Esther's POV
I'm curled up on myself, my breathing growing weaker and weaker. Every breath burns my lungs, as if the air refuses to enter them. My whole body trembles from the lack of oxygen.
My eyelids grow heavier and heavier. I want to keep them open, but I can't anymore. Everything seems distant. The voices, the music, the laughter echoing downstairs... it all gradually fades away, as if the world is moving on without me.
I'm so tired. A part of me just wants to close my eyes... to sleep for just a few minutes, just long enough for this pain to disappear.
But just as I'm about to give up, a voice echoes in the distance.
My father-in-law's.
He's giving a speech. He needs me.
They all need me.
My new family is waiting for me. I can't abandon them.
_Stay awake... stay awake...
I repeat those words over and over again, like a prayer.
Don't close your eyes. Don't fall asleep.
I fight with all the strength I have left.
Then I hear footsteps in the hallway.
Someone is coming.
Is it the person who locked me in here?
I try to stand up and run to the door, but my legs refuse to obey me. My body has become far too heavy. My breathing slows even more. Every breath takes an enormous effort.
_Esther? Are you in there?
It's Leila.
Her voice echoes from behind the door, and an overwhelming sense of relief fills my chest.
I want to answer. I want to tell her I'm here, that I need help, that I'm scared.
But no sound comes out.
My throat is too tight. My lips move, but no words leave my mouth.
So I remain there, motionless, tears blurring my vision.
_But it's locked. Tony told me this was the room...
Yes...
Yes, I'm here, right behind this door.
That's what I want to tell her.
That's what I'm screaming in my head.
But no sound comes out.
My throat refuses to obey me.
I hear her footsteps hesitate for a few seconds... then begin to move away.
Panic immediately overwhelms me.
No.
No, please don't leave.
You're my last hope.
My fingers clutch the bedsheet, but I refuse to give up.
Not now.
Gathering the last of my strength, I slowly remove one of my shoes. Even that simple movement feels like it takes an enormous effort. My vision is blurred, my chest burns, every breath is a battle.
But I grit my teeth.
I have to do something.
Anything.
With the little strength I have left, I raise my arm and throw the shoe with all my might toward the vanity.
Time seems to freeze for a second.
CRASH!
The mirror shatters with a deafening crash. Shards of glass fly across the room. The noise is so violent that it echoes through the walls for several seconds before silence falls again.
Immediately, the footsteps come back.
Rapidly toward the room.
A sob of relief almost escapes me.
She's back.
Leila is back.
A small spark of hope is reborn deep inside me.
"Esther? Are you in there?"
This time, her voice is much closer.
I hear the doorknob.
Once.
Twice.
The lock finally gives way.
The door swings open.
She rushes into the room, and the moment her eyes land on me, all the color drains from her face. Her eyes widen in panic.
_Esther!
She immediately rushes to me and drops to her knees at my side.
_Oh my God... Esther... You're having an asthma attack...
She quickly looks around.
_Where's your inhaler? Esther, where's your inhaler? Her voice trembles.
I want to answer her.
I want to tell her that I forgot it.
But my chest is so tight that no words come out.
Only a weak, uneven breath.
_Okay... okay... calm down.
I watch her briefly close her eyes to regain her composure before focusing entirely on me with care.
This isn't the first time I've had an attack in front of her.
She's already helped me through situations like this many times.
She helps me sit up and places me in a more comfortable position, leaning slightly forward to make it easier for me to breathe.
One of her hands stays on my shoulder.
The other gently holds my hand.
_Look at me, Esther.
I try to raise my eyes to meet hers.
_That's it... stay with me.
Her voice is firm but reassuring.
_Breathe in slowly.
Then she takes an exaggerated breath to show me.
_That's it... just like that.
Breathe in...
Breathe out...
Breathe in...
Breathe out...
I try to follow her rhythm, but it's incredibly difficult.
Every breath feels like a battle.
My chest is still burning.
The wheezing in my breathing is still there.
But despite everything, I cling to her voice, to her presence, to those worried eyes that refuse to let me slip away.
_That's it, keep going... she whispers. You're doing really well.
Little by little, I manage to synchronize my breathing with hers.
Not completely...
But enough to feel that I'm no longer facing this attack alone.
_Are you okay now?
I give a slight nod.
I'm still shaken.
Still weak...
But I could finally breathe.
_Yes.
My voice is barely audible.
Leila lets out a sigh of relief before her expression turns stern again.
_Where's your inhaler?
_I... forgot it in our room.
She stares at me for a second, as if she can't believe what she's just heard.
_ Esther! she says, her voice filled with concern. How could you be so careless? You're asthmatic! You can't afford to forget something like that!
This time, when I look up at her, a faint smile appears on her lips.
_Yes... much better.
And I realize just how scared I was.
I'm still a little weak...
But I'm okay.
She lets out a sigh of relief.
_How did you end up having that attack? And why was the door locked from the outside?
_I don't know, I say, gently shaking my head. I only know that someone locked the door... that's... that's all.
_Did you see who it was?
_No.
Leila frowns, clearly upset.
But I'm already sitting up.
_I have to go.
_What? she says, her eyes widening. Esther, you're not fully recovered!
_I know. I lightly brace myself against the bed to keep my balance. But they're waiting for me. My family is waiting for me. I can't stay here.
_I have to join them.
Leila watches me for a few seconds before finally nodding.
_Okay.
She knows I won't change my mind, so she decides not to argue.
She stands up as well.
_Wait.
She picks up my shoe that had fallen near the vanity and kneels in front of me to help me put it back on.
_Thank you.
_Don't thank me. You've already scared me enough.
A small, tired smile stretches across my lips.
She then wraps an arm around my waist to help me stand.
As soon as I'm on my feet, a wave of dizziness hits me.
The world sways for a few seconds...
But it quickly passes.
_Are you okay?
_Yes.
_Are you sure?
_Yes.
Even though that's not entirely true...
But I don't have a choice.
We leave the room in silence.
The long hallway suddenly feels endless.
Every step feels heavy...
But I keep going.
The sound of the reception grows clearer and clearer as we walk.
Then my father-in-law's deep voice echoes throughout the manor.
And this time...
He says my name.
_Let's hurry...
Leila immediately quickens her pace beside me.
A few seconds later, we finally reach the top of the grand staircase.
The murmurs rising from the hall reach us.
Hundreds of voices.
Hundreds of eyes.
Hundreds of people waiting.
Leila gently releases my arm.
I turn my head toward her.
She gives me an encouraging smile.
Go on.
I swallow hard, then nod.
I may be afraid of standing in front of cameras or in front of people, but today I don't have a choice.
So I move forward.
I place my foot on the first step.
