They grow up in a popular neighborhood in Naples, swearing in the streets, families that have been feuding for generations, and New Year's Eve fireworks turn into a shootout. Here they go to school together, the non-conformist, daredevil Lila and the shy, studious Elena, both vying to be better than the other. Until Lila's father forces his brilliant child to work in the cobbler's shop, and Elena is left with the nagging suspicion that she is living the life that should have gone to her best, her so unpredictable friend.