Heartburn

Rachel Samstat and Mark Forman meet at a mutual friend's wedding, each carrying histories that could complicate a new relationship. They feel an immediate spark despite coming from different social worlds. The encounter hints at a romance that could challenge their pasts.

After a whirlwind courtship, they marry and begin their life together in Washington, D.C. Their relationship is shaped by ambition and public life, even as private doubts linger. Friends warn about Mark's reputation as a serial womanizer, but they forge ahead.

They buy a rundown townhouse in DC and plan a fresh start. The ongoing renovations become a constant source of stress between them as they adjust to married life and new expectations.

Rachel becomes pregnant for the first time, signaling a new chapter of domestic life. The couple anticipates parenthood while renovations and routines continue to challenge their harmony.

Rachel endures a difficult labor, and Annie's life is briefly threatened before she is born healthy. The intense birth moment strengthens their bond even as new tensions simmer beneath the surface.

During her second pregnancy, Rachel discovers evidence of Mark's extramarital affair with socialite Thelma Rice. The revelation shatters her sense of security and forces a major life decision.

Rachel leaves Mark and takes their daughter to New York, moving in with her father and resuming work as a food writer. She hopes for independence and a chance to rebuild her life.

Rachel gives birth to their second child in New York and struggles to fully forgive Mark. The emotional strain of the split colors the early days of motherhood.

While attending a group therapy session at her therapist's apartment, a burglar is directed there and robs the group, taking Rachel's wedding ring. The incident shatters a fragile sense of safety and triggers a confrontation with Mark.

Just after the burglary, Mark arrives and asks her to come back, insisting he will never see Thelma again. He promises change, though trust remains fragile.

Rachel spreads a nasty rumor that Thelma has an infection (possibly herpes), but Mark catches her lie, highlighting the ongoing fault lines in their relationship.

The New York police catch the burglar and return Rachel's wedding ring. The return of the ring becomes a focal point for questions about the couple's future.

When she takes the ring to the jeweler to tighten the stone, he inquires about an expensive necklace Mark bought for her. The necklace's existence reveals that Mark has returned to his affair with Thelma, despite his earlier promises.

Rachel realizes Mark has resumed his relationship with Thelma. She sells her wedding ring and leaves with both children for good, choosing to build a life in New York away from him.