Ivan's mother, a final year student, is dying. It's a terrible ordeal for Ivan, but he gives in to his uncle's urging all the same and leaves to live with him. But the uncle's wife does not like Ivan, she considers him a stranger. While he is very depressed, he meets Yachka who suggests that he quit school, earn a living and no longer depend on the family. Ivan accepts. His meeting with Léna gives him wings. With her he feels good and peaceful. To her he confides his most secret dreams.
But Ivan quickly realizes that Yachka wants to make a thief out of him and breaks up with him. But he decides to take revenge by stealing a large sum of money from Vanya's aunt. She naturally accuses Ivan who ends up in prison. Released after two years Ivan must unmask the real thief, restore his honor and find the love of the young girl ...