— WHAT?! He really said that to you?!
— But why are you screaming like that? Are you crazy?
— Oh, sorry! she exclaims in an innocent voice. Excuse me for being overly excited for you… excuse me for being happy for my friend who just received a real confession! I roll my eyes, trying to hide the little smile betraying me.
— That wasn't a confession…
— Oh really? Because from the outside, it definitely sounded like one! Honestly, if he talks to you like that… you're doomed.
— Nonsense.
— Yes, absolutely. I roll my eyes again. She always exaggerates. Always so dramatic, that girl. I'm sitting on the floor, sorting through the clothes from the two suitcases.
The dressing room is already almost completely filled with his things… so I'm trying to organize everything properly, to make some space for mine. My clothes, my shoes… my little habits. And make it look a little more feminine while I'm at it. Anyway.
— And what makes you think it was a confession? I ask. I'm sure he was just saying all that to annoy me or mess with me. I say it… but even I only half believe it. The silence on the other end of the phone lasts a second. Then I hear her sigh.
— Are you stupid… or are you doing it on purpose?
I stop for a moment, a t-shirt in my hands.
— Thanks, that's nice.
— No, but seriously, she insists, her voice softer… more sincere. A guy doesn't say things like that "just to annoy someone." I press my lips together, lowering my eyes to my clothes.
— Do you really think he'd say all that… if he didn't feel anything? My heart tightens slightly. His words come back to me, his voice, his gaze, and the closeness between us… all of it really unsettles me. I slowly fold the t-shirt.
— Actually… he's doing it on purpose, I'm sure. I try to convince myself.
— I'll pretend I believe you. I finish putting away the clothes and shoes, then take a small step back to look at the result.
— There… I'm done organizing everything. Well, for now it's almost the look I wanted.
— Seriously? Can I see now? A small smile appears on my lips.
— Yes, wait. I switch to a video call and show her the room.
— Wooow… this is gigantic!
— Yeah… and this is just the dressing room. I slowly turn the camera, then walk out of the room. — And here… this is the bedroom.
— More like your bedroom… your love nest! she says with a mischievous laugh.
I stop dead in my tracks. What am I supposed to do with this girl?
— Leïla, stop… or I'm ending the call.
— LOL, okay, okay, I'll stop! But honestly… this looks more like an apartment than a bedroom. I let out a small laugh.
— It's true. Samira told me that at first, her grandfather actually wanted to build a completely separate space, like an apartment. But my father-in-law didn't agree… I keep walking slowly through the room, showing every corner. So they found a compromise. No apartment, but rooms designed like small independent spaces… with everything you need.
— I understand better now. Oh, I forgot to tell you. I'm coming to see you next week… and I have a surprise for you. I immediately straighten up, intrigued.
— Oh really? What's the surprise? Tell me!
— Do you know the meaning of the word surprise? Be patient and wait. I pout sadly.
— You know I love surprises… you shouldn't have told me! I walk toward the balcony and settle onto the terrace.
The view… almost takes my breath away. A huge garden stretches out in front of me, filled with colorful flowers and elegant trees gently moving with the wind. The air feels lighter here… almost soothing. And right next to it… a basketball court. It's really beautiful. Without realizing it, I completely lose myself in the scenery… as if, for once since I arrived here, everything around me had finally become calm.
— HELLO?! ARE YOU THERE?! I jump slightly. Damn… I was way too absorbed by the view.
— Yes, yes… I'm here, I say, snapping back to reality. I'm listening.
— You were listening? Seriously? I'm talking to you and you're completely zoning out!
I let out a small embarrassed laugh.
— Sorry… my mind wandered a little. What were you saying?
— Forget it… my break is over, I have to go.
— Okay… we'll talk later.
— Yeah, see you later.
— See you later.
She hangs up. Silence slowly falls around me again. I keep the phone in my hand for a few seconds, then slowly put it down, letting my gaze drift back toward the garden. This view… It calms me in a strange way. As if, for a moment, everything becomes lighter, simpler. I take a deep breath, letting the fresh air fill my lungs. Then, without really thinking… I get up and head toward the garden. Once I arrive in the garden, I instinctively slow down. The flowers immediately catch my attention. I love flowers… but my favorites are white roses. And there they are, beautiful. I slowly walk closer and lean down to breathe in their scent.
A light, soft smell… almost soothing. A smile appears on my lips. I really love this scent, it's calming. I continue walking, taking my time to look around. The trees are tall, imposing, their branches gently dancing with the wind. I keep exploring, going a little farther toward the large trees. These trees are truly magnificent, everything here is very well maintained, but the closer I get, the more I feel like I'm being watched.
I stop for a moment, looking around to see if someone is there, but no one. Then suddenly, I hear noises, little giggles more precisely. What… was that?
I frown slightly, scanning the surroundings with my eyes.
This mansion is really strange… could it be haunted?
My heart speeds up slightly. I think I should go back… yes, that's better.
I take a few steps backward when the giggling starts again, clearer this time, small voices seeming to come from behind a tree.
I stop maybe I should go check…
No.
It's too dangerous what if it's a serial killer…?
"But what would a serial killer be doing here, in a mansion…?" my conscience whispers.
I press my lips together. Logical… she's not wrong.
Well…
Damn curiosity, it always wins in the end even though I shouldn't, I move forward slowly, quietly, my heart beating a little faster.
I get close to the tree… and peek behind it.
When I see what's behind the tree, I freeze for a few seconds. I rub my eyes to make sure I'm really seeing what I think I'm seeing.
And yes… that's exactly it they're children.
Two, to be precise.
They're there, hiding, laughing their heads off, as if my fear is the funniest thing in the world i stay speechless for a moment.
There's a little girl, with two pretty pigtails tied with colorful clips. She's wearing an adorable pink dress with tiny flowers, along with matching little shoes.
Too cute.
Next to her, a little boy in a red t-shirt , jeans, and sandals.
They are… seriously too adorable bsolutely precious, but that still doesn't excuse the fact that they scared me.
Since that's how it is, why not play a little prank on them too? Just a tiny harmless prank… just to make them understand that standing before them is the greatest prankster of all time, not to brag of course.
I look around, then quietly slip behind a tree, a mischievous smile on my lips.
I take out my phone. Let's see… what if I imitate animals? Kids are scared of animals… well, most of them. I quickly search for a sound… something that will scare them just a little bit, then I play a realistic wild dog bark i hold back a small laugh, trying to stay quiet.
The children immediately stop their laughter disappears at once they straighten up, looking around, a little confused.
— A dog? Since when is there a dog here? the little girl asks, frowning.
— I don't know… the little boy replies with a shrug, slightly hesitant.
I quickly stop the sound, holding back a laugh.
You haven't seen anything yet.
The two of them step out of their hiding place, looking around cautiously.
— So… where is she? the little girl asks, turning toward the boy.
The little boy looks to the left, then to the right, visibly lost.
— Maybe she flew away…
I bite my lip again to stop myself from bursting out laughing. They're so adorable.
This time, I play a wolf sound. The sound echoes for a few seconds… enough to create a little tension. The two children freeze. They exchange a look.
But… they don't seem truly convinced.
I narrow my eyes slightly. They're pretty smart, these little ones. The little girl moves closer to the boy, pressing herself lightly against him. In her eyes, I can see a small spark of fear… even though she's trying to stay brave.
— What was that…? she whispers.
— It's nothing, the boy replies, trying to sound confident. I'm sure it's the lady… she's just trying to scare us.
Smart.
Very smart, actually. They figured me out, but I'm not planning to stop.
I quickly scroll through the sounds on my phone and play an owl hoot, a rather strange one.
The little girl immediately clings to her brother. Her tiny fingers grip his arm, and fear slowly fills her eyes.
— I'm scared… she whispers. It's going to take our souls… I… I want to go home… I'm going back to mommy.
Her voice trembles, as if she's about to cry.
The boy straightens slightly, trying to stay brave despite everything.
— Stop saying nonsense… he says, even though his voice shakes a little. I'm sure it's the lady doing this to us.
Hmm…
He's more resistant than I thought, but I haven't said my last word.
I scroll through the sounds on my phone… then play a snake hiss, quieter… but much more unsettling. They're going to crack, I can feel it.
