Mary Lavelle, a young Irish woman, journeys to Spain, which is fast approaching civil war, to work as a governess. There Mary soon finds her convent education and beliefs challenged by the fiery politics and passionate opinions of the family's son Juanito. Finding themselves at the heart of a family and a nation divided, Mary and Juanito seize the opportunity to consummate their love in a night of passion and betrayal that foretells the coming of a new era.