Through tragedy, grief and love, Julie learns to let go of the past and embrace the beauty of life.
Watch the original version of Three Colors: Blue
Prologue
The car was spinning out of control, careening down the road and into oncoming traffic. Julie’s screams were drowned out by the screeching of metal and the shattering of glass. The last thing she remembered was the sound of her husband’s voice, calling out to her before everything went black.
Chapter 1: The Tragic Accident
Julie woke up in a hospital room, her body battered and bruised. The smell of antiseptic and the sound of machines beeping filled the air. She groaned as she tried to move, but the pain was too much to bear.
As the fog cleared, she remembered the accident. The car crash that had taken the lives of her husband and daughter. Her heart felt heavy as she thought about them. How could they be gone, just like that?
A nurse came in, checking on her vitals and asking how she felt. Julie could barely bring herself to answer. The nurse gave her a sad smile before leaving the room, leaving Julie alone with her thoughts.
It all felt like a bad dream. She wanted to wake up and see her husband’s smiling face, to hear her daughter’s laughter. But she knew it was never going to happen. They were gone, and she was left to deal with the aftermath.
Days turned into weeks, and Julie was discharged from the hospital. She moved back into her apartment, but it felt empty without her family. She spent most of her days in bed, unable to face the world outside.
Her friends tried to reach out to her, offering words of comfort and support. But Julie couldn’t bring herself to see them. She didn’t want to talk about what had happened. She just wanted to be left alone.
The world outside continued to move on, oblivious to her pain. Cars honked outside, people laughed and chatted on the streets. But everything felt muted to Julie, like she was living in a different world altogether.
One day, as she was walking to the grocery store, a car backfired, and Julie froze. The sound triggered memories of the accident, and she fell to her knees, gasping for air. Passersby tried to help her, but she pushed them away, crawling back to her apartment.
From that day on, Julie refused to leave her apartment. She ordered groceries online, avoiding any human interaction. She didn’t want to deal with the outside world, with people who didn’t understand her pain.
But avoiding the world proved impossible. The sounds of life outside crept into her apartment, reminding her of everything she had lost. The TV blared news of yet another tragedy, and Julie couldn’t bear to watch.
She was alone, trapped in her own grief. The world kept turning outside, but she was stuck in the past. The accident had taken everything from her, and she didn’t know how to move forward.
Was there even a point to living, without her husband and daughter? The thought crushed her, weighing heavily on her soul.
As the days turned into weeks, Julie’s apartment became a shrine to her family. Pictures and mementos littered the walls, reminders of the life she had lost. She couldn’t bring herself to let go of them, to move on with her life.
But then, one day, a knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Julie hesitated before opening it, unsure of who could be on the other side.
It was Olivier, an old friend of hers. They hadn’t spoken in years, not since before she had met her husband. Olivier had always harbored a secret love for her, but Julie had never seen him that way.
But now, as he stood on her doorstep, she saw him in a new light. He was a lifeline, someone who could bring her back to the world outside.
Olivier’s eyes were full of concern as he looked at her. “I heard about the accident,” he said, his voice soft. “I’m so sorry.”
Julie couldn’t bring herself to reply, but she let him into her apartment. They sat in silence for a while, awkwardness hanging in the air.
Finally, Olivier spoke up. “Julie, you don’t have to go through this alone. Let me help you.”
Tears welled up in Julie’s eyes. She had been so alone, for so long. The thought of someone reaching out to her, of not having to face everything on her own, was overwhelming.
For the first time in months, Julie felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, she could find a way to move forward.
Chapter 2: The Burden of Memories
Julie lay awake in bed, staring up at the ceiling. It had been four months since the accident, but the pain was as fresh as ever. She tossed and turned, her mind racing with memories of her husband and daughter.
She squeezed her eyes shut, willing the thoughts to stop. But they kept coming, one after the other, each one more painful than the last. The way her husband’s hand felt in hers as they walked down the street. The sound of her daughter’s laughter. The warmth of their family nights at home.
Julie couldn’t escape the memories. They were everywhere. In the apartment they had shared. In the streets of Paris that they had walked together. In the music that they had listened to and played.
She buried her face in her pillow, trying to muffle her sobs. It was a familiar routine by now. Every night, she would lie awake, drowning in her sorrow.
She wondered if it would ever get better. If she would ever be able to escape the heartache that had consumed her.
Eventually, exhaustion took over and Julie drifted off to sleep, her dreams consumed by memories of her family.
***
The next day, Julie forced herself out of bed and went for a walk. She needed fresh air, she told herself. She needed to clear her head.
But the streets of Paris only served to remind her of what she had lost. The way the sun fell across the buildings. The sound of the bells chiming in the distance. The smell of freshly baked bread from the bakery on the corner.
Julie couldn’t stand it. She felt like the city was mocking her, reminding her of everything that she had lost.
She turned a corner and almost walked straight into Olivier. He looked surprised to see her.
“Julie,” he said, his eyes taking in her disheveled appearance. “Are you alright?”
Julie didn’t know how to answer. How could she ever be alright again?
“I’m fine,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Olivier didn’t believe her for a second. He had known Julie for years, and he had never seen her like this. He had always suspected that she was hiding something, but he had never been able to put his finger on what it was.
Until now.
“Do you want to talk about it?” he asked gently.
Julie shook her head, her eyes filling with tears.
“I can’t,” she whispered. “I can’t talk about it.”
Olivier didn’t push her. He knew that Julie needed to come to him in her own time.
“Okay,” he said. “But if you ever need anything…”
Julie nodded, unable to speak.
Olivier watched her walk away, his heart heavy with worry. He knew that Julie was in a dark place, and he didn’t know how to help her.
***
Days turned into weeks, and Julie continued to withdraw from the world. She rarely left her apartment, spending most of her time in bed or playing her husband’s piano.
Olivier tried to reach out to her, but she was always distant, always closed off. He knew that she was drowning in her grief, and he didn’t know how to pull her back to the surface.
One day, he decided to take matters into his own hands. He went to Julie’s apartment and knocked on the door.
“Julie?” he called out. “It’s me, Olivier. Can I come in?”
There was no answer, but Olivier didn’t let that deter him. He knew that Julie was inside, alone and hurting.
He tried the door, and to his surprise, it was unlocked. He pushed it open and stepped inside.
The apartment was dark and quiet, the curtains drawn to block out the sunlight. Olivier’s eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, and he saw Julie sitting on the couch, staring off into space.
“Hey,” he said softly, taking a seat next to her. “How are you doing?”
