Time Is of the Essence — Angie Daniels

Although it's been two years, Captain Mark Saunders has never forgotten the hot affair in the arms of sexy schoolteacher, Essence Monroe. When he finally returns to Wilmington, he hopes for a second chance only to discover she isn't the only thing he left behind. Brokenhearted, Essence never bothered to tell Mark she was pregnant. Now that he's home, she can no longer deny him his son. Mark proposes and despite the fact his mere presence still makes her weak at the knees, Essence refuses a marriage based on duty. Nevertheless, Mark is determined to recapture Essence's heart and works overtime to do so. Within days, their once hot flame is rekindled. Essence admits she can't resist his charm, but she refuses to risk her heart again. Disheartened and tired of trying, Mark makes the hardest decision of his life.