To protect her son Evangeline Merrick has hidden her identity for a decade by becoming a dresser to Lady Asterly, who foils the successful ploy by insisting Evangeline take the role of companion. Unable to refuse the generosity of her patroness, Evangeline is thrust back into society. No one recognizes her but she ignites the interest of the last unmarried of the Four Eligibles, the Honorable Alfred Bates, heir to Viscount Grieves.

Famed duelist known as Arm-Winger Freddy, Bates finds himself obsessed with Lady Asterly's mysterious companion. Something about Evangeline's strength beneath her delicate shell haunts his thoughts. He has no right to pursue her when he's affianced to another, but the more she retreats, the more he must have her no matter what the cost.