As a Tornado squadron prepares for the Gulf War, a top pilot crashes in Wales in mysterious circumstances. His widow, Louise, retreats with her son into a private world of grief. In accordance with RAF tradition, an officer from her husband's flight is appointed as Effects Officer to offer his widow help and guidance.

The dangerous relationship between Sean and Louise risks becoming public knowledge. The inquiry into Peter's accident reveals unexpected flaws in the Ross marriage.

Estranged from his wife, Sean also loses contact with Louise, who disappears with her son Toby in search of solitude. But there is no escape - either from her own situation or from the effects of the Gulf War.