— Aaaah! A snake! screams the little girl. She clings even tighter to her brother. Amir, there's a snake! I'm scared, I want to go home!
Her voice breaks, and she starts crying.
For a second, I want to burst out laughing… but I hold myself back.
The little boy, though, seems a little less convinced. He looks around cautiously, as if trying to understand.
I take advantage of it and slowly move toward them, quietly, trying not to make any noise since I'm behind them they won't see me coming.
Once I'm right behind them, I take a breath and
— BOO!
— AAAAAH! they scream at the same time, jumping in fright
I can't hold it in anymore and burst into laughter, completely unable to stop myself, unable to control it. This is really funny oh my God these children are really, really, really funny.
— Okay, okay… sorry! I raise my hands, still laughing.
But when I look at them a little better… my laughter slowly fades. They're still staring at me, frozen, still in shock… and suddenly I feel a little guilty. My smile softens and I crouch down to their height.
— I'm sorry… really. I didn't want to scare you… I just wanted to… get you back.
A small silence settles in and they exchange a knowing look. And before I can even understand what's happening, they both jump on me.
— Hey!
We fall onto the grass, and they start tickling me mercilessly. My laughter bursts out again. Impossible to stop.
— W-W...wai...t…! please…! I laugh even harder, tears in my eyes. S-sto...op…! I struggle weakly, completely overwhelmed by laughter. I'm sure the whole manor can hear me right now.
A tear slips down my cheek and when they see it, they finally stop. I sit up slightly and sit in the grass, trying to catch my breath. They come sit right beside me, as if nothing happened.
— Don't scare us like that anymore, says the little girl with a small pout. I smile.
— Yes, I promise… even though, let me remind you that you two started it.
The little boy lowers his eyes a little, then looks back up with a small smile.
— We know… sorry. We saw you in the garden looking around everywhere, so we thought it would be funny.
They are really adorable.
— I forgive you… now we're friends, I say with a big smile.
— Friends! they repeat in unison.
— Well, you're really brave for your age, you know that? I say to the little boy.
A proud smile appears on his face and he lifts his chin.
— Daddy always told me to always be brave and always protect Mommy and Amira from all danger.
— Oh? So you're a real little man then.
And he really is. He didn't panic when I was making all those noises. Even though he was scared, he didn't hesitate to comfort his sister.
I glance at the little girl who has been looking at me with bright curious eyes for a while now and hasn't stopped touching my hair since we fell onto the ground.
— What's your name? And what did you come here for? she asks with her soft little voice.
I take a light breath.
— My name is Esther… and I am the w
The words get stuck in my throat. They look at me, waiting for the rest. Should I tell them or stay quiet?
And why stay quiet? If they are children of this family, then they will find out eventually, so why not tell them now?
I take a deep breath and go for it.
— I'm Tony's wife… I finally say.
The little girl's eyes widen.
— What?! Khali Tony got married?! That's not fair!
I slightly furrow my brows, amused.
— And why shouldn't he get married?
Her brother shakes his head.
— She's been in love with Khali Tony forever, he says laughing.
She crosses her arms, making a little pout.
— Because… he was supposed to marry me! He promised me.
— Really? So if I understand correctly, you're my rival, then…
I tilt my head slightly, looking at her with a smile.
— Hmm… if my rival is as pretty and cute as you, I think I don't stand a chance.
Her face lights up immediately.
She gives me a big smile, showing all her little white teeth.
— You think I'm pretty?
— No, I say, frowning. You are very very very very beautiful and cute and pretty.
She starts laughing even harder.
— Thank you! she says, gently placing her hand in my hair. You too, you are very beautiful… and very pretty and your hair is also pretty.
My heart warms a little.
— Thank you,
— And I'm not handsome?
— But of course you are super handsome and very very very cute.
He smiles at the compliment.
I look at them gently.
— So, tell me, what are your names? And how old are you?
— My name is Amira! And I'm five years old like this! she says, raising her five little fingers.
Then she points at the boy next to her.
— And this is Amir. He's my twin… but I'm the oldest!
— That's not true! Amir protests immediately. I'm the oldest, mommy said so!
— No! I am! Daddy said so!
— No, me!
And there they go, starting a little argument, each trying to prove they're older.
I watch them, amused. They really seem to love each other a lot, the two of them.
— Wait, wait… I say, raising my hands. Stop arguing.
They both turn toward me.
— What if we played a game?
— YESSS! they answer in unison, their eyes shining.
— Okay… what should we play?
— Hide-and-seek! they shout at the same time. And you're the one who counts!
— What?! That's not fair… you didn't even let me choose.
Amir looks at me with a teasing little smile.
— Are you pouting?
I cross my arms, using a falsely childish voice.
— Yes, because you didn't let me choose…
Amira gently smacks her forehead with her little hands.
— But you're big! You're the one who has to count! We're going to hide.
I let out a small laugh.
They're impossible… but so adorable.
— What are you doing on the floor? a voice rises behind us.
We all turn around at the same time.
And I see Samira, standing a little farther away, a slightly amused smile on her lips.
I quickly stand up, dusting off my clothes, a little embarrassed.
The children, however, get up and run toward her.
— Mommy, mommy! they say in unison.
She immediately bends down to their level and takes them gently into her arms.
— How are my babies?
— We're good! they answer enthusiastically.
She smiles, looking at them tenderly.
— That's good… And where is daddy?
— Daddy is taking our suitcases up to the bedrooms.
— Alright.
Amira gently tugs on her hand, impatient.
— Mom, you know… we met Uncle Tony's wife! And she's nice to us!
Samira's gaze then turns toward me, a little more attentive and curious at the same time.
Then she smiles.
— Really? That's very good.
I slowly walk toward them.
— But… how did you manage to approach them? They usually never go to strangers.
I shrug slightly, a small smile on my lips.
— I don't really know… I love children, and generally they like me back.
I glance at the two little ones, touched.
— Maybe they just felt that I meant them no harm…
A soft smile stretches across Samira's lips, almost fondly.
Before she can answer, a servant discreetly approaches us.
— Mrs. Samira, your father would like to see both of you.
— Alright, we're coming.
The servant nods and immediately walks away.
Samira turns toward the children.
— Go play for a bit, my babies.
— Okay, mommy! they reply before running off into the garden, their little laughs still echoing behind them.
I watch them leave with a slight smile.
Samira gently takes my hand a simple gesture… but reassuring.
We go back inside and she guides me toward the second living room.
As soon as we arrive, I notice that everyone is already seated.
My father-in-law is sitting beside my mother-in-law. The latter doesn't even spare me a glance, as if I'm not there.
And it stings a little… even though I pretend otherwise.
Grandmother is sitting across from them, looking calm and attentive.
We greet everyone before sitting down near her.
My eyes quickly scan the room—no sign of Laurène… nor Tony.
Silence lingers for a few seconds before grandmother breaks it.
— Speak now. We're all here.
— Not yet, mother, my father-in-law replies. We're waiting for Laurène and Tony.
Grandmother sighs loudly, visibly annoyed.
— But you can already start with us. You'll talk to them later.
Samira lets out a small laugh.
— Why are you in such a hurry, grandmother?
— Because my TV show is about to start, and I don't want to miss it. So hurry up.
I lower my head slightly to hide my smile.
She's an incredible woman.
My father-in-law raises a hand in surrender, a small amused smile on his lips.
— Alright, mother… don't get angry.
Grandmother grumbles something under her nonexistent beard, still just as impatient.
The atmosphere in the room relaxes slightly.
Then he gently clears his throat before becoming a little more serious again.
— Well… then.
He takes a small breath before speaking:
— I gathered all of you here today to announce something important.
The whole room falls silent.
— Thursday, we're officially announcing the merger between Besson Group and Arrison Holdings publicly.
He pauses briefly, giving his words time to sink in.
Then his gaze settles gently on me.
— And it will also be the occasion to officially announce the arrival of our daughter-in-law into the Arrison family.
My heart almost skips a beat.
I feel everyone's eyes turn toward me all at once. A strange knot forms in my stomach.
Wait… wait… Did he really just say that?
I remain frozen, unable to figure out what to say.
— But that's perfect! grandmother exclaims enthusiastically. That way, everyone will know about their marriage.
— Yes, you're absolutely right, grandmother, Samira adds with a mischievous smile.
