Jan tries to make Bettina nervous by talking about her husband's affair, but doesn't get the reaction he hoped for.

Bettina is questioned by Jan's superior, who is not particularly patient, and learns that Jan is going away on vacation.

Jan's wife doesn't want him to meet Bettina again.

Jan comes back from vacation and explains that his part of the investigation is almost over, but also expresses some feelings for Bettina.

In their last meeting, Bettina and Jan both reveal their feelings for each other. In the present, they see each other for the first time in many years.

Bettina finds that she still has feelings for Jan after so many years.

Jan can't bear to tell his wife and daughter the truth about his feelings for Bettina, even though he continues to see her.

Jan admits to his wife that he is in love with Bettina and Bettina's boyfriend tries to talk with her about the situation.

Bettina is unwilling to compromise, and only willing to see Jan if he leaves his wife.

Jan abandons his marriage and moves in with Bettina, but it is not easy to start a new life together.

Bettina takes Jan to the place where she served her prison sentence. Jan begins to re-consider how he's lived his life both during the GDR and afterwards.

In the final part of the film, Bettina and Jan learn the hard way that many people don't understand or believe in their relationship. However, Andreas still retains positive feelings about Bettina, which gives her some confidence.