She lets out a long sigh.
— Oh no... not her.
Does she really not have a home? Ibrahim snorts with laughter, but Samira gives him an elbow, and he stops immediately.
— Laurène... says my mother-in-law in a warning tone.
Laurène immediately raises her hands.
— Fine... I'll be quiet. My mother-in-law turns to Deyla with a polite smile.
— Deyla, join us.
— Gladly, thank you.
— She doesn't even refuse... Laurène mutters between bites. Her mother gives her a dark look. Laurène immediately lowers her head and starts eating in silence again. Deyla sits right next to Samira and we start eating.
For a few minutes, the conversation continues quietly.
I simply enjoy this moment.
Seeing everyone gathered around this table makes me smile.
Then Dad suddenly puts down his cutlery and turns his gaze toward me.
— Esther, when does your internship start?
I look up at him.
— My internship?
He nods.
— Yes. You told me you were supposed to start one this summer.
I think for a few seconds.
— Ah... It starts at the beginning of August.
— And how long does it last?
— Two months, normally.
He slowly nods.
— Two months is a good amount of time. You'll have time to learn a lot.
I nod.
— Yes.
— And do you already know exactly what you'll be doing?
I put down my fork.
— I'll mainly be working on projects related to my field of study. There will also be a part where I'll have to learn more about management and how the company operates.
He smiles.
— That's important. Especially if you intend to take over from your parents one day.
I remain silent for a moment. That sentence suddenly reminds me why I am doing all these studies. Why I have to work so hard. Why I don't really have the right to be satisfied with knowing only the theory.
I smile slightly.
— I know.
— And where are you planning to do it?
I lower my eyes slightly toward my plate.
— At Dad's, as usual.
My stepfather gently shakes his head.
— Not this time.
I frown.
— What do you mean, no?
Elise speaks up with a small smile. He's right, Esther.
I look at her, then at my stepfather.
— But I've always done my internships at Dad's company. I already know how it works, the employees, the files...
— Exactly, my stepfather replies. You already know all that because it's your father's company. He pauses for a moment. But one day, that company will be yours.
I remain silent. That sentence makes me think.
— You have to learn to work somewhere else, he continues. To discover a different way of working, different methods, different managers. You need to be able to walk into a company without anyone knowing who your father is.
Samira nods.
— I agree. Otherwise, you risk always staying in the same environment.
Ibrahim smiles.
— And besides, it could be interesting for you. You'll meet new people, learn new things...
Laurène immediately speaks up:
— And above all, discover that other companies aren't as perfect as Dad's.
Dad looks at her.
— Thank you for that very encouraging remark.
She shrugs.
— I'm just telling the truth.
Grandma calmly takes a sip of her juice.
— I think the boy is right.
I look at her, surprised.
— The boy?
She points at my stepfather.
— Him.
Everyone laughs lightly.
— Grandma...
— What? You have to call him something.
Oh, this woman. My stepfather shakes his head with a smile.
— Thank you, Mom, for this new nickname.
— You're welcome.
— Anyway, he continues. Esther needs to learn on her own. She'll take over her father's company later, so we might as well prepare her properly.
Elise nods.
— That's exactly what I think too.
He smiles at me.
— I want you to be able to run that company because you have the skills, not simply because you're my daughter.
I remain silent for a few seconds. Hearing him say that does something to me.
— So... you want me to do my internship somewhere else?
— Yes, my stepfather replies. And not in a small company just for the sake of it.
Ibrahim smiles.
— The man really wants to put you to the test.
— I mostly want her to be ready, he replies.
Samira rests her elbow on the table.
— And do you already have an idea of which company you want to go to?
I shake my head.
— Not really.
Laurène immediately raises her hand like she's at school.
— I have an idea!
Everyone looks at her.
— What?
— She can come work with me. Samira bursts out laughing.
— You?
— Why not?
Ibrahim shakes his head.
— Because you don't even work in the same field.
— Hey!!
I laugh despite myself. Grandma gently taps the table.
— Leave her alone. At least she's trying to find a solution.
Laurène gives her a big smile.
— Thank you, Grandma. Finally, someone who understands me.
I shake my head with a smile. I take a sip of my juice before putting my glass back down.
— Okay.
He raises an eyebrow.
— Okay what?
— I'm going to look for an internship somewhere else.
A satisfied smile appears on his face.
— There. That's exactly what I wanted to hear.
I pick up my fork again.
