Chapters XXXI - XXXII Summary

Laurent begins watching Thérèse when they are separated during the day. He sees her dressed and acting like a street-walker. As Laurent follows her, he fears she is going to the police. Instead, she goes to a café, orders absinthe, and goes home with another man. Laurent is surprised, but not at all angry. That night, Laurent asks for more money. Thérèse refuses, and Laurent's reply lets her know that he knows what she's been doing. When the disagreement escalates, Laurent simply threatens to turn them in if she does not give him the money. They start to go to the police together, both tired of their horrible existence. However, then Thérèse decides to give him the money after all.

Laurent begins drinking, visiting prostitutes, and staying out all night. However...