Anna Arcadievna sends a telegram to her husband the day after the ball, announcing that she is leaving Moscow immediately instead of the following day. She tells her sister-in-law Dolly that she must return home because of pressing matters, though Dolly senses that Anna feels a general sense of inner restlessness and discontent with herself. Kitty avoids visiting and sends a short note blaming a migraine, while Dolly and Anna share a quiet dinner with the children. Later, while preparing for her journey in her bedroom, Anna becomes emotional, fights back tears, and talks with Dolly about her feelings and her desire to leave.
During their conversation, Anna confesses the real reason behind her sudden departure. She reveals that Kitty is jealous of her because of the recent ball, where Anna danced the cotillon with Wronsky, turning what should have been a joyful event for Kitty into a painful experience. Anna insists that she is not to blame, though she feels uneasy about the situation and admits that memories of Wronsky are partly driving her away early to avoid further encounters. Dolly listens attentively, sympathising with Anna while also noting her human vulnerabilities and emotional contradictions.
Before departure, Stépane Arcadiévitch arrives home looking animated and smelling of wine and cigars to see his sister off. Dolly, deeply moved by their parting, embraces Anna and promises that she will always love her as a dear friend and remember everything she has done. Anna fights back her tears, expresses her affection in return, and bids farewell to Dolly as she departs from Moscow.