Then the second.
Then the third.
And suddenly, a voice rises from the crowd:
_There she is!
Instantly, the entire hall turns toward me. All eyes converge in my direction. The flashes begin to explode, a blinding shower of light assaulting me from every side.
The photographers rush forward, the journalists whisper among themselves.
Instinctively, my hand tightens around the staircase railing.
I remain motionless, completely frozen in front of hundreds of eyes, faced with all this attention that I have always hated.
I take a deep breath to pull myself together.
This isn't the time to stand frozen.
Everyone is waiting for me.
I have to move forward.
So I gather all my courage and straighten my shoulders slightly.
One step.
Then another.
Then another.
I slowly make my way down the staircase, trying to maintain a calm and elegant demeanor despite the frantic pounding of my heart.
With every step, the flashes crackle around me.
The journalists don't miss a single second of my appearance, capturing every movement, every expression.
But this time, I keep moving forward.
I refuse to let my fear take over.
In the distance, I catch sight of my father-in-law's face.
The relief that crosses his features is immediate, as if he had been holding his breath until this very moment.
Standing beside him is my father.
And when our eyes meet, I see something in his that instantly warms my heart.
The same look he's always given me.
A look filled with immense pride...
And unwavering confidence.
But also that unconditional love he has always had for me.
That reassuring love that has been with me my entire life.
For a second, I feel like the little girl I used to be, searching for his eyes in the crowd to find courage.
A faint smile appears on my lips as I continue my descent.
This time, my steps are steadier.
More confident.
I feel a little stronger.
Behind him, I catch sight of my mother.
She smiles at me with that gentleness that belongs only to her.
That gentleness that cradled my entire childhood.
That gentleness capable of calming my deepest fears with a single glance.
Beside her stands my mother-in-law.
Her hand is pressed against her chest, as if she has finally been able to breathe again.
Maybe she's relieved to see me.
Maybe she was afraid something had happened.
I'm not sure.
But for the first time, I don't feel like a stranger in her eyes.
The flashes continue to illuminate my face.
The journalists keep taking pictures.
The guests continue to watch me.
Yet I barely pay any attention to them anymore.
My gaze sweeps across the hall, searching for someone...
Or rather, searching for him.
I don't even know why I'm looking for him so insistently.
I can't explain it.
I only know that I need to see him.
Just to make sure he's there.
My eyes continue to scan the crowd until they suddenly stop on him.
And for a fraction of a second, everything else disappears.
Only he remains.
And before I can stop it, my heart skips a beat.
He was standing right there, waiting for me at the bottom of the staircase.
He looks even more handsome in his navy-blue suit, which perfectly complements his complexion.
I keep looking at him when my foot misses the last step.
I feel my balance slip away.
The floor rushes dangerously closer.
A murmur of surprise ripples through the crowd.
But before my body can hit the ground, two strong arms catch me firmly.
A small cry escapes my lips as my body falls against his.
One of his hands wraps around my waist.
The other supports my back.
My fingers instinctively clutch the lapels of his jacket.
I'm leaning over him.
He's above me.
His scent reaches me immediately.
That woody, subtle, familiar fragrance.
That scent I would recognize anywhere...
Even with my eyes closed.
My lips part slightly as I finally look up at him.
And I immediately regret that decision.
Because his face is far too close.
I can make out every detail of his features.
Every shade in his eyes.
Every breath.
My heart is beating so hard that I'm afraid he'll hear it.
For a second, neither of us says a word.
Then his gaze briefly sweeps over my face before meeting my eyes again.
_ Can't you even walk properly?
_ I didn't do it on purpose, I whisper.
_ Of course.
_ It's true!
_Hmm. You don't like drawing attention to yourself, yet you do everything you can to attract trouble.
I immediately frown.
_ What?
_ You heard me perfectly well.
_Do you really think I go looking for trouble on purpose?
The corner of his lips curls into a smirk.
_Maybe you do. Maybe you don't. You tell me.
_I have nothing to say... now let go of me. I don't like the way we're standing in front of all these people at all.
His gaze lingers on my lips for a second too long.
_I don't care what people say. You're my wife. They came here so I could introduce you to them. And I think they've not only gotten an introduction, but an even better view. And if you want, we can make this scene even more intimate, he says, looking straight into my eyes, his voice almost a whisper.
What does he mean by even more intimate?
Does he want to kiss me, or am I just imagining things?
_Tony, let go of me. Everyone's waiting.
_You're such a drama queen.
Before I can understand what he's doing, he slowly helps me back onto my feet without ever taking his eyes off me.
I gently remove my hand from his shirt.
I smooth it slightly.
Then I do the same with my dress.
_Here is my daughter-in-law, officially.
The flashes keep going off from every direction, so much that I start wondering when they'll finally run out of energy.
Tony holds out his hand to me.
A simple, discreet gesture...
But it makes my heart race.
_Come on, he whispers in a low voice near my ear.
I throw him a quick glance before walking beside him under the guests' insistent stares until we reach my father-in-law's side.
And without wasting any time, the journalists immediately unleash a barrage of questions.
_Mr. Besson, why did you hide the existence of your daughter? one journalist asks.
_Mr. Arrison! How long have they been married? asks another.
_Was this marriage planned as part of the merger?
_Mrs. Esther, how did you meet Tony Arrison?
_Is this a love marriage or a strategic one?
_Tony! Any comment?
I feel the pressure rise all at once.
Too many questions.
Too many eyes.
Too much noise.
That's why I've never liked being the center of attention or being well known.
And of course, Tony remains perfectly calm, as if he almost finds the situation amusing.
Then one journalist dares to ask another question.
_Mr. Tony Arrison, some rumors say you've always refused to be in a serious relationship. Why this sudden marriage?
Tony slowly turns his head toward me, and the corner of his lips lifts.
_Let's just say... she succeeded where no one else ever did.
The journalists immediately erupt with reactions.
_Are you in love with her?
_Is that an official declaration?
I suddenly turn my head toward him, completely caught off guard.
And that idiot...
He has the nerve to look amused.
The journalists become even more excited after his answer.
The flashes go off in every direction while several voices overlap at once.
_Mr. Arrison, what do you mean by that?
_So you're confirming that you're in love?
_How long have you been together?
_Esther! Do you share his feelings?
I feel everyone's eyes turn toward me.
I part my lips, ready to answer, but
_That's a lot of pointless questions all at once, Tony cuts in calmly.
The room falls almost completely silent.
He keeps one hand in his pocket while the other comes to rest behind my back, possessive yet controlled, as if silently reminding everyone that I'm with him.
_Our relationship is our business, he adds coldly.
_Yet you're publicly announcing your marriage tonight, a journalist insists.
