He's thirty two years old, twice widowed, and he needs an heir. Leland Warrington, the Duke of Ware, wants more than just an heir. He wants to be an involved parent. But at the rate he is going, Leland feels as if that will never happen. One night while at his club, Leland and a friend are discussing his situation, and he blames it all on his deceased cousin Tony, who would have been his heir. Their discussion of Tony leads to the solution of the problem. Tony's widow has three year old twin boys! The Duke of Ware writes to Graceanne Warrington, informing her that he wants the eldest boy as his heir. This pricks Graceanne's maternal instincts and it sets the mood for the confrontation between Leland and Graceanne. So when the two actually meet, Graceanne looses her temper, and her ladylike self control. Leland thinks she is magnificent as she continues her tirade against him, yet he is nonetheless adamant about having the boy as his heir. He pursues a relationship with the children, and circumspectly, with Graceanne. Leland proves to be quite capable of handling the boys, but more than that, he has won their hearts. But their mother is another matter as Graceanne seems to be indifferent to his charms, or so he thinks. The Duke is called away by the Foreign Office and Graceanne's world falls apart. Where is the Duke when she needs him? Upon his return to England, Leland finds that Graceanne and the boys are in Ireland, but that's not all he finds! Undaunted by what he believes to be her treachery and despite it all, he still wants her son as his heir. Graceanne, distressed that he would believe the worst of her, will not tell him the truth as her pride won't let her - until she fears losing him to the beautiful Eleanor Ridgemont. Graceanne has made up her mind to tell Leland the truth, but it's too late, as he overhears her conversation with her supposed lover. Christmas and New Years, a time for happiness and new beginnings is coming, but will it be one to celebrate? Barbara Metzger has penned a delightful romance! This wonderful story involves mischievous three year olds who steal the scenes but because of them, a romance flourishes! Ms. Metzger creates and defines such believable characters - their personalities are very unique and they play well off each other. Truly delightful! A unique premise that is witty and charming! Ms. Metzger has told an original, humorous, captivating story! Father Christmas is a heart warming story that will be sure to lift your spirits!