For years, Michael Balcarris has loved Emily Dymoke from afar. However, because of his secret profession, he is unable to admit his feelings for her and show his true self. Instead, he must continue to present himself as a frivolous fop to both London society and the woman of his dreams.

As a young girl, Emily had a private crush on Michael, who had been a handsome and dashing friend of her brother Colin. Yet upon his return to London after attending university, she is unable to abide his insufferable presence. To make matters worse, Michael insists on being everywhere she is—including her family’s country home when they go on summer holiday.

During their time in the countryside, however, Emily starts to see a new side of Michael. She also has to fight her growing attraction to him, leaving her to wonder how could she be falling in love with a man she can barely tolerate.