A smirk appears at the corner of his lips.
— Because my father loves grand events.
A few nervous laughs ripple through the room.
But the journalists don't let up.
— Esther, how are you coping with this sudden media exposure?
— Did you expect to become part of the Arrison family?
— Are you intimidated by Tony Arrison?
I take a deep breath to answer, but Tony speaks before I can even open my mouth.
— She doesn't have to answer that. His tone is firmer, more authoritative.
One journalist insists anyway:
— Why are you answering for her, Mr. Arrison? Are you trying to protect her... or control her?
The atmosphere changes immediately. Tony slowly raises his eyes to the journalist.
— Esther will speak when she wants to. Not because she's being forced to.
My gaze drifts toward him involuntarily. Is he being sincere, or is he simply playing a role in front of the cameras?
— Then tell us at least one thing, Mr. Arrison... does your wife love you?
My breath catches. What kind of question is that?
Slowly... Tony turns his head toward me. He holds my gaze for a few seconds as if he were waiting for something. As if he were trying to read my thoughts in front of this entire crowd.
Then, finally, a faint smile appears at the corner of his lips.
The kind of smile that's impossible to decipher.
— That's a question only time will answer.
The journalists react immediately.
— So she doesn't love you yet?
— Are you trying to win her over, Mr. Arrison?
— This marriage really does seem recent.
Tony lets out a soft, humorless laugh before speaking again:
— You really like making simple things complicated. His gaze finally leaves mine and returns to the journalists. Esther and I are still getting to know each other.
Getting to know each other? What is he talking about? He's not answering their questions. He's avoiding them, controlling the conversation, and giving them just enough to satisfy them... without ever revealing too much.
— But one thing is certain, he adds, looking at me again. She is my wife.
The way he says those words stirs a strange feeling inside me.
As if, behind his usual arrogance, something deeper were hiding... or maybe I'm just imagining things.
The journalists immediately continue:
— Mr. Arrison, is it true that several women were already part of your life before this marriage?
— Did Esther know about your reputation before marrying you?
— Mrs. Arrison, are you jealous of your husband's former relationships?
What?!
I abruptly turn my head toward Tony, hoping he'll finally put an end to this humiliating interrogation.
But this man looks far too calm. It almost seems like he's enjoying it.
— You're asking far too many questions when this is clearly not a press conference but a reception. You've gone well beyond the limit.
But no one listens. The questions continue to fly across the room, becoming more and more insistent.
— Mrs. Arrison, are you really ready for this marriage?
— Tony, is this a love imposed by your families?
— Esther, one last word
— That's enough.
A voice cuts through the commotion with an elegance I recognize instantly.
All eyes turn toward Élise. She stands tall, perfectly composed, a faint smile on her lips.
— The time for questions is over, dear ladies and gentlemen. We have a busy schedule, and I kindly ask you to respect it.
Silence returns to the hall. No one dares to speak anymore.
— Now, we are going to let our two lovebirds offer us a beautiful romantic dance.
A murmur runs through the room.
Then the music changes. The lively notes that had been echoing until now fade away, giving way to a slower, softer melody.
I slowly turn my head toward my mother-in-law. She wears that innocent smile that is absolutely not innocent.
The guests seem delighted by the situation. Some even applaud discreetly, while others watch us with barely concealed curiosity, as if they were waiting for the beginning of a performance.
I hate being watched.
Tony turns toward me and, without a word, holds out his hand.
I stare at it for a few seconds before gently placing mine in his. The warmth of his fingers immediately sends a shiver through me.
Oh my God... why do I shiver every time he touches me? It's becoming really worrying.
His fingers naturally close around mine before he slowly pulls me toward him, to the center of the dance floor. One of his hands comes to rest on my waist while the other keeps mine captive in his.
— Relax, he murmurs near my ear.
Easy for him to say.
His scent completely surrounds me, that subtle, elegant fragrance that has become far too familiar for my liking.
His eyes never leave mine for a single second. The music continues softly around us as he begins to guide me.
Every movement is precise, confident, and natural.
Tony Arrison knows how to dance?
That's almost shocking.
The cold, mysterious, always-serious man can dance with astonishing ease.
Incredible.
I let myself be led despite myself. At first, my movements are clumsy. I have trouble following his rhythm, but little by little, I relax. My shoulders stop tensing.
And before I even realize it, I actually begin to enjoy this moment. It's strange because it's the first time I've been this close to him for so long, and yet... I don't feel uncomfortable.
At least, not completely.
With Malik, we were close too. We hugged each other, we kissed, we caressed each other, we were in love.
But this time it's different.
I have...
What I'm feeling now has nothing to do with that. I search for the right words but can't find them.
What I'm feeling isn't excitement, or even embarrassment.
No.
It's something else. Something calmer, something deeper.
A feeling of safety, as if nothing bad could happen as long as he was here.
— What are you thinking about? His voice gently pulls me out of my thoughts.
And strangely, it sounds less cold than usual.
— Why did you answer in my place? I ask, changing the subject.
His gaze remains fixed on me for a few seconds.
A little too long.
I don't like it when he looks at me like that.
Or maybe I do... and that's exactly the problem.
— You weren't ready to answer their questions.
— And how can you be so sure?
A faint smile appears at the corner of his lips.
— Because you had the exact expression of someone who was seriously considering escaping through a window.
— I would never have done that.
— No. You probably would have tried to hide behind your father.
— That's not true.
— Of course.
His tone immediately tells me that he doesn't believe me for even a second.
I don't say anything else. I'm far too exhausted to argue now. The music continues to echo softly around us.
He guides me with unsettling ease as we slowly turn in the middle of the dance floor.
As if the hundreds of eyes fixed on us no longer existed.
Then, slowly, his deep voice breaks the silence.
— Why did it take you so long to come downstairs?
Why did it take me so long to come downstairs?
Well... because someone locked me in that room. Because I had an asthma attack. Because, for a moment, I truly thought I'd never make it here.
The words burn on my lips, but would he even believe me?
— I was just getting ready... I wanted to be ready.
That's all I can think of saying, hoping he'll believe me.
He says nothing, but his intense gaze remains fixed on me, as if he's trying to see beyond my words.
I finally look away so he won't end up seeing what he's looking for.
— You're a very bad liar.
I immediately raise my head.
— I won't let you call me a liar.
— I'm not calling you a liar.
He holds my gaze for several seconds before his expression softens slightly.
— Do you know what's fascinating about you, Esther?
— W...what? I ask softly.
— You're like an open book.
I frown slightly.
— I'm not a book.
— Yes, you are. A book I want to read until the very last page. Every emotion shows on your face. Every thought. Every doubt. Every fear. Every joy.
