Perfect Understanding

Judy and Nicholas marry with the explicit agreement that jealousy will be ruled out by a 'perfect understanding.' They frame their union as a test of trust rather than passion. The vow is meant to keep their relationship secure from suspicion and possessiveness.

The couple is called away to Cannes to spend time with their friends. The change of scenery marks the shift from their wedding idyll to a social swirl. The trip tests their agreement as they navigate external temptations and expectations.

While in Cannes, Nicholas becomes drunk and has an affair with his former mistress, Stephanie. The act plunges him into guilt and betrays the foundation of their perfect understanding. The incident is the first major breach in their marriage.

Nicholas, wracked by guilt, immediately returns home and confesses his sin to Judy. The confession tests Judy's vow of forgiveness. The moment confirms that the couple's agreement matters more than crime and punishment.

Judy forgives Nicholas, choosing to uphold their 'perfect understanding.' She sets aside jealousy to preserve the marriage. The forgiveness moment reinforces the unusual pact that drives their relationship.

Back home, Judy decides to go to London to decorate their house, while Nicholas remains to socialize with friends. The arrangement sows the seeds of distance and new tensions. Each partner begins to live under the independence their pact seeks to avoid.

While Nicholas is away on business, Judy confesses to her friend Ivan that she is still upset with Nicholas. The conversation reveals unresolved grievances and hints at deeper emotional rifts. The seed of potential betrayal is planted in her psyche.

Ivan declares his love for Judy and offers to spend the night with her if she wishes. The offer tests Judy's loyalty to Nicholas and the boundaries of their marriage. It introduces a dangerous option that could break the perfect understanding.

Judy leaves Ivan to consider her options and ends up wandering the streets at night. The late-night excursion emphasizes her loneliness and the fragility of their vows. It marks a turning point toward potential infidelity in the narrative.

Nicholas stands outside Ivan's apartment and, unaware that Judy has left, concludes that the two are having an affair. His suspicions deepen the marital strain and escalate the conflict at home. The misinterpretation fuels the looming separation.

Judy returns home and leaves a letter for Ivan, thanking him for his supposed love. The letter becomes a piece of perceived evidence that could confirm or challenge the couple's trust. The act intensifies the tensions that lead to confrontation.

Nicholas confronts Judy about the alleged affair, she denies it, and they argue until they separate. The old vow is put under strain as suspicion and miscommunication threaten their marriage. The separation lasts until they reassess their relationship.

A month passes and Judy discovers she is pregnant, forcing both to confront the future of their marriage. Nicholas questions whether the baby is his, unleashing a new round of conflict. Judy asserts that the marriage is over and initiates divorce proceedings.

Nicholas consults his lawyer to stop the divorce, and the case hinges on proving Judy's infidelity. During the proceedings, his lawyer displays the letter to Ivan as evidence. The judge must decide whether the appearance of unfaithfulness justifies the divorce.

Despite the troubling revelations, Nicholas tells Judy that he believes her, and they vow to make amends and build a new life together. The couple chooses to leave the door open for forgiveness and renewed commitment. The ending reinforces the resilience of their bond under the 'perfect understanding'.