— But I'm warning you... I'm probably going to complain a lot.
Ibrahim bursts out laughing.
— We don't doubt that.
Samira smiles.
— At least you'll be honest. I nod gently. He's right. After all... My studies aren't only meant to get a degree. I'm supposed to take over some of my family's responsibilities one day. Then Dad speaks again.
— Anyway, if you still haven't signed an internship agreement, you could also do it with us. I immediately turn my head toward him.
— With you?
— At Arrison Holding.
I remain silent for a few seconds.
— But...
— What? Samira asks.
I lower my eyes toward my plate.
— I don't know if it's a good idea.
My stepfather slightly furrows his brows.
— Why?
I play with my fork for a moment before answering.
— Because I don't want to feel like I'm receiving special treatment because I'm your daughter-in-law. Samira opens her mouth to speak, but I continue.
— I want to learn. I want to work like everyone else. I don't want to be given privileges because I'm married to Tony. He smiles.
— I'm not offering you a gift, Esther. His tone becomes a little more serious. I'm offering you a job.
Samira nods.
— And that would actually be interesting for you. She places her cup on the table. If you come to Arrison Holding, you'll be an intern. You'll have responsibilities, working hours, and tasks just like any other intern. And if you make a mistake, you'll be corrected like everyone else. I've told everyone: you'll be treated like an intern, not like the Arrisons' daughter-in-law. She pauses. I can confirm it to you. Over there, no one is going to let you sleep on your family name.
I give her a small look.
— That's reassuring...
She laughs.
— I'm serious. Well, I'll try to be.
Laurène gives her a crooked smile.
— Try especially not to make her regret her first day before it even starts.
— I'm not that terrible!
— Of course, Laurène replies. That's why everyone checks their files twice before handing them to you.
Ibrahim speaks up as well.
— And besides, it could actually be a good experience for you. You'll discover the company from the inside without simply being Alex's daughter.
You could see firsthand how a large group operates. The different departments, management, important decisions... And above all, you could see what the responsibility you'll have later on actually represents. I lower my eyes slightly. These words remind me that, despite everything currently happening in this house... My future hasn't changed. I still have to learn. I still have to prepare myself.
Élise speaks up:
— I think it's a good idea.
Laurène shrugs.
— Me too.
I look at her in surprise.
— Really?
— Don't look so shocked. I can have good ideas sometimes.
Ibrahim bursts out laughing.
— Sometimes.
— Ibrahim...
— I'm quiet.
Grandmother smiles.
— I mainly think she should choose the place where she can truly learn. She looks at me tenderly. Whether it's at her father's, her stepfather's, or somewhere else. What matters is that she becomes the woman she wants to be.
A small smile appears on my lips.
— Thank you, Grandmother. I lower my eyes to my plate.
Dad has spent so many years building his company. So much work. So many sacrifices. One day, it will be my turn to take it over. And that thought tightens my chest. Until now, this succession was only a distant idea, almost abstract. But accepting this internship would mean taking a first concrete step toward that responsibility. It would mean starting to prepare myself, to observe, to understand the decisions that keep a company running before one day I'm asked to make them myself.
I don't want to ruin everything. I don't want to make a single mistake that could cost the company dearly. I want to live up to everything my father has built, even if I don't yet know whether I'm capable of it.
I don't want people to say one day: She only has this position because she's Alex's daughter.
I want them to say that I'm capable of it. Not because I carry his name, but because I will have earned that position.
And maybe this internship is the first opportunity to prove it. Not to my family. Not to the employees. To myself.
— Esther?
My stepfather's voice pulls me out of my thoughts.
I raise my head.
— Yes?
— Alright... I'll think about it. Dad smiles.
— Take your time. But if you accept, I can take care of speaking with Human Resources so that your application... I take a small breath.
Arrison Holding...
It will be different from Dad's company. I'll have to learn. Prove myself. Accept being judged, corrected, and having my mistakes come with consequences. And maybe that's exactly what I need to know if I can really take over from him.
I straighten my shoulders.
I finally nod.
— Alright. I'll do it. And I want to be treated like any other intern. I really want to learn, even if that means being given the most difficult tasks and having every one of my mistakes pointed out.
My stepfather's smile immediately appears.
— Perfect. I've talked to everyone: you'll be an intern like the others, and no one will give you special treatment just because you're my daughter-in-law.
Samira applauds softly.
— Welcome to Arrison Holding, future colleague.
