The story follows the experiences of Marina, a young country bumpkin who marries the mysterious and charismatic widower Roberto Stein, a fabulously wealthy businessman living in 1920s Rio de Janeiro. As Marina attempts to acclimate to her new marriage and responsibilities, she discovers that Stein's late wife, Alice, still seems to have a strong hold over the household. Despite her new husband's affection for her, Marina is nonetheless threatened by Alice's presence, which is made conspicuous through her old maid Juliana's obsessions and her intimidating portrait.

Kiki Blanche is a former star dedicated to her family and her beauty salon, in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. In addition to Milena, her legitimate daughter, Kiki raises Fernanda, Paulo, Renata and Regina. The great conflict of the plot is Fernanda's passion for Fábio, a man also loved by Milena.