Lady Mercy Granville never wanted to marry a man that was chosen for her, even if her parents had made a promise to the prior Viscount of Westbrook before his death. Why should she have to suffer a lifetime of unhappiness because of a vow she hadn't even agreed upon? But since she knew her duty to her family as a gently bred lady, she acquiesces to the match, but not without vowing to have a bit of fun first. So, after convincing her ladies' maid to take her place for a fortnight, she heads to Brighton to enjoy the last of her freedom, never knowing what awaits her there.
Malcolm Grant, Viscount Westbrook, has always found marriage rather distasteful, but since he's the sole heir, he has no illusions that his mother might cease about honoring some long ago pact that was made. He agrees to marry Lady Mercyjust not yet. He coerces his valet to take his place to entertain the lady in London while he hies off to Brighton.
However, both of them quickly learn that fate can never be outrun.