[1] David Aurphet, a struggling guitar teacher, is invited to give lessons to Viviane Tombsthay, the daughter of a well-to-do couple.

The wife, Julia, commences an affair with him while Viviane and a neighbour, Edwige, proposition him.

Later, David is robbed but is rescued by a stranger, Daniel Forest, whom he has seen hanging around near the Tombsthays' property.

Daniel admits to being a contract killer who is on a job and suggests that the robbery is a cover for someone who wishes to injure David's hand, such as a jealous husband.

After she leaves, Daniel tells David that Julia's husband, Graham, is his intended target.