Unexpectedly, Pavel returns to the village — the very man who once broke Froda's heart. He did not come alone: he brought three children with him to visit his mother. Pavel's appearance causes a stir in the village. Froda tries to remain aloof, but her feelings are reawakened with renewed strength. She unwittingly begins to look after Pavel's children, and this brings them closer together. Pavel notices that Froda is as kind and responsive as she used to be.