Ian Shaw, a widower devoted to his late wife, is declared the new top scholar and parades through the city, surprising many given his poor background. Meanwhile, Zoey Spence prepares to choose a husband by tossing a ball, sparking rivalry with her family. Despite insults over her worn silver hairpin, a reminder of her humble origins, Zoey remains resolute. Suitors compete, while an enemy plots to ruin her by hiring a beggar to catch the ball and disgrace the Spence family. When the ball is caught, Zoey faces an unexpected and risky turn that threatens her future.