In a small town where everyone knows each other's affairs, the vivacious widow Mrs. Navarin seeks the counsel of the sly Mr. Coypot on matters of business and more intimate concerns. When the wealthy Edgar Marvaud proposes a scandalous agreement to determine their compatibility before marriage, Mrs. Navarin must weigh her desires against the risks. In this delightfully wicked short story, passions ignite and secrets unravel, leading to an unforgettable climax that will leave readers questioning the true nature of love, loyalty, and trust.