She turns toward me, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
— At least now, all those girls will finally know that my brother is no longer available.
I lower my eyes slightly, a little embarrassed.
But she continues, still wearing that same teasing expression:
— Most importantly, they'll know that my brother's heart has already been stolen.
She says with a wink in my direction.
And despite myself… my cheeks warm slightly.
Oh my God…
What exactly have I gotten myself into…?
I feel my heart beating a little faster in my chest while their voices still echo around me. They seem so happy and so sincere… as if this marriage were the most natural thing in the world.
But… do they even know under what circumstances this marriage happened?
Do they know that nothing happened like in fairy tales?
That all of this started because of our fathers… their decisions… their arrangements? Their promises?
A knot slowly forms in my throat.
I lower my eyes slightly, trying to hide the turmoil crossing my face.
Because in the middle of all their happiness…
I feel completely lost.
— We're going to organize a reception in their honor, my father-in-law continues with a wide smile.
I hold back a sigh. Just the thought of being the center of attention already makes me dizzy.
I take a small breath before speaking.
— Dad… I say in a tiny voice.
Everyone's eyes turn to me again, making me even more uncomfortable.
— Th-this isn't necessary… organizing a reception or a huge celebration for this.
I nervously play with my fingers.
— Honestly… something simple would be more than enough.
My voice is soft, hesitant.
As if I'm afraid of bothering them simply by sharing my opinion.
— What are you talking about, my daughter? my father-in-law says gently.
His voice isn't harsh at all. On the contrary… it's almost comforting.
— I can't do that.
He shakes his head slightly before continuing:
— I know that you and Tony got married under… particular circumstances.
He pauses.
A pause heavy with meaning.
As if he's carefully choosing his words so he won't hurt me.
Then his expression softens even more.
— But that doesn't mean you don't deserve something beautiful.
His words catch me off guard.
Because deep down… I wasn't expecting this much consideration.
— Besides, he continues, during your wedding, there was nothing grand… because your father didn't want it that way. He said he didn't want to attract people's attention… so I accepted it.
He pauses briefly before continuing, firmer this time:
— But now, absolutely not.
Everyone must know that you are one of us now.
There's no judgment in his voice. No hesitation.
Only a disarming sincerity… that touches me.
My mother-in-law straightens slightly in her chair before declaring in a tired voice:
— Leave her alone. If she doesn't want it, then fine. There's no need to insist.
The atmosphere changes immediately.
Her husband shoots her a dark, almost annoyed look.
— Élise, be quiet. grandmother snaps authoritatively.
Then she immediately turns back to me, softening her voice.
— Listen, sweetheart… in this family, we have always celebrated marriages properly.
Her gaze becomes almost nostalgic.
— You can ask your mother-in-law. Her wedding… it was a grand celebration. Worthy of a queen.
The whole city talked about it for months.
Écriture
I instinctively turn my eyes toward her, but the closed-off expression on her face completely contrasts with the warm memories of her husband.
And, for a second… I wonder if she was happy too, that day.
— It's true, Samira adds with a gentle smile. Even my wedding was grand.
Her eyes shine slightly as she remembers the occasion, and for a few seconds, the entire room seems to warm around their stories.
With enough insistence… they almost manage to convince me.
Because deep down, I still think such a huge celebration isn't worth it.
I take a small breath before finally giving in softly:
— Okay… I accept. But… could we do something simple? A very small party, just with the family…? I ask in an almost pleading voice.
— Absolutely not, my father-in-law says immediately and firmly.
— But Dad, I try to continue
— Although I'm not enthusiastic about the idea of this party…
My mother-in-law's voice cuts me off.
All eyes turn toward her. Her face remains calm, but her tone is sharp.
— I categorically refuse to have a small party. That? Never. she says, looking me straight in the eyes.
And strangely… coming from her, that answer warms my heart.
— Élise is right, Grandmother says confidently. I wasn't able to attend my grandson's wedding… but I fully intend to be present at his reception. Her eyes suddenly sparkle with amusement. And there is no way it's going to be a small reception. Absolutely not! Because I fully intend to dance all night long.
Samira lets out a soft laugh.
— She says that now, but tomorrow she'll be complaining about her back and asking someone to bring her a chair every five minutes.
— Hey! the old woman protests immediately, throwing her a mock-offended look. My back is doing just fine, you insolent girl.
— Of course, Grandmother… Samira replies with a teasing smile. We'll see after two songs.
A small laugh finally spreads through the room.
Even I, despite myself, can feel my lips wanting to smile.
But seriously… they're impossible to change their minds.
I let out a resigned sigh before slightly raising my hands in surrender.
— Fine… I accept.
— You didn't really have a choice anyway, Samira says calmly.
— I told your father that the day you entered our family, there would be a huge celebration in your honor. His voice is soft, sincere… almost fatherly. And I also promised him that I would treat you like the princess you are.
A sudden emotion rises inside me, so strong that I struggle to contain it.
Because… for a second, he reminds me so much of my father.
The same way of speaking.
The same warmth in his voice.
That way of saying things with so much sincerity that you end up holding on to them despite yourself.
And to think that the first time I saw him, I told myself that if this man ever became my father-in-law… then I would probably be lucky.
Ah… fate really does work in strange ways.
— It's settled then, my father-in-law says with satisfaction. There will be a reception.
He softly claps his hands before adding:
— Now, the real question is… who is going to handle all the planning?
— Call an event planning agency, grandmother suggests simply. They'll organize everything.
— Why call event planners when we already have the best one right in front of us? Samira cuts in with a big smile. The very best, actually, she adds proudly.
At those words, everyone's eyes turn toward my mother-in-law.
And she immediately says:
— No. I don't want to.
Her answer comes so quickly that it almost seems suspicious.
I blink, surprised.
Wait...
She organizes weddings?
Samira turns toward me, amused by my confusion, as if she had read my mind.
— Mom owns an event planning agency. She has organized countless weddings, receptions, christenings... even gala evenings. She's literally an expert in this field.
I slowly turn my eyes toward her.
Everything is clear now. Everything makes sense, her elegance, her perfectionism, the way she observes everything. It's crazy when you think about it.
Throughout her entire explanation, Samira looked at her mother with admiration she couldn't hide.
Genuine pride shone in her eyes. She looked like... a little girl talking about her heroine.
— "SamiraEvent," she adds with a smile. That's the name of her event planning agency.
The moment I hear the name, my eyes widen immediately.
— What?! SamiraEvent! I shout without realizing it. It's one of my favorite agencies for decoration! I love it!
Excitement takes over before I can stop myself.
— I love what they do for weddings even more. Their decorations are incredible, truly... I would have loved for them to organize my wedding, but unfortunately—
I stop abruptly when I suddenly realize that everyone is staring at me.
Then they all burst out laughing.
Everyone... except my mother-in-law, of course.
She continues staring at me.
Intensely.
Impossible to know what is really hidden behind that gaze.
— See? my father-in-law says with a wide smile. You already have something in common. You even have an admirer.
— And a very devoted admirer, grandmother adds teasingly. Almost dangerously fanatical, even.
I immediately lower my head, mortified.
Why did I open my mouth too?
— Come on, my love, accept, my father-in-law says gently as he looks at his wife. It'll be an opportunity to make your daughter-in-law's "dream" come true.
— Come on, Mom, please... Samira insists with a pleading smile.
She closes her eyes for a moment before letting out a sigh, visibly resigned.
— Fine... you win. I'll do it.
I immediately lift my head toward her, as if checking whether I heard correctly.
And yes. She's serious.
A smile escapes me instantly, followed by a small laugh that I can't hold back.
— But on one condition, she adds immediately.
And there it was too good to be true. Silence immediately fell over the room. Everyone waited for her to continue. She slowly folded her hands on her lap before speaking in a voice that was calm... but firm, never taking her eyes off me:
— I want one thing to be clear from the very beginning. Everything I say must be respected. Every decision. Every detail.
I swallowed discreetly under the intensity of her gaze.
— She must not disobey me... and she must follow exactly what I ask.
— Do you really think she could disobey you and bring shame to you, is that it? Grandmother asked, arching an eyebrow.
My mother-in-law let out a slight sigh before answering:
— No, that's not it... it's just that.
