En el interior, la atmósfera se sentía desde el principio.
Todo el mundo era demasiado alegre, demasiado ruidoso. Mi padre se decidió por el sofá junto a mi abuela, tomando su mano como si estuviera audicionando para un papel. Habló de pasear por las calles parisinas, de lanzar monedas a la Fontana de Trevi en Roma, de Big see Ben en lugar de en imágenes.
“Mamá, esta es nuestra oportunidad de estar juntos”, dijo. “Toda la familia, todos nosotros. Tienes que venir”.
Aunt Paula chimed in, perched on the arm of the couch in a bright blouse and designer jeans.
“Mom, we just want you to be happy,” she said, her voice sugary sweet. “You’ve worked your whole life. It’s time you saw the world.”
Isabelle and James, both glued to their phones, sat at the dining table, earbuds dangling, texting their friends about shopping in London and taking selfies in Paris.
My grandmother sat in her favorite armchair, fingers twisting the hem of her sweater. She shook her head gently.
“I’m old,” she said, voice soft. “My health isn’t what it used to be. I don’t know if a trip that far is a good idea.”
My father didn’t back off.
“We’ll be with you,” he said quickly. “We’ll take care of everything. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Mom. You deserve it.”
Aunt Paula nodded, eyes locked on my grandmother’s face like she was trying to will her into agreement.
“Por favor, mamá,” dijo ella. “Ven con nosotros”.
