The Man Who Walked Alone

During the final months of World War II, a young man named Marion begins hitchhiking to the small town of Plainfield. He faces multiple failed attempts before finally deciding to step in front of a car driven by a woman. This encounter marks the start of their journey together, setting the stage for the upcoming events.

The woman, Willie, tries to go around Marion, but crashes and blows out a tire. Marion changes the tire in exchange for a ride, leading to an initial tense interaction. Willie resents him for causing her trouble and for evading military service, creating a strained relationship at first.

While getting gas, Willie finds a uniform with many decorations in Marion’s suitcase. This discovery prompts her to become more friendly, as she begins to realize he may not be a deserter but possibly someone with a distinguished background. Their conversation reveals only their name initials, Marion and Willie.

Willie takes Marion to her wealthy family’s mansion, claiming she is the family secretary. When she loses her key, Marion crawls through a window, leading to their temporary arrest. Despite the chaos, they continue their interaction with increasing curiosity about each other.

The police confirm Willie's identity, and the couple is released from custody. However, reporters catch wind of their story at the police station, causing their situation to gain public attention and complicate their relationship further.

Initially, Willie assumes Marion is an Army deserter, but after he explains his medical discharge, she offers him a job as the family chauffeur. Wiggins, the estate’s caretaker, is skeptical but Marion accepts, showing his desire to stay close to Willie.

Willie’s mother, Aunt Harriet, Patricia, along with Alvin Bailey and Champ, come from New York. The family disapproves of her association with Marion, believing he is a gold digger, and Mrs. Hammond attempts to buy him off while Bailey considers involving the police.

After various family arguments, Marion is revealed to be a nationally known war hero who was hitchhiking to avoid publicity. His identity surprises the family, and he receives a warm welcome from local officials, including the mayor and governor.

Marion explains that he was inspired to settle in Plainfield because a friend killed in battle described their hometown so vividly, and he inherited it from a friend, as he has no other ties to anywhere else. This increasingly deepens his bond with the community.

As Marion prepares to leave, Willie, dressed in her wedding gown, sets out after him. In a role reversal, Marion responds by giving her a ride, symbolizing their mutual affection and the start of their future together.