She lets out a long sigh.
— Oh no... not her. Does she really not have a home?
Ibrahim bursts out laughing, but Samira elbows him, and he immediately stops.
— Laurène... my mother-in-law intervenes 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.
— I'd be delighted, thank you.
— She doesn't even refuse... Laurène mutters between bites.
Her mother shoots her a dark look.
Laurène immediately lowers her head and resumes eating in silence.
Deyla sits right next to Samira, and we begin eating.
For a few minutes, the conversation resumes peacefully.
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.
— Oh... It starts in early August.
— And how long does it last?
— Two months, normally.
He nods slowly.
— Two months is a good length of time. You'll have plenty of time to learn.
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'm pursuing all these studies.
Why I have to work so hard.
Why I can't just settle for knowing 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 company, as usual.
My stepfather gently shakes his head.
— Not this time.
I frown.
— What do you mean, no?
Élise speaks up with a little 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 things work, the employees, the files...
— Exactly, my stepfather replies. You already know all that because it's your father's company.
He pauses briefly.
But one day, that company will be yours.
I remain silent.
That statement makes me think.
— You need to learn how to work somewhere else, he continues. To discover a different way of doing things, other methods, other 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.
— Besides, it could be interesting for you. You'll meet new people, learn new things...
Laurène immediately chimes in:
— And most importantly, 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.
— Personally, I think the boy is right.
I look at her, surprised.
— The boy?
She points at my stepfather.
— Him.
Everyone laughs lightly.
— Grandma...
— What? I have to call him something.
Honestly, 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's going to take over her father's company later, so we might as well prepare her properly.
Élise nods.
— That's exactly what I think too.
He smiles at me.
— I want you to be able to run this company because you have the skills, not simply because you're my daughter.
I remain silent for a few seconds. Hearing him say that touches me.
— So... you want me to do my internship somewhere else?
— Yes, my stepfather replies. And not at some small company just for the sake of it.
Ibrahim smiles.
— The gentleman really wants to put you to the test.
— More than anything, I want her to be ready, he replies.
Samira rests her elbow on the table.
— And do you already have a company in mind where you'd like to go?
I shake my head.
— Not really.
Laurène immediately raises her hand as if she were at school.
— I have an idea!
Everyone looks at her.
— What?
— She can come and 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 can't help laughing.
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 down.
— Okay.
He raises an eyebrow.
— Okay what?
— I'll 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 have no doubt about that.
Samira smiles.
— At least you'll be honest.
I gently nod.
He's right. After all... My studies aren't just about getting a degree.
I'm supposed to take on some of my family's responsibilities one day.
Then Dad speaks again.
— In any case, if you haven't signed an internship agreement yet, 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 is it? Samira asks.
I lower my eyes toward my plate.
— I'm not sure it's a good idea.
My stepfather frowns slightly.
— Why?
I play with my fork for a moment before answering.
— Because I don't want to feel like I'm getting special treatment just 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 just 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 a good experience 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 just 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 assure you of that. No one there is going to let you coast on your family name.
I give her a little look.
— That's reassuring...
She laughs.
— I'm serious. Well, I'll try to be.
Laurène gives her a knowing smile.
— Just try not to make her regret her first day before it even begins.
— I'm not that terrible!
— Of course, Laurène replies. That's why everyone checks their files twice before handing them over to you.
Ibrahim speaks up.
— Besides, this 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 for yourself how a large company operates. The different departments, management, important decisions... And above all, you could understand what the responsibility you'll have one day really involves.
I lower my eyes slightly.
Those words remind me that, despite everything that's happening in this house right now...
My future hasn't changed.
I still have to learn.
I still have to prepare myself.
Élise speaks up.
— Personally, 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.
— Only sometimes.
— Ibrahim...
— I'm quiet.
Grandma smiles.
— Personally, I think she should choose the place where she'll truly be able to learn.
She looks at me tenderly.
It doesn't matter whether it's her father's company, her stepfather's, or somewhere else. What's important is that she becomes the woman she wants to be.
A little smile appears on my lips.
— Thank you, Grandma.
I lower my eyes to my plate.
Dad has spent so many years building his company. So much hard work. So many sacrifices. One day, it will be my turn to take over.
And that thought makes my chest tighten.
Until now, this succession had been nothing more than 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 being 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 though I don't yet know whether I'm capable of it.
