In a bustling Manhattan apartment, Paula McFadden, a devoted dancer and recent divorcee, juggles the challenges of single motherhood alongside her spirited 10-year-old daughter, Lucy. Life takes a sudden turn when her boyfriend, Tony DeForrest, unexpectedly leaves for an acting gig in Italy, leaving Paula feeling abandoned. As she grapples with this emotional upheaval, she discovers that Tony has secretly sublet their apartment to Elliot Garfield, an endearing yet neurotic aspiring actor from Chicago who arrives unannounced at midnight, eager to settle in. Despite her initial annoyance and pointed resistance, Paula's prickly demeanor softens as she contemplates the situation.
While Paula endeavors to reclaim her place in the dance world, Elliot finds himself thrust into the chaotic realm of off-off-Broadway, where he is coerced by Mark, the unconventional director, to portray Richard III in a flamboyant and exaggerated manner that strays far from his comfort zone. Though apprehensive about how this unconventional role could jeopardize his aspirations, Elliot begrudgingly accepts the challenge. Unfortunately, the play faces harsh critiques from the theater community, with Elliot receiving particularly brutal commentary about his performance. It's no surprise when the production swiftly closes, prompting a sense of relief for Elliot.
As Paula and Elliot navigate their tumultuous relationship filled with disagreements, their deepening bond brings them closer and leads them to share affectionate moments. However, Lucy remains observant and cautious, worried about experiencing another heartbreak similar to the one caused by Tony. Elliot, determined to win Lucy's trust, takes her on a charming horse-drawn carriage ride, openly expressing his affection for both her and Paula, assuring her of his intentions to never cause them pain.
Elliot's fortunes change when he gets a gig at an improvisational theater, catching the eye of a celebrated film director who offers him a role in an anticipated production set in Seattle. The catch is that he’ll be away for four weeks. This news sends Paula spiraling into insecurity, fearing that Elliot might leave just like all the other men in her life. Later, he reaches out from a nearby phone booth to invite her to join him during filming, with the promise that they would return together afterward. Initially hesitant, Paula begins to reconsider their relationship in light of this heartfelt invitation. Before the call ends, Elliot requests her to mend his beloved guitar, a symbolic gesture that signifies his genuine love for her and his commitment to returning, giving Paula hope for their future together.
