The next day, I knew I couldn’t stay silent. For my children, for Nicolas… for us.

I contacted a lawyer specializing in family law, Ms. Morel — a firm and determined woman. She explained to me that even though the house was officially in Nicolas’ name, I had rights as his surviving spouse and the mother of his children.

“We’re going to make sure your rights are respected, Clara. Don’t lose hope.”

Thanks to her, I was able to obtain a temporary eviction order against Hélène, and to recover our belongings. But the battle had only just begun.

Hélène kept spreading discord, trying to isolate the children, to tarnish our family’s memory. But each time, I stood up to her, with the strength that Nicolas’ love had given me.

Emma and Julien, despite the scars, learned resilience. We rebuilt our lives, stone by stone, until the house became a home again — a true one.

Because family isn’t about blood or material things. It’s an unbreakable bond forged in respect, love… and sometimes, in pain.