I laugh.
— But I haven't even started yet.
— Too late, you're already stuck with me.
Laurène rolls her eyes.
— Good luck to you.
Grandmother leans slightly toward me.
— And if she tells you a task will only take five minutes, plan for at least an hour.
— Grandmother! Samira exclaims.
— What? I'm helping you prepare.
Everyone starts laughing.
I shake my head with a smile. I look at Tony. Since the beginning of the conversation, he has barely said anything.
He is sitting there quietly, listening to the others talk. His fingers rest near his cup, motionless, but his gaze occasionally returns to me before quickly looking away, as if he were afraid I'd notice.
I don't know why, but suddenly I want to know what he thinks.
— Tony?
He looks up at me. His gaze catches mine for a second too long before he straightens slightly.
— Yes?
— You haven't said anything this whole time.
He looks at me for a few seconds before answering, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly.
— Because I wanted to let you make your own choice.
— My choice?
He nods.
— Yes. It's your internship, your future. I didn't want to decide for you.
I lower my eyes slightly, aware of the warmth rising to my cheeks.
This answer surprises me. I thought he would simply give his opinion like everyone else. Yet, he had waited for me to ask him, as if my decision mattered more to him than his own need to be right.
I raise my eyes to him.
— But... What do you think?
This time, he looks at me for longer. His attention settles on me with a softness he barely manages to hide behind his usual calm.
— I think you should do it. He leans slightly back against his chair, without taking his eyes off me. You need to see something other than your father's company. You'll learn a lot at Arrison Holding.
I gently play with my fork to keep my hands busy.
— But I'm afraid I won't be good enough.
His gaze becomes more serious. He leans slightly toward me, as if the distance between us suddenly bothers him.
— Esther, no one expects you to be perfect from the very first day.
I look at him without saying a word. The way he says my name makes me forget the conversation for a moment. Focus, Esther. My conscience whispers.
— You're going to make mistakes. Everyone does. The most important thing is what you do afterward.
— And what if I make a big mistake?
He slightly shrugs, but his gaze remains attentive to mine.
— Then you'll fix it.
I smile despite myself.
— That's it?
— That's it.
— You make it sound so simple.
He lets out a short, warm laugh. I notice the way his eyes crinkle when he smiles and, for a second, I forget to look away.
— Because you complicate things way too much in your head.
— Thanks for the compliment.
— It wasn't a compliment.
I frown while he smiles slightly. His foot brushes against mine under the table, accidentally perhaps. Neither of us moves right away.
I shake my head with a smile, then gently pull my foot away, as if this simple contact could reveal something.
— Anyway, I'm going to do it.
— I know.
— What do you mean, you know?
— Because you made your decision five minutes ago and you've already started thinking about every possible way to succeed.
Of course, that's true, but how could I forget?
By the way, how does he know me so well? And why do I like that idea so much?
I lower my eyes to hide my smile. Tony goes back to his breakfast, but I notice that he doesn't eat right away. He gives me time to regain my composure, as if he understood.
He calmly goes back to his breakfast. And I watch him for a few more seconds. When he looks up, our eyes meet again. This time, neither of us says anything. He eventually looks away, but his smile remains hanging at the corner of his lips.
I don't know why, but knowing that he believes in me makes me feel much better than I would like to admit. Grandma suddenly raises her glass. — Very well! Now that we've settled this little one's future... Can we finally eat in peace?
Silence falls around the table. Then Laurène bursts out laughing.
— Grandma, did you really think we were going to manage to eat in peace?
Everyone bursts out laughing. I shake my head with a smile. Honestly... This breakfast is far from peaceful.
I calmly continue my breakfast when Deyla turns to Tony.
— By the way, Tony...
He looks up at her.
— Hmm?
— Are you going to Arrison Holding afterward?
— Yes. Why?
She smiles.
— Could you drop me off at Luis Vito on the way?
Samira frowns slightly.
— Luis Vito?
She calmly takes a sip of her juice before continuing.
They hired us to present their new brand today. I need to be there a little before everyone else.
Samira looks up.
— Wait, really? It's today?
Deyla proudly nods.
— Yes.
— Congratulations!
— Thank you.
Laurène lets out a contemptuous little laugh.
— Well... some people don't even have to look for an internship. Contracts come directly to them. What outrageous luck. All you have to do is smile in front of a camera and everything falls into your lap.
Deyla stiffens.
