Teresa Chavez is driven by greed, using her beauty, intelligence, and ambition to get what she wants. Despite her parents' sacrifices for a decent life, she desires more. Teresa falls for Mariano, who is also loved by her best friend, Aurora. Initially in love with Mariano, Teresa leaves him to marry her wealthy law professor, Arturo de la Barrera. When Arturo loses his fortune, Teresa can't stand being poor and seduces his wealthy friend Fernando, who is engaged to Luisa, Arturo's sister. Mariano then realizes he loves Aurora, who has loved him all along. In the end, Arturo forgives Teresa, but she is rejected by her family and friends. Mariano marries Aurora, and Luisa, pregnant with Fernando's child, decides to be a single mother.