Since little Anna’s birth, Martine had learned to live with an immense emptiness. Her daughter had vanished tragically, leaving behind a newborn only a few days old and a shattered mother. Anna’s father, unable to take responsibility, had simply left a note before disappearing. Without hesitation, Martine took the baby into her arms and decided to give her all the love she needed, despite her modest pension and the small jobs she stacked to make ends meet.

When her best friend suggested she take a few days to rest, Martine eventually agreed. She bought an economy-class ticket with her savings. She just hoped to breathe a little. Yet as soon as the plane took off, things got complicated. Anna, unsettled by the noise and movement, began screaming without stopping.

Martine tried rocking her, whispering to her, but nothing worked. Around her, passengers grew impatient, sighs multiplied, and a man ended up snapping at her to “make that noise stop.” Hurt and ashamed, Martine stood up, ready to go to the back of the plane to isolate herself.