— What do you mean by that?
— Oh, sorry, I didn't know we had to applaud every time you mention the name of a brand. Do you want us all to stand up and congratulate you?
Deyla sighs softly.
— You're always so pleasant in the morning.
— I make an effort.
Tony, meanwhile, slowly turns his head toward Laurène.
— Laurène.
She holds his gaze, visibly annoyed. — What? I'm just giving my opinion. Apparently, we can't say anything anymore without everyone getting offended.
— If you're not interested in what she does, just let her talk.
Laurène raises her hands.
— Okay, okay. I'll be quiet. She turns back to her plate. But I'm still right.
— You don't need to be right about everything, Tony calmly replies.
Grandma lets out a small laugh.
— Well said.
— So, can you drop me off?
— Yes.
She smiles. Then, suddenly, she turns her head toward me.
— Does it bother you?
I frown.
— What?
She gestures toward Tony with a slight movement of her head.
— That I'm going with him.
I look at her, completely perplexed. I glance at Tony, then at Deyla.
— Why would it bother me?
She slightly shrugs.
— I don't know... Maybe now that you're married to Tony, you think he shouldn't drive another girl anymore.
I immediately feel everyone's eyes turn toward me.
What is she trying to do?
I don't know if she's simply teasing me or if she genuinely wants to know whether her being around Tony bothers me.
It's just a car ride. Deyla is his friend. They've known each other for a long time. There's nothing strange about him doing her a favor.
So why does the image of Tony behind the wheel, with Deyla sitting beside him, immediately impose itself in my mind? Why does it give me the unpleasant feeling that a place that should be mine might belong to her, even if only for a few minutes?
I remind myself that I have no reason to be jealous. Our marriage isn't a love story, and Tony doesn't belong to me. I have no right to ask him to give up his habits or to monitor the people he spends time with.
But another thought, quieter, more shameful, slips into my mind despite me: I don't want him to be alone with her.
I lower my eyes, hoping no one notices the uneasiness taking hold of me. My lips part, but no sound comes out at first. I take a small breath, which trembles slightly, then lift my chin as if I could regain control of myself that way, even though my fingers remain tense around my fork.
— No. It doesn't bother me.
Deyla looks at me for a few seconds.
— Are you sure?
The question feels like a second pressure on an already sensitive wound. Part of me wants to answer honestly, to ask her why she insists, to make her understand that this closeness makes me uncomfortable. Another part categorically refuses to give her that satisfaction, or to let her think that I am a possessive and worried wife.
I force a smile, despite the tension pulling at my cheeks.
— Yes. You've been friends for a long time. I don't see why it would bother me.
I say these words confidently. Yet, deep down... a small hint of something tightens in my chest. Jealousy? No. Well... I don't know.
I turn my eyes toward my plate, but the lines on my plate become blurry beneath my fixed gaze. I can still feel the heat on my face and try to chase it away by taking a sip of water. My hand trembles slightly, just enough for the glass to softly hit the table.
And when I raise my head, I meet Tony's gaze.
He stares at me for a long time.
I wouldn't even know how to say what he is thinking. His gaze is calm, but there is something in it. Something I can't interpret.
Did he notice my tense fingers? The trembling of my hand? The carefully composed smile I just gave him through Deyla?
I almost look away, then change my mind. I don't want him to understand that her question affected me. I especially don't want him to discover that... despite everything I just said, Deyla's presence beside him might bother me more than anything.
Dad places his napkin on the table, then gently wipes his mouth before standing up.
— Well, I'm going to have to leave you. I have work waiting for me.
Mom-in-law immediately looks up at him. A small innocent smile appears on her face.
— Darling...
He stops and looks at her.
— Yes?
— Can you drop me off?
He raises an eyebrow.
Samira stifles a laugh.
— But Mom, you have your car.
My mother-in-law gives my stepfather a look as if her remark were completely absurd.
— So what?
Laurène raises an eyebrow.
— So... you have a car.
My mother-in-law turns toward my stepfather with a small smile.
— I simply want to leave with my husband. Is there a problem?
An amused smile appears on my stepfather's face.
— No problem.
Grandma shakes her head as she looks at them.
— You two are always declaring your love in front of everyone.
My mother-in-law bursts out laughing.
— Leave us alone, Mom.
My stepfather smiles, then offers her his arm.
— Shall we go?
She immediately slips her arm through his.
— With pleasure.
They leave the table side by side, still smiling.
