In Moscou shortly before the Soviet Union enters the Second World War Boris, a young factory worker from a bright medical and artistic family, and Veronika, a student, conduct a breezy relationship at night, their only free time. War breaks out, and without much hesitation Boris signs up for the front in order to fulfil his patriotic duty. On the day Boris has to go to the front Veronika arrives late at the assembly point from which the soldiers are sent away.
Veronika parents died in an air raid and she moves to Boris family helping out at a hospital where his father tends wounded soldiers without ever receiving a letter from Boris. Boris‘ brother Mark, a vigorous musician, who obtained the exemption from military service by corruption, is eager to take his place. Veronica initially resists, but in a frightful night of bombing she finally falls victim to his charms. A marriage takes place, which is never accepted by the family. Soon feelings of guilt seize hold of Veronica and she realizes that Boris' return is the one and only thing she actually longs for. Boris, meanwhile, is killed in action.
Veronika, disgusted with herself and an adulterous Mark, refuses to believe this, and awaits his return, fostering a young orphan bearing his name. On the day the soldiers return one of the homecomers dashes her hopes by confirming the certainty of Boris‘ death.