The movie begins on June 6, 1966, at 6 AM in Rome, where American diplomat Robert Thorns rushes to a hospital for the birth of his child. Upon arrival, he learns that his baby was stillborn, leaving him heartbroken and unsure of how to tell his wife, Kathy. A priest, Father Spiletto, suggests that Robert adopt a newborn boy whose mother has died that same day, presenting it as a beneficial arrangement for all involved.