George Darrow, an American diplomat, travels to France to reunite with his former love, Anna Leath, but is unsettled by a last-minute letter from her. During a delay in Dover, he meets Sophie Viner, a young woman whose presence stirs unexpected emotions in him. Their brief yet intimate connection haunts him as he continues his journey. Upon arrival in France, Darrow is shocked to find Sophie working in Anna's household, complicating his intentions. This part explores emotional entanglements, moral dilemmas, and the growing web of secrecy and longing.