This novel follows Rachel Chu, an American economics professor who begins a relationship with Nicholas Young. When Nicholas invites Rachel to attend his friend's wedding in Singapore, she is surprised to learn that Nicholas comes from an extremely wealthy family. At the wedding events, Rachel faces hostility from Nicholas's mother and other family members who disapprove of her background. During Nicholas's marriage proposal to Rachel, his mother reveals hurtful secrets about Rachel's past, shaking her trust in Nicholas. The story examines the clash between Rachel's modest upbringing and Nicholas's privileged world.