When curiosity for the forbidden gets the better of him, Steven Walsh, an abolitionist living in a slave state, purchases a slave, John. A highly submissive slave who prizes protocol, obedience and strict adherence to rules, John’s raison d’être is to be the perfect slave. However, Steven wants to elevate John to an equal social standing and be friends.

Steven’s girlfriend is enraged at his impulsive purchase, until she recognizes the advantages of having an incredibly handsome, submissive man whose only desire is to please. While Steven and John engage in a delicate dance of dominance and submission that questions what it means to obey or control, Steven’s girlfriend knows she likes to be the one in charge.

Meanwhile, theater owner, Frederick Hespenheide attends the same state slave auction for the tenth year, searching for uniqueness among the well trained and docile slaves. He finds Aaron, whose individuality and attention seeking behaviors have been rewarded only with punishment.

Aaron is thrilled to discover the pageantry of the theater. He takes instantly to his new home. Unfortunately, the rigid society outside of the theater sets harsh consequences for slaves who overstep their bounds. A harmless night of drinking with the cast lands Aaron in jail, charged with the rape of a free woman.

While his Master must call on his financial and political resources to secure a trial for his wayward slave, Aaron meets a friend and love interest in prison, Sugar. Jaded, sarcastic and determined to live according to her own rules, she finds Aaron’s innocence amusing.

Frederick fights to free his slave, while his feelings for his rambunctious charge grow deeper. Determined to hold to his ethics and honor as a gentleman, Frederick encourages Aaron’s relationship with Sugar. While he may rescue his slave from prison, he cannot protect his slave or himself from falling in love.