Joseph and Rosealee have maintained a relationship of convenience since her husband's death, but the onset of routine over the years has deprived them both of the passion they so eagerly crave. Joseph spends his days educating the local children about the world and all it has to offer, while at night he cares for his terminally ill mother. Rosealee also teaches at the local school and struggles to raise her teenage son alone. Despite her numerous declarations of her love and desire to marry him, Rosealee cannot get through to Joseph, who keeps his emotions locked up in an impenetrable facade. When he and Catherine, a radiant 17 year-old student, embark on a blistering affair, Joseph experiences a degree of passion and vitality he never thought possible. When Rosealee learns of Joseph's clandestine romance, a great deal of soul searching is required for them to mend their relationship, and discover what they have found--the ability to live life to its fullest... and be carried away.