Unaware of the news that Vargas's troops are approaching the capital, Maria Teresa thinks only of her daughter Catarina's return home after a period of study in São Paulo.

Maria Teresa accompanies Geraldo to a barbecue with his colleagues. She meets the wives of high-ranking military officers who are captivated by a newly released book. Without her family's knowledge, Catarina applies for a job at a newspaper.

The radio arrives, bringing music, news, and plenty of advertising, leaving Maria Teresa dazzled by such modernity. At the docks, it is Geraldo who oversees the unloading of containers packed with the devices. As an unexpected gift, the Bulhosa family receives one.

A heatwave—felt only by Maria Teresa—leaves her feeling somewhat unwell. To make matters worse, there is a water shortage in Rio de Janeiro. While out at the beach, Catarina shocks her brother with her bikini but charms the handsomest of the rowers. He immediately steps in to rescue Geraldinho from yet another scrape.

With Lucélia gone, the entire Bulhosa family pitches in with the housework. Maria Teresa takes charge of breakfast—to the dismay of her children and husband. Meanwhile, away from her employers' home, Lucélia sits for the teacher training exam.

Geraldinho begins attending the Military School, and Maria Teresa feels a heavy heart. In the classroom, he is taken aback by his classmates. Lucélia speaks to her employer again about her desire to study. Maria Teresa takes Lucélia on a sophisticated outing.

Not even in her dreams can Maria Teresa picture what it would be like for Geraldo to come to power at the Catete Palace. Yet, dreaming leaves her wondering about her husband's loyalty. Meanwhile, at Catete, Bulhosa is about to start being "rewarded" for his involvement in schemes with Pacheco and company.

It’s Carnival! Samba is declared the country’s official music, and the celebration is the greatest on Earth. Maria Teresa is one of the happiest revelers, and thanks to the radio, she already knows all the *marchinhas*. Geraldinho is betting everything that he’ll finally land a girl. This is the moment! Or is it?

The patriotic spirit is growing stronger in the Bulhosa family. Maria Teresa does not miss the opportunity to sing – in her own way – the national anthem. Still displaced, Geraldo arrives at Palácio Tiradentes to serve the nation. Geraldinho also does his part, at the Military College.

Life changes for the Bulhosa family. Maria Teresa is not welcome in public places. Lucélia goes to renew her enrollment at the teacher training college and is taken by surprise.