Kay Foster has not set foot on the Winley stud farm since her stepsister married Kay's childhood sweetheart. However, when she learns from her father George that an uncontrollable virus is raging there that threatens the existence of the stud farm, the renowned vet puts her feelings aside and travels to her old home, the Hudson Valley - a picturesque region just outside New York. She receives anything but a warm welcome from her stepmother Esther. Esther fears that Kay could jeopardize her daughter Alison's marriage - not unfounded, as Eric soon makes advances to Kay. Kay would prefer to leave again when her father suddenly dies. Esther accuses Kay of having upset George, who has a heart condition, too much and of being partly responsible for his death. Her accusations are not without consequences: Kay feels responsible.