You're incapable of hiding what you feel.
I look away, embarrassed.
— That's not true.
— Another lie.
I immediately look back at him.
And he smiles.
That... that same smile he had the other day in the bedroom.
It's so pleasant to look at.
His gaze grows deeper, more serious.
— I can read every one of your emotions without the slightest effort, he continues. And that's exactly what makes you different. I've already told you. You're a challenge to me. And I like challenges. Especially when they're difficult.
He looks far too satisfied, and that...
That annoys me.
Without warning, he spins me once, then a second time.
A small gasp of surprise escapes me, and before I can fully regain my balance, he suddenly pulls me back toward him.
My fingers instinctively clutch the front of his jacket.
My heart leaps so violently in my chest that I honestly think I'm about to have another attack.
— Tony...
My voice is nothing more than a whisper.
But, as always, he doesn't answer.
Instead, he pulls me closer.
And this time...
This time, he leaves me no escape.
No distance.
His hand remains firmly pressed against the small of my back while the other still keeps mine captive in his.
We are so close that I can feel the warmth of his body through our clothes.
I can't even think properly anymore, can't breathe normally anymore, can't remember what I was supposed to say.
I can see every detail of his face.
The slight curve of his lips.
The line of his jaw.
Every shade in his dark eyes.
— People are watching us... I whisper.
My voice is almost drowned out by the music.
— I don't care about people, he replies without taking his eyes off mine.
He really needs to stop looking at me like that.
Because at this rate, my heart is going to betray me.
— I do care... I whisper softly. Let me go, please.
A faint smile appears at the corner of his lips.
— You're only trying to convince yourself.
I look away for a moment to observe the room.
The grand hall is plunged into darkness.
A single spotlight falls on us, as if we were alone in the middle of this enormous crowd.
The guests continue watching us.
The journalists are still taking pictures.
The flashes keep going off.
When my gaze returns to Tony, I notice something I've never seen before.
The way he looks at me.
As if nothing else exists around us.
As if I were the only person in this immense hall.
Before I can say anything else, his hand on my back tightens slightly, pulling me even closer.
I didn't think that was possible.
We were already pressed against each other, but now...
Now it's different.
As if he wanted to anchor me against him.
As if he wanted to erase the last bit of distance still separating us.
My chest is completely pressed against his.
I can feel the steady beat of his heart.
His gaze slowly drops to my lips before rising back to my eyes.
It's incredibly unsettling.
— I want to claim you. Here. Right now. In front of everyone.
H... did he really just say that?
No...I must have heard wrong.The music is loud.
Yes.That has to be it.
I lift my eyes to him, completely flustered.But his gaze is serious.
Then he slowly brings his face closer to mine. His forehead gently comes to rest against mine.
The contact is light, and yet...It sets off a real storm inside me.
I feel his breath brush against my skin.His nose grazes mine.
And our lips...
My God.
Our lips are separated by only a few miserable centimeters.The whole world disappears.The music becomes distant.The conversations fade away.The camera flashes cease to exist.There is nothing left but him.
Him and
His warmth.
His scent.
His breath against my skin.
And this strange feeling that fills my chest every time he is near me.
I involuntarily close my eyes because I remember.I remember perfectly that night in that bedroom, that suspended moment when I had believed... when I had hoped that he would kiss me. And right now, a part of me still hopes.
Then suddenly...The lights come back on.The music stops abruptly. Applause erupts throughout the room.The world comes rushing back all at once.
I open my eyes.Tony is still there, still just as close, but something has changed. He releases me and takes a step back.
His gaze remains locked with mine for a few seconds, as if he hesitates to say something.
Then his eyes drop toward my wrist.Toward the bracelet.The one he gave me.He gently takes my hand, and before I can understand what he is doing, his lips brush the inside of my wrist, just above the bracelet.
— It suits you perfectly.
Before I can answer...
Before I can even get my brain working again...
He releases my hand, straightens up, and walks away, leaving me alone in the middle of the dance floor. I remain still, completely frozen.
My heart is beating so hard that I feel like the entire room can hear it.
My fingers instinctively brush against the bracelet. The place where his lips touched my skin still feels warm. What is happening to me?
The simple memory of his lips against my skin is enough to make my heart race again.
I should be relieved that he left. But instead I...I feel like he took something with him.And I hate this feeling. Or maybe I don't. I don't know anymore. I haven't known much since this man entered my life.
I discreetly let out a sigh.Around me, conversations have resumed.
The guests are talking.The journalists continue taking pictures.The music echoes through the hall again.
But everything seems strangely distant, as if I were trapped inside a bubble.
My mind is still stuck a few minutes ago. At that exact moment when his forehead was against mine. His lips so close that
— Esther.
I immediately turn toward the voice calling me.
— Mom...
A smile appears on my face despite myself because no matter my age, no matter what happens in my life, all it takes is hearing her voice for something inside me to instantly calm down.
She walks toward me quickly, and before I can say a word, she pulls me into a hug so tight that I almost feel like I can't breathe.
I immediately tighten my arms around her.I missed her so much.
My little beloved mommy.
Even our arguments have missed me.
Even though we talk practically every day on the phone, it's not the same.
Nothing can replace her presence, her voice, her scent, and her hugs.It's incredible.
The way I love my mother is one of those things we believe are eternal, inseparable from our lives.
Nothing can compare to a mother's love for her child.
— Mom... you missed me so much, I say while hugging her even tighter.
— Me too, my heart. I missed you.
For a few seconds, neither of us moves.And honestly?
I could stay like this all evening.
It would keep me from thinking about what just happened with Tony.
Eventually, she pulls away and takes two steps back, looking at me from head to toe with that gentle smile that has always been there.
That smile I missed too.
— Come, she says, pulling me toward an empty table. Now I realize that you have really grown up.
I immediately grimace.
— Mom...
— No, let me finish. You are a woman now.
— Mom, stop...
She laughs softly.
But instead of answering, she suddenly starts staring at me intensely.
Her smile slowly disappears.
Her eyes narrow slightly.
She analyzes every detail of my face with precision.
She is looking for something.
That's for sure.
She moves closer and places both hands on my cheeks.
— Esther... you had an attack.
I knew she would notice something.
The problem with my mother is that she is a general practitioner.
Since I was little, she has always known.
Even when I tried to hide an attack.
Even when I pretended everything was fine, she always knew.
— No, Mom, I...
— Don't lie to me, she says firmly. I can see it in your eyes.
I honestly wonder how she does it.
Maybe it's a superpower reserved for mothers.
Or simply a mother's instinct.
— Tell me the truth. You had an attack.
I nod.
— You used your inhaler, didn't you?
I slowly shake my head no.