I watch them leave with a small smile. They really are adorable together.
As soon as they disappear, Ibrahim pushes his chair back slightly.
— Well, I have to go too.
Samira looks at him.
— Already?
— Yes. The police station isn't going to run itself.
Samira frowns slightly.
— What time will you be home?
— I don't know yet.
— You always say that.
— Because it's always true.
Laurène, without even looking up from her phone, intervenes:
— Translation: he's going to come home late again.
Ibrahim gives her a look.
— Thank you for that translation nobody needed.
She smiles.
— You're welcome.
He shakes his head with a smile before standing up. He approaches the children who are still at the table and places a kiss on each of their heads.
— Be good.
— Yesss!
He then turns to Samira, gives her a small kiss on the lips before taking his bag.
Samira smiles at him.
— Take care of yourself.
— Always.
Before leaving, he turns to Tony and gives him a small pat on the shoulder.
— See you later.
Tony gives him a small smile.
— See you later.
He smiles at me as well before heading toward the exit.
— See you later, Esther.
— See you later.
He leaves the room.
The children exchange a look.
Then Amir timidly raises his hand.
— Mom?
Samira turns her head toward them.
— Yes, sweetheart?
— Can we leave the table?
She looks at them with a smile.
— Yes. But don't run. You just finished eating.
But the two little ones have already climbed down from their chairs and are running toward the living room, laughing.
Grandma watches them leave.
— These children have too much energy.
— It's because they're not your age, Laurène replies.
Grandma gives her a look.
— Fortunately for them. I'm going to watch my show.
She calmly moves away from the table.
Deyla finishes her glass quietly before turning to Tony.
— Are you done eating?
He glances at his watch.
— Yes, we can go.
Before he can answer, Laurène intervenes:
— You two are really in a hurry.
Tony slowly turns his head toward her.
— Laurène. Can you stop commenting on everything that happens around this table?
She puts on an innocent expression.
— I was just talking.
— That's exactly the problem.
Samira stifles a laugh.
— Tony... leave her alone.
He shakes his head, gently pushes his chair back and stands up. I stand up almost at the same time.
And when I raise my eyes... I find him already looking at me.
His gaze remains locked with mine for a few seconds.
I don't really understand why he is looking at me like that.
Then he approaches. Each step brings him closer to me, and something slowly tightens beneath my ribs. It isn't really impatience. Not only that. A confused, almost embarrassing anticipation forms in my chest, and I try to ignore it as if it could disappear simply by looking away.
I slightly raise my head toward him, not knowing whether I am seeking his gaze or afraid to find it.
— I'm going to go.
I simply nod.
— Okay.
I thought he would simply leave. That would have been the easiest thing. The most normal.
But he leans slightly toward me and places a small kiss on my forehead. The warmth of his lips travels across my skin before I even have time to understand.
I remain completely still.
My shoulders stiffen, my fingers tighten against my knees. For a second, I almost forget to breathe, as if the slightest movement might break something I still don't know how to name.
My heart jumps, then begins beating with a gentle, disordered rush.
A simple kiss on the forehead.
And yet, I immediately feel warmth spread across my face, reaching down to my neck. My skin betrays me before my thoughts even have time to agree with each other.
I lower my eyes, unable to hold back the small smile appearing on my lips.
Why does this gesture affect me so much?
I can still feel the softness of his lips on my forehead.
Like an invisible, delicate trace that refuses to disappear.
I can't stop my heart from beating faster.
Tony straightens up as if the gesture were perfectly natural.
He then walks around the table and approaches Samira. He leans toward her and also places a small kiss on her forehead.
— See you later.
Samira smiles.
— See you later.
He then turns to Laurène and also places a small kiss on her forehead.
— See you.
Laurène smiles at him.
— See you later.
Deyla is already near the door, her bag over her shoulder.
Tony joins her. Before leaving, he turns back toward us one last time. His gaze meets mine.
I don't know what he means by that look. Yet I feel my stomach tighten, as if I am waiting for an answer to a question I never asked him.
But this time, unlike earlier, I don't need to look away.
I smile at him slightly. The smile comes hesitantly, almost despite myself, and for a moment I fear that he might notice everything I am trying to hide.
He smiles back at me.
Then he turns around, joins Deyla, and they leave the dining room together.
Esther... What is happening to you?
____
Sitting on my bed, all my thoughts are turned toward him.
I shake my head slightly.