Julie didn’t answer. She just sat there, her eyes empty.
Olivier put a hand on her shoulder, hoping to offer some comfort.
“Julie,” he said. “Please talk to me. I’m worried about you.”
Julie looked up at him, her eyes brimming with tears.
“I can’t do this,” she whispered. “I can’t live without them.”
Olivier’s heart broke for her. He had never seen her so broken, so lost.
“I know,” he said. “I know it hurts. But you don’t have to go through this alone.”
Julie shook her head, wiping away her tears.
“I don’t want to burden you,” she said. “You have your own life to live.”
Olivier took her hand, willing her to understand.
“You’re not a burden, Julie,” he said. “You’re my friend. And I want to help you.”
Julie looked at him, her eyes full of uncertainty.
“I don’t know how,” she said.
Olivier squeezed her hand, his eyes locked on hers.
“Let me be here for you,” he said. “Let me help you carry this weight.”
Julie stared at him for a moment, searching his face for any sign of insincerity. But there was none. Olivier was telling the truth.
She nodded slowly, her hand still in his.
“Okay,” she said. “Okay.”
Chapter 3: A Chance Encounter
Julie’s phone buzzed, interrupting the silence that had enveloped her apartment. She sighed as she lifted it, glancing at the screen to see the name Olivier staring back at her. She hesitated for a moment before answering, unsure if she was ready for human interaction just yet.
“Hey, Julie! Long time no see,” Olivier’s voice came over the line, his tone cheerful and friendly.
Julie forced a smile, “Hi, Olivier. It’s been a while.”
“I was actually just in Paris and thought I’d give you a call to see if you wanted to grab a coffee or something. I know it’s been a tough time for you. I’d love to catch up and see how you’re doing.”
Julie hesitated, unsure if she was ready to face the outside world. But something in Olivier’s voice made her agree.
“Sure, that sounds nice. How about we meet at that little café by the river?”
“Sounds perfect. See you in an hour?”
Julie hung up the phone and took a deep breath. She wasn’t sure what to expect from this encounter, but she knew that she couldn’t continue to shut herself off from the world forever.
She quickly changed her clothes and applied some makeup, trying to look more presentable. She grabbed her coat and headed out into the bustling streets of Paris, feeling anxious but determined to face the day.
The café was quiet when Julie arrived, and she scanned the room nervously, searching for Olivier. She spotted him in the corner, waving at her as she approached. He stood up to greet her, pulling out a chair for her to sit.
“It’s good to see you, Julie,” Olivier said, his eyes holding a mixture of concern and affection.
“It’s good to see you too, Olivier,” Julie replied, trying to sound upbeat despite the sadness that still lingered within her.
They ordered their coffee and began to catch up, discussing the latest happenings in their lives. Julie found herself relaxing in Olivier’s presence, feeling grateful for the distraction from her grief.
As they talked, Olivier suddenly grew quiet, his eyes studying Julie’s face carefully. Julie felt a little uneasy under his scrutinizing gaze, wondering what was on his mind.
“Julie, there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you,” Olivier finally spoke up, his voice soft but intense.
Julie looked at him, waiting for him to continue.
“I know this might come as a surprise to you, but I’ve always had feelings for you, Julie. I know it’s not the right time to bring this up, but I couldn’t keep it from you any longer. I care about you deeply, and I want to be there for you in any way I can.”
Julie felt a mix of emotions wash over her – surprise, confusion, and a tiny spark of hope. She had never thought of Olivier in that way before, but his confession stirred something within her.
“Olivier, I don’t know what to say,” she replied, her eyes meeting his. “I’m still struggling with everything that’s happened, and I’m not sure if I’m ready for a relationship.”
“I know that, Julie. I’m not asking for anything from you right now,” Olivier said, taking her hand in his. “I just wanted you to know how I feel. I’ll be here for you, no matter what.”
Julie felt a sense of gratitude wash over her, knowing that she had someone who cared for her so deeply. She wasn’t sure where this newfound connection with Olivier would go, but she knew that he would be there for her if she needed him.
They finished their coffee and took a stroll along the river, chatting and laughing as they enjoyed the beauty of Paris. Julie felt a flicker of joy within her, something she hadn’t felt in a long time.
As they parted ways, Olivier gave her a warm hug, whispering in her ear, “I’ll always be here for you, Julie. You’re not alone.”
Julie watched him walk away, feeling a sense of longing and confusion within her. She knew that she had a long road ahead of her, but she was grateful for this unexpected encounter with Olivier, a ray of sunshine in her otherwise dark world.
Chapter 4: Olivier’s Confession
After several weeks of spending time together, Julie and Olivier went for a walk in the park. The sun was shining, and the birds were singing. But despite the beautiful surroundings, Julie was feeling sad and disconnected.
As they walked, Olivier took her hand, and Julie felt a sense of warmth spread throughout her body. She looked at him, and for the first time, she saw the love in his eyes.
“Julie, there’s something I need to tell you,” Olivier said softly.
Julie’s heart skipped a beat. She had been avoiding any possibility of a new relationship, but she couldn’t ignore the feelings she had for Olivier. She took a deep breath and nodded, indicating that she was ready to hear what he had to say.
“I’ve loved you for years, Julie. Even when you were with your husband, I always knew that you were the one for me. But I never told you how I felt because I knew that it wasn’t the right time. And now, after everything that’s happened, I know that I might be too late. But I had to tell you. I couldn’t keep it inside any longer.”
Julie was speechless. She had never imagined that Olivier could feel that way about her. She had always seen him as a good friend, but nothing more.
“I don’t know what to say, Olivier,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
“You don’t have to say anything, Julie. I just wanted you to know how I feel. I know that you’re going through a lot right now, but I want to be here for you. I’ll wait for you, no matter how long it takes.”
Julie felt tears forming in her eyes. She was touched by Olivier’s honesty and his willingness to wait for her. But at the same time, she was afraid.
“I don’t know if I’m ready for a relationship, Olivier. I’ve been through so much. I don’t know if I can love again.”
“I understand, Julie. I don’t expect anything from you right now. Just know that I’m here for you, and I’ll always be here for you. Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be here.”
Julie leaned her head on Olivier’s shoulder, feeling overwhelmed by his words. She knew that he was an incredible man, with a kind and loving heart. But she also knew that she was not ready to give him the answer he was hoping for.
As they continued walking, Julie felt conflicted. She knew that she was attracted to Olivier, but she wasn’t sure if she was ready for a new relationship. Her heart was still raw from the loss of her husband and daughter, and she wasn’t sure if she could handle the pain of losing someone else.
