The protagonist, Franelle, a young woman burdened by a massive debt inherited from her parents, desperately seeks employment and accepts a position as a live-in maid for the prestigious Wendel Count family. Her initial interview with Trill, a stern but efficient woman in her early thirties, reveals the unusual nature of the job: she is to serve a Lord Lowell, who resides in a dilapidated mansion hidden deep within the estate's sprawling grounds. Trill emphasizes that Franelle must never go outside and that cleaning is not required, only attending to Lowell's meals and personal needs. She also reveals a crucial detail: Lord Lowell is blind.
Upon meeting Lord Lowell, Franelle is overwhelmed by his disheveled appearance and the strong odor emanating from him. Despite her initial shock and the overwhelming sensory experience, she attempts to introduce herself. Lowell, a man with long, unkempt black hair and a beard, responds with a quiet "Nice to meet you." Franelle, remembering Trill's warning to avoid unnecessary actions, keeps her distance.
Franelle's clumsiness, a lifelong trait that has led to her repeated dismissals from previous maid positions, quickly resurfaces. While attempting to deliver Lowell's dinner, she struggles to open his door with her hands full. In a moment of panic, she asks him to open it, forgetting his blindness. This leads to Lowell bumping into an object and falling. Overwhelmed with guilt, Franelle rushes in to help him, discovering his gentle nature despite the accident. She assists him to his chair and apologizes profusely for her carelessness, explaining her forgetfulness. Lowell, remarkably understanding, reassures her and expresses his appreciation for her efforts, even finding her request to open the door "fresh." He skillfully eats his meal, demonstrating an impressive ability to navigate his surroundings despite his blindness. He also subtly hints at his own discomfort with his body odor, mentioning he is out of perfume. Franelle, eager to please, promises to buy him some.
The next morning, Franelle is stunned by Lowell's transformation. Having suggested he cut his hair and shave his beard, she is confronted with a remarkably beautiful young man. She is so captivated by his appearance that she momentarily freezes, causing Lowell to worry. He expresses his gratitude for her presence and reassures her that he finds her interesting and appreciates her kindness, especially given his own circumstances. He also reveals that he has a significant scar across his face, which he believes Franelle might find off-putting, but she vehemently denies this, expressing admiration for him and confessing her own insecurities about her appearance. Lowell, touched by her words, promises she can work without fear.
Later, Lowell's older brother, the Count, visits. He is cold and dismissive towards Franelle, viewing her as an unqualified servant and warning her not to try to curry favor with Lowell. Lowell defends Franelle, but his brother remains unconvinced. The Count then extracts a large amount of Lowell's magical energy, a monthly ritual that leaves Lowell weakened. Lowell explains to Franelle that this is a necessary contribution, akin to blood donation, for the betterment of society and his own potential recovery.
Six months later, a breakthrough occurs. A new, revolutionary magic has been developed that can restore Lowell's sight. The cost is high, but his brother readily agrees to pay. The surgery is scheduled for the following week, and Lowell is to move to the main residence. Franelle, though happy for Lowell, feels a pang of sadness at the prospect of him leaving the old mansion and potentially no longer needing her.
On the eve of Lowell's surgery, Franelle flees. She cannot bear the thought of Lowell seeing her scarred face, fearing his reaction despite his kindness. She returns to her life of debt, working for a kind but poorly paid couple. However, Lowell, unable to forget Franelle's kindness and her unique presence, searches for her. He learns from Trill that Franelle left without notice and that she had a severe facial scar. He is determined to find her, not only to thank her but also to express his desire for her to return.
Lowell eventually finds Franelle working in a humble estate in the countryside. He confesses his longing for her and reveals that he has paid off her debt, offering her a chance to return to his side. Franelle, overwhelmed by his generosity and his desire to see her despite her appearance, is faced with a choice. The narrative ends with Lowell proposing a new path for them, hinting at a romantic future.