After the death of her husband of ten years, Lilly decides to leave her home in Charleston, South Carolina and start a new life in California. She soon meets Larry, an environmentalist, and they become partners in “Protect the Earth,” a project that takes them to a third world country. Back in the States, their search for a particular artist leads them to a quaint fishing village in Washington State. As the fishermen gather at the local diner they talk of the mysterious water baby. Later, Lilly accidentally discovers the mystery through a cousin in Charleston. After Lilly marries Tony, owner of “Saunders Projections,” they become benefactors to Billy and Nathanael, who have lost their parents. When Teresa, a talented career woman, is diagnosed with a terminal bacterial infection, she looks to Lilly for support and encouragement. Lilly’s compassion and concern for others brings her happiness and fulfillment she never thought possible.