Marc, the Earl of Rutherford, is content having numerous affairs with married women and widows. But to hold on to the title of earl, he must find himself a bride or risk losing his title to his cousin. Marc soon sets out for Yorkshire to take over his late uncle's estate. He discovers that the estate is in disarray and that the housekeeper has fallen ill. Meg Fellowes, the ward of Marc's uncle, was forced into the role of housekeeper due to her scandalous past. After spending the night caring for the sick Meg, Marc sets about correcting his uncle's wrongs toward her. Marc and Meg clash over her future as she is determined to make a living on her own. However, Marc soon makes her an offer of marriage and Meg finds herself agreeing to his terms.