But at the same time, she felt drawn to Olivier. He had been her friend for many years, and he knew her better than anyone else. She felt safe and comfortable around him, and he had a way of making her feel like everything was going to be okay.
As they walked back to Julie’s apartment, Olivier held her hand tightly. She felt a sense of peace wash over her, and for the first time since the accident, she felt like she might be able to move on.
When they arrived at her apartment, Julie invited Olivier in for a cup of tea. As they sat on the couch, Julie felt a sense of awkwardness between them. She didn’t know how to act around Olivier now that she knew how he felt about her.
But as they talked, Julie began to realize that Olivier was still the same person he had always been. He still made her laugh and smile, and he still had a way of calming her down when she was upset.
As they finished their tea, Olivier stood up to leave. He leaned down and kissed Julie’s forehead, sending shivers down her spine.
“Goodnight, Julie. Sweet dreams,” he whispered.
“Goodnight, Olivier. Thank you for everything,” she replied.
As he walked out the door, Julie felt a sense of longing. She knew that Olivier was the kind of man she could see herself with, but she wasn’t sure if she was ready to take that step.
She sat on the couch, lost in thought. She knew that she needed more time to heal, but she also knew that Olivier was worth waiting for. She didn’t want to hurt him, but she also didn’t want to lead him on if she wasn’t ready for a relationship.
She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to clear her mind. She knew that she had a lot of decisions to make, but for now, she was content with the knowledge that she had a good friend by her side. She knew that with Olivier, anything was possible.
Chapter 5: Finding Comfort in Music
Julie had always found solace in music, but after the accident, it became more than just a hobby. It was a lifeline, a way to escape the pain and find a sense of purpose.
She had inherited a composition that her husband had been working on before his death. It was a beautiful piece, but unfinished, and Julie felt a sense of duty to complete it in his memory.
As she sat at the piano, her fingers moving over the keys, she could feel her grief beginning to melt away. The music was like therapy, each note washing over her and easing the pain in her heart.
She worked tirelessly on the composition, pouring all of her energy and emotion into it. Piece by piece, it began to take shape, each note coming together to form a beautiful melody.
It wasn’t just the music that was healing her, though. It was the sense of purpose it gave her, something to focus on and strive towards. For the first time since the accident, Julie felt like she was doing something meaningful.
As the weeks went by, Julie threw herself into the composition, working long hours and losing herself in the music. She barely left her apartment, but she didn’t mind. The music was all she needed.
One day, as she was playing, she heard a knock at the door. She hesitated for a moment, unsure if she was ready to face the outside world, but then she realized it was probably Olivier.
He had been checking in on her periodically since they reconnected, and she had grown to appreciate his gentle presence. He never pushed her to do anything she didn’t want to, but he was always there, a reminder that she wasn’t alone.
“Come in,” she called out, her fingers still moving over the keys.
Olivier entered the apartment, his expression softening as he saw Julie at the piano. “It sounds beautiful,” he said.
Julie paused, feeling a flush of embarrassment. “Thank you,” she murmured.
Olivier sat down next to her, watching as she played. “Have you thought about what you want to do with it?” he asked.
Julie shrugged. “Not really. I just wanted to finish it. I don’t know if I’ll ever share it with anyone.”
Olivier nodded, his gaze softening. “It’s yours to do with what you want,” he said. “But I think it’s too beautiful not to share.”
Julie looked at him skeptically, but something in his tone made her wonder. “What do you mean?”
Olivier smiled. “I know some people in the music industry. I could get you a meeting with a producer, see if they’re interested in hearing it.”
Julie felt a surge of panic at the thought. Her composition was deeply personal, something she had created as a tribute to her husband. The thought of putting it out into the world, of having it judged by strangers, was terrifying.
But then she thought of her husband, of how proud he would be to see her completing his work. She thought of her daughter, of the joy music had brought her. And she knew what she had to do.
“Okay,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “Let’s do it.”
Olivier smiled, his eyes lighting up. “You won’t regret it,” he said.
Over the next few weeks, Julie worked on perfecting the composition, making sure every note was just right. Olivier set up a meeting with a producer, and they sat down to listen to the piece together.
Julie was nervous, her heart pounding as the music filled the room. But as the producer sat back in his chair, his expression thoughtful, she knew it was worth it.
“It’s beautiful,” he said finally. “Raw, emotional, but with a real sense of control. I’d love to work with you on releasing it.”
Julie felt tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. She couldn’t believe it. Her composition, something she had created out of grief and love, was going to be shared with the world.
Over the next few months, Julie worked closely with the producer, fine-tuning the composition and preparing it for release. It was a daunting process, but with Olivier’s support, she managed to stay focused and committed.
Finally, the day of the release arrived. Julie sat in a small studio, surrounded by friends and family, as the producer played the composition for the first time on the radio.
Julie’s heart raced as the music filled the airwaves, and she felt a sense of pride and satisfaction like she had never known before. It wasn’t just the success of the music that made her feel this way, but the sense of purpose and accomplishment it had given her.
As the song ended, people in the room began to clap, a small smile forming on Julie’s lips. She knew that nothing could ever bring back her husband and daughter, but music had given her a new sense of hope and purpose.
And as she looked up to see Olivier’s smiling face, she knew that she would never be alone in her journey towards healing.
Chapter 6: The Weight of Guilt
Julie sat in her small apartment, staring out of the window at the bustling streets of Paris below. It had been six months since the accident that had taken her husband and daughter from her, and she still struggled to come to terms with her grief. She felt as though she was drowning in her sorrow, unable to find a way to the surface.
As she sat there, lost in her thoughts, she was suddenly overcome by a wave of guilt. Guilt for surviving the accident, for not being there to protect her family, for not being able to save them. It was a feeling that had haunted her since the day of the accident, but it had now taken on a life of its own.
She tried to push the thoughts aside, to focus on something else, but the guilt was all-consuming. She couldn’t escape it, no matter how hard she tried.
In an effort to distract herself, she turned to the composition that her husband had been working on before his death. It had been sitting in a pile of papers on her desk for months, untouched, but now she felt drawn to it. She picked up the sheet music and began to play the notes on her piano.
As she played, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. The music was beautiful, haunting, and full of emotion. It was as though her husband was speaking to her through the notes, telling her to let go of her guilt and embrace the present moment.
But as the music swelled to a crescendo, Julie was suddenly overwhelmed by the realization that she would never be able to hear her husband play again. She would never be able to see her daughter smile or hear her laugh. The weight of her loss was too much to bear.
