It's the early 1960s Montana. With no family as support besides her in-laws with who she lives, widowed Lorna Blackledge marries Donnie Weboy primarily to provide a father for her three year old son, Jimmy Blackledge. Lorna's first husband, James Blackledge, died in a horse riding accident. Shortly thereafter when Lorna, Donnie and Jimmy disappear into the night without a word, said in-laws, retired sheriff George Blackledge and horsewoman Margaret Blackledge, go on a search for them in Margaret knowing that Donnie is bad for Lorna and Jimmy in she having seen Donnie, without any sign of remorse, hit both of them and thus fearing not only for their safety but their lives. Thus, they also believe Lorna left against her will in fear for herself and Jimmy if she didn't obey. Margaret in particular is determined to bring Jimmy "home" to live with them with or without Lorna. They head to North Dakota in believing that's where Donnie's family lives.
