The Research

Miria closed the photo album with a sigh. Her heart was still pounding after that sudden memory of Elma Faurel. She ran a hand through her hair, trying to calm the turmoil within her.

She carefully placed the album back in the box, put it away, and then stretched slightly as she stood up. The evening was already well advanced, and her stomach had begun to protest. She headed to the kitchen and started preparing dinner, opting for a simple dish.

As she was chopping vegetables, her phone vibrated on the table. She glanced at the screen and smiled slightly when she saw Marlie's name appear.

— Hey, Miria! came her friend's cheerful voice as soon as she picked up. How are you?

— I'm fine, Miria replied with a shrug, even though she knew Marlie couldn't see her. Just a little tired.

— Are you sure? Isn't it because of what happened today?

Miria hesitated. She didn't want to worry her friend.

— No, don't worry. It was nothing serious.

— Alright, but make sure to rest, okay?

Miria smiled at the concern in Marlie's voice. They then chatted about everything and nothing—latest trends, a series Marlie absolutely insisted she should watch, and even a rumor about a couple at school. The lighthearted conversation did her good.

After a few minutes, Marlie finally said:

— Well, I'll let you rest. Talk soon, okay?

— Okay. See you soon, Marlie.

Miria hung up and resumed her dinner. She ate quietly, enjoying the calm of the evening.

Later, as she was about to clean up, her phone rang again. This time, it was her mother, Katrina.

She answered immediately.

— Mom?

— Miria, how are you? I got a call from your school. They told me you had a fainting spell.

Miria sighed slightly. She should have expected this.

— I'm fine, Mom. It wasn't anything serious.

— Are you sure? Katrina asked, clearly worried.

— Yes. Actually, I wanted to ask you something. Can you check with the school if I can stay home this week?

Silence fell on the other end of the line.

— You're still not feeling well?

— I'm fine. I just need a little rest, Miria assured her gently.

Katrina hesitated but eventually gave in.

— Alright, I'll see what I can do. But if you don't feel better, promise me you'll see a doctor.

— I promise, Mom.

— Alright. Get some rest, sweetheart. Good night.

— Good night, Mom.

Miria hung up and let out a sigh of relief. Her mother was protective, but she trusted her.

She quickly finished tidying up and went to bed. Tomorrow would be an important day.

The next morning, Miria woke up early. After getting ready, she took care of her usual household chores. Her mind was focused on one thing: her research on Elma Faurel.

Once she had finished, she put on a light coat and left the house, heading to a documentation center where people came to do research on computers.

As she pushed open the door, the scent of paper and the faint hum of machines welcomed her. She spotted Eva, who managed the place, behind the counter.

— Miria? Eva said in surprise upon seeing her enter. What are you doing here so early?

— I'm doing some research, Miria replied as she approached the counter. I'm not going to school this week, so I'm taking the opportunity.

Eva raised an eyebrow but didn't ask any more questions.

— Go ahead. The computers are free.

— Thanks.

Miria took a seat at one of the computers and began typing Elma Faurel feverishly. Articles, archives, and a few old photos appeared on the screen. She took notes, analyzing every piece of information.

Hours passed, and finally, she found what she was looking for.

With slightly trembling hands, she quickly jotted down the key details in a notebook.

— Thanks again, Eva, she said as she packed up her things.

— No problem, the manager replied with a smile. Take care of yourself.

Miria gave her a nod before stepping outside.

She took a deep breath, feeling the cool afternoon air on her face.

She had what she needed.

Tomorrow, her real research would begin.