Inside a dimly lit room with a smoldering fire, Brantain sits in a shadow, gathering courage from the dark to stare at the handsome girl sitting in the light of the flame. The girl composedly strokes her cat and glances from time to time at Brantain as they make small talk and avoid deeper topics. Brantain loves her and she knows it, so she is waiting for him to declare his love. She intends to accept his offer despite his unattractiveness because he is immensely wealthy.
As their conversation pauses, a young man and close acquaintance of Brantain enters the room. The girl turns to him, and before she can warn him of Brantain's presence, he gives her a passionate kiss. Brantain rises, as does the girl, and the second man reacts with confusion and amusement, as well as defiance.