Paul and his wife, Maria, run a pig farm. When Maria's sister, Helena, moves in, Paul falls deeply in love with her, only to be rejected. Seeking an escape from the tension, Helena confides in her sister before leaving the farm to live with a friend. Soon after, a devastating outbreak of swine fever hits the farm, pushing the business to the brink of ruin, yet unexpectedly drawing Paul and Maria closer together. However, when Helena returns, Paul renews his advances—and this time, she gives in. As Maria is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and ultimately passes away, Paul is left with a devastating realization: despite having Helena by his side, profound loneliness will consume the rest of his days.