Love Affair

French painter Michel Marnet and American singer Terry McKay meet during a voyage across the Atlantic. Both are already engaged, and their instant chemistry makes them mindful of the gossip their romance could provoke. They begin to flirt and dine together, but keep their distance as the ship's watchful eyes linger.

Aware that their reputations will attract attention, they decide to dine separately and avoid lingering together in public. The attraction remains, but they try to act as if nothing has changed. The ship becomes a backdrop for a growing, forbidden tension.

During a call at Madeira, Michel's grandmother Janou bonds with Terry. She hints at wanting Michel to settle down and describes the value of responsibility and permanence. The meeting deepens Terry's connection with Michel's family and complicates their choices.

Back in New York, they agree to meet six months later on top of the Empire State Building. Michel hopes he can earn enough money to support a life with Terry, while their romance endures the looming test of time. The plan sets a hopeful but uncertain timeline.

Michel's paintings fail to sell, forcing him to find work in the city. He starts designing advertising billboards around New York, a pragmatic shift toward financial stability. The new job keeps him busy, yet leaves his art on the back burner.

Terry breaks off her engagement to Kenneth Bradley and secures a Philadelphia nightclub contract to perform through June. The decision affirms her independence and commitment to her singing career. Her future with Michel remains uncertain but still possible.

They travel toward the Empire State Building to honor their six-month promise. The anticipation is shadowed by the risk of Michel's ability to provide and by Terry's distant future. The meeting becomes a test of their love against looming obstacles.

On the day of the planned meeting, a car strike leaves Terry injured and possibly paralyzed. Doctors warn that the prognosis could be uncertain for six months, and the couple's hopes are suddenly clouded by a medical mystery. She makes the choice not to alarm Michel to avoid burdening him.

While waiting at the hospital, Michel travels to Madeira to learn that his grandmother has recently died. He carries on with his life in New York City and continues working, balancing concern for Terry with his own obligations. The trip adds emotional weight to the fragile romance.

After the accident, Terry is overheard singing in the garden of a children's orphanage, attracting the attention of the owner who hires her as a music teacher. The role gives her purpose and a path forward despite her injury. It also introduces a child-centered, hopeful vibe to her recovery.

Six months pass since the accident, and Terry makes her first public outing in that period. The two reunite by chance at a theater on Christmas Eve, with Terry able to sit and conceal some of her disability. Their emotional spark returns under the glow of holiday lights.

The following morning, after the children visit Terry at her apartment, Michel learns the truth about her condition. He is moved by her honesty and vulnerability. This moment marks a turning point in their relationship.

Terry tells Michel that it is her turn to prove she can change as well. He responds with reassurance, affirming that they will be together regardless of the diagnosis. The couple commits to facing the future as a united pair.

With honesty and resolve, they choose to pursue a life together, letting love guide them beyond fear of physical limits. The film closes on a note of hopeful commitment and shared dreams despite uncertainty. Their future remains open, but their bond is secured.