It happened on the pasture a few years ago, Mali's sister Margrethe fell in love with the charming Bengt. A fleeting moment of invigorating joy and youthful belief in the powers of love resulted in shame and humiliation - and a secret birth symbolizing the utter powerlessness of love. When Margrethe reunites with her beloved, Mali wishes to be happy for her. At the same time, it clarifies her own misfortune. Why can't she give her husband a trueborn son? Not because she loves him, but because it would simplify her life. It is hard to live a lie.