The story begins with a young girl Katya settling into a nanny in the family of Maxim Dremov — a successful businessman who brings up his nephew, Elijah, who remains an orphan. Relationships within the family do not develop — Maxim is unable to find a common language with his nephew, Maxim's wife Irina loses significant sums to the casino, abuses alcohol. Added to this are the troubles that arise with Maxim and his companion Oleg in their joint business. After another scandal, the body of slain Irina is found at the Dremov's cottage, and all suspicions fall on Maxim.