— Oh my God... what am I going to do with this girl?
She runs a hand over her forehead before looking at me again.
That look...
The look of a mother who is two seconds away from scolding me and hugging me at the same time.
— Esther, how many times have I told you?
— Mom...
— No, let me finish. How many times have I told you to have your inhaler with you wherever you go? Everywhere, Esther. At home. In the car. At work. At friends' houses. Everywhere.
— I know...
— Apparently not, since you forgot it.
— Mom, it wasn't intentional...
— An asthma attack never asks for permission before it happens. Do you realize how dangerous that was?
I grimace slightly.
— Mom...
— Answer me. Do you know what can happen during a severe asthma attack without an inhaler?
— Yes...
— Then why do you take it so lightly?
— I'm not taking it lightly...
— Esther, when an attack begins, your bronchi narrow. Air has more and more difficulty passing through. That's why you feel like your chest is being compressed. The further the attack progresses, the more your body lacks oxygen, she continues. You get tired, you panic, your heart beats faster, and breathing becomes more and more difficult. Someone with experience can be there to help you slow your breathing and regain some control. That's a good thing. A very good thing, actually. But if that person doesn't know what they're doing, you might not survive. She pauses.
But that does not replace your treatment. Without an inhaler, your bronchi remain constricted. Sometimes, you can regain a slightly more stable breath by calming down, sitting properly, and controlling your breathing... but the problem is still there.
She pauses again before continuing.
Do you understand what I mean?
How could I not understand? I have lived with this my entire life. I have always feared what could happen to me if I didn't have my inhaler. Without Leïla's help, I would probably be in a hospital bed. Thankfully, she knows what she's doing.
— Yes.
She lets out a long sigh before taking my face in her hands again. Her gaze immediately softens.
— You scared me so much, my heart.
All the anger has disappeared from her voice. There is only worry left.
That worry that only mothers seem capable of feeling.
— Sorry...
— Don't be sorry. Just be more careful with yourself.
Her thumbs gently caress my cheeks.
— Do you know how scared I was when you were little?
I smile faintly. Oh yes. I know. Every attack would wake up the entire house.
— I still remember the nights when I would sit beside your bed until morning just to make sure you were breathing properly.
— Mom...
— I'm serious. You are my baby, Esther.
I let out a small laugh despite myself.
— I think I'm a little too old to be a baby.
— Not to me. Promise me you'll be careful.
— I promise I'll be careful next time.
My mother immediately gives me a look.
The kind of look that makes me understand I said exactly the wrong thing.
— There will be no next time.
— But...
— No. I want you to keep your inhaler close to you. Always. That's non-negotiable.
— Okay.
— And besides, I want you to come to the hospital for some tests.
My mother has three hospitals here that she manages and two others in her hometown. She travels from time to time to check how the others are being managed. But that has never stopped her from being present for us.
— What?
— You heard me.
— But it's not necessary.
— Yes, it is.
— Mom...
— Esther, stop. I want to make sure there's nothing serious. And since you have a bad habit of minimizing everything related to your health, I'll handle it myself.
I let my head fall back.
I'm doomed if she finds out that I'm not following my treatment. I don't even want to imagine what will happen to me.
— It's not your decision anyway, she adds.
— That's unfair.
— I'm your mother.
— It's still not fair.
— You're going, and that's the end of the discussion.
— Okay...
Her victorious smile appears immediately.
I shake my head before quickly changing the subject.
— Where is Mina? I haven't seen her all evening.
— Oh, Mina went to visit a friend in her hometown.
— Really?
— It's been a long time since she left the country. It must be something important.
— Yes. She seemed a little sad before leaving.
— Sad?
— Yes. But she assured us that it was nothing serious and that she would be back in a week.
— I hope everything will be fine for her.
— Me too.
A small silence settles between us. Then I raise my head.
— And Dad? Is everything going well?
Her face immediately changes.
— Don't talk to me about him.
Oh oh… this smells like an argument.
— What did he do this time?
— Nothing.
— Mom.
— Absolutely nothing.
— Mom...
— Your father is a wonderful man.
She says it in such a cold voice. I would bet anything that they argued.
— When you start a sentence like that, it means he did something.
— He did nothing.
— Are you sure?
— Nothing at all.
— I don't believe you.
She finally sighs.
— That man is going to drive me crazy.
Ah, here we are.
My parents love each other so much that their arguments never last long.
Even if neither of them wants to admit it.
— He wants to go on a trip.
— Okay... I say, trying to hold back a laugh.
— For a month.
I understand a little better now.
— But what's the problem?
She looks at me as if I just said the biggest nonsense of the century.
— What do you mean, what's the problem?
— Well... he's leaving for work, right?
— That's what he says.
— And?
— He says he wants to make certain things about the merger official, meet partners, and I don't know what else.
— So it really is work.
— No.
— What do you mean "no"?
— Because I know everything. Besides, he's going with Jon.
— And?
— And I'd bet my hand that those two are mostly going there to have fun.
This time, I can't hold it in anymore and I burst out laughing.
— Mom!
— I'm serious!
— Dad and my father-in-law?
— Yes.
— The ones who spend their time acting like two teenagers whenever they're together?
— Exactly those two.
My laughter grows louder. I can picture them perfectly.
— But Mom, if they have a little fun, that's not a bad thing.
— Maybe. She crosses her arms. But one month is way too long.
Ah... there's the real problem.
— You're mostly going to miss him without him.
— Not at all.
— Of course you are.
— Not at all.
— Mom...
— Esther...
I smile even more.
Because her face completely betrays her. She's going to miss him terribly, but she'll never admit it.
— You should just tell him that...
— Ah, there you are.
My mother-in-law's voice immediately interrupts me. She walks toward us with her usual elegance. As always, my mother straightens up instantly.
And something tells me she's going to quickly forget her argument with Dad. At least for a few minutes.
— Elisabeth, my mother says with a smile.
— Asael.
The two women exchange a warm embrace.
I look at them one after the other and honestly? Seeing my mother and my mother-in-law getting along so well feels strange. But in a good way.
— I see you two are plotting without me, Élise remarks.
— I was complaining about my husband, my mother immediately replies.
Mom!
Élise laughs softly.
— Then we already have something in common.
— Jon annoys you too?
— More often than I would like to admit.
The two women exchange a look before bursting into laughter together.
Oh no. They're becoming friends. Dad and my father-in-law are doomed.
— I want to borrow Esther for a moment. I'd like to introduce her to some of my friends.
My mother immediately turns her head toward me, then toward Élise.
— Ah, she's your daughter-in-law now. You can do whatever you want with her.
Élise lets out a small laugh.
— Yes, but she's also your daughter.