I don't want people to say one day:
She only has that position because she's Alex's daughter.
I want them to say that I'm capable of doing it. Not because I bear his name, but because I've earned that position.
And perhaps 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?
— All right... I'll think about it.
Dad smiles.
— Take your time. But if you accept, I can speak with Human Resources to arrange 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 carry consequences.
And perhaps that's exactly what I need to find out whether I can really succeed him.
I straighten my shoulders.
I finally nod.
— All right. 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 single one of my mistakes pointed out.
My stepfather's smile immediately appears.
— Perfect. I've spoken with everyone: you'll be an intern like the others, and no one will go easy on you 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.
Grandma leans slightly toward me.
— And if she tells you a task will only take five minutes, plan for at least an hour.
— Grandma! Samira protests.
— What? I'm helping you prepare.
Everyone bursts out laughing.
I shake my head with a smile.
I look at Tony.
Since the beginning of the conversation, he has barely said anything.
He's sitting there quietly, listening to everyone talk. His fingers rest near his cup, motionless, but his gaze occasionally returns to me before quickly looking away again, as if he's afraid I'll notice.
I don't know why, but suddenly I want to know what he thinks.
— Tony?
He raises his eyes toward me. His gaze meets mine for a second longer than necessary 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 ever so 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 make the decision for you.
I lower my eyes slightly, aware of the warmth rising to my cheeks.
His answer surprises me.
I thought he would simply give his opinion like everyone else. Yet he had waited for me to ask him, as though my decision mattered more to him than his own need to be right.
I raise my eyes toward him.
— But... what do you think?
This time, he looks at me for longer. His attention settles on me with a tenderness he can barely hide behind his usual calm.
— I think you should do it.
He leans back slightly in 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 expression becomes more serious. He leans slightly towards me, as though the distance between us has suddenly become uncomfortable.
— Esther, nobody expects you to be perfect from the very first day.
I look at him without saying anything. 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. What matters most is what you do afterwards.
— And what if I make a big mistake?
He shrugs slightly, but his gaze remains fixed on mine.
— Then you'll correct it.
I smile despite myself.
— That's all?
— That's all.
— You make it sound so simple.
A brief, warm laugh escapes him. I notice the way his eyes narrow when he smiles, and for a second, I forget to look away.
— That's because you overcomplicate everything in your head.
— Thanks for the compliment.
— That wasn't a compliment.
I frown while he smiles slightly. His foot brushes against mine under the table, perhaps by accident. Neither of us moves right away.
I shake my head with a smile, then gently pull my foot away, as though that simple contact might 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 all the possible ways to succeed.
Wait, yes, that's true. But how could I forget?
Besides, 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 though he understands.
He calmly resumes his breakfast. And I keep watching 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 lingering 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 resume my breakfast when Deyla turns towards Tony.
— By the way, Tony...
He looks up at her.
— Hmm?
— Are you going to Arrison Holding afterwards?
— Yes. Why?
She smiles.
— Could you drop me off at Luis Vito on your 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 have to be there a little before everyone else.
Samira raises her head.
— Wait, really? It's today?
Deyla nods proudly.
— 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 straight to them. What outrageous luck. All they have to do is smile in front of a camera, and everything falls into their laps.
Deyla stiffens.
— What are you trying to say?
— Oh, sorry. I didn't know we had to applaud every time you mentioned a brand. Would you perhaps like us all to stand up and congratulate you?
Deyla sighs softly.
— You're always so pleasant in the morning.
— I'm making an effort.
Tony, meanwhile, slowly turns his head towards Laurène.
— Laurène.
She holds his gaze, visibly annoyed.
— What? I'm simply giving my opinion. Apparently, no one can say anything around here anymore without everyone getting offended.
— If you're not interested in what she does, just let her talk.
Laurène raises her hands.
— All right, all right. I'll be quiet.
She turns towards her plate.
— But I'm still right.
— You don't have to be right about everything, Tony replies calmly.
Grandma lets out a little laugh.
— Well said.
— So, can you drop me off?
— Yes.
She smiles. Then, suddenly, she turns her head towards me.
— You don't mind?
I frown.
— What?
She gestures towards Tony with a slight movement of her head.
— Me leaving with him.
I look at her, completely perplexed.
I glance at Tony, then at Deyla.
— Why would I mind?
