Arthur Bach is a wealthy socialite, hailing from a notable English family entrenched in immense financial power, residing in the vibrant New York City. Despite the esteem his family has amassed, Arthur is more of an embarrassment than a pride. His extravagant lifestyle, rife with escapades involving women, including prostitutes, excessive drinking, and repeated public displays of drunkenness, adds fuel to the tabloids that revel in documenting his antics.
Pressured by his father and grandmother, Arthur is compelled to marry Susan Johnson, the daughter of another affluent businessman, Burt Johnson. This union is not just about love; it is a strategic move designed to solidify a business partnership between their families and safeguard Arthur's monumental inheritance. Unfortunately, Arthur's heart is not with Susan, and he grapples with feelings of despair as he confronts his predicament of being forced into a marriage devoid of love.
One fateful day in Bergdorf-Goodman's, Arthur brightens when he spots Linda Marolla, a charming young woman attempting to pilfer a tie intended as a birthday gift for her unemployed father. When a security guard confronts her, Arthur, with the support of his loyal servant Hobson, boldly intervenes by claiming she was purchasing the tie for him. This spontaneous act of kindness leads to a public smooch that secures her freedom and sparks a charming connection as Arthur asks her for her number and offers the luxury of his limousine and chauffeur, Mr. Bitterman, to ensure Linda gets home comfortably.
Their first date blossoms into an instant romance, revealing a vibrant chemistry that seems rare in Arthur's otherwise tumultuous life. Yet, reality strikes as Arthur faces the inevitable confrontation with his father, who chastises him for his reckless reputation and insists that marrying Susan is not just expected but mandatory. Arthur's refusal to comply comes at a heavy price—his father threatens to sever financial support, a decision that reverberates with a potential loss of $750 million.
Obligated, and amid familial pressure, Arthur reluctantly acquires his grandmother's engagement ring for Susan, despite his heart firmly residing with Linda. A candid conversation with Grandma Martha reveals her willingness to allow Arthur a discreet side relationship with Linda while fulfilling his obligation to Susan. Faced with this moral dilemma, Arthur feels the weight of his decision deepening as he expresses his despair to Hobson.
In a moment of clarity, Arthur confides in Linda about the engagement to Susan, delivering news met with indifference; however, her father reacts with palpable despair over the lost opportunity for his daughter. A visit with Burt Johnson only heightens Arthur's anxieties about the impending marriage, as Johnson articulates his fierce protectiveness over Susan, sharing a poignant childhood tale from his life that speaks to his dedication.
The engagement dinner arrives, and even though Susan is aware of Arthur’s notorious behavior, she agrees to marry him. Subsequently, in a state of inebriation, Arthur tries to woo Linda with an insincere offer of $100,000, which she indignantly dismisses. The following day brings increased tensions as Hobson urges Arthur to reconsider, recognizing the love Arthur has for Linda despite their realities.
Events take a turn when Hobson falls seriously ill, prompting Arthur to prioritize his friend's comfort over his wedding. As Arthur circles the hospital bed, he promises to postpone the wedding, remaining steadfast in caring for Hobson until his friend ultimately succumbs to death, leaving Arthur devastated.
Seeking solace in a bar just hours before the wedding, Arthur contacts Linda. Overcome with emotion yet intoxicated, he proposes to her, ready to forsake his inheritance. His late arrival at the church does not deter him; he bears the brave burden of breaking off the engagement, despite Susan's reaction and her father's aggressive response.
In the church’s tumultuous atmosphere, with all eyes upon him, Arthur declares the wedding null and void. As tension spirals, Martha's swift intervention prevents further chaos, ultimately advocating for Arthur’s choice of true love over inherited wealth. In a heartfelt twist, she offers Arthur the chance to keep his inheritance, handing him the freedom to live authentically with Linda.
Choosing true happiness, Arthur accepts his grandmother's terms, and the story circles back to a serene moment as they journey through Central Park together, embracing the promise of a genuine future.