— That's true. Anyway, she's the queen of the evening. You can go.
— Thank you.
Élise turns her head toward me.
— Esther, are you coming?
I look at her for a few seconds, and I don't know why, but I feel like she's different.
I wouldn't really know how to explain it. It's not something visible or something that can easily be described.
It's just her attitude, maybe the way she looks at me or talks to me. Maybe she's finally making an effort, or maybe I'm just imagining things. That's also a possibility.
— Mom, I'll be right back.
— Okay, my heart.
She places a kiss on my forehead before letting me go.
I smile at her one last time, then join Élise.
We begin crossing the room side by side. For a few seconds, no words are exchanged, and the silence isn't really uncomfortable. Just... strange.
Then suddenly, she slows her pace slightly.
— Are you feeling better?
I turn my head toward her, surprised.
— Sorry?
— Your attack.
I almost trip.
She knows? My eyes immediately turn toward her. Her attention remains fixed ahead of us.
— How did you...
— Leïla told me what happened.
Ah. Okay. So that girl really doesn't know how to keep things to herself.
— I'm better now.
— Good. She immediately says. You scared us.
I quickly lift my head.
Us?
For a moment, I think I heard wrong, but no. She really said us. Is she worried about me?
— Sorry.
— Stop apologizing for everything.
That's probably the third person who has told me that today.
— Just be more careful with yourself.
I simply nod. I don't know what else to say.
The more time passes, the more I feel that something has truly changed between us. She continues walking beside me as we cross the room.
— I'm going to introduce you to some friends.
I simply nod.
— They can be... a little provocative sometimes.
A little?
The way she says it makes me think it's probably much more than just a little.
— Don't pay attention to certain things they might say.
I turn my head toward her.
— Why?
— Don't take anything to heart, understood?
This time, I almost stop walking.
Is... is Elisabeth Arrison really the one talking to me?
And more importantly... is she actually warning me to protect me?
Because right now, my brain is struggling to keep up.
The same woman who didn't want me here not long ago is now giving me advice with kindness. It's so surprising that I feel like I've missed several chapters of my own life.
— Okay, mother-in-law.
For a second, she looks at me for a long moment as if she wants to add something, as if words are burning on the tip of her tongue.
But in the end, she simply nods.
— Good.
We continue walking.
A few moments later, we arrive in front of a group of women. I count five.
Five impressive, elegant, and refined women.
They are the kind of women who radiate confidence without even needing to speak.
But as soon as they notice Élise, several smiles appear.
— Élise, finally! one of them exclaims. You took your time.
— We were starting to think you were avoiding us, another adds.
— What a wonderful idea that would have been, my mother-in-law replies sarcastically.
The women burst into laughter.
Élise gently places a hand on my back, a simple gesture that still surprises me.
— I went to get my daughter-in-law.
The conversations stop immediately. Every pair of eyes turns toward me.
Oh my God, I hate being watched.
— And as promised, here she is.
Then, with a confidence that leaves me completely speechless, she declares:
— Ladies, I present Esther Arrison. My beautiful and only daughter-in-law.
My brain immediately stops working.
I turn my head toward her, completely shocked.
No. Completely shocked.
Because she just introduced me as her daughter-in-law.
Not as Tony's wife.
Not as Alex and Asael's daughter.
Not as a family obligation.
No.
As her daughter-in-law.
But those simple words touch me so much more.
And seeing Élise's calm expression... I understand one thing.
She didn't say it for appearances. She truly meant it.
I don't know what exactly, but something has changed.
— Hello, I say to everyone with a polite smile.
— Wow, Élise, your daughter-in-law is beautiful. Truly beautiful, one of the women exclaims.
— Thank you... I murmur, a little embarrassed.
— Yes, and she's very polite too, Élise adds with a certain pride in her voice.
I discreetly turn my head toward her.
Is this really my mother-in-law talking about me like that?
The women continue observing me with curiosity, but their looks aren't mean. On the contrary, some of them seem genuinely warm.
Well... almost all of them.
Because there is one who has been looking at me from the beginning with a haughty expression, as if my simple presence annoys her.
I choose to ignore her.
— Well, since everyone is here, let's make introductions, announces a woman with brown hair as she steps forward.
She holds out her hand with an elegant smile.
— I'm Catherine Morel. Élise and I have known each other for more than twenty years.
— Nice to meet you.
Another woman immediately steps forward.
— I'm Sophie Delcourt. And I'll warn you right away, we love gossip.
— Sophie! Élise protests.
— But it's true!
The others burst into laughter.
A third woman winks at me.
— Valérie Laurent. Don't listen to her. Well... not always.
— Nice to meet you.
— And I'm Nathalie Beaumont, another woman says. Your mother can be proud of you. You're stunning.
— Thank you very much.
My discomfort slowly begins to disappear.
Then my gaze moves toward the last woman, the one who hasn't taken her eyes off me for even a second.
She holds her champagne glass between her perfectly manicured fingers.
Her gaze slowly travels down my dress before returning to my face, as if she's evaluating me or perhaps looking for a flaw.
A slight smile finally appears on her lips.
But this smile is not warm.
— I'm Viviane Duval.
— Nice to meet you, madam.
— So you're the famous Esther.
— Yes, I say, simply nodding.
Viviane swirls her glass between her fingers before adding:
— I have to admit one thing... you're even prettier than in the photos.
— Viviane..., Sophie interrupts in a calm tone.
I see Valérie discreetly send a warning look to her friend, which absolutely does not reassure me.
— What? I'm giving her a compliment.
After all, I understand better why the famous Tony Arrison finally decided to get married.
Okay ?
Nathalie quickly intervenes with a warm smile.
— Your dress is simply stunning. Élise, you have outdone yourself once again.
My mother-in-law lets out a small satisfied laugh before slightly raising her chin.
— I know. I always create wonders.
Wow? What a lack of modesty.
— Such a lack of modesty... Sophie murmurs while shaking her head.
The women burst into laughter.
— See? That's exactly why we love her, Catherine adds.
— Of course you love me. You have good taste, Élise replies with an unwavering smile.
— So, is this part of your new collection? Nathalie asks, pointing at my dress.
— Yes. And this one is the centerpiece of the collection, Élise replies while placing a gentle hand on my shoulder.
I turn my head toward her, surprised.
— Besides, she adds with a certain pride, all the clothes worn by the Arrison family tonight are part of this new collection.
— It's obvious that you put your heart into it, Catherine remarks. Anyway, I want Esther's dress for my daughter-in-law.
— No problem. I'll have one prepared for you.
— And I want Laurène's dress for my daughter. It would suit her perfectly. And also Tony's for my son-in-law, Sophie adds.
— Noted, Élise replies with a smile.
