected her for years, even sending money to keep her safe and comfortable. But Mitchel's latest betrayal leaves Shelby ruined, a thousand pound debt, and pursued by ruthless moneylenders. With his fortune tied up in a risky shipping venture, Shelby has nothing left but his determination to find Mitchel and protect Roxina-no matter the cost. When the ruthless leader of a band of highwaymen abducts them because Mitchel cheated him, Roxina and Shelby must fight for their lives-and their hearts-as they're forced to flee and into hiding together. As truths and confessions blur the line between love and hate, Roxina must decide whether to cling to her pride or risk her heart on a man she vowed never to trust. Can a hardened spinster and a reformed scoundrel defy the odds-or will betrayal and danger destroy their chance at happiness?