Carol

In 1952, while working in Frankenberg's department store during the Christmas season, Therese Belivet spots a stunning woman named Carol Aird. Their casual conversation about a model train set ignites an unexpected connection, setting the stage for their relationship.

After their initial meeting, Carol accidentally leaves her gloves behind. Therese decides to return them, sending along a sales slip with Carol's name and address, which reveals her desire to pursue a deeper connection.

Therese struggles with her relationship with her boyfriend Richard, who dreams of marrying her and moving to France. However, she feels ambivalence about their future together, unsure of what she truly wants.

Carol, grateful for the returned gloves, invites Therese to lunch. This meeting marks the beginning of their secret rendezvous, allowing their relationship to develop outside of societal pressures.

Therese receives an invitation to spend Christmas with Carol in New Jersey. While there, she captures candid moments of Carol, including a touching moment as Carol selects a Christmas tree, deepening their emotional bond.

The happiness of their Christmas together is shattered when Carol's estranged husband, Harge, unexpectedly shows up. After tense arguments, Carol drives Therese to the train station, exposing the precariousness of their relationship.

In an effort to apologize for the turmoil, Carol gifts Therese a Canon camera, a symbol of hope and creativity. This gesture strengthens their bond amidst the chaos surrounding them.

As they begin to consider a future together, Carol and Therese embark on a road trip to escape the confines of their current lives. This journey solidifies their feelings for one another as they explore their connection.

On New Year’s Eve, Therese indulges in her feelings for Carol during an intimate moment in a motel. Their relationship reaches a new level of emotional intensity as they embrace their connection.

Their happiness is threatened when they discover that Tommy Tucker, a traveling salesman, is actually a private investigator working for Harge. This revelation about Harge's tactics weighs heavily on both women as they realize the risks involved.

Faced with the realization of Harge's surveillance, Carol confronts Tommy Tucker with a gun, showcasing her desperation to protect her relationship and family. However, she understands that the damage may be irreparable.

Following a silent phone call where they both understand the weight of their situation, Carol leaves Therese heartbroken. This moment encapsulates the pain of their separation and the sacrifices they face.

In the aftermath of their separation, Therese channels her heartbreak into her passion for photography, eventually landing a job at The New York Times. This opportunity symbolizes her growth and resilience as she navigates her identity.

As Carol faces her custody battle for Rindy, she makes the heartbreaking decision to grant Harge custody. This act of love and sacrifice highlights her struggle between her desires and her responsibilities as a mother.

Seeking to reconnect, Carol invites Therese to the Ritz Tower Hotel to express her feelings and discuss a potential future together. However, the emotional tension during their meeting leaves Therese grappling with her decision.