Livio (an antiques dealer) is married to Laura. They have a young daughter, Martina. Dorina's single, a translator/editor. She's oggled by Mario who runs a launderette. Dorina follows Livio in the street. Next thing we know they're in a steady relationship. He buys a toothbrush to keep at her place - a sign of commitment.
Livio's had a short (one afternoon) affair before. This is different. Dorina doesn't interfere with his life, make demands, or show curiosity about his family. This, instead of simplifying things for Livio, complicates them. She asks what the point is of knowing all about each other, but all the same invites him to ask questions if he wants. He has none.
He stays at her place for a weekend, telling his wife he's on a buying trip. When Dorina leaves the flat for a few hours he's excited, because he can discover more about her. All he finds is a dusty photo album with many photos removed.
After Xmas, there's excitement in the household because (as Martina repeatedly says) "Laura si laurea" - she's getting her degree. Livio takes Martina with him when he goes to Dorina's workplace to get Laura's thesis bound. When the family go together to a shoe shop Mario is there, grinning as he makes a nuisance of himself. But Mario survives.
Livio tells Dorina that Laura's pregnant, punching some glass and cutting himself in frustration. Later in the night she cuts her foot on glass. For days she tries to phone her at home and work but there's no reply. He and Laura collect her thesis from Dorina.
Laura tells Mario that she should show her gratitude to him more often. During the party to celebrate Laura's degree, Laura phones. The affair continues. He can't decide what to do. Then one day a parcel arrives. It's his toothbrush and tooth-paste.
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