When they finish their meal, Henri pays the bill, and the two of them head back to the car. Eloá is still wearing his jacket, holding it close as though it has become an extension of her own skin. The drive home is peaceful, with no more confessions—just silence filling the spaces between them.
As soon as the car stops in front of the house, she slowly opens the door and, before stepping out, turns slightly toward him.
“I'm keeping it…” she says, referring to the jacket. “As soon as I wash it,