Why am I still thinking about him?
I place my fingers on my forehead without even realizing it.
A smile appears despite myself.
— Tony...
I whisper his name.
Then I let myself fall onto the bed.
This man has really decided to throw me off balance.
A simple kiss on the forehead...
And now my heart is beating as if I had run through the entire hallway.
I sigh as I stare at the ceiling.
— Mr. Grumpy...
I let out a small laugh.
He really has no idea of the effect he can have on me.
I finally sit up.
My eyes scan the room once again.
Now that I think about it...
I really can't leave it like this.
I get up and start looking at every piece of furniture.
This dresser...
No.
This table...
Even less.
I grimace.
— I really need to change everything.
I cross my arms.
But where should I start?
The walls?
The furniture?
The curtains?
I take my phone and already start looking for a few ideas.
After a few seconds...
My eyes light up.
— Oh...
I might have just had an idea.
A small smile appears on my face.
I have a feeling this room is not going to look anything like the one Tony knows anymore.
And somewhere...
I'm almost looking forward to seeing his reaction.
The ringing of my phone pulls me out of my thoughts.
I look at the screen.
Mom.
A smile immediately appears on my face.
I answer.
— Hello, Mom.
— Hello, sweetheart.
Her voice always manages to calm me.
— How are you?
— I'm fine.
I sit on the edge of the bed, while looking around the room.
— And you?
— I'm fine too. I just wanted to check on you. It's been a few days since you called me.
I lower my eyes slightly.
— Sorry, Mom. I've been a little busy.
— Busy with what?
I smile.
— With the house... and the family.
She remains silent for a few seconds.
— Oh...
I know that little tone.
— What?
— Nothing. I'm just happy to hear you talking about your new family with so much enthusiasm.
I smile softly.
— You know... I'm really starting to get used to it.
— Even with your husband?
I freeze slightly.
Why does she always have to bring him up?
— Mom...
She laughs softly on the other end of the phone.
— What? I'm just asking a question.
— Things are fine with Tony.
— Only "fine"?
I let out a small laugh.
— Yes.
I let myself fall back against the pillows.
— He's different from what I thought.
— Different how?
I think for a few seconds.
— He's still a little cold...
— A little?
I laugh.
— Okay... a lot.
She laughs too.
— But he's making an effort.
My voice naturally becomes softer.
And then... he's more attentive now.
A small silence settles between us.
— Do you like him?
I immediately feel my heart speed up.
I look at the ceiling.
— I... I don't know.
— Esther.
— What?
— I'm your mother. You can talk to me.
I smile despite myself.
— I swear I don't know yet.
She sighs softly.
— Okay. I won't push you.
I close my eyes for a few seconds.
— Thank you.
Then I think back to this morning.
To his gaze. To his smile. To our closeness. And above all... to that kiss on my forehead.
I shake my head slightly.
No. I'm definitely not going to tell Mom about that.
— And what about the rest of the family? she asks finally.
I smile slightly.
— It's much better.
— Really?
— Yes. I sit up a little on the bed.
Grandma adores me now. Well... I think she does.
Mom laughs softly.
— You managed to win Grandma over?
— It wasn't really difficult. She's adorable.
— And Samira?
— Samira is nice. We get along pretty well. Even Laurène is starting to accept me.
— Laurène?
I laugh.
— Yes. Well... she doesn't hate me as much as she did at first.
— That's already a victory.
— Exactly.
I smile as I think back to our breakfast.
— She's really incredible when she starts talking.
— And your mother-in-law?
This time, my smile fades slightly.
— She... I search for my words.
She's still a little distant with me.
— Did she do something to you?
I gently shake my head.
— No. She's polite. She greets me, she talks to me when necessary... but I can feel that she still keeps a certain distance.
Mom sighs softly.
— Give her some time, sweetheart. Not everyone gets used to changes as quickly.
I look at my fingers.
— Yes, I know. I don't blame her.
Even though, deep down... I'd like her to see me differently. To understand that I'm not here to take anyone's place.
Mom remains silent for a few seconds before speaking again.
— And your father?
I freeze slightly.
My smile disappears completely.
— Dad?
— Yes. Have you spoken to him since the last time?
I lower my eyes.
— No.
She sighs softly.
— Still angry with him?
— Yes.
I don't even try to hide it.
— He yelled at me, Mom. And I still don't understand why he had to talk to me like that.
So for now... I'd rather not talk to him.
