Even if the Merriam Falls society matrons don't believe running a boardinghouse is a proper endeavor for a young, unmarried woman, Regina Van Buren has other ideas-such as advancing women's rights. Discussing the issue with Jonathan Parker, the wealthy textile mill owner who has rented a room for his foreman, is obviously futile, however. He's too arrogant, too patronizing, by far, and Regina decides that their relationship will be strictly business-until her stargazing telescope reveals an unexpected look at the darkly handsome businessman.