Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses child abuse, thoughts of infanticide, and mental health disorders.

Chapter 34 returns the narrative to Stéphanie. It’s revealed that one of Louise’s employers helped get Stéphanie into a good school when she was young, “but Stéphanie did not repay this act of generosity” (177). She made trouble in school, which embarrassed Louise. She was eventually expelled, with the school administration telling Louise that “Stéphanie would be more comfortable in a neighborhood closer to home. In an environment more suited to her, where she would have more points of reference” (180). Stéphanie doesn’t care about getting thrown out of school, but Louise is angry and embarrassed. When they get home, Louise physically beats Stéphanie.

Chapter 35 returns to the story of the Massé family, whose relationship with Louise continues to deteriorate: “The silences and misunderstandings have infected everything. In the apartment, the atmosphere grows heavier” (183). Myriam is more distant and less friendly with Louise, trying to reestablish a professional relationship.

Louise goes on a date with Hervé, the man she met at Wafa’s wedding party, and sleeps with him.