Separate Lies

James Manning is a successful solicitor in London, comfortably settled with his younger wife, Anne. They enjoy an affluent lifestyle, complete with a charming home in the city and a secluded retreat in Buckinghamshire.

During a village cricket match, Anne meets William Bule, a charming man from a prominent local family who has just returned from the United States. Keen to expand their social circle, Anne suggests hosting a gathering for their neighbors, much to James's initial hesitation.

While James finds himself overwhelmed with work commitments in the city, Anne takes it upon herself to host the neighbors for drinks. This marks the beginning of a series of events that will strain their relationship and challenge their values.

The evenings take a dark turn when a speeding car hits a man riding a bicycle along a village lane. The man, later identified as Maggie's husband, sustains severe injuries that ultimately lead to his death a few days later, stirring turmoil in the Manning household.

In the wake of the tragic accident, Anne is visibly upset and deeply concerned for Maggie, her housekeeper. James struggles to understand Anne's emotional weight as tension rises in their marriage amidst the unfolding tragedy.

James discovers a scratch on Bill’s car, prompting him to confront Bill about the accident during lunch. Although Bill initially denies the allegations, he ultimately confesses his intention to report the incident to the authorities.

In a shocking revelation, Anne confides in James that she was the one driving the car during the accident. This confession, coupled with her admission of an affair with Bill, drastically alters James's view and deepens the rift in their marriage.

The arrival of a Buckinghamshire police inspector marks the beginning of a formal investigation into the accident. Faced with the dilemma of revealing the truth or protecting their family's image, James experiences a moral conflict but remains devoted to Anne.

Seeking respite from guilt and scrutiny, James and Anne retreat to Wales. Anne vows to end her affair with Bill, but James’s hope for redemption is soon shattered when he learns Anne has not kept her promise.

Maggie steps forward with vital information, identifying Bill’s car as the one responsible for the accident. Despite her credibility being questioned due to prior accusations against her, Anne's kindness towards Maggie complicates the investigation further.

In a tense moment, Bill seeks James's help for an alibi, suspecting the police will soon question them. Torn between loyalty and justice, James reluctantly agrees, further entangling himself in the web of lies.

Overwhelmed by guilt, Anne confides in Maggie about her role in her husband's death. In an act of devotion, Maggie decides to rescind her police statement, thereby shielding Anne from the legal consequences of her actions.

James learns that Bill is suffering from terminal cancer. Torn between conflicting emotions, Anne chooses to care for Bill in his final days, dedicating 18 months to him until he passes away, complicating her relationship with James even further.

At Bill's funeral, his father expresses heartfelt gratitude to James for supporting Anne during her caregiving. This moment serves as a poignant reflection on the tangled web of relationships forged throughout this tragedy.

In a bittersweet moment, James and Anne share lunch, reflecting on their tumultuous journey together. Despite their challenges, James reaffirms his love for Anne as she prepares to leave for Bill's London apartment, leaving their future uncertain.