On the platform of a train station, the pretty Laurence is waiting for her fiancé. They have planned to go to Venice, but the young woman waits for hours for Prince Charming, who never comes. Meanwhile, Bruno Lombart, who lives on petty theft, has decided to lock his son Timothée in Laurence's apartment. The little boy's mission is to steal as many objects as possible. When the young woman returns home, disappointed, she is surprised to find little Timothy! He explains to her that if he doesn't bring back any booty from his expedition, he will be beaten. Out of pity, Laurence gives him a few trinkets, then drops him off in the street after having given him her coordinates...

Voleur de coeur

In 1914, Blanche Maupas replaces her husband Théo as local teacher when he is drafted into the French Army for WW I combat. News is bad: Théo is executed to set an example, after finding it impossible to send his men into the firing line.