Emily Carroll with all her heart wanted to live up to the hopes of her parents, who dreamed of a worthy and wealthy son-in-law. But, despite her beauty, graceful manners and belonging to an ancient family, Emily did not enjoy success in society; she was considered cold and boring, the Ice Princess. And only Nicholas, Duke of Manning, a handsome, intelligent and brave man, doubted that this was so. He, without a doubt, liked Lady Emily, but to marry... No, this was not part of his plans, the memory of his first, tragically ended marriage was too vivid. However, it so happened that he was forced to propose to Miss Carroll, but both of them doubted that their union could be happy...