A lonely widower and economics professor, Walter Vale, discovers an unexpected new lease on life through his mundane trip to New York City. Intending to reluctantly attend a conference, he arrives at his seldom-used apartment to find it already occupied by Tarek and Zainab, a young immigrant couple scammed into believing they were renting the apartment legally. Taken aback by this surprise, Walter's initial impulse to turn them away quickly softens, leading him to allow them to stay with him. Through this unexpected cohabitation, Walter is introduced to the vibrant and complex world of New York's immigrant community, which contrasts sharply with his previously insular and monotonous life.

As Walter becomes increasingly involved in the lives of Tarek, a Syrian drummer, and Zainab, a Senegalese jewelry maker, he forms an unlikely friendship that deeply affects him. Tarek introduces Walter to the joy of playing the djembe, an experience that rekindles Walter's long-dormant passion for life and music. However, the trio's newfound harmony is threatened when Tarek faces a sudden, serious issue, compelling Walter to confront his own feelings of empathy, responsibility, and the complex realities of immigration and cultural integration in contemporary America. This experience challenges Walter to step out of his comfort zone and advocate for his new friends, which ultimately leads to transformative personal growth and an awakening to the world's larger issues beyond his academic bubble.