In Chapter 27, Alcee comments in the evening that he has never seen Edna in such a positive state. He sits near her and caresses her hair lightly, which she finds pleasurable. Edna expresses to Alcee that she needs to understand what type of woman she is because she feels immoral, but she does not truly believe that she is. Alcee assures her that she does not need to contemplate this matter because he can inform her of exactly the type of woman she is.

Edna shares with Alcee something Mademoiselle Reisz had told her, that birds who wish to rise above normal heights must possess powerful wings. Alcee disagrees, suggesting that Mademoiselle Reisz might be insane. However, Edna counters, stating that Mademoiselle Reisz appears to her to be remarkably rational.

Alcee observes that Edna appears lost in thought, and then he leans in and kisses her on the mouth. Edna responds by holding his head and pressing her lips to his. This is the first time she has ever been sexually stimulated by a kiss.

In Chapter 28, which is the second break in the narrative of the novel, Chopin describes how Edna reacts after Alcee departs. Although she is filled with a sense of irresponsibility and is aware of the disapproving attitudes of both Leonce and Robert, she sheds a few tears. Nevertheless, she also feels that she has gained a better understanding of the world. While she does not experience any feelings of shame or remorse, she does regret that the passionate kiss did not stem from love.