For the first time in her sheltered life, Larissa Ascot's wishes for a merry Christmas seem to be in peril. Her father is in the Colonies on business, but is far overdue coming home. Thus, Larissa is left to handle the rumours of her family's bankruptcy, panicking creditors pounding on her door and eviction. On top of all that, she must now contend with her enigmatic would-be "benefactor" - Vincent Everett, the Baron of Windsmoor - who would be the first to admit that it is more than the Yuletide spirit of goodwill that has inspired his generosity. Vincent had previously sworn righteous vengeance on Larissa's family...