Harper, a country girl, is held captive by Old Mr. Lauren’s household and forced into a marriage-and-birthing mission designed to give Spencer an heir and break the Laurens' curse. They’ve secured a license, promise wealth to her village, and threaten her not to run. Harper resists and pleads while an inexperienced attendant tries to assist. Pressure mounts as elders push the wedding night forward and warn that failure means no reward. During the attempt a crucial instrument breaks, jeopardizing the forced delivery and leaving Harper’s safety and the family’s plan unresolved.