In the early 1970s, Zina was a desirable bride. In those years, real passions unfolded in the village of Solnechnoye, where she lived. Prominent party activist Boris Gorbato makes a proposal to the girl, but she refuses to become his wife. She plans to do things her own way and marry the gypsy Oleko. However, on the day of their wedding, the handsome groom is taken away by the police. He is accused of horse theft, and Boris, seeking revenge for Zina's choice, is behind the arrest. In order to free her beloved, she agrees to the ultimatum and marries Gorbato. The marriage brings no happiness to anyone, and a few months later, the girl gives birth to a son from Oleko.