She put down the sheet music and buried her head in her hands, tears streaming down her face. How could she ever move on from this?
Hours passed as Julie sat there, lost in her sorrow. The sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the city. It was then that she realized she had to do something. She couldn’t continue living like this, in a constant state of sorrow and guilt.
She stood up and walked over to the window, looking out at the city below. Paris was still bustling, even as the day came to a close. People were laughing, talking, living their lives. It was as though the city was telling her that life goes on, even in the face of tragedy.
With newfound determination, Julie decided to take action. She would start by confronting her guilt head-on. She would no longer allow it to control her life.
The first step was to talk to someone about her feelings. She knew she couldn’t keep them bottled up any longer. She picked up her phone and called Olivier, her old friend who had been there for her since the accident.
“Hey Julie, how are you doing?” Olivier answered, his voice warm and inviting.
“I need to talk to you,” Julie said, her voice trembling.
“Of course, what’s on your mind?” Olivier replied.
“I’ve been feeling so guilty, Olivier. Guilty for surviving the accident, for not being able to save my family. It’s consuming me, and I don’t know how to deal with it,” Julie said, her voice cracking.
“Julie, you have nothing to feel guilty about. You couldn’t have saved them, no matter what you did. The accident was out of your control,” Olivier said reassuringly.
“I know, but it doesn’t make the guilt go away,” Julie said, tears streaming down her face.
“It’s okay to feel guilty, Julie. It’s a natural part of the grieving process. But you can’t let it control you. You have to find a way to let it go,” Olivier said.
“I don’t know how,” Julie said, her voice barely above a whisper.
“Start by talking to someone, Julie. Share your feelings with someone you trust. It will help you to feel less alone,” Olivier said.
Julie took a deep breath and nodded. “Okay, thank you, Olivier. I needed to hear that.”
“Anytime, Julie. I’m here for you,” Olivier said.
After she hung up the phone, Julie felt a sense of relief. Just talking to someone had helped to ease her burden, even if only a little.
The next step was to confront her guilt in a more tangible way. She decided to visit the site of the accident, something she had been avoiding since it had happened.
She made her way to the spot where the car had crashed, the memories flooding back as she stood there. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.
As she opened her eyes, she saw a group of people approaching her. They were tourists, taking photos of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Julie felt a sudden anger rise up in her. How could they be so carefree, so oblivious to the pain that she was feeling?
But then she realized that they didn’t know her story. They didn’t know about the tragedy that had taken place on this very spot. They were living their lives, just as she needed to do.
Julie felt a weight lift off of her shoulders. She felt a sense of acceptance that she hadn’t felt before. Yes, she had suffered a terrible loss, but life still went on.
As she walked away from the site of the accident, Julie felt a renewed sense of purpose. She couldn’t change what had happened, but she could change how she approached it. She would honor the memory of her husband and daughter by living her life to the fullest, by letting go of her guilt and embracing the present moment.
With that thought in mind, Julie walked back to her apartment, ready to face whatever the future held for her.
Chapter 7: A New Beginning
Julie stood in the small, sparsely furnished apartment in Lyon that she had rented for the next few months. It was a far cry from the extravagant Parisian apartment that she had shared with her husband and daughter, but it felt like a fresh start. A chance to leave the weight of her memories behind and start anew.
She had sold most of her possessions, keeping only the essentials. The piano that had belonged to her husband was the hardest to part with, but it had felt like a necessary sacrifice in order to move on. In the end, she had decided to donate it to a local music school, hoping that it would inspire a new generation of musicians.
Julie had spent the last few weeks packing up her life in Paris and saying goodbye to the few friends that she had left. Sandrine had been her constant support, helping her to navigate the logistics of selling her apartment and finding a new place to live. For that, Julie was grateful beyond words.
The apartment was located in a quiet residential area of Lyon, far from the bustling streets of Paris. Julie had chosen it specifically for its peacefulness, hoping that the quiet surroundings would give her the space she needed to heal. She had no plans, no obligations, and no one to answer to.
Julie decided to take a walk around the neighborhood to get a feel for her new surroundings. The streets were lined with small cafes and bakeries, and the scent of freshly baked bread filled the air. She found herself drawn to a little bookstore on the corner, its shelves filled with books in various languages. Julie had always been an avid reader, and the thought of finding comfort in a good book seemed appealing.
She spent the next few hours browsing the aisles, picking up books that caught her eye and reading their back covers. She found herself lost in the worlds of fiction, the characters and their stories providing a much-needed escape from her own reality.
As she made her way back to her apartment, Julie felt a sense of peace that she hadn’t felt in a long time. She had left her old life behind, but she was starting to realize that it was possible to find joy and happiness in the present moment.
That night, Julie set up her new apartment with the few belongings that she had kept. She hung up photos of her husband and daughter on the walls, feeling both comforted and pained by their presence. It was a reminder of what she had lost, but also a reminder of the love that she had once known.
As she lay in bed that night, Julie thought about Olivier. They had kept in touch sporadically over the years, but they hadn’t seen each other in person since the accident. She wondered if he would be willing to visit her in Lyon, to catch up and offer his support.
The next morning, Julie woke up early and made her way to a local cafe for breakfast. She ordered a coffee and a croissant, taking a seat at a small table by the window. As she sipped her coffee, Julie saw a familiar face walking down the street. It was Olivier.
Her heart skipped a beat as he walked into the cafe and spotted her. They hugged tightly, both of them feeling the weight of their past and the possibility of a new future.
Over breakfast, they caught up on each other’s lives. Olivier had moved to Lyon a few years ago, finding work as a teacher at a local school. He had always regretted not confessing his feelings for Julie, but had respected her need for space after the accident.
Julie was surprised to hear about Olivier’s life in Lyon. She had always thought of him as a Parisian, but it seemed that he had made a home for himself in the smaller city. She felt a sense of admiration for his ability to move on and start anew, something that she was still struggling with.
As they finished their breakfast, Olivier asked if she needed any help settling into her new apartment. Julie hesitated, not wanting to burden him with her problems. But she also knew that she could use the help.
Together, they spent the rest of the day unpacking and organizing her belongings. Olivier made her laugh with his stories about the kids at his school, and Julie found herself feeling grateful for his presence in her life.
That evening, Olivier invited Julie to join him for a concert at a local music hall. Julie was hesitant at first, still feeling the weight of her grief. But she also knew that it was time to start experiencing new things again.
