While at a scientific gathering in Stockholm, Andersson begins an affair with von Sydow - an older, married man. He refuses to give up his wife for her, however, which causes Andersson much anguish. She tells boyfried Myrberg about the affair and then leaves both men to take a new job in Rome. About to board the train to Italy, she's met by von Sydow, who has decided that he really needs her, and the two spend the night together. In the morning, Andersson realizes that this is not what she wants, and she breaks off the affair so that she can begin her new life.