— Just what? the old woman immediately cut in. What are you really trying to say, Élise?
The atmosphere changed instantly. The tension became almost palpable.
— It sounds more like you want her to obey your every command. Like a slave.
— Mother! she protested, straightening up abruptly. You misunderstood me. That's not what I meant at all. But of course, you always interpret everything that way.
— Maybe because you always act that way, Grandmother replied coldly.
— That's enough!
My father-in-law's deep voice echoed throughout the room. His gaze moved firmly from one woman to the other.
— Stop it now. I want to spend a peaceful moment with my family... without arguments or problems. Is that clear?
No one spoke anymore. Even the air seemed heavier after that. An awkward silence settled over the room, and no one dared speak after my father-in-law's intervention.
Samira finally raised her hand gently, like a student asking permission to speak.
— Well... can we get back to the main topic before this turns into a dramatic family telenovela episode?
A small nervous laugh escaped me.
She then looked at her grandmother and her mother before adding with an innocent smile:
— Because personally, I'd like to survive until the wedding day.
Grandmother let out an amused laugh.
Even my father-in-law ended up smiling slightly. She really knew how to ease the tension.
— ...I think everything has been said, my father-in-law finally declared with satisfaction.
Then his gaze landed on me.
— Esther, if you don't mind, you can work with your mother-in-law on all the arrangements.
I immediately felt every gaze return to me.
Even Élise looked at me silently, waiting for my answer.
I took a small breath before gently nodding.
— Yes... I agree.
— Very good, my father-in-law replied with a visibly relieved smile.
Then he turned his head toward his wife.
— And you, Élise...
She slowly raised her eyes to him.
— Try to be a little gentler with her.
His voice remained calm... but firm.
My mother-in-law discreetly sighed before crossing her arms.
— I'll make an effort, she finally said.
It wasn't particularly warm... but coming from her, it almost felt like a huge step.
Samira straightened slightly in her seat before looking around.
— We've talked about everything... but where are we going to hold the reception?
— She's right, Grandmother chimed in with a nod.
— That's true... we completely forgot that detail, my father-in-law added with a small laugh.
A brief silence settled while everyone seemed to think.
I watched them for a moment... then my gaze drifted around me, across the enormous manor.
An idea suddenly crossed my mind.
I hesitated for a few seconds before finally speaking:
— What if... we held it here...? I suggested softly, hesitantly, almost afraid that my idea would be rejected immediately.
All eyes turned toward me.
But to my surprise, my father-in-law's face lit up.
— That's an excellent idea!
I blinked slightly, surprised by his enthusiasm.
— The manor is large, spacious... everyone will be comfortable. And most importantly, everything will be secure.
— Yes, I have to admit, Samira added, nodding softly. The garden and the hall are perfect for this kind of event.
My father-in-law let out a small satisfied smile.
— Besides, this manor finally deserves a real joyful celebration. It's been a long time since these walls have heard music worthy of the name.
A small laugh spread through the room.
— And I could finally redecorate, my mother-in-law suddenly declared with almost suspicious enthusiasm. I've always wanted to change this décor.
— Absolutely not.
Grandmother's reaction was immediate.
My mother-in-law slowly closed her eyes, as if she had already expected that answer.
— Mother...
— No! the old woman immediately cut her off, pointing a finger at her. You will not touch this house.
Samira let out a small muffled laugh.
— Oh no... not this war again.
— This decoration has been here for years, Grandmother continued indignantly. Every piece of furniture here has a story! My husband chose these sofas himself!
She dramatically placed a hand over her chest.
— If I let you do this, tomorrow I'll wake up in a house I won't even recognize anymore.
— Mother, Élise sighed tiredly, I'm not going to demolish the manor.
— With you, anything is possible.
I lowered my head slightly to hide my smile.
Samira, on the other hand, didn't even bother hiding her laughter.
— Honestly, Grandma, give her a little freedom. Mom has been talking about redoing this decoration for so long that I think it's become her secret dream.
— And let it remain her secret dream, Grandmother muttered.
My father-in-law finally stepped in, amused by the scene.
— Mother... let her make a few changes.
Grandmother abruptly turned her head toward him, shocked.
— You're taking her side too now?
— They're just decorations.
— "Just decorations," she repeated suspiciously. That's exactly how catastrophes begin.
Samira burst out laughing.
— Grandma is acting as if Mom is going to replace the family portraits with strange paintings and paint the walls black.
— Because she'd be capable of it!
— I can hear you, Mother, Élise replied in a sharp tone, though almost amused despite herself.
It was the first time since the beginning of this meeting that I saw something other than coldness on her face and, strangely... it made her seem more human.
My father-in-law gently approached his mother.
— Come on... just a few modifications. Nothing excessive.
Grandmother crossed her arms, pouting.
— Just a few small modifications then.
Élise's eyes lit up immediately.
— Perfect. I'll redo the living room, change the curtains, move
— Oh no! Grandmother protested immediately. See?! That's exactly why I refuse!
Samira nearly choked from laughing.
— Mom didn't even wait five seconds before wanting to transform the entire house.
Even my father-in-law ended up laughing discreetly.
And in the middle of their ridiculous arguments... I realized that the tension had disappeared. It didn't even seem like they were the same people who had been arguing five minutes ago.
— I don't want to transform it, Élise immediately corrected with dignity. I simply want to give it a little modernity.
Grandmother let out a dramatic sigh.
— There. That's exactly what all dangerous people say before a disaster.
A small laugh escaped me despite myself.
Samira openly burst out laughing.
— Welcome to the family, Esther. No one is spared here.
— Especially not me, Élise muttered.
— Because you want to change a house that has existed longer than you have, Grandmother replied indignantly.
— So what? Just because something is old doesn't mean it has to remain untouched forever.
Grandmother opened her mouth in shock.
— Did you really just compare me to an old piece of furniture?
— Mother! my father-in-law immediately intervened, trying not to laugh.
But it was too late.
Even Samira was holding her stomach.
— Oh my God... Mom, you've officially declared war.
Élise closed her eyes for a few seconds, visibly exhausted.
— That's not what I said at all.
— It sounded a lot like it, Samira added with an innocent smile.
— Samira, stop making fun of me, her mother said, glaring at her.
Grandmother crossed her arms with an offended look.
— No one is touching my living room.
— Our living room, Élise calmly corrected.
— See?! Even the way she talks is aggressive.
This time, I couldn't hold back my laughter anymore. This woman is a special case.
And unexpectedly... Élise ended up smiling slightly too. A tiny, discreet smile... but a real one.
My father-in-law watched the scene with amusement before finally shaking his head.
— Mother... let her do it.
Grandmother immediately turned toward him.
— Jon.
— No, listen to me, he continued gently. All her life, Élise has respected this house the way you wanted. Let her finally do something that makes her happy.
And besides... it's your turn to make your daughter-in-law happy now.
Grandmother let out a long sigh of resignation.
— Fine.
Samira immediately raised her arms in victory.
— A miracle! A historic date! Someone write this down somewhere!
— But if I see a transparent sofa or a weird statue in my living room... I'm leaving this house.
— You're exaggerating, Mother, Élise sighed.
Jon let out a laugh before casually adding:
— At worst, if the decoration becomes truly horrible... we'll just call it modern art.
Laughter immediately spread throughout the room.
Even Grandmother ended up smiling despite herself.
— What's so funny? a voice boomed behind us.
I immediately turned around.
And came face to face with Tony.
He was leaning against the doorframe, his hands in his pockets, looking as confident as ever.
He was wearing perfectly tailored black trousers paired with a dark shirt slightly open at the collar, the sleeves rolled up to his forearms. A luxurious watch discreetly gleamed on his wrist.
Beside him, Laurène was hanging onto his arm.
She wore an elegant, outrageously expensive dress, discreet yet refined jewelry, and that typical attitude of rich girls who had grown up in luxury without ever lacking anything.
And yet... she still carried that provocative energy that was impossible to ignore.
— Well, look who finally decided to come back from the dead, Samira said sarcastically.
They didn't even respond.
As if the remark wasn't worth their attention, they both walked toward the living room before sitting down on the other sofa, Laurène still hanging onto his arm.
They looked so close... almost like they were in their own little world.
— Where have you two been? their father asked.