The concert was beautiful, the sounds of the orchestra filling the hall. Julie closed her eyes and allowed herself to be swept away by the music, feeling a sense of peace and hope. As they walked back to her apartment after the concert, Olivier took her hand in his, a gesture of comfort and support.
Back at the apartment, they sat on the couch and talked for hours, reminiscing about their past and discussing their hopes for the future. Julie found herself opening up to Olivier in a way that she hadn’t with anyone else, sharing her fears and her dreams.
As the night wore on, Julie found herself feeling tired but content. She had made a new friend, one who had helped her to see that there was still beauty and joy in the world. She knew that her journey towards healing was far from over, but for the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful about the future.
As she drifted off to sleep, Julie felt the ghost of a smile on her lips. She knew that tomorrow would bring new challenges, but she also knew that she was no longer facing them alone.
Chapter 8: The Power of Friendship
Julie was sitting alone in her apartment, feeling lost and alone. Her grief was suffocating, and she didn’t know how to escape it. She remembered that her old friend Sandrine had reached out to her a few weeks ago, asking to meet up. At the time, Julie had declined, but now she felt a sudden urge to see her friend.
She called Sandrine and arranged to meet her at a café in the city. Julie was nervous as she walked towards the café, unsure of what to expect. She hadn’t seen Sandrine in years, and she didn’t know how to act around her.
As she approached the café, she saw Sandrine waiting outside. She looked just as Julie remembered her – tall and elegant, with a warm smile on her face. Julie felt a wave of relief wash over her as she approached her friend, and they hugged each other tightly.
Sandrine led Julie inside and ordered them both coffee. They sat down and began to catch up. Sandrine talked about her job and her family, but Julie found it difficult to concentrate. She was too preoccupied with her own grief.
Finally, Sandrine asked her how she was doing. Julie hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to answer. But then she found herself pouring out her heart to Sandrine, telling her about the accident, about losing her husband and daughter, and about her struggle to cope with the grief.
Sandrine listened attentively, nodding her head and offering words of comfort when necessary. She didn’t try to offer platitudes or tell Julie that everything would be alright. Instead, she just listened, allowing her friend to express her pain without judgment.
As they talked, Julie began to feel a sense of relief. She had been carrying her grief alone for so long that it was a relief to finally share it with someone. Sandrine’s presence was a balm to her pain, and she found herself opening up even more, telling her friend things that she had never told anyone before.
Sandrine was a good listener – empathetic and attentive. She allowed Julie to vent her feelings without interrupting or judging her. She was a true friend, and Julie felt grateful for her presence in her life.
As they talked, Julie began to realize how much she had missed Sandrine. They had been close friends in the past, but they had drifted apart over the years. Seeing Sandrine again reminded Julie of the good times they had shared, and she felt a sudden sense of longing for the connection they had once had.
Sandrine sensed the change in her friend’s mood, and she suggested that they go for a walk in the park. Julie hesitated at first, feeling anxious about leaving the safety of her apartment. But Sandrine was persistent, and soon they were walking through the lush greenery of the park, commenting on the beauty of the flowers and the chirping of the birds.
As they walked, Sandrine began to tell Julie about her own struggles with grief. She had lost her father to cancer a few years ago, and she knew all too well the pain that Julie was feeling. She shared some of the things that had helped her through the worst of her sorrow, such as talking with friends, seeking professional help, and finding solace in nature.
Julie listened attentively, feeling a sense of kinship with her friend. They had both experienced loss, and they both knew what it was like to feel overwhelmed by grief. Sandrine’s words of wisdom offered Julie a glimmer of hope, reminding her that she was not alone in her struggle.
As they walked and talked, Julie felt herself beginning to relax. She felt a sense of calm wash over her, the first time she had felt anything resembling peace since the accident. Sandrine’s presence had a calming effect on her, and she was grateful for the respite from her pain.
As the sun began to set, they made their way back to the café. They sat down and ordered dinner, and for the first time in months, Julie found herself enjoying a meal. She laughed at Sandrine’s jokes and shared stories from her past. For a moment, she felt like her old self again – before the accident, before the grief.
After dinner, they walked back to Julie’s apartment. Sandrine hugged her tightly and promised to keep in touch. Julie felt a sense of sadness as she watched Sandrine walk away. She realized how much she had missed her friend, and how much she needed her in her life.
Over the next few weeks, Sandrine and Julie began to reconnect. They met up for coffee, went for walks in the park, and talked on the phone for hours. Sandrine helped Julie to see that she wasn’t alone in her grief, and that there was hope for her to recover.
With Sandrine’s help, Julie began to take small steps forward. She started to see a therapist, began to work on the composition that her husband had left unfinished, and reached out to some of her other friends. She still had a long way to go, but for the first time in months, she felt like there was a chance for her to heal.
As she lay in bed that night, Julie thought about Sandrine’s presence in her life. She realized how important it was to have friends who cared about you, who listened to you, and who supported you no matter what. She knew that she still had a long road ahead of her, but she was grateful to have Sandrine by her side, helping her to find her way back to the world.
Chapter 9: Facing the Past
Julie arrived at her hometown, feeling a mix of emotions she could hardly describe. It had been years since she last visited, and the memories of her family flooded her mind as she drove through the familiar streets. She had come back to confront the ghosts of her past, to find closure and make peace with the events that led up to the accident that claimed her family.
As she pulled up in front of her childhood home, she took a deep breath and stepped out of her car. The house looked exactly as she had remembered it, with the same brick walls and green shutters. But as she walked up the front steps, her heart felt heavy with the weight of her memories.
She rang the doorbell, and after a few moments, her mother answered. They hugged tightly, and Julie felt a sense of comfort in her mother’s embrace. They sat down in the living room, and Julie could hardly keep her tears at bay.
Her mother poured her a cup of tea and listened as Julie poured out her heart, detailing the events leading up to the accident. She talked about her husband’s infidelity, and the pain and anger that followed. She talked about the struggles she faced as a mother and a wife, and how she felt like she had lost herself in the process.
Julie’s mother listened without judgment, offering words of comfort and understanding. She told Julie that she had always been proud of her, and that she had been strong for so long. But now was the time to confront the pain and try to move on.
Together, they went through old photo albums and family memorabilia, and Julie was surprised at how much she had forgotten. Her mother told stories of her childhood, and Julie felt a sense of nostalgia and longing for the simpler times.
As the day turned to evening, Julie realized that it was time to confront her husband’s family. She had avoided them since the accident, but she knew that she needed to see them now and try to make amends.
