Southern oaks

the long version

NECESSITY BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER. PASSION TORE THEM APART. Desperation forced her to buy a husband. In order to receive her birthright and save the family plantation from a corrupt uncle, the beautiful Brandelene Barnett had to marry. Yet she loved no man, trusted no man, and would allow no man to control her. Combing the slave auctions of Richmond, Brandelene at last found a mate. Kordell Bouclair was an indentured servant, but beneath the shackles was a man of mystery, a cultured and sexy stranger with irresistible charm. Brandelene and Kordell carried out their charade of marriage. Together they faced insurmountable odds. With every challenge, they grew closer until finally they surrendered to a passion that was not to be denied. Still, Kordell's past held many secrets—secrets he was not ready to disclose...