Lieutenant Samoshin, upon hearing from Irina about Seleznev's efforts to convince Konovalova to spare the orphanage and its residents, plots to use the former Olympic champion in a sly plan to boost his political ambitions. He orchestrates a rally at the market, proclaiming to the townsfolk that the arrival of Moscow's celebrities will corrupt Zarechensk. In the meantime, Sveta, energized by the newfound prospects, ventures to the train station at night, where she encounters the film star Karetnikov. Meanwhile, Seleznev finds himself deep in thought, grappling with a dilemma over who means more to him: Masha or Irina.
