I wake early to find Christian's side of the bed empty. I look for him in the bathroom, but there's no sound. So, I slip in for a refreshing shower myself. Afterwards, I tiptoe into the children's room. They're still asleep, the fresh air clearly lulling them into a deep slumber. I continue to Marta's room, where I find her getting ready.

"What are you doing? Where are you going?" I ask, surprised by her elegant attire. "I hardly recognise you. Are those new clothes?"

Marta smiles when she hears me and responds. "Mima bought them for me to wear to work," she explains, still focused on her appearance. "She...