Morna MacAndrew yearns for her kindred spirit in a man, one she could cherish, and a wee bairn of her own. During a Scottish Yuletide holiday with family and friends, she discovers the man of her dreams. Her hopes are shattered when her brother, Laird Magnus MacAndrew, forbids their union. Her alliance-seeking brother would bend her to his will and attach her to a man she does not love to provide a strategic alliance for the good of her clan and for all of Scotland during a turbulent time. Kendrick Douglas, a seasoned warrior and would-be laird, on his way back to his clan after many years apart, finds a woman unlike all others, one that stirs his heart. But, because of Kendrick's qualms about one day being laird, Morna's brother is unaware of his lofty standing and is unable to see the possibilities their marriage could bring. Can they convince Laird MacAndrew to let them follow their hearts?