Ivy, a nursing graduate, enters Windsor Manor. The elderly lady of the house takes a liking to her at first sight, but Ivy unexpectedly discovers an old photograph—one that contains a younger version of her own mother. As the old lady's condition worsens, she announces a new will: Alexander must marry within a month, or the inheritance will pass to Victor. She specifically names Ivy as the only acceptable granddaughter-in-law. Alexander coldly proposes a contract marriage, and Ivy agrees to investigate the truth behind her mother's connection to the family. After the wedding, Natasha humiliates her at every turn, but Ivy counterattacks with poise and sophistication—from identifying antique silverware to wine tasting, even impressing the sommelier. She secretly searches the family archives and finds her mother's name in old Windsor partnership documents. Victor senses her investigation and has her watched. At a charity auction, Ivy publicly exposes a counterfeit piece, and Alexander defends her for the first time as "my wife." During a business crisis, they work side by side, and their chemistry intensifies. Late one night in the kitchen, Alexander clumsily helps her make desserts, and the atmosphere turns sweet. Ivy is almost ready to confess her identity—when she receives a new lead about her mother's old case.