She got into her car and drove to the house where her husband’s parents lived. Her heart raced as she rang the doorbell, and she was surprised when her mother-in-law opened the door.
They hugged, and Julie felt a sense of relief at the warmth of her embrace. They sat down in the living room, and Julie explained why she had come. She told them about her struggles and her pain, and how she had avoided them because she couldn’t bear the thought of facing their judgment.
But to her surprise, they were kind and understanding. They told her that they knew about their son’s infidelity and that they too had been hurt by it. But they had always loved her, and they could see the pain etched on her face.
They talked for hours, recounting happy memories of their time together. And as the night wore on, Julie realized that she had found some measure of peace. She had faced the past and found forgiveness and closure.
As Julie drove back to her childhood home, she felt a sense of clarity and purpose. She knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but she also knew that she had the strength to face it. She would always carry the memory of her husband and daughter with her, but now she could begin to heal and move forward.
When she arrived home, she called Olivier and told him that she was ready to return to Paris. He was overjoyed and promised to be there for her every step of the way.
Julie lay in bed that night, feeling a sense of calm that she hadn’t felt in years. She knew that there would be challenges ahead, but she also knew that she had finally faced the past and found the courage to move forward.
Chapter 10: A Second Chance
The sun was setting over the Parisian skyline as Julie sat on her balcony, lost in thought. She had just returned from a long walk through the city, feeling more at peace than she had in months. Her mind was no longer consumed by grief, and she allowed herself to feel a sense of hope for the future.
As she sipped her tea, Julie found herself thinking about Olivier, her old friend who had been a constant source of support in her time of need. He had been patient and kind, never pushing her to move on before she was ready. But she had begun to see him in a new light, sensing that there was a deeper connection between them.
Julie felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach as she thought about the possibility of starting a new relationship. It had been so long since she had felt anything resembling happiness or romance, and the idea of opening her heart to someone again was both terrifying and alluring.
Just then, her phone rang, interrupting her thoughts. It was Sandrine, her friend from college who had been a rock throughout the past few months. Sandrine had been in the loop about Olivier and Julie’s growing relationship, and Julie knew she would have a lot to say about it.
“Hey Julie, how’s it going?” Sandrine’s voice was cheerful, and Julie couldn’t help but smile.
“I’m doing alright, actually. I went for a walk today and it felt really good. How about you?”
“Oh, I’m fine. Just busy with work as usual. But I wanted to talk to you about something.”
Julie felt a tingle of anticipation in her chest, wondering what Sandrine could possibly have to say.
“Go on, I’m listening.”
“Well, I hear through the grapevine that Olivier has been pining after you for years. And honestly, I’m not surprised. You two have always had a connection, even back in college.”
Julie felt her cheeks flush, her heart pounding in her chest.
“Really? I had no idea.”
Julie wanted to ask Sandrine for more information, to know just how serious Olivier’s feelings were. But she also didn’t want to appear too eager or desperate.
“I really think you should give him a chance, Julie. He’s such a good guy, and he clearly cares about you a lot.”
Julie heard a knock at the door, interrupting her conversation with Sandrine. She excused herself, promising to call her back later, and went to answer it.
To her surprise, it was Olivier standing on her doorstep, a bouquet of flowers in his hand.
“Hey Julie,” he said, his voice soft and gentle. “I thought I’d stop by and see how you’re doing. And I also wanted to give you these.”
Julie felt her heart leap in her chest as she took the flowers from him, a mix of pink and purple blooms.
“Olivier, they’re beautiful. Thank you.”
She invited him inside, and they sat down at her kitchen table, sipping tea and chatting about their days. Julie found herself opening up to him more than she had before, sharing her feelings about the past few months and what she was looking for in the future.
“I feel like I’m ready to start moving on, Olivier. I don’t know what that means in terms of a relationship or anything, but I just want to be open to new experiences and new people.”
Olivier nodded, his eyes fixed on hers. “I understand, Julie. And I want you to know that I’m here for you, whatever you need. I care about you a lot, and I just want to see you happy.”
Julie felt a warmth spreading through her chest, a feeling of safety and comfort that she hadn’t experienced in a long time. She realized that Olivier was someone she could trust, someone who would be there for her no matter what.
As the night wore on, they said their goodbyes, and Julie felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building within her. The next few weeks were filled with phone calls, text messages, and dates, each one drawing her closer to Olivier and further from her past.
On a warm summer night, they sat on a park bench by the Seine, watching the boats drift by and listening to the sound of the water lapping against the shore. Olivier took her hand in his, and Julie felt a spark of electricity between them.
“Julie, there’s something I want to ask you. I know we’ve been taking things slow, but I feel like we have something really special here. Something that could last a lifetime.”
Julie’s heart was pounding in her chest as she listened to Olivier’s words. She realized that she felt the same way, that she was ready to take a chance on love again.
“I feel the same way, Olivier. You’ve been such a wonderful presence in my life, and I can’t imagine not having you by my side.”
Olivier smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Then will you be my girlfriend, Julie? Will you give me a chance to show you how much I care about you?”
Julie felt tears prickling at the corners of her eyes as she nodded, her heart overflowing with happiness and joy.
“Yes, Olivier. I will.”
As they embraced, Julie felt a sense of peace wash over her, a feeling of new beginnings and endless possibilities. She realized that even in the face of tragedy and loss, there was still hope for a happy future. And with Olivier by her side, she was ready to face whatever came their way.
Chapter 11: Letting Go
Julie sat at the window of her new apartment, looking out at the world below. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow across the city, and the air was filled with the sound of music and laughter. She breathed in the fresh air, feeling the warmth of the sun on her face, and smiled. For the first time in a long time, she felt truly alive.
It had been a long road to get here. After the accident, Julie had spiraled into a deep depression, consumed by grief and guilt. She had isolated herself from the world, shutting out everyone who cared for her. But slowly, she had found her way back to the light.
It had started with Olivier. He had been there for her from the beginning, a constant presence in her life, offering her his love and support. At first, she had resisted his advances. She didn’t feel ready for a new relationship, and the thought of letting go of her husband and daughter was too painful to bear. But over time, Olivier had worn down her resistance. He had shown her that it was possible to love again, and that life was worth living, even in the face of tragedy.
Julie had thrown herself into her music, working tirelessly to complete her husband’s unfinished composition. It had been a way for her to feel close to him, to keep his memory alive. But it had also been a form of therapy, a way for her to work through her pain and find a sense of purpose in her life again.