Laurène slightly turned her head toward him.
— Dad, I went to get Tony from his office, but he was busy. So I decided to wait a little... and then here we are.
— Pff... Samira let out, rolling her eyes.
Laurène's gaze immediately shifted toward her.
— Do you want to say something, Samira? she asked calmly.
— No... should I be saying something? Samira repeated with a falsely innocent expression.
Laurène immediately smiled.
Oh no...
Not that smile.
The kind of smile that announces trouble.
— I don't know, she replied casually. You seem so frustrated since we walked in that I thought maybe you'd like to share your feelings with us.
Samira arched an eyebrow.
— I don't need to share my feelings to be noticed.
Laurène's smile instantly widened.
— And unlike some people, I don't need to be unpleasant to get attention.
— Oh, sweetheart, believe me... you already get enough attention for both of us.
Tony let out a small sigh, as if he already knew exactly how this would end.
— Laurène, Samira, can you stop?
— Stop what? she immediately replied without taking her eyes off Samira. I'm speaking calmly.
Samira let out a humorless laugh.
— Calmly? You? That's new.
Laurène straightened slightly on the sofa before smiling with an almost elegant insolence.
— Sorry if my existence irritates you that much. I can breathe more quietly if you'd like.
— Oh no, not again, Grandmother said exasperated.
Samira slightly clenched her jaw.
— You know what? I'm going to pretend you're not here.
— Okay, Laurène replied with a shrug. But apparently I've never existed to you anyway.
— Laurène... their mother warned lightly.
But the young woman immediately displayed an angelic smile.
— What? I'm just participating in the family conversation.
Their father slowly closed his eyes, as if trying to preserve the little patience he had left.
— Laurène, enough. Why do you always want to provoke your older sister?
But she simply shrugged, still perfectly settled against Tony. It was very obvious that he was her favorite.
— What? I'm speaking calmly.
— That's exactly the problem with you, her father replied in a firmer tone. You provoke people with a smile as if nothing is wrong.
Laurène opened her eyes wide innocently.
— Dad... you're hurting my feelings.
— And you're exhausting everyone.
Samira let out a small laugh.
Laurène immediately turned her head toward her.
— Don't smile too soon, you.
— Oh, sorry, princess, Samira replied sarcastically. I didn't know we had to walk on eggshells around your mood.
Laurène was about to answer when their father suddenly slapped his hand against the armrest.
— That's enough, both of you!
Silence immediately fell over the room.
Even I flinched slightly.
— I'm warning you, he continued in a harsher voice, if you start again, I'll send both of you out of this room. And this time, I'm serious.
Laurène discreetly rolled her eyes.
— Laurène.
Her father's tone became more threatening.
— Don't push me to my limit.
She opened her mouth to reply, but Tony finally intervened, casually leaning back against the sofa.
— You're overreacting a little for no reason, don't you think?
The entire room falls silent.
Because unlike everyone else... Tony is the only one who dares speak to his father that way.
His father's gaze slowly turns toward him.
— Excuse me? You're saying I'm overreacting? I'm overreacting? That's unbelievable.
Tony keeps that irritating calm expression on his face.
— They're talking, that's all. No need to declare a family war.
Grandmother, meanwhile, watches the scene with far too much interest, as if she were watching a television series.
— So now you're defending her? their father asks, his gaze hard.
Tony shrugs slightly, as if his father's tone means nothing to him.
— Someone has to do it before you threaten to exile everyone from the living room.
— Tony... his father warns sternly.
But he doesn't even lower his eyes.
On the contrary... a faint insolent smile appears at the corner of his lips.
— What? I'm just trying to preserve the family atmosphere. You should thank me.
Grandmother suddenly bursts out laughing.
— Oh, that one... exactly the same personality as his grandfather. Insolent to the core.
— Mom, stop making it worse, her son says with irritation.
Élise, who had remained silent until now, finally sighs discreetly before setting her cup down on the table.
— Honestly... I kind of understand why they're losing patience.
Their father immediately turns his head toward her.
— Thank you, Élise. You're being incredibly helpful right now.
His voice is dripping with irony.
She simply shrugs, perfectly calm.
— What? I'm just saying out loud what everyone else is thinking.
— Oh no, I'm not thinking anything at all, Grandmother immediately cuts in, raising her hands. I'm only watching the show.
But their father rubs a tired hand over his face.
— You're all impossible.
— Not all of us, Laurène replies innocently. Personally, I'm adorable.
Tony lets out a quiet amused breath.
— You? Adorable? That's new.
Laurène nudges him lightly with her shoulder.
— Traitor.
— Realistic, he corrects calmly.
— The problem with Laurène is that she thinks everything revolves around her, Samira blurts out.
— And the problem with you, Laurène immediately fires back, is that you act like a frustrated forty-year-old mother when you're not even thirty.
— Laurène! their father thunders.
— What now?!
— You're crossing the line.
Laurène's expression turns colder.
— Oh, so she gets to provoke me in front of everyone, but I'm supposed to smile and stay quiet?
My eyes move from one person to another as the tension rises once again in the room.
It's strange.
They argue.
They throw jabs at each other.
They provoke one another constantly.
But despite all that...
you can tell they're used to it.
As if this chaos is simply part of the way they are as a family.
I slowly turn my head toward Samira before timidly placing my hand over hers.
— Please... calm down, I whisper softly.
At least... I thought I whispered.
Because at that exact moment, Laurène lets out a mocking laugh.
— Ohhh... the new girl is trying to play peacemaker now?
What...?
This girl is unbelievably insolent.
No.
A real pest.
And the worst part is that she says it with that arrogant smile, as if everyone should simply accept her remarks without saying anything.
I clench my teeth slightly.
If I don't answer, it's not because I have nothing to say.
On the contrary.
It's only out of respect for my father-in-law... and for Grandmother.
Otherwise, there is no way I would let this girl talk to me like that.
I can feel the anger slowly rising in my chest.
I was seconds away from replying, ready to throw her cruelty right back in her face, when Tony's voice suddenly cuts through the room.
— Laurène, you will speak to her properly. The new girl, as you call her, is my wife. So you will respect her. Is that clear?
Tony's tone is harsher this time.
Laurène stares at him for a moment, surprised by her brother's firmness. Then she finally nods slowly.
— Alright... fine.
— Oh, so now he decides to play the strict big brother.
The moment everyone looks at me, I realize what I've just said.
I freeze instantly.
Oh no...
Tell me I didn't say that out loud...
Without even looking up, I can feel his gaze settling on me, intense and impossible to ignore.
Why can't my mouth stay shut for one second?
Samira suddenly straightens up, as if she has just made a decision.
— Well... if there's nothing else to add, I'm leaving. I've had enough family drama for one day.
She leaves the room without looking back, her heels echoing sharply against the floor behind her.
— Uh... I'm going to follow her, I say softly before getting to my feet.
No one stops me.w
As I leave the living room, I hear my mother-in-law's tired voice behind me.
— Why do you always try to provoke her?
With an annoyed sigh, Laurène immediately replies:
— But Mom, it's not me... she's just way too sensitive.
I don't hear the rest because I'm already hurrying down the stairs, trying to catch up with Samira.
I finally spot her farther down, walking nervously through the grand hall.
— Samira, wait!
She slows down slightly before turning toward me. Her face is closed off, but not mean. Just... hurt and irritated.
— What? she sighs.
I finally reach her, still a little out of breath.
— Don't leave like this...
She lets out a bitter laugh.
— Like this? Esther, did you see the atmosphere up there or not?
I grimace slightly.
Yeah... hard to miss it.
Samira runs a hand through her hair before letting out a heavy sigh.
— Seriously, this family exhausts me sometimes.
— And yet... you all seem to love each other very much too, I murmur.
She looks at me for a few seconds before letting out a small laugh.
— Unfortunately, yes.
Her gaze drifts back upstairs.
— Laurène is my sister. Tony too. We grew up together... so naturally, we argue over nothing.
I blink slightly.
Honestly... it doesn't look like simple sibling arguments.
As if she can read my thoughts, Samira sighs.
— Laurène loves provoking people. And since she knows exactly which buttons to push with me...
She shakes her head, annoyed.
— It always ends badly.
Silence settles between us for a few seconds.