— Esther...
— I know.
I gently interrupt her.
— I know he's my father. I also know I'll eventually talk to him. But not now.
Mom remains silent for a few seconds.
Then her voice becomes softer.
— Okay, sweetheart. Take all the time you need.
I smile slightly.
— Thank you, Mom.
— But don't let the anger last too long.
— I'll try.
A small silence settles between us.
Then she speaks again in a lighter voice:
— And besides... you sound much happier than you did at the beginning.
I smile.
— Maybe.
— "Maybe"?
I laugh softly.
— Mom...
— What? I know my daughter.
I shake my head with a smile.
— You'll never change.
— Neither will you.
I smile again.
And for the first time in several days...
I simply feel good.
I hang up after exchanging a few more words with Mom.
I place my phone on the bed.
Only a few seconds pass...
It starts ringing again.
I frown.
I look at the screen.
Dad.
My heart immediately tightens.
I remain still for a few seconds, the phone still vibrating in my hand.
I really don't feel like talking to him. After what happened...
I'm still angry with him.
The phone keeps ringing, but I don't answer.
I let out a deep sigh. I take one last look at the bedroom before leaving.
Our series with Grandma is about to start.
There's no way I'm going to be late.
When I arrive in the living room, I find her already settled in her armchair, her eyes glued to the television. Commercials play one after another.
— You're already here?
— Yes, yes... Sit down.
She says without even looking at me, completely absorbed in the television.
Seriously... This old woman is unbelievable.
I let out a little laugh.
— I'm going to get us something to snack on. I'll be right back.
— Yes... yes...
She answers distractedly, still staring at the screen.
I'm about to head down to the kitchen when an idea crosses my mind.
I immediately change direction and stop in front of her bedroom.
I knock twice.
— What now?
I grimace.
Still as pleasant as ever...
I gently open the door. She's lying on her bed, phone in hand.
As soon as she sees me, she sighs.
— Oh... It's you.
— Yes, it's me.
— What do you want?
— Grandma and I are going to watch a series in the living room. I came to ask if you wanted to join us.
She looks at me for a few seconds before bursting into laughter.
— Are you that bored?
I frown slightly.
— I just wanted you to spend some time with us.
— Couldn't you find someone else to bother?
I smile.
— I didn't come here to bother you.
— Yet here you are, standing at my door.
— I'm just inviting you to watch a series with us.
She puts her phone down.
— And since when have you and I become friends?
— We're not.
— Ah, at least you're aware of that.
I let out a little laugh.
— Are you coming or not?
— No.
— Why?
— Because I don't feel like spending my evening looking at your face.
— You'll be watching the television, not me.
She rolls her eyes.
— You're exhausting.
— I hear that a lot.
— I can confirm that.
— Well... Are you coming?
— I said no.
— Okay...
I'm about to leave when I turn around.
— There'll be popcorn.
No reaction.
— Chips too.
She raises an eyebrow.
I continue.
— And chocolate.
She lets out a loud sigh.
— Are you seriously trying to buy me with food?
I smile innocently.
— Maybe.
She stares at me for a long time.
A very long time.
Then she suddenly gets up.
— If I come, don't think it's because of you.
— Of course.
— It's for the popcorn.
— Obviously.
She walks past me, rolling her eyes.
— You are so annoying...
I smile to myself.
Mission accomplished.
Laurène walks past me, rolling her eyes.
— I'm warning you... If the series is boring, I'm going back to my room.
— Deal.
We both head down to the kitchen.
I open the cupboards.
— Let's see...
— Hurry up. I don't have all day to stand here waiting for you.
I sigh.
What a killjoy.
She's just like her brother.
I grab some chips. Popcorn. Candy. Chocolate. A few biscuits. And even two bottles of juice.
With our arms full, we head back up to the living room.
— Careful... You could at least help me.
— No.
She says as she walks past me.
When we arrive, I stop dead in my tracks.
Samira is already sitting beside Grandma.
Both of them are watching the television with the same level of concentration.
I can't help smiling.
— Ah... I see I'm not the only fan of this series.
Samira turns toward me and smiles.
— You didn't seriously think you could start without me, did you?
Grandma immediately chimes in.
— I'm the one who called her.
I raise an eyebrow.
— Really?
— The more crazy women, the merrier.
When she finally notices Laurène's presence, her eyes widen.
— Well, well... The miracles just keep coming today.
Laurène sighs.
