Markus, the protagonist of the novel by the outstanding prose writer Valev Uibopuu (1913–1997), is an exceptional figure: in helping others, he forgets himself and his beloved Eeva, who demands that he change. Since Markus has given shelter to a homeless man and Eeva lives in the same apartment with Iiris, the sister of her husband who disappeared in the war, Markus and Eeva have to accept visiting each other, which strains their relationship. The development of events ultimately leads to Markus having to decide between two women – Eeva and Iiris.