One night, a handsome stranger walks into Cushla's family bar: Michael, a married Protestant barrister and trouble. Cushla is hooked. Teaching by day and serving pints by night, she's caught between two worlds.

Cushla's relationship with Michael deepens, despite growing tensions at home and school. Gina's drinking worsens, and family pressure mounts. Cushla learns unsettling truths about Michael's past, but passion and tenderness draw them back together.

Amid secrets and danger, Cushla and Michael's love deepens, until she learns that he's lied to her. In a furious showdown, Michael confesses and promises honesty: but just as they commit, tragedy strikes.

A grieving Cushla confides in Gerry and Gina and goes in search of the truth, leading to a shocking climax that unites the family.