— Don't get any ideas, old woman. I only came for the popcorn.
Grandma chuckles.
— Of course... And I'm still young.
Samira bursts out laughing.
I laugh softly.
I place everything I've brought on the coffee table.
Grandma's eyes widen.
— Oh... All this?
I proudly nod.
— A series night without snacks isn't a real series night.
Samira nods.
— Now, I completely agree with her.
Laurène doesn't waste a second.
She immediately reaches for the bag of popcorn.
— Hey!
I give her a little tap on the hand.
Wait until everyone is settled.
— You really think you're the lady of the house.
— Someone has to bring a little order around here.
She rolls her eyes.
— You annoy me.
— I know.
Grandma bursts out laughing.
— You two... You remind me of sisters who refuse to admit it.
— Never in a million years! we answer at the same time.
Silence falls.
Then we look at each other.
Samira bursts out laughing. Grandma immediately joins her. Even Laurène lets out a little smile before putting her sulky expression back on.
Grandma grabs a bag of chips.
I shake my head, laughing.
— Grandma... The series hasn't even started yet.
— So what? I need to get ready.
All three of us burst out laughing at the same time.
Then the opening notes of the theme song begin to play.
Immediately... Nobody speaks anymore.
Our eyes remain glued to the screen.
Like three impatient children waiting to find out what happens next.
We spend hours in front of the television.
One episode. Then a second. Then another series.
Time passes so quickly that we don't even notice it slipping away.
Laughter follows one another. So do the comments.
Grandma keeps talking to the characters as if they could actually hear her.
Laurène spends her time criticizing them.
Samira tries to guess what will happen next before anyone else.
And me... I simply enjoy this moment, their presence, this family warmth that I don't want to see come to an end.
When the last episode ends, silence settles over the living room.
Samira stretches out before letting out a satisfied sigh.
— That was an amazing day, honestly.
Grandma nods.
— Yes... Nothing to complain about. I loved it.
Laurène suddenly straightens up, a mischievous smile on her lips.
— You know what would make this day even better?
I turn toward her, intrigued.
— What?
Her smile widens.
— Dancing.
I blink.
— Dancing?
— Yes! I really feel like dancing!
To my great surprise, Grandma jumps to her feet.
— Then what are you waiting for? Put some music on for me, baby!
We all burst out laughing.
This old woman... is unbelievable.
Laurène immediately grabs her phone and plays an upbeat song.
Within seconds, the living room fills with music.
Laurène is the first to start dancing. As always, she never does anything halfway.
Samira joins her almost immediately.
Grandma starts moving too, laughing as she tries her best to imitate Laurène's movements.
I watch the three of them for a few seconds.
And without even realizing it, my foot begins to follow the beat. My shoulders move slightly.
A smile spreads across my lips.
And very quickly, my whole body gives in to the music.
My hips sway naturally to the melody. My feet follow the rhythm. My arms accompany every movement.
I stop thinking. I simply dance.
I close my eyes for a moment. A smile lights up my face.
I feel... Free.
As if, for a few minutes, all my worries have disappeared. There's nothing but the music.
The laughter. And this incredible feeling of lightness.
Grandma bursts out laughing as she tries to imitate Laurène's dance moves.
Samira claps her hands, cheering her on.
Even Laurène, who is always ready with a sharp remark, seems to be enjoying the moment.
I laugh with them.
Then I spin around to the rhythm, my hair lightly brushing against my face.
I feel so good. So light. As if nothing could ruin this moment.
That's when... I feel something.
A gaze.
A heavy, intense gaze.
As though it hasn't left me for even a second.
My smile slowly fades.
My movements slow down.
Then I stop completely.
My heart begins to beat a little faster.
I remain still, my breath slightly caught.
He's there, standing in front of me, unmoving, his eyes fixed on mine.
Then his gaze slowly travels down my body.
I swallow, unable to decide whether I want him to stop or continue.
He's standing there without moving, staring at me without hesitation. The silence between us seems to vibrate, and I can even hear the dull pounding of my heart in my temples.
His eyes completely undress me. I feel as though I'm standing naked in front of him, unable to hide behind anything.
My skin tightens under his attention, as if each glance leaves a mark.
A shiver runs through me, despite the heat rising to my face.
I look away for a second, but I can still feel his attention weighing on me. My lips part without a single word escaping my throat.
The intensity of his gaze sends a wave down my spine.
I feel strangely vulnerable.