In a house in Oxford, three people are enjoying breakfast—Carol, her husband, Jan, and his father, Josef. As they talk about Prague, Carol expresses her wish to celebrate Christmas there together. Josef was born in Prague but left his hometown when he was young. Now, he's getting on in years and cherishes the desire to see Prague again before he dies. Yet, he feels a certain apprehension. He vividly remembers another Christmas in Prague, many years ago, a Christmas that changed his life forever.