The heroes of the novel are secretly passionate about each other, but their relationship has no future: Bernard is engaged to a rich heiress. However, the bride disappears almost on the eve of the wedding, and, no longer bound by obligations, Bernard allows his passion to break out. It would seem that nothing can overshadow his love for Elina, but the lovers still have a long way to go until complete mutual understanding and happiness. How to get out of the trials while maintaining dignity and without losing the former intensity of feelings? There are no recipes, each couple has their own experience.