She had also reconnected with her old friend Sandrine, who had been a constant source of support and encouragement. Sandrine had reminded Julie of the power of friendship, and had helped her to see that she was not alone in her struggles.
And then there was the move. It had been a bold decision, one that Julie had made on a whim. She had sold everything she owned and moved to a new city, hoping that a change of scenery would help her to heal. And it had. In her new home, Julie had found a sense of peace and tranquility that she hadn’t felt in years. She had made new friends, discovered new passions, and felt her heart begin to open up again.
As Julie sat at the window, lost in thought, she felt a pair of arms wrap around her shoulders. She turned to see Olivier, smiling down at her. He leaned down and kissed her gently on the forehead.
“What are you thinking about?” he asked.
Julie smiled. “Just how grateful I am for everything,” she said. “For you, for my friends, for my music, for this city. For life.”
Olivier smiled back at her. “I’m grateful too,” he said. “For you.”
They stood there for a moment, looking out at the world together, before Olivier spoke again.
“You know,” he said, “I’ve been thinking. It’s been a year since the accident. Maybe it’s time we did something to honor their memory. Something to remember them by.”
Julie looked up at him, a spark of interest in her eyes. “Like what?” she asked.
Olivier paused, thinking. “I don’t know. Something meaningful. Something that would make them proud. Maybe we could organize a benefit concert for composers who are struggling, in honor of your husband. Or a scholarship fund for young musicians, in honor of your daughter.”
Julie nodded slowly, considering the idea. It was a beautiful thought, and one that resonated with her deeply.
“I like that,” she said. “Let’s do it. Together.”
Olivier smiled. “Together,” he repeated, and they embraced.
Over the next few months, they threw themselves into the project with fervor. They contacted musicians and composers, reached out to sponsors and donors, and organized a benefit concert that would honor the memory of Julie’s husband and daughter. It was hard work, and at times it felt overwhelming, but they persevered, fueled by a shared sense of purpose and determination.
And finally, the day of the concert arrived. It was held in a beautiful, historic theater, and was sold out weeks in advance. Musicians from all over the world had come to perform, and the program was filled with stunning compositions that touched the hearts of everyone in the audience. Julie and Olivier sat in the front row, holding hands, watching as their dream became a reality.
As the final notes of the last composition faded away, the audience gave a standing ovation, and Julie and Olivier stood up to take their bow. They looked out at the sea of faces, feeling the love and support of everyone around them. And in that moment, Julie realized that she had finally let go. She had let go of her grief, her guilt, her pain. She had let go of her husband and daughter, but not their memory. She had let go of the past, but not her love for them. She had let go of her fear, but not her hope for the future.
As they made their way out of the theater, Julie felt a sense of peace wash over her. She looked up at the sky, feeling the warmth of the sun on her face, and smiled. She was ready. Ready for whatever came next. Ready to live again.
Some scenes from the movie Three Colors: Blue written by A.I.
Scene 1
FADE IN:
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD – DAY
A blue car speeds down a winding road, the sound of its tires screeching echoing through the countryside. Inside, JULIE is driving, her husband and daughter beside her. They laugh and smile until…
SCREECH! CRASH!
The car flips over and over, metal crunching and glass shattering. A moment of silence, then Julie slowly opens her eyes, seeing her husband and daughter motionless, lifeless. She tries to move, but pain shoots through her body.
JULIE (voice trembling)
“No… no… this can’t be happening…”
FADE OUT.
Scene 2
EXT. JULIE’S APARTMENT BUILDING – DAY
Julie exits the front door of her apartment building, clutching a photo album. She takes a deep breath and makes her way down the steps, her eyes downcast.
She reaches the sidewalk and stops, the weight of her grief pressing down on her chest. She hears the sound of children playing in the distance and flinches, the noise a stark reminder of her loss.
Julie takes a few hesitant steps forward before collapsing to her knees on the sidewalk. She clutches the photo album to her chest, tears streaming down her face.
JULIE: (whispering) Come back to me…please come back…
Suddenly, a pair of hands reaches down and helps her up. Julie looks up to see her neighbor, Pierre, standing in front of her.
PIERRE: Julie, are you okay? Can I help you with something?
Julie wipes her tears and nods.
JULIE: Can you take this…album? I can’t…I can’t look at it anymore.
Pierre takes the album from her and puts a comforting hand on her shoulder.
PIERRE: Come on, let’s get you back inside.
He leads Julie back up the steps of the apartment building, giving her a reassuring smile as they go.
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie enters her apartment, the dim light casting a somber mood over the room. She walks over to a shelf and pulls out a bottle of pills, her hand shaking as she opens it.
JULIE: (to herself) Just one…just to take the edge off.
She swallows a pill and collapses onto the couch, her mind slipping into a hazy half-consciousness. It’s a temporary escape from her pain.
As Julie lies there, we see flashes of memories – her husband and daughter laughing, playing music together, and a car crash that changes everything.
END OF SCENE.
Scene 3
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits on her couch, staring blankly at the TV screen. The room is silent except for the low hum of the air conditioner. She’s lost in thought, her mind consumed by grief.
Suddenly, there’s a knock at the door. Julie doesn’t move. The knocking persists.
JULIE: (to herself) I don’t want to see anyone.
The knocking grows more insistent.
JULIE: (shouting) Go away!
The knocking stops.
JULIE: (sighs) Finally.
But then, she hears the sound of someone unlocking the door. The door swings open, revealing Olivier.
OLIVIER: Hey.
Julie stares at him for a beat, surprised to see him.
JULIE: Olivier? What are you doing here?
OLIVIER: I got worried about you. You haven’t returned my calls.
JULIE: I’m fine.
OLIVIER: Really? Because you look like you haven’t slept in days.
JULIE: I haven’t.
Olivier walks over to the couch and takes a seat next to Julie.
OLIVIER: Talk to me. What’s going on?
Julie hesitates for a moment before opening up to Olivier. As she speaks, tears start to stream down her face.
JULIE: I don’t know how to cope with this. I feel like a part of me is gone forever.
Olivier comforts her, placing a hand on her shoulder.
OLIVIER: You don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here for you.
Julie looks at him gratefully, touched by his kindness.
JULIE: Thank you.
OLIVIER: (smiling) Anytime.
The two of them sit in silence, Julie feeling a sense of comfort in Olivier’s presence.
FADE TO BLACK.
Scene 4
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits on her couch with a cup of tea in her hand, staring out the window. There’s a knock on the door.
JULIE: (to herself) Who could that be?
She gets up and walks towards the door, opening it to see Olivier standing outside.
