Persy and the Prince — Jane Myers Perrine

Mary Persistence Marsh left a life of high society, corporate law, and family pressures to become Persy Marsh, odd-jobber and do-gooder. She holds various jobs at a hotel run by the uptight, handsome Jordan Prince. After an uncomfortable run in, Jordan asks her out but they clash over many subjects, especially the employees' demand for a safe pathway between the neighborhood and hotel.

Once Persy is robbed and hurt while walking home, Jordan changes his mind on the issue. He also loosens up long enough to allow Persy to install a successful recycling program at the hotel.

Persy meets Jordan's parents at a party and is immediately fearful that Jordan wants her to become like one of the high society women he used to date and that she used to be. She breaks off their relationship, but realizes after Jordan is hurt that they may be meant to be together.