Once Upon a Midnight Dream

Forced into a life of serving the wretched orphan keeper and her two daughters after being found in the woods as a child, Ellie yearns for the chance to become a governess. Mrs. Bitterworth, however, has no intention of letting her go. Stuck with life as an unwilling servant, Ellie follows the Bitterworths into a shop, where a handsome count is purchasing jewelry. When he asks for something in Spanish, and no one can translate, Ellie steps forth to assist him, which draws his eye. Punished for perceived flirting, Ellie's life becomes unbearable after this. When she finds herself suddenly homeless and facing the count once more, will Ellie be strong enough to fight for what she wants? Mateo Montevista, Count of Manila, is about to lose his inheritance if he cannot produce a suitable bride within the month. He leaves Spain for London's season, stopping to purchase an engagement gift for the woman he hopes to find. Instead, he is mesmerized by the servant girl who translates for him. When he learns this Ellie has no family, he undertakes a quest—not to find the bride he needs, but to discover Ellie's roots, for he is certain he knows this orphan, but how? Spending time with her means less chance of finding a bride and saving his home, but he simply cannot get her out of his mind. Will his efforts bear fruit before he loses everything?