- Anna and Vronsky are in a good mood, but it rapidly degenerates when they argue over when to leave for the country.
- Anna is adamant that they leave on Monday or never. Her anger is fueled by the fact the Vronsky must visit his mother, with whom a certain young princess is staying.
- In the midst of their argument, Anna says that respect was invented to hide the empty place where love ought to be.
- Anna argues that all she wants is his love, and Vronsky argues that he has sacrificed everything for her.
- Anna leaves the room, believing everything to be finished since she no longer has Vronsky's love.
- Anna tries to figure out her next move, finally deciding that only her death would secure Vronsky's love and suffering. She fantasizes about Vronsky's feelings after her imagined death.
- Vronsky comes into her room, agreeing to everything.
- Anna bursts into tears, telling Vronsky that he doesn't love her, and that she gives him his freedom.
- Vronsky reassures her tenderly, weeping. Anna's jealousy turns into tenderness.