The Earl's Desire

Leia Edmond was born to be a wallflower; she was too independent and her features were too bold to catch a good husband, she never thought it a problem though; content with being a spinster. In fact, she reveled in it; she didn't, and would never, need a man to help her. That is, until she meets dashing Lord Dalting.
Despite the fact that he rejected her proposition to help her out of a marriage arrangement, Leia is allured by his mysteriousness and the secrecy he possesses, as well as his militant escapades. She, herself, is well-known for getting into debauched situations, only because she cannot help her need for adventure and excitement.
Unfortunately, her curiosity has landed her the sights of a nefarious group. It's also put her right into the arms of Lord Dalting himself.
~
Lord Matthew Dalting is a solider. He was quite satisfied with his position, caring for the needs of his country and meting out justice whenever he was called upon. He had no need for society's tradition of marrying young and providing an heir to his name. He already had enough problems to worry over than a wife and children would entail.
Despite his stand, he finds himself intrigued by Lady Leia Edmond. His need to be with her nearly matching his need to serve. And when Leia puts herself into unknown jeopardy, Dalting is there to clean up the mess, and, ultimately, protect her.
But soon enough, more trouble arises, and circumstances run afoul. For once, Dalting isn't completely sure that serving is enough for him - but is he too late? Can he tame her adventurous, male-repelling nature into being satisfied with him forever?