— And I want Samira's for my daughter and Jon's for my husband, Nathalie says.
The women have already started discussing the different designs and placing orders.
— You're not actually going to buy that.
Viviane's mocking laugh cuts the conversation short.
She places her champagne glass back on the table without taking her eyes off my dress.
— Let's be serious for two minutes. This collection is far from the best one you've ever created, Élise.
I see the smiles slightly disappear.
— Viviane... Nathalie warns gently. You promised you wouldn't cause any scandals tonight.
— I'm simply giving my opinion.
Her gaze slowly and deliberately moves toward me, as if she is trying to make me uncomfortable.
— As for this dress...
She is beautiful, obviously. But I sincerely think people find it magnificent only because it is worn by a very beautiful girl.
Hmm, I don't know if that's a compliment or a criticism. Either way, this woman is not normal.
— In other words, she continues with a tight smile, Esther enhances the dress. Not the other way around.
This time, I clearly see Élise's expression slightly harden. But enough for all the women to notice.
— That's strange, Viviane, Nathalie says with a forced smile. Five minutes ago, you were saying Esther was even more beautiful than in the pictures.
— And I still think that.
— Then what's the problem? Catherine asks.
Viviane simply shrugs.
— No problem. I just think all of you have been exaggerating since the beginning of the evening.
After all, Esther is just a pretty young woman who married Tony Arrison. Nothing that justifies so much admiration.
Élise slowly turns her head toward her.
— Oh, don't make that face. Élise. I'm simply giving my opinion. This collection is far from the best one you've created.
Her gaze slides over my dress before returning to Élise.
— Besides, I wonder if your creations are really getting better, she says with a provocative smile.
— That's strange, Élise replies calmly. Because orders have not stopped coming in since its presentation.
— People follow trends. That doesn't mean they're good.
— Yet my collections have been selling extremely well for years. And as far as I know, no one has complained.
Viviane was about to answer, but Élise doesn't let her continue. She keeps her smile unchanged.
— Three international fashion shows won in a row is no longer luck. It is talent. And I have talent.
A few women exchange amused looks.
But Viviane does not seem willing to give up. Even though I feel Élise's words affected her, she takes a sip of champagne.
— Maybe some people simply know how to be in the right place at the right time.
This time, Élise's gaze turns cold.
— What exactly are you trying to imply?
— Nothing at all.
Her gaze briefly passes over me.
— I'm simply saying that sometimes success depends more on the people around us than on our true value.
I immediately understand that this remark is no longer only about the collection. It goes much further.
— Viviane... Please don't cause a scandal here. There are journalists everywhere, Nathalie sighs discreetly.
— I'm not causing a scandal. And let's be realistic. Esther is nothing like the type of woman Tony has always been with. So naturally, some people have questions.
Élise's smile disappears completely.
— What questions?
Viviane pretends to think.
— Well... what made Tony Arrison get married so quickly? That's all.
The implication is obvious, and it is unpleasant enough to make several women grimace.
— Be careful with what you say, Viviane, Élise replies in a colder voice.
— I'm only repeating what many people think but won't say.
— Are you implying that my daughter-in-law manipulated my son?
— I never said that.
— Then explain yourself.
— I prefer to let everyone draw their own conclusions.
I can clearly see Élise's anger rising. I notice it in the slight tightening of her jaw. Yet she maintains admirable control.
— You know, Viviane... I have always admired your ability to speak so confidently about subjects you know nothing about.
The other women almost struggle to hide their laughter.
Viviane stiffens.
— Excuse me?
— My collection is doing very well. They are getting better every day. My clothes sell like hotcakes, and my son...
Her gaze briefly drops toward me before returning to Viviane.
— My son chose to be and stay with his wife. No one forced him. And my daughter-in-law has nothing to prove to anyone.
She looks back at me briefly before facing Viviane again.
— Besides, since we are talking about young women... Esther is beautiful, intelligent, respectful, well-mannered, and incredibly kind. And that is already much more than what I can say about your daughter-in-law.
Viviane's face immediately hardens.
— Élise.
— What? Since we are giving our opinions tonight.
Nathalie almost chokes on her champagne.
— Your daughter-in-law spends her time fighting, answering everyone back, and terrifying the poor boys who cross her path, insulting every girl who comes near her husband.
A few laughs break out around them.
— And honestly, Élise continues with deadly elegance, I didn't even know someone could be both so stubborn and so unfeminine.
— That's a disgrace, Viviane hisses, visibly angry.
— No. A disgrace is criticizing a young girl who has done absolutely nothing to you.
Viviane abruptly places her glass back on the table.
— Very well.
She throws one last look in my direction, a look filled with contempt.
— Enjoy your evening.
My mother-in-law gives her a victorious smile.
— You can leave anyway. You weren't invited in the first place.
And without adding another word, she turns on her heels and walks away with firm steps.
Behind her, a long silence settles for a few seconds.
Then Nathalie bursts out laughing.
— My God, Élise... you completely destroyed her.
— She deserved it, Élise simply replies before taking another sip of champagne.
— You completely put her back in her place, Catherine adds.
— And with elegance too, Sophie adds while shaking her head.
— The look on her face when you talked about her daughter-in-law... I think I'm going to remember that for weeks, Catherine continues.
Élise lets out a small satisfied laugh before taking another sip of champagne.
— She attacked first. I was just protecting myself.
And even though she tries to appear detached, I can clearly see that little proud smile at the corner of her lips.
As if she is particularly satisfied with her victory.
— I still think the "your daughter is ugly" part was a bit excessive, Sophie says.
— I never said she was ugly.
— Oh, really?
— I said Esther was much prettier than her.
— Which is exactly the same thing. "Esther is beautiful, intelligent, respectful, well-mannered, and incredibly kind, which is already much more than what I can say about your daughter," Nathalie says while imitating Élise's voice.
This time, all the women burst into laughter.
Even me.
For a few moments, the atmosphere becomes light again.
Then a waitress discreetly approaches Élise. She leans toward her and whispers something in her ear.
My mother-in-law's smile immediately disappears.
— Very well. I'll be there right away.
She puts her glass down.
— Jon needs me.
Then she turns her head toward me.
— Esther.
— Yes?
— Stay here. I'll come get you in a few minutes.
What does she mean, stay here? With them?
Alone? With these women I have known for about fifteen minutes.
— Mother-in-law! I call out.
She is already walking away.
— I'll be back, she says while simply raising one hand without turning around.
And she disappears into the crowd.
— Don't make that face, Nathalie says laughing. We're not going to eat you.
— Well... not all of us, Sophie adds.
I smile nervously.
— Thank you, that reassures me a lot.
The women laugh again.
