I've read a few other books in the series and they kept referring to Simon coming to his senses, so it's kind of nice to get the story. 
 Daphne wants to get married, but all the men of the ton think of her as a friend rather than a potential mate. She's had offers, but she's holding out for the right man. Simon doesn't care much about the ton's opinions on anything. He's returned home because his father has died and he has responsibilities as the new Duke of Hastings. Simon, however, does not want to get married. He most definitely does not want to have children. So, they strike up a plan. They'll pretend they are forming an attachment. Simon will get a reprieve from all the mamas who are pushing their daughters at him. Daphne will be seen by others as a good catch. But, of course, things don't go quite as planned.