As in all good stories, the criminal was loved by an innocent woman who believed in his goodness of heart.

Ashbella was raised by a stepmother who really didn't like her and put her own daughters' whims far above any needs of her stepchild. Which wouldn't really explain why Ashbella was drawn to a bad guy except that perhaps her expectations of life and love were not high. Or more likely, the story would be nothing if not lacking in credibility should we manage a thoughtful, caring and handsome prince charming in this day and age.