The trio continue their roaming life through the seasons, occupying emptied homes and rented rooms, with Sabine and Hector often at odds and Renata holding them together. Hector and Renata typically share a bed, while Sabine prefers her own room, though she admits she is drawn to their nearness.

One night, Renata leaves Hector's bed and goes to Sabine. Their kiss turns into more intimate exploration led by Sabine, who sets the pace and boundaries. Sabine brings Renata to climax and, to her surprise, Renata stays and sleeps in her arms.

Later, Sabine finds Renata and Hector dancing, and braces for confrontation. Renata openly displays affection toward Sabine in front of Hector, heightening Sabine's tension and fear of jealousy. Hector, who can sense Sabine's probing thoughts, finally tells her to speak plainly.

Sabine admits she slept with Renata. Hector remains calm and unjealous, saying Renata does not belong to him, and that she is free to amuse herself. However, he asserts a deeper claim: as Renata's maker, he declares, "You may be her plaything. But I am her god," insisting Sabine will never matter to Renata as much as he does. The words humiliate and enrage Sabine, who contemplates killing Hector or fleeing.

That night, Renata returns to Sabine's bed and asks her to promise not to leave. Sabine agrees, not understanding the consequence. The next time Sabine tries to go, she discovers that promises among their kind are binding, and she is compelled to stay despite her anger and desire to run.