And despite myself, I slowly begin to relax.
— Fortunately, we don't all work in the fashion world, Sophie says with an amused sigh.
I slightly frown.
— What do you mean?
My curiosity is immediately activated.
The women exchange a look before Sophie speaks.
— Let's say that the rivalry between Élise and Viviane did not start yesterday.
— Far from it, Catherine adds.
I look at them one after another, intrigued.
— Do they really hate each other that much?
— Today, yes, Nathalie answers. But in the past, it was the complete opposite.
— Really?
— Oh yes. At one point, they were even very close. Élise worked at Vivi Style, Viviane's company. She was still young back then, full of ambition and dreams.
— Viviane adored her, Catherine continues. She saw a lot of potential in her.
— They spent all their time together, Sophie adds. Viviane had almost become her mentor.
I blink, surprised.It was difficult to imagine the two women being close after what I had just witnessed.
— So what happened?
— Élise decided to spread her wings, Nathalie replies.
She wanted to create her own brand, her own universe. Viviane tried to convince her to stay, but Élise had already made her decision.I smile despite myself.
That really sounded like my mother-in-law.
— A few years later, Sophie continues, Élise was preparing her very first major fashion show.
— She had created exceptional sketches, Catherine adds with admiration. Beautiful designs.
— Since she still admired Viviane at the time, she showed her several of her creations. She even gave her some drawings.
My eyebrows furrow.
— And then?
— On the day of the fashion show, Viviane publicly accused her of stealing her creations.
— What?
— Yes, Nathalie confirms. And unfortunately, at the time, everyone believed Viviane.
— She was already famous, influential, and respected in the industry.
— While Élise was only an unknown young designer, Sophie finishes.
I feel a hint of anger rising inside me.
— Didn't anyone defend her?
— Very few people. Her fashion show was canceled, and her reputation was destroyed before she had even started.
Now I understood.
I understood that pain I had seen behind Élise's smile.
I also understood why Viviane seemed unable to leave her alone.
— But Élise never gave up, Catherine continues with an admiring smile. She started over from scratch again and again. She worked incredibly hard.
— And today, look where she is. Today, everyone knows the name of Elisabeth Arrison.
— The most ironic thing in this whole story, Nathalie adds with a small laugh, is that Élise won the biggest fashion show in the country for three consecutive years.
— Three times in a row, Sophie confirms.
— Which definitely made her one of the most influential designers of her generation.
I couldn't help but feel a certain pride.
Even though our relationship had been complicated at the beginning, one thing had to be acknowledged:
Elisabeth Arrison was an incredibly strong woman.
— Since that day, Catherine concludes, Viviane has never accepted her success.
— And every time Élise shines, she always finds a way to remind her of the past.
I looked in the direction where Viviane had left a few minutes earlier. Now, I understood much better the hatred I had seen in her eyes.
And above all...
I understood why Élise had put her back in her place without hesitation.
— Ah. I forgot my purse.
Viviane's voice cuts our discussion short.
She returns to our table with an elegant step.
Her gaze quickly scans the surroundings, then her eyes stop on me, and I immediately see something change in her expression.
— Well... It looks like Élise left you alone.
— She'll be back soon, Nathalie answers before I can.
— I don't doubt it.
Her gaze remains fixed on me.
— So, Esther...
I already hate the tone she uses.
— Yes, madam?
— Tell me... what is it like becoming an Arrison overnight?
— I don't understand the question, I say while slightly frowning.
— Yet it's simple.
A simple unknown girl who suddenly marries one of the most influential men in the country... That must be quite a change.
I understand perfectly where she is going. And so do the other women.
— Viviane..., Nathalie warns.
But she continues.
— I'm just curious.
After all... some people spend their entire lives trying to enter this world. You, you entered it in just a few weeks.
Some people really mistake your silence for weakness.
So I give her a calm smile.
— It is indeed a change.
Viviane seems satisfied with my answer. As if she already thinks she has won.
— I imagine it must be difficult to adapt to a world like this.
— Why would it be difficult?
Her smile slightly falters.
— Well... it's not an environment accessible to everyone.
— I see.
I gently nod.
Then I continue with the same calmness:
— Fortunately, I'm not really discovering this world.
This time, several women frown.
— Oh really? Viviane asks.
— No.
I am Alex Besson and Asael Besson's daughter.
Silence immediately falls.
Several women's eyes widen.
— Wait... what? Sophie whispers.
— Alex Besson? Nathalie repeats.
I simply nod.
— Yes.
Viviane's expression changes slightly, very slightly, but enough for me to notice.
— My father has always refused to expose our family publicly. And personally, I was perfectly fine with that.
If I never introduced myself to the public before today, it wasn't because I didn't belong to this world.
It was because I had no desire to.
No one speaks, so I continue.
— Actually, I add softly, my father has been insisting for years that I appear more in the media, but I spend my time finding excuses to avoid it.
Sophie bursts out laughing.
— Oh my God... that's exactly the kind of thing Alex would do.
— Absolutely, Nathalie confirms.
Viviane, however, does not laugh.
So I slightly turn my head toward her.
— To be honest... the only thing I feared about appearing publicly was not the attention.
I look her up and down.
— It was having to meet people who prefer making insinuations rather than simply asking their questions directly.
This time, even Catherine almost chokes on her drink.
Viviane's eyes slightly widen.
— What do you mean?
— If you want to know something about me, madam, you can simply ask me. It will be more pleasant for everyone.
No one speaks.
Then Nathalie lowers her head to hide her smile.
Sophie suddenly looks at the ceiling.
And Catherine coughs to hide a laugh.
Viviane looks at me without saying anything, then takes her purse and leaves.
At the same time, the women burst into laughter.
— Honestly, Esther, you put her back in her place twice, Sophie says, laughing.
— No, three times, Catherine adds.
I couldn't help but laugh with them.
— Did you miss me? a familiar voice suddenly asks.
I turn my head and see my mother-in-law returning toward us with her usual elegance.
— Finally! Nathalie exclaims. We were starting to enjoy the peace.
— A lie, Élise replies with a proud smile. You can't live without me.
The women burst into laughter.
— Her ego will never fit inside this room, Nathalie murmurs.
— And yet, you all continue to adore me, my mother-in-law replies while slightly raising her chin.
I shake my head, amused. Her gaze settles on me.
— Esther.
— Yes?
— Your father-in-law is looking for you.
I frown.
— Me?
— Yes. He wants to introduce you to some investors and family partners.
My smile instantly freezes.
Oh no.
Anything but that.
The journalists were already difficult enough, and now I had to talk to investors.
— Don't make that face, Élise says while laughing softly. They don't bite.
Easy for her to say.
— Come.