Because of a local blood feud, a peasant family decides to sell its sheep - a most precious commodity - in far away Ankara. During their long train ride, bribes must be paid to petty officials, sheep are stolen or die in the packed, airless wagons, and the sick wife of one of the family's sons becomes deathly ill.

Recep lives with his wife Zehra and their children in his father's house. He also runs a hotel in the seaside town where they live. Ayşe, from the town, attends high school in Istanbul with Selma Hanım. After graduating, she returns to the town. However, her family does not allow her to attend university. Selma Hanım comes to the town to convince Ayşe's family. She starts staying at Recep's hotel. Ayşe also starts spending time with Selma Hanım while waiting for her university exam results. Mrs. Selma returns to Istanbul after a while. A few days later, Ayşe's exam results arrive. Her father tears up the results. Upon this, Ayşe runs away from home and goes to Recep's hotel. However, Ayşe's arrival at the hotel will change the lives of both Ayşe and Zehra.