Then she suddenly looks at me more carefully.
— But you...
I frown slightly.
— Me what?
A small smile finally appears on her lips.
— You're brave.
— Brave?
— Yes. Because standing up to Tony the way you do... that takes guts.
My heart quietly skips a beat.
And the worst part...
she looks completely serious.
— Who told you I stand up to him? I ask a little too quickly.
Samira immediately smiles.
The kind of smile that clearly says: I don't believe you for a second.
— I'm Tony's big sister, Esther. I know him like the back of my hand.
She crosses her arms before continuing:
— And trust me, people usually avoid talking back to him. They stay quiet, lower their eyes, or try to please him.
You?
You poke at him without even realizing it.
I blink, thrown off.
— That's not true...
— Oh yes, it is.
She lets out a small laugh before slowly starting to walk through the hall again, and I immediately follow her.
— And the worst part is... he likes it.
My heart tightens slightly.
— What?
— When people resist him. Tony hates easy things. When someone stands up to him, it automatically gets his attention.
I look away slightly, trying to ignore the warmth rising in my cheeks.
— You're imagining things.
— Esther.
Her voice becomes amused.
— Since earlier, he's been looking almost exclusively at you.
My breath catches discreetly.
No.
Impossible.
Well... maybe?
As if to make things worse, Samira steps a little closer to me and whispers:
— And Laurène noticed it too.
I suddenly turn my head toward her.
— What?
— That's why she was being so annoying with you upstairs.
This time, my brain completely crashes.
Wait...
Laurène was jealous...?
No. No, impossible.
And why would she be jealous?
Samira bursts into soft laughter when she sees my lost expression.
— My God... you're so easy to read.
— Not at all! I protest immediately.
— Of course you are.
She gives me a light nudge with her shoulder, much more relaxed now.
— But don't worry. In this family, everyone is a little crazy. You'll get used to it eventually.
We finally leave the house and settle in the garden. The air is pleasant and lighter.
In the distance, children are running everywhere, laughing loudly as they play together. Their voices fill the space with an almost soothing warmth.
For a few seconds, I simply watch them.
It's... peaceful.
— I can't wait for my husband to arrive, Samira suddenly says with a fond smile.
I turn my head slightly toward her.
— He's coming?
— Yes. We're spending the holidays here.
The way her face lights up when she talks about him makes me smile despite myself.
I hesitate for a few seconds.
I didn't want to ask the question...
but my curiosity eventually wins.
— How long have you been married?
Samira lets out a soft little laugh before answering:
— Six years now.
My eyes widen slightly.
— Really? That's a long time...
— Yes, she confirms with a smile full of tenderness. A long time... and yet, I still feel like I fall a little more in love with him every year.
The way she talks about her husband is simply beautiful.
And for a second, a strange feeling gently tightens in my chest.
Because I wonder if someone will ever talk about me like that.
Or if I... will ever love someone that way.
She smiles softly before taking a sip of the drink the maid brought us when we sat down.
— At the beginning, it was far from perfect.
— What do you mean?
That surprises me.
Because seeing the way she talks about her husband with so much tenderness... you'd think they had always been happy.
Like in those stories where everything is simple.
— We argued a lot, she admits with a soft laugh. Really a lot.
— Seriously?
— Oh yes. We were young... stubborn... and neither of us wanted to give in.
Her gaze drifts into the distance for a moment, as if reliving those memories.
— There were times when I honestly thought we would never make it.
I remain silent, listening carefully.
— Marriage... isn't just love, Esther. People always talk about the beautiful moments, the butterflies, the loving looks... but no one really talks about what you have to go through to build something solid.
There were shouting matches. Silences too. Nights when we slept back-to-back after a ridiculous argument.
She lets out a small tired laugh.
— And sometimes... we hurt each other without meaning to, simply because we didn't yet know how to love each other properly.
I lower my eyes slightly to my drink.
"How to love each other properly..."
The phrase stays stuck in my head.
— So... how did you make it work? I ask softly.
Samira turns her head toward me with a small smile.
— We learned.
— Learned?
— Yes. To communicate. To listen. To stop trying to win every argument.
She gently shakes her head.
— Because a marriage isn't you against him. It's both of you against the problem... against the whole world.
Her words are simple... but they resonate deeply within me.
— And besides, she adds with a gentler smile, you also have to accept that the person in front of you will never be perfect.
My husband can be incredibly annoying sometimes and so stubborn.
I let out a small laugh without meaning to.
— But despite all that... she continues more softly, when you find someone who keeps choosing you over and over again, even on the bad days... it's worth fighting for.
A thoughtful silence settles between us.
And despite myself... a certain dark-eyed person crosses my mind.
Samira turns her eyes toward the children playing a little farther away.
— Then we had them, she says in a voice full of love.
— Our children.
The little ones' laughter echoes through the garden while she watches them run around as if the rest of the world no longer exists.
— These little angels... she whispers tenderly. You can't even imagine how much you can love your children before you have them.
She pauses, still watching the children.
— When they arrived... a lot of things changed between us. We became closer. Stronger too.
Because from the moment you hold your child in your arms... nothing else matters anymore.
You would do absolutely anything to protect them.
I breathe deeply.
I slowly turn my eyes toward the children as well, watching them run and laugh with such pure, simple innocence.
And despite myself, a question crosses my mind.
Will I someday have children too?
Little beings who might look a little like me...
Whom I would love so much that I'd forget the rest of the world.
Would I be capable of loving the way Samira loves her children... with so much tenderness, with such certainty?
— I know you're asking yourself a lot of questions, she says softly as she looks at me.
I look at her directly.
Did she just read my mind?
— Your marriage to Tony isn't simple… and I think deep down, you already knew that. Living with Tony can be difficult at first. Very difficult, even.
A small nervous breath escapes me.
That… I had already noticed.
— But don't try to change him, Esther, she continues more gently. Men like him… the more you try to force them, the more they shut themselves off. Just try to understand him.
I stay silent for a few seconds.
Understand Tony…?
That cold, arrogant, unpredictable man…
I tighten my fingers slightly around my glass.
— I… I don't know if I'm capable of that, I admit in an almost fragile whisper.
Samira watches me for a long moment, as if she's thinking carefully about the best way to choose her words.
— No one is really capable at the beginning, Esther.
I slowly raise my eyes to her.
— We always think love is enough to fix everything… but it isn't true. Loving someone also means learning their anger, their silences, their wounds… even the ones they hide from the rest of the world.
Tony gives me exactly that impression.
As if he's carrying something heavy inside him.
Something he refuses to show.
— Don't always answer his coldness with coldness, she continues calmly. Sometimes, behind the hardest people… are those who have simply forgotten how to show what they feel.
But be careful, she adds with a small smile. Understanding someone doesn't mean forgetting yourself.
That sentence makes me lift my eyes toward her.
— You also have to think about yourself. About what you feel. About your limits.
She gently places her hand over mine.
— A marriage requires effort from both sides, Esther. You can't carry the whole relationship by yourself.
I lower my gaze to our hands.
And for a few seconds… I feel a little less lost.
— So take your time, okay? she continues tenderly. Get to know each other before trying so hard to love each other.
And most importantly… don't let Tony intimidate you with that cold stare. He does that to everyone.
A small smile appears on my lips despite myself.
— Even with you?
— Oh, especially with me, she replies with a soft laugh. But sometimes he forgets that I knew him when he used to cry because he lost his basketball.
The two of us burst out laughing.
She watches me for a few seconds with that little mysterious smile at the corner of her lips.
A smile that, suddenly, doesn't reassure me at all.
— So… she says softly, taking a sip of her drink, can I ask you a slightly indiscreet question?
I frown slightly.
— That depends on the question…
Her smile widens.
Oh no.
— Has Tony ever kissed you?
I almost choke on my own saliva.
— What?!
She lets out a small laugh at my reaction.
And immediately, I feel my cheeks catch fire.
— Samira!
— What? It's a legitimate question, she replies innocently. You're married, after all.
I instantly look away, far too embarrassed to hold her gaze.
— But… you don't ask that kind of thing…
— So I'll take that as a no, she concludes far too easily.
— That's not what I said!
— Esther… her tone becomes amused. You're blushing so much that even the children over there have probably figured out the answer.
