Dolly visits her parents despite her own recent childbirth and a sick child at home, eager to learn about the medical consultation regarding Kitty. She finds the household distressed and sighs at the prospect of losing her sister to a trip, while reflecting on her own unhappy marriage. Dolly remains trapped in a humiliating situation with Stépane Arcadiévitch, choosing to tolerate his suspected infidelity because she fears the pain of jealousy and wishes to preserve a semblance of family life. Meanwhile, the family discusses travel plans, and the old prince enters to chat affectionately with his youngest daughter Kitty.
Kitty feels that her father is the only one who truly understands her, but his gentle words about her health and future pierce her deeply. Believing that he sees right through her soul and recognizes her hidden humiliations, she bursts into tears and flees the room. The princess immediately blames her husband for upsetting Kitty with his tactless remarks, leading to a heated argument between the parents. The old prince soon turns the blame back onto the princess, arguing that her own eagerness to welcome suitors into their home caused the current misery, though they quickly reconcile and soothe one another.
Dolly attempts to mediate the tense atmosphere and mentions to her mother that Levin had previously intended to propose to Kitty through Stiva. The princess reacts defensively, confused and overwhelmed by her daughters keeping secrets from her. Recognizing Kitty's profound distress, Dolly decides to leave the adults and go upstairs to comfort her sister in her bedroom.