Having abducted Hana from her adoptive family, Michiko is on the run from the law when she runs out of gas. Hot in pursuit is Atsuko, a police sergeant and acquaintance of Michiko's from childhood, and the one who put her in jail in the first place.

Michiko visits her old friend Ivan to ask the whereabouts of a man named Satoshi, who might know where Hiroshi is. Thinking the task ahead to be dangerous, Michiko leaves Hatchin with Zelia Bastos at the orphanage where she grew up, for her safety.

With Hatchin missing, Michiko confronts Zelia. Ivan informs Michiko that Hatchin is likely being held by a local mob leader named Vasily at a bullfighting arena, in order to draw Michiko to them so they can take revenge for the events of 12 years ago.

In the town of Perna, famous for its weeping Maria statue, Hatchin is traveling alone and low on money. She befriends a young girl from the local circus named Rita, who is infatuated with her adult performing partner, and desperate to grow up.

As Michiko hurries to catch up with the circus, Hatchin is adjusting to life without her. A former performer, coincidentally named Michiko, takes an interest in the children with the circus. However, an investigative reporter insists they are in danger.

After being demoted, Atsuko is reassigned to Ilha Azul, a small town on the edge of the jungle. There, she befriends Vanessa Lee, a girl who reminds her of her younger self, and who, like her, wants to get out of town and move on with her life.

Michiko and Hatchin reach the tomato production plant where they anticipate finding Hiroshi. Once inside, they meet Elis, the woman who appears in the photograph with him. Michiko confronts her about stealing Hiroshi, but Elis reacts unexpectedly.

In an attempt to locate Hiroshi, Satoshi coerces a local crime boss, Juninho, to search for him. However, Juninho is already out to get Hiroshi for some outstanding debts. Michiko continues to elude police, and ends up cornered at a traveling carnival.

The local police force closes in on Michiko and Hatchin, out to frame Michiko to clear themselves of their own wrongdoing. Michiko and Hatchin have an intense standoff with the police captain. Atsuko and Ricardo arrive to take Michiko into custody.