She shrugs slightly.
— I don't know... Maybe now that you're married to Tony, you think he shouldn't be driving another girl around anymore.
I immediately feel everyone's eyes on me.
What is she trying to do?
I don't know if she's simply trying to tease me or if she genuinely wants to know whether her presence beside Tony bothers me.
It's only a car ride, after all. Deyla is his friend. They've known each other for a long time. There's nothing strange about him doing her a favour.
So why does the image of Tony behind the wheel, with Deyla sitting beside him, immediately come to 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 keep reminding 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 keep an eye on the people he spends time with. But another thought, quieter and more shameful, slips into my mind despite myself: 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 though I could regain control of myself that way, even though my fingers remain tightly clenched around my fork.
— No. I don't mind.
Deyla looks at me for a few seconds.
— Are you sure?
Her question feels like a second pressure on a wound that is already sensitive. Part of me wants to answer honestly, to ask her why she keeps insisting, to make her understand that this closeness makes me uncomfortable. Another part categorically refuses to give her that satisfaction or let her think that I am a possessive and worried wife.
I force a smile, despite the tension pulling at my cheeks.
— Yes. You have been friends for a long time. I don't see why it would bother me.
I say those words confidently. Yet deep down... a little pang of something tightens in my chest.
Jealousy?
No.
Well... I don't know.
I turn my eyes towards my plate, but its patterns become blurry beneath my fixed gaze. I can still feel the warmth on my face and try to get rid of it by taking a sip of water. My hand trembles ever so slightly, just enough for the glass to gently touch the table.
And when I raise my head, I meet Tony's gaze.
He stares at me for a long moment.
I couldn't even tell what he is thinking. His expression is calm, but there is something in his eyes. Something I can't quite interpret.
Has he noticed my clenched fingers? The trembling of my hand? The carefully composed smile I just offered him through Deyla?
I almost look away, then change my mind. I don't want him to realize that her question affected me. Above all, I don't want him to discover that... that despite everything I just said, Deyla's presence beside him might bother me more than I would like to admit.
Dad places his napkin on the table, then gently wipes his mouth before standing up.
— Well, I'll have to leave you now. I have work waiting for me.
My mother-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 her a look as though her remark were completely absurd.
— So what?
Laurène raises an eyebrow.
— Well... you have a car.
My mother-in-law turns towards my stepfather with a little smile.
— I simply want to leave with my husband. Is there a problem?
An amused smile appears on my stepfather's face.
— No problem at all.
Grandma shakes her head as she watches them.
— You two are always declaring your love in front of everyone.
My mother-in-law bursts out laughing.
— Just 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 little 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 won't 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.
Without even looking up from her phone, Laurène cuts in:
— 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 walks over to the children, who are still at the table, and places a kiss on each of their heads.
— Behave yourselves.
— Yesss!
He then turns towards Samira, gives her a quick kiss on the lips before picking up his bag.
Samira smiles at him.
— Take care of yourself.
— Always.
Before leaving, he turns towards Tony and gives him a light pat on the shoulder.
— See you later.
Tony gives him a small smile.
— See you later.
He smiles at me as well before heading towards the exit.
— See you later, Esther.
— See you later.
He leaves the dining room too.
The children exchange a glance.
Then Amir timidly raises his hand.
— Mom?
Samira turns towards them.
— Yes, sweetheart?
— Can we leave the table?
She looks at them with a smile.
— Yes. But don't run! You have only just finished eating.
But the two little ones have already climbed down from their chairs and are running towards the living room, laughing.
Grandma watches them leave.
— These children have too much energy.
— That's because they're not your age, Laurène replies.
Grandma gives her a look.
— Thankfully for them. I'm going to watch my series.
She calmly walks away from the table.
Deyla finishes her glass before turning towards Tony.
— Have you finished eating?
He glances at his watch.
— Yes, we can go.
Before he can answer, Laurène cuts in:
— You two are really in a hurry.
Tony slowly turns his head towards 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 slightly, 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 fixed on 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 exactly impatience. Not entirely. A confused, almost embarrassing sense of anticipation forms in my chest, and I try to ignore it as though simply looking away could make it disappear.
I raise my head slightly towards him, unsure whether I'm seeking his gaze or afraid of finding it.
— I'm leaving.
I simply nod.
— All right.