I press my burning hands against my cheeks, horrified.
No. I can't be blushing.
— I'm not blushing!
— Of course not.
She laughs softly while I desperately want the ground to swallow me whole.
— So? she insists again. He's never kissed you?
My heart starts beating a little faster despite myself.
And immediately… memories come rushing back.
His gaze.
His closeness.
His deep voice against my ear.
The way he always moves just close enough to completely unsettle me.
I swallow hard.
— No… I finally whisper.
Samira studies me carefully.
Then a small amused smile appears on her lips.
— Oh… so he's taking his time.
I immediately lift my eyes toward her.
— What do you mean, "he's taking his time"?!
— Tony isn't patient with many people, Esther. If he hasn't rushed you yet… that's already a lot coming from him.
ICI
My heart skips a beat.
And I deeply hate the fact that this sentence unsettles me.
I am relieved by the sound of footsteps approaching from the garden path. Samira immediately lifts her head, and her face lights up.
— He's here
I slightly turn my gaze.
A man appears between the garden plants, walking calmly toward us. His pace is steady, confident, like someone who knows the place perfectly.
As he approaches, Samira immediately
takes him in her arms, as if she hasn't seen him in days.
— You're suffocating me, says Samira laughing.
— It's because I haven't seen you in 24 hours, he replies with perfect calm.
He holds her for a moment longer, then gently releases her embrace.
It's beautiful to see… they really look in love. I watch them without really realizing it.
And the more I look at this man… the more something bothers me.
His face… seems familiar to me.
Like a blurry memory stuck at the back of my mind.
He finally steps away from his wife and turns his gaze toward me—our eyes meet.
And then, like a flash, my mind freezes for a second.
Oh yes…
His face… I recognize it. It's been years since I last saw him, but I still recognize him even if he has changed a little.
They approach and stand right in front of me.
Samira speaks with a soft smile:
— My love, let me introduce you to my sister-in-law whom I consider like my own sister… Esther.
And Esther, here is my dear husband, Ibrahim Fall.
I slightly nod. Our eyes meet for a moment.
Then… he suddenly bursts into laughter loud and unexpected.
Samira immediately looks at him, surprised, and I… I stare at him without understanding at first, even though deep down I already know something is amusing him.
— What are you laughing at? asks Samira, frowning.
He tries to calm himself, a hand over his mouth, but his laughter comes back again.
— It's just that… he begins.
He stops, shaken by another burst of laughter.
Samira sighs, even more confused.
— Ibrahim…
He shakes his head, finally trying to catch his breath.
— Sorry… it's just that… I wasn't expecting this.
His gaze returns to me, still amused, but a little calmer.
— I didn't expect to see you here, he says calmly while looking at me.
I keep his gaze, without really blinking.
— And neither did I… Mr. Journalist.
A faint smile passes on his lips.
— Oh… I can see you didn't forget me.
I slightly shrug, trying to stay natural.
— No. As you can see.
Samira frowns, completely lost between us.
— Uh… can someone explain what's going on? I… I feel like you already know each other.
Ibrahim and I exchange a brief look.
Of course we know each other; this is not the first time we've met.
— Don't worry, my dear, he says turning to her gently. I'll tell you another day.
Then he gives her a small kiss on the cheek, simple, natural.
Samira sighs, half amused, half frustrated.
— Great… so I'm the only one completely in the dark.
I watch them. They are so comfortable together… without awkwardness, without tension. It's really lovely.
We spent the rest of the day talking, the three of us.
Ibrahim turned out to be really funny. He hasn't changed… it's incredible. He has that natural way of easing the atmosphere without even realizing it. I immediately felt at ease with him.
The children joined us shortly after, and everything became even more lively.
We laughed, talked, shared simple moments… and I felt a bit lighter.
Dinner went by in joy and good mood.
When everything calmed down, I went up to my room.
I sat on the bed, a little tired, then took my phone.
I called my father; I miss him so much. We talked for hours.
Then my mother again we talked for hours, and she gave me many more pieces of advice.
And finally Mina.
Their voices make me feel good… but at the same time, they make me even more nostalgic.
It hasn't even been a week since I left…
and yet, it feels like years have passed.
I stay silent for a moment after hanging up.
The phone in my hands, my gaze lost.
And in the quiet of the room…
a strange emptiness slowly begins to settle in, and I fall asleep like this.
Today, I wake up with a strange sadness. A sadness whose reason I don't even know. Maybe because I miss my family.
I slowly open my eyes before turning my head to the other side of the bed it's empty, he's not there.
I scan the room with my eyes, unconsciously searching for his presence… but nothing. I wonder where he sleeps, if it's not here.
But if he really sleeps in this room… then that would mean we could share the same bed one day. And if he tried something with me, I'd rather not think about it.
I quickly get up and go into the shower.
I need a bath. Need to relax… to erase this strange melancholy that settled in me without warning.
The hot water runs over my skin as I close my eyes, letting my thoughts drift.
Little by little, my body relaxes.
But unfortunately… my memories come back.
His words. The way he says them.
His dark gaze fixed on me as if he could see through every one of my defenses.
And then… that shiver. That damn shiver. The one that had run through my entire body when his breath brushed my skin. I slightly tighten my fingers around my arms.
It's… the first time something like this has happened to me.
With Malik… I felt nothing.
Even when he touched me.
Even when he looked at me.
Even when he kissed me.
Nothing.
But with Tony… it's different.
Every time I meet his eyes, those dark and intense eyes… I feel hypnotized. As if the world around me disappears for a few seconds.
As if I'm slipping into another universe.
And what I feel… it's new, so strong, so disturbing and almost frightening. I have never felt this for anyone before.
Pull yourself together. Don't let him destabilize you.
It's only when the water starts to get cold that I realize how long I've been there. I finally step out of the bathtub and wrap a towel around my chest.
I was about to leave the bathroom when someone knocks on the door.
— Open the door.
His deep voice echoes behind the door.
— Who is it? I ask, even though I already know perfectly well who it is.
— You know very well who it is, so open this door.
I roll my eyes. Even early in the morning, he's already in a bad mood.
— I'm not done yet.
Lie.
I finished a long time ago, but the idea of making him wait a little amuses me too much.
— Esther, open this damn door before I break it down.
I barely hold back a smile.
— You can't just wait your turn? I've only just started.
— Stop messing with me. You've been in there for hours.
I slightly frown.
How does he know that…? He wasn't even here when I went in.
— So what? I'm just really getting started now. You should learn patience.
I hear him sigh heavily on the other side, then mutter something under his breath.
Which makes me smile.
I think I'll stop teasing him. I quickly put on a robe before finally opening the door.
He's there, wearing a black sports outfit that perfectly hugs his body, slightly damp with sweat after his morning training. The fabric clings lightly to his chest and arms, outlining every muscle with precision. His hair is slightly wet.
And despite his cold expression… he is terribly handsome.
— Good morning. Did you sleep well? I ask with a big innocent smile.
His gaze slowly slides over me from top to bottom without answering. He walks past me and goes straight into the bathroom.
Charming.
I let out a small sigh before heading to the dressing room.
I put on a simple dress that reaches my knees, paired with matching shoes. Then I go back to the bedroom to dry my hair.
I take my time tying it into a beautiful slightly messy bun, leaving a few rebellious strands around my face, with light makeup.
Just enough to feel good in my skin, because even if I'm not going out… I like feeling beautiful for myself.
Knocks on the door interrupt my preparation. I immediately get up to open it.
And I discover an elegant woman.
I observe her for a few seconds discreetly. For her age, she is very well maintained. She wears an all-black outfit: a perfectly ironed short-sleeved shirt, a straight skirt reaching her knees, and not very high heels, but elegant enough to complete her look. A watch delicately decorates her wrist, while her hair is tied in a perfect bun.
Everything about her radiates order and discipline.
In her hands, she holds a carefully prepared breakfast tray, accompanied by a polite smile.
But for some reason, her smile feels fake to me, almost forced.
— Good morning, madam.
— Oh… please call me Esther, I say softly. You are older than me, it would be rude of me to let you call me "madam".
For a second, her smile falters slightly before returning.
— Alright… I am Maria, the housekeeper.
I gently nod.
— Nice to meet you, Maria.
Even though something about her still makes me slightly uncomfortable.
