Olivia Thatcher spent her life living up to other people's expectations. The town's only schoolteacher, she conducts herself as a proper lady, never revealing that underneath her reputable exterior lies a soul aching with desire. Dallas Trent lives life on the edge, always on the lookout for the next game of chance. A gambler by nature, he's ready to take any risk...except when it comes to his heart. Butting heads the first time they meet, both are surprised to discover they have common interests. Forming an unexpected bond, their friendship quickly grows into passion, much to the disapproval of the town's busybody. Rumors fly, and when Dallas is accused of murder, their relationship is put to the test. For the first time in her life, Olivia must make a choice between her heart and her home. Will falling in love be worth the gamble?