15岁的阿斯特丽德惊目地 witnessed her mother's murder of a rejected lover. This traumatic event marked the beginning of a solitary, tough existence for young Astred, who was subsequently adopted.
Despite feeling paternal affection from her adoptive mother's boyfriend, Astred was accused of seducing him and shot in retaliation. Recovering, she found solace in an orphanage, where she was often bullied. However, the gunshot wound instilled a newfound strength within her, teaching her to rely on herself for protection.
Enter Paul, a fellow resident of the orphanage who shared Astred's love for art. Their bond, however, was met with disapproval from their adoptive mother, who instructed Astred never to depend on men.
Astred later found a new home under the caring wing of starlet Clair (played by Renee Quigley). Despite Clair's affection for Astred, her biological mother harbored resentment, leading to Clair's tragic suicide. The impact of this loss on Astred was profound.
Seeking solace elsewhere, Astred ended up under the care of a Russian businesswoman. She sank into despair and self-destructive behavior until her biological mother requested her presence in court. In that moment, Astred learned the truth about her lineage and demanded freedom from her mother.
True to her word, her mother released Astred, who watched her depart on a prison van... forever parting ways with her troubled past.
