After Penelope suffers a heart attack, her children—Nancy, in particular—harrass her to get more steady help in order to avoid having another medical incident. In order to quiet them, Penelope gives in and hires a local gardener. Although she is nervous about meeting him, Danus turns out to be the perfect choice for her. He instantly reminds her of her past love, Richard. Also, he is a well-bred, intelligent and unique individual with whom she immediately establishes a close relationship.