— I bring you your breakfast.
She hands me the tray.
I take it carefully… and my eyes almost immediately light up.
The tray is full of good things: carefully cut fruit, still-warm pastries, fresh juice… everything looks appetizing, I realize how hungry I am. I can already tell I'm going to enjoy it.
— Thank you very much.
— It's normal.
She was about to leave the room when something suddenly comes back to my mind.
— Wait…
Maria turns back to me, still with that smile I can't seem to find sincere at all.
I hesitate a few seconds before asking:
— Why do we never eat together as a family?
The silence that follows feels strange to me.
I've been here for three days… and I've never seen this family share a single meal.
At first, it seemed normal to me, after all some families are just… distant.
But now…
Now I find it almost disturbing.
As if there is something they are carefully avoiding showing me.
— Oh… in this house, everyone eats separately.
It's to avoid unnecessary arguments. It was Mr. John's decision, she says in a detached tone.
I immediately frown.
— What? What do you mean, each on their own?
I look at her, completely confused.
— But that's insane… How can a family never eat together just to avoid arguments?
Maria slightly shrugs.
— It's better this way. Everyone stays in their corner, and no one argues. It's more… sensible.
I stay frozen for a few seconds.
Shocked.
How can she say that so naturally? As if it's normal. As if a family avoiding each other to prevent breaking apart is a good thing.
It's sad.
— Do you have any other questions? she calmly asks.
I shake my head.
— Very well, if you have other questions, don't hesitate to inform me.
She turns on her heels and leaves the room. I don't trust this woman at all.
I stay alone, still disturbed by this conversation. This family is really strange…
Stopping eating together just to avoid arguments…
How badly must things have gone for it to come to this?
I let out a sigh before bringing the tray to the small coffee table in the room.
I sit down and start eating in the heavy silence of the room. I am not used to this silence, it is far too quiet for me, I am used to the laughter in my home.
My father's jokes.
My mother's funny remarks.
Mina's advice.
I miss my little family so much.
— Aren't you waiting for me to eat?
I slightly startle before turning my head.
Tony is there. Dressed. Groomed. Perfumed.
And despite myself… I still find him terribly handsome as always.
Get a grip, Esther.
— Do you want me to serve you? I ask softly, still hoping he will accept.
— No thank you. They are waiting for me.
My heart tightens slightly.
Waiting for him? But by who… and why?
I want to ask him.
Really. But if I do, he will think I care about him. That I pay attention to what he does.
And there is no way I'm giving him that satisfaction.
The sound of the door closing pulls me out of my thoughts.
Damn.
He's gone. I thought too much. And now… I will never know who was waiting for him.
The minutes, then hours pass. I am alone in the room, sitting on my bed, phone against my ear, talking with my mother about the reception. Her voice reassures me a little, even though a strange knot remains in my stomach since this morning.
— Be careful, my dear…
— Mom, I'm fine…
I am about to continue when someone knocks on the door.
I slowly get up and go open it.
A maid stands in front of me.
— Good morning, madam.
— Good morning.
— Madam Élise wishes to see you.
Me…? She wants to see me?
What did I do again…?
— Uh… alright. Where is she?
— In her room, madam.
— Very well, I'm coming.
She nods before walking away.
I slowly close the door and put the phone back to my ear.
— Mom… I have to go. My mother-in-law wants to see me.
A silence follows on the other end of the line.
— I hope you didn't do anything…
I slightly grimace.
I don't even know myself.
— I didn't do anything…
— Alright. We'll talk later.
— Yes.
I hang up, then take a deep breath before leaving the room.
Heading to my mother-in-law's room.
Luckily Samira had shown me the house, otherwise I would have gotten lost among all these doors and long silent corridors.
When I arrive in front of her room, I hesitate for a few seconds before knocking.
But the door opens almost immediately.
And I find her.
Straight and elegant, perfectly dressed in a long dress with long sleeves, with jewelry shining around her neck.
She gives off something impressive… a mix of cold charm and natural confidence. It's crazy how much she resembles her children. Same gaze.
Same intimidating presence.
— good mon
— Come. Follow me, she says sharply before I can even finish
Hello politeness…
She leaves the room, and I follow her immediately. We walk in silence.
Her in front, me behind, and it stays like that until my father-in-law's office.
Once inside, I notice a young woman sitting near a table, a notebook in her hand. A measuring tape hangs around her neck.
As soon as she sees us, she quickly stands up.
— Lyse, it's her.
Huh… it's her?
That's how she introduces me?
As if I don't even have a name.
— Hi, says the young woman while sitting.
— Hi…
— I leave you. You know what you have to do, she says, looking at Lyse.
Then she turns her eyes toward me.
— And you, you stay here until she is done. You do not leave before that.
And without giving me time to respond, she leaves the room.
I stay a few seconds looking at the door.
What is this again…?
— Alright, let's get to work, says Lyse enthusiastically. Come here, I'm going to take your measurements.
I slowly approach and stand in the center of the room.
— Go on, raise your arms.
I obey while she begins taking my measurements with concentration.
Then suddenly, she says:
— You know… you're extremely lucky.
I turn my head toward her, intrigued.
She immediately notices my staring gaze.
— What I mean is, you were lucky to marry Tony Arrison.
Her voice takes on an almost admiring tone.
— The most handsome, the most charming, the most charismatic… and honestly the sexiest man I have ever seen.
I slowly blink while she continues without shame. She places a hand on her chest, eyes shining with excitement.
— And on top of that… a billionaire.
Oh my God… he's literally every girl's dream.
I stay silent. I don't know if I should say thank you… or be annoyed by the way she talks about my husband.
And the worst part is that a part of me completely understands what she means.
I slightly look away while she continues writing something in her notebook.
— Honestly, if you saw how many women dream of just getting his attention… you would consider yourself the luckiest girl in the world. A small laugh escapes her. Tony Arrison, you know…
I slightly press my lips together.
Yes… Tony Arrison.
The problem is that they all see the same thing:
His money.
His face.
His charisma.
His beauty.
But none of them see that cold gaze he can have.
The way he speaks as if other people's emotions do not matter.
The way he always keeps distance… even when he is right in front of you.
— Turn a little.
I obey while she continues taking measurements.
— But well, she adds with an amused smile, I completely understand why all the girls are crazy about him.
I let out a soft breath.
— Yes… he is handsome.
The words come out before I even realize what I said.
Lyse quickly looks up at me, a huge smile appearing on her face.
— Aaaah! So madam notices it too!
My cheeks immediately heat up.
— That's not what I meant
— Mm-hm, of course.
She chuckles softly while I look away, embarrassed.
— At the same time, it would be hard not to notice. That man attracts attention the moment he enters a place. He is so intimidating and that is still extremely…
I stay silent.
Because once again…
She is not wrong.
Even me, despite all my efforts to resist him… I always notice his presence.
Always.
— And then… you are now part of the Arrison family, she continues excitedly.
She steps back slightly to look at me from head to toe, as if she is still trying to process it, her voice almost admiring.
— The most renowned family in Europe. A family of power, influence… prestige.
Do you realize how lucky you are?
And on top of that, she continues, clearly unable to contain her excitement.
You are the daughter-in-law of Élisabeth Arrison.
Just hearing her name makes her eyes light up.
— Élisabeth Arrison… the founder of ÉliseMode. The greatest designer you are so lucky.
If only you knew what is going on in this house… what it is really hiding…
— You don't have to feel that way, you know.
She suddenly stops moving and looks at me for a few seconds, as if she is really trying to see beyond appearances.
— Are you serious…? I don't think you even realize the effect you have.
I slightly frown, confused, but she continues, sincerely.
— Look at you… You're so beautiful. Your face has something soft… almost angelic. And yet, there's that gaze… Your eyes are dangerous. Really. The kind of look that marks people without them even realizing it.
And your hair… my God. Long, silky… it smells so good. A small laugh escapes her. As for your lips… they're naturally pink, plump… honestly, it's unfair to be this pretty without any effort.
She stares at me insistently before stepping back to better observe me.
— And your body… seriously, Esther… you have a gorgeous figure. A slim waist, beautiful curves… everything is perfectly balanced.
Her smile slowly widens.
— Believe me, all the men who see you will immediately fall under your charm.