Taken from the quiet sanctuary of a convent school, where she works as a maid, Aisha is thrown back into the chaotic world of her parents' home in Tal Ezza'tar refugee camp when the Lebanese civil war begins. From then on she is caught up in a series of tragedies, including her love for George during the continuous bombardment of the camp by the Phalangists and the subsequent invasion and massacres within the camp. Aisha's family and friends are torn apart by events beyond their control and although she is obliged to marry Hassan, amid such violence the ability to start any kind of life becomes impossible.