After a grueling journey, Frankie arrives at the Coco Palms Hotel on Kauai and collapses into restorative sleep. She awakens to birdsong and the absence of war sounds, takes a long bath, and goes to the beach to savor peace and solitude. A Marine briefly tries to pick her up, but she declines. Then Rye Walsh approaches; he admits he pushed for her R&R and tells her he has broken off his engagement because life is short and there is something real between them. Frankie cannot deny her feelings and agrees to have dinner with him.

Unsure about sex, Frankie phones Barbara "Barb" Johnson for advice. Barb tells her to use condoms and to be bold, warning her not to believe quick declarations of love. Frankie gets a new haircut and a hibiscus dress, prepares for the date, and meets Rye in the hotel’s open-air dining room. They share small talk about basic comforts they miss from Vietnam, and reminisce about Finley McGrath and the night of his going-away party, where Rye reveals he once wanted to ask Frankie to a dance. Their conversation deepens into family backgrounds.

A World War II veteran, Edgar LaTour, approaches to thank them for their service and insists on paying for their meal, reminding them that many Americans still appreciate their sacrifice. Over dinner and dessert, Frankie and Rye discuss hopes after the war, friends made in-country, and stateside protests. Afterward, Rye leads Frankie to a secluded beach spot with a blanket, candles, and champagne. Their mutual hesitation gives way to a tender kiss; Rye remains respectful, waiting for Frankie’s consent to go further.

Frankie decides she does not want to wait, mindful of war’s uncertainty. They make love on the beach, with Rye guiding her through first-time fears. Frankie later sends Barb a postcard confirming the experience was good and that she followed Barb’s advice. Over the next days, Frankie and Rye immerse themselves in an all-consuming physical and emotional relationship, exploring the island’s secluded beaches and deepening their bond. Frankie realizes how vulnerable she is to heartbreak and confesses her feelings; Rye reciprocates, saying she destroys him, and Frankie recognizes this as the true love she has long hoped for.

On their final night, they struggle against the looming separation. Rye assumes Frankie is rotating home soon, but she reveals she has extended for another tour. Rye reacts with fear and anger over the escalating war, but Frankie sets a boundary: neither will control the other’s choices. She asks him to believe in her as she believes in him. Rye relents, affirming his love and commitment.

Resolute, Rye declares he will re-up as well, refusing to leave Frankie in Vietnam without him. They frame themselves as a wartime couple determined to face danger together, choosing love and service despite the risks as their R&R ends.