Jon's arrogance and conviction put him increasingly at odds with his colleagues, neighbors, and family. Grasping to stay afloat amid constant conflict, he must confront treacherous, false accusations and catastrophic family revelations.

Jon weds Mavis, but their marriage quickly plunges into dysfunction as Mavis becomes more petulant and Jon more distant. As Jon throws himself into work, both he and Mavis engage in affairs. But the price for their secrets will result in dangerous consequences neither could have imagined.

Dr. Martin Eaton returns home from war to discover his sweetheart, Marjorie, betrothed to another, wealthier man. Martin reluctantly marries the shy Flora instead and focuses on his medical practice, engaging in the occasional extramarital tryst. Meanwhile, Marjorie raises two boys, Jon and Harold, who have starkly different personalities.