“Your mother is gone. Tears won’t bring her back—so wipe your face, make dinner, and don’t look like a grieving child when my guests arrive.” That was what my husband said.

That night, with the sound of rain hitting the roof, I felt truly alone, but not helpless. I felt free. This house was my mother’s and mine again. One month had passed since that stormy night. Time had flown, bringing drastic changes to my life. This morning, the sun streamed brightly through my bedroom curtains, greeting a new day with a different kind of warmth. There were no more of Mark’s shouts rushing me to make breakfast. There was no more fear of saying or doing the wrong thing. The large house my mother had left me now felt silent and peaceful. I woke up with a light heart, said my morning prayers, and prayed for my mother’s soul to rest in peace.

Then I got ready to go, not to the kitchen or the market, but to the company headquarters. I stood in front of the large mirror in my room. My reflection had changed. My face, once dull and always tired from mental pressure, now looked fresh and radiant. My eyes, once swollen from tears, now emanated determination and intelligence. I wore a professional, elegant suit, without excessive frills, but which exuded an aura of authority. I adjusted my scarf slightly, making sure everything was perfect. Today was an important day. An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders would be held, and I, Sarah, would take the place my mother should have occupied.

The company car was waiting for me at the entrance of the house. A personal chauffeur opened the door for me courteously. During the drive to the financial district, I watched the city’s skyscrapers. I used to be just the wife of an ordinary employee who knew nothing of this world. Now, I was the owner of one of the tallest buildings in the city. Upon arriving at the office, the welcome I received was extraordinary. From the receptionist to the department heads, employees gave a respectful nod as I walked through the lobby. I heard whispers of admiration. They knew who I was. They knew I was the daughter of the company’s founder, the woman who had uncovered the corruption scandal of a former director, and brought a breath of fresh air.