I thought he would just leave. That would have been the easiest thing. The most normal.
But he leans slightly towards me and places a soft kiss on my forehead. The warmth of his lips passes through my skin before I even have time to understand what is happening.
I remain completely still.
My shoulders tense, my fingers clench against my knees. For a second, I almost forget to breathe, as though the slightest movement might break something I don't yet know how to name.
My heart skips a beat, then begins to pound with a gentle, irregular rhythm.
A simple kiss on the forehead.
And yet, I immediately feel warmth spreading across my face, reaching down to my neck. My skin betrays me before my thoughts have even had time to agree.
I lower my eyes, unable to hold back the little smile appearing on my lips.
Why does this simple 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 though the gesture were perfectly natural.
He then walks around the table and approaches Samira. He leans towards her and places a small kiss on her forehead too.
— See you later.
Samira smiles.
— See you later.
He then turns towards Laurène and gives her a little kiss on the forehead as well.
— See you.
Laurène smiles at him.
— See you later.
Deyla is already standing near the door, her bag over her shoulder.
Tony joins her. Before leaving, he turns around one last time to look at us. His gaze meets mine.
I don't know what he means by that look. Yet I feel my stomach tighten, as though I'm waiting for an answer to a question I've never asked him.
But this time, unlike earlier, I don't need to look away.
I give him a slight smile. It comes hesitantly, almost against my will, and for a moment, I'm afraid he'll notice everything I'm trying to hide. He returns my smile.
Then he turns around, joins Deyla, and they leave the dining room together.
Esther... What's happening to you?
Sitting on my bed, all my thoughts have turned towards 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 back onto the bed.
This man has really decided to turn my world upside down.
A simple kiss on the forehead...
And now my heart is beating as though I had run all the way down the hallway.
I sigh as I stare at the ceiling.
— Mr. Grumpy...
A little laugh escapes me.
He really has no idea of the effect he has 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 so.
I grimace.
— I really need to change everything.
I cross my arms.
But where should I start?
The walls?
The furniture?
The curtains?
I pick up my phone and immediately start looking for a few ideas.
After a few seconds...
My eyes light up.
— Oh...
I might have just had an idea.
A little smile appears on my face.
I have a feeling this room won't look anything like the one Tony knows anymore.
And somehow...
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 soothe me.
— How are you?
— I'm fine.
I sit on the edge of the bed, looking around the room.
— And you?
— I'm fine too. I just wanted to check on you. You haven't called me in a few days.
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 your husband?
I freeze slightly.
Why does she always have to bring him up?
— Mom...
She laughs softly at the other end of the phone.
— What? I'm just asking a question.
— Things are fine with Tony.
— Just "fine"?
A little laugh escapes me.
— Yes.
I lean 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.
— All right... a lot.
She laughs too.
— But he's making an effort.
My voice naturally becomes softer.
And besides... he's more thoughtful now.
A brief silence settles between us.
— Do you like him?
I immediately feel my heart beating faster.
I stare 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.
— All right. I won't pressure you.
I close my eyes for a few seconds.
— Thank you.
Then I think back to this morning.
His gaze. His smile. How close we were. And above all... that kiss on my forehead.
I shake my head slightly.
No. I'm certainly not going to tell Mom about that.
— And how are things with the rest of the family? she finally asks.
I smile slightly.
— Things are much better.
— Really?
— Yes.
I sit up a little on the bed.
Grandma adores me now. Well... I think she does.
Mom laughs softly.
— Have you managed to win Grandma over?
— It wasn't really difficult. She's lovely.
— And Samira?
— Samira is kind. We get along quite 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 something 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.
— Has she done anything 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 time, sweetheart. Not everyone gets used to changes so quickly.
I look at my fingers.
— Yes, I know. I don't blame her.
Even though, deep down... I wish she would see me differently. I wish she would 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.
My voice grows quieter.
— So for now... I'd rather not speak to him.
— Esther...
— I know.
I gently interrupt her.
— I know he's my father. I also know that I'll eventually talk to him. But not now.
Mom remains silent for a few seconds.
Then her voice becomes softer.
— All right, sweetheart. Take all the time you need.
I smile slightly.
— Thank you, Mom.
— But don't let your anger last too long.
— I'll try.
A brief silence settles between us.
Then she speaks again in a lighter voice:
— And anyway... 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.
Barely 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.