It has been two years since Portia's husband, Lord Ellerslie, died. Portia must be seen to uphold the pure perfection of Victorian womanhood. The Queen, Victoria, prefers Portia to remain the faithful widow in mourning for her hero husband. But being placed upon such a pedestal is a lonely thing, especially if you're a sensual woman. Portia does not desire to take a lover and cannot remarry. Instead, she seeks out the courtesan Aphrodite, of Aphrodite's Club in London, looking for an evening of passion and discretion without any strings attached.

Marcus Worthorne had received an invitation from the exclusive Aphrodite's Club and, looking for an evening of pleasure, he hails a passing cab and sets off for Aphrodite's Club.

Portia has spent seventeen years fantasizing about Marcus Worthorne, and now the man of her dreams is standing before her at Aphrodite's Club. Portia's identity is concealed by a veil covering her face - a veil that will cover her face and conceal her identity for the entire evening. Marcus is drawn to the veiled lady in scarlet and agrees to give her an evening to remember. It was the simple mindless pleasure they both sought - then to walk away without a second thought. But things often don't work out as planned. As a confidante to Queen Victoria who has always lived a proper life, fulfilling the duties required of her as a daughter, wife, and widow, will Portia choose duty over love?

Marcus has her followed from the club and learns her true identity. Every time they meet, Portia declares it to be the last time but continues to be drawn to Marcus again and again. Will Marcus fight to win over Portia's love, and will Portia leave her privileged life to become an unknown living an unknown life? Can she leave the shadow of her hero husband behind?