Showing A Perilous Attraction by Patricia Frances Rowell

When her uncle squanders her inheritance, Catherine Maury must either give up her work of helping London's orphans to live a life of destitution or she must marry the enigmatic Earl of Caldbeck. When she refuses to see him, Charles breaks the latch on her bedroom door to gain her audience and offer his proposal. He offers Catherine financial support and the means to continue to work with the orphans. In return, he admits to his desire for her beauty, her energy and her elegance. Indeed, he admires her ability to express her passions in contrast to his always calm and cool demeanor. Charles' arrogant exterior with his carefully restrained responses makes Catherine want to break through the surface, at one exasperating her and challenging her. Fortunately, his teasing banter lightens the tone, although Catherine initially is uncertain if she should take his remarks seriously. But just when all seems to be perfect as they settle into marriage together, a dangerous man watches. His evil intent upon destruction haunts the women of the area, and soon it becomes obvious he intends Catherine to be next victim.