Robert Slatzer wakes to a phone call explaining that Marilyn Monroe has died. He recounts the story of meeting and immediately hitting it off with Norma Jean Baker as she navigated through the early stages of her acting career. As Marilyn's career blossoms and her contractual responsibilities grow, her relationship with Bob falters, and she struggles to prioritize between her professional and personal lives. Robert, an aspiring screenwriter, sacrifices opportunities to spend time with Marilyn and help her advance in Hollywood, torn between his love for Marilyn and respect for her obligations.