Les Dames du bois de Boulogne

Hélène and Jean declare their love for one another but remain not engaged. Their affair allows dalliances with others, yet they promise to put each other first above all others. The situation foreshadows trouble ahead as doubt quietly takes root.

A friend warns Hélène that Jean's love may have cooled. She pretends her own feelings have cooled to friendship, prompting Jean to confess his love while believing they are only friends. She hides her shock and dismay when he enthusiastically accepts being only a friend.

Jean leaves Hélène's apartment, and she is devastated by the turn of events. Rather than mourn, she resolves to exact a cruel revenge by manipulating the next steps to hurt him. She begins to craft a plan to trap him into a marriage with someone chosen for him.

Agnès's difficult life as a cabaret dancer and the needs of her mother are introduced. Hélène offers to pay off the mother's debts and move them into a new apartment, presenting it as compassion. The plan would allow Agnès to quit nightlife and start afresh.

Hélène arranges an introduction and assures Jean that Agnès and her mother are of an impeccable background. He is smitten the moment he meets Agnès in the Bois de Boulogne, and he does not attempt to learn more about her past. He relies on Hélène's assurances rather than truth.

Agnès suspects they are being manipulated, but she feels powerless to escape the trap. She keeps quiet, hoping to protect her mother and herself. The plan advances with Jean's fervent pursuit.

Despite her suspicions, Jean does not relent in his advances and Agnès eventually agrees to marry him. She hopes the union will provide stability for her mother and herself. The path to the altar is set.

Hélène advises Agnès not to reveal the past until after the wedding and insists on planning a lavish ceremony. She manages appearances so that the truth remains buried among the guests. The arrangement secures Jean's commitment while keeping Agnès exposed to risk.

Immediately after the ceremony, Hélène hints that something is amiss. Agnès faints, overwhelmed by the revelation. Jean confronts Hélène, who triumphantly admits the manipulation and reveals that the guests know the truth, leaving him humiliated and enraged.

Jean returns to the room and faces the consequences of the revelation. He is conflicted, torn between his love for Agnès and the betrayal he has endured. He resolves to be strong for her.

Agnès's mother warns that the girl’s heart is weak and may not withstand the strain. The concern heightens the sense of danger surrounding Agnès's health. The family braces for potential tragedy.

Agnès whispers that she hopes Jean will forgive her, and hints that she will free him by giving up her life. Jean begs her to stay strong and not to surrender. The moment shifts from guilt to a poignant resolve to protect him.

Agnès's breath appears to stop, and despair fills the room. Then a faint smile hints that she will live, giving Jean renewed hope and a reason to fight for her. Jean's love deepens as he pleads for her to hold on.