Law student Carl Brown (Richard Chamberlain) decides to marry the love of his life, Annie McGairy (Yvette Mimieux), despite the vigorous protests of his father, Patrick (Arthur Kennedy). Cut off from the parental coffers, Carl and Annie struggle in the early years of their marriage. To stay financially afloat, Annie babysits and Carl works as a night watchman. But when Annie becomes pregnant, it sends their lives into disarray -- prompting a climactic reunion of father and son.