While working in the sheep field with Frank and Jimmy, Beth leaves early to go to Meadowlands for Leo’s puppy training. Frank is visibly unsettled when he remembers where Beth is going, and Jimmy openly mocks Gabriel, which makes Beth defensive. As Beth walks to Meadowlands, she tries to reassure herself that the visits are innocent, but she cannot control her anxiety about old secrets or her excitement at the thought of seeing Gabriel again.

At the house, Gabriel answers the door looking tired and unshaven, which makes Beth notice how strained he seems as a single father. Leo eagerly introduces the puppy’s new name, Hero. Gabriel offers tea and seems to want company, but Beth refuses and insists on taking Leo and the puppy into the garden alone because she wants to keep her distance from Gabriel for Frank’s sake and for her own self-control.

Outside, Beth teaches Leo how to train Hero with simple commands like “sit” and “stay,” using food rewards. Hero learns quickly, and the lesson becomes a success that gives Leo obvious pleasure. When Beth suggests stopping for the day, Leo’s disappointment reveals how much he wants her to stay, so Beth agrees to spend more time with him.

Leo shows Beth his elaborate tree house, which is furnished like a private den with books, games, cushions, and a wide view over the grounds. As Leo happily describes building and painting it with Gabriel, Beth is reminded of Gabriel’s past and feels an emotional jolt. Beth encourages Leo to invite friends, but his hesitant response leads her to ask about school.

Leo then confides that he hates school and is regularly punished for shouting, fighting, and losing his temper, including punching another boy who said cruel things. He admits that Gabriel does not know everything, only what teachers report. Beth tries to comfort him and then stays to play Ludo, realizing that Leo is deeply lonely. By the end of the visit, Beth understands that she is already growing attached to him, even though she had promised herself not to become emotionally involved.