Margaret, a retired woman living in the English countryside, cherishes her peaceful daily routine, tending to her cottage and garden. However, her tranquility is soon disrupted by the ongoing troubles of her sons family in London. Her grandson, Oliver, once a well-mannered, gentle young man, has always performed admirably at school. Rather than pursue higher education, however, he chooses a job on the assembly line at a local factory. After marrying and having a son, Olivers life begins to unravel as he falls into alcoholism.
He frequently spends time with questionable company and adopts reckless behaviours, leading to endless arguments and tension at home. His marriage soon teeters on the brink of collapse. Hoping to help him and keep the family intact, Margaret invites Oliver to move in with her, believing a change of scenery and her presence might help him recover, while also offering her companionship in her later years and a hand around the house.
At first, Olivers stay brings a noticeable improvement. He seems to turn a corner, and his wife finds a brief sense of relief. They settle into their new routine, helping their grandmother with the garden and daily chores. Yet, within a month, Oliver returns to his destructive habits. Eventually, his wife leaves, taking their child with her, but Oliver remains undaunted. Before long, he finds a new partner who shares his outlook, and together, they settle in at Margarets cottage, giving little thought to her feelings.
Financial difficulties soon followcreditors begin to pursue outstanding debts. Oliver even borrows money from Margaret’s friends, causing further upset. Despite all the troubles, he eventually persuades Margaret to sign over her home to him, leaving her in a precarious position. Fearing eviction herself, Margaret endures as Oliver and his new partner continue to rely on her without offering any support in return.
One day, overwhelmed by her situation, Margaret sighs, If theres a hell in the afterlife, it could hardly frighten me nowIve lived through it already. Meanwhile, the couple concoct a plan to launch a business, securing a bank loan. Yet, if their scheme fails, all three of them could soon find themselves homeless, facing the harsh consequences of their actions.
