Science has always been her haven...until a secret expedition proves more dangerous than she bargained for. Lady Elise Stanton loves the Lord, her family, science, and William Degraf. William was always around to help with her experiments-at least, until she reached marriageable age. Unable to convince him that it is not a noble bloodline that makes a man worthy, but a noble heart, she turns to science to soothe her disappointment. While attending the School of Scientifica in London, far from her home at Brighton Castle, she's eager to join a scientific expedition intent on tracking down a large meteorite strike. Superstitions and fear surrounding the stones threaten the expedition. As dangers mount, William's unexpected arrival could be the answer to her prayers...or the harbinger of more peril to come. William Degraf chooses to join the king's army to escape the growing secret love he has for Lady Elise. He is a low-born innkeeper's son and not allowed to marry a lady of noble blood. His plan is to rise in ranks and one day earn great honors to declare for her hand. That hope is shattered when he loses his right leg in battle while saving his best friend from the enemy's lance. ¿¿¿¿¿¿¿When William receives information that a group of assassins have been hired to kill the king and others with noble blood, he must warn Elise and her family. Can he reach Elise in time to protect her from danger, then stand aside and watch her marry another?