The 17-year-old Christa has so far not been particularly spoiled by happiness. Growing up in an orphanage, the pubescent dreams of a man who loves her. In response to a newspaper advertisement, she begins correspondence with a stranger. With the help of her friend Erika, who was allowed to leave the orphanage to take up an apprenticeship, she should finally get to know her adored correspondence partner personally. It's about the literature professor Martin, who, considering his age, could be her father.