JULIE: Olivier?
OLIVIER: Hi, Julie.
JULIE: What are you doing here?
OLIVIER: I wanted to talk to you. Can I come in?
Julie hesitates for a moment before stepping aside to let Olivier in. He walks in and takes a seat on the couch opposite Julie.
OLIVIER: How have you been?
JULIE: (sighs) It’s been tough.
OLIVIER: I can imagine. (pauses) Julie, there’s something I need to tell you.
Julie looks at him, curious.
OLIVIER: I’ve had feelings for you for a long time now. I’ve always held them back because I didn’t want to interfere with your marriage, but with everything that’s happened, I can’t hold back any longer.
Julie looks at him, shocked.
JULIE: Olivier, I don’t know what to say.
OLIVIER: I don’t expect you to say anything right now. I just wanted to be honest with you.
Julie nods, still processing what Olivier has just told her.
OLIVIER: I understand that you’re going through a lot right now, but I wanted you to know that I’m here for you. I care about you, Julie.
JULIE: (softly) Thank you, Olivier.
They both sit in silence for a few moments before Olivier gets up to leave.
OLIVIER: Take care, Julie.
Julie watches as he walks out of her apartment, a million thoughts running through her mind.
Scene 5
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits at her piano, surrounded by sheet music and unfinished compositions. She plays a few notes, but then stops.
JULIE
(to herself)
This is pointless.
She gets up from the piano and walks over to a picture of her husband and daughter on the wall.
JULIE (CONT’D)
(sighing)
I don’t know what to do.
Just then, her phone rings. It’s Olivier.
OLIVIER (V.O.)
Hey Julie, how’s it going?
JULIE
(sadly)
Not great.
OLIVIER (V.O.)
I know it’s not much, but I thought maybe we could go for a walk or something. Get some fresh air.
Julie considers for a moment.
JULIE
Alright.
EXT. PARISIAN PARK – DAY
Julie and Olivier walk through the park. Julie seems a bit more at ease.
JULIE
(smiling)
Thank you for this.
OLIVIER
(sympathetically)
I know it’s hard, Julie. But you can’t give up.
JULIE
(resigned)
I feel like I already have.
OLIVIER
(optimistically)
Then it’s time to start again. Find something that inspires you.
JULIE
(skeptically)
Like what?
OLIVIER
(thoughtfully)
Well, what did you and your husband bond over? What did you love to do together?
Julie thinks for a moment.
JULIE
(reminiscing)
Music. We loved music.
OLIVIER
(smiling)
Then why don’t you start there? Play something. Anything.
Julie looks at Olivier for a moment, then nods. She takes a deep breath and sits down at a nearby piano.
Julie begins to play a simple melody, at first tentatively but then with more confidence. As the melody builds, so does her confidence, until she is playing with all the passion and urgency of someone who has found a way to release their pain.
Olivier watches her, a smile on his face, as the music fills the air, offering a moment of respite from the sorrow and despair that has so consumed Julie’s life.
FADE OUT.
Scene 6
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits on her couch, surrounded by her husband’s music sheets and pictures of her family. She’s consumed by guilt and grief, tears streaming down her face.
JULIE
(whispering to herself)
Why did I survive? Why wasn’t it me?
She hears a knock on the door and quickly wipes her tears. It’s Olivier.
OLIVIER
(concerned)
Julie, are you okay?
JULIE
(avoiding eye contact)
I’m fine.
Olivier walks towards her and sits down next to her, holding her hand.
OLIVIER
Julie, you can talk to me. I know this is hard, but you don’t have to go through this alone.
Julie breaks down in tears, and Olivier hugs her tightly.
JULIE
(sobbing)
I can’t stop thinking about them. Every day, every minute. I should have been in that car with them.
OLIVIER
(holding her)
It’s not your fault, Julie. You couldn’t have known. You need to let go of the guilt, it’s only making things worse.
Julie looks at Olivier, grateful for his presence.
JULIE
(voice breaking)
Thank you for being here.
Olivier smiles at her, brushing away her tears.
OLIVIER
I’ll always be here for you.
They sit in silence for a moment, Julie slowly calming down.
JULIE
(sighing)
I don’t know what to do now. How can I go on when they’re not here?
Olivier takes her hand and looks into her eyes.
OLIVIER
You’ll find a way, Julie. And I’ll be here every step of the way.
Scene 7
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie is packing up her belongings, placing them into cardboard boxes. She looks around the empty apartment, a sense of sadness and nostalgia washing over her.
JULIE:
(to herself)
This is it, new beginnings.
As she finishes packing the last of her things, there is a knock at the door. She hesitates for a moment before answering it, unsure of who could be there. To her surprise, it is Olivier standing at her doorstep, holding a bouquet of flowers.
OLIVIER:
(surprised)
Julie, you’re leaving?
JULIE:
(sadly)
Yes, I am.
Olivier steps inside, looking around the empty apartment.
OLIVIER:
(worried)
Are you okay?
JULIE:
(smiling)
Yes, I’m okay. It’s time for me to move on, start a new chapter in my life.
OLIVIER:
(nodding)
I understand. I just want you to know that I care about you, no matter where you are or what you do.
Julie is touched by his words, and the two share a warm embrace.
JULIE:
(tearfully)
Thank you, Olivier.
As she pulls away, she notices the flowers in Olivier’s hand.
JULIE:
(smiling)
You brought me flowers?
OLIVIER:
(shyly)
Yes, I did. I know it’s not much, but I wanted to give you something to remember me by.
Julie takes the flowers and inhales their sweet fragrance, feeling a sense of peace and contentment.
JULIE:
(contentedly)
Thank you, Olivier. I will never forget this.
The two continue to talk for a while longer, enjoying each other’s company for the last time. Julie knows that this is not the end of their story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Scene 8
INT. CAFÉ – DAY
Sandrine and Julie sit across from each other, sipping coffee.
Sandrine: “I’m so glad you’re back in town, Julie. We have so much catching up to do!”
Julie: “Thank you, Sandrine. It’s good to see you again.”
Sandrine: “How have you been? I heard about what happened, and I’m so sorry.”
Julie’s eyes start to fill with tears.
Julie: “It’s been hard. Some days are better than others.”
Sandrine reaches across the table to take Julie’s hand.
Sandrine: “I’m here for you, Julie. Whatever you need, I’m here.”
Julie gives Sandrine a small smile.
Julie: “Thank you.”
Sandrine: “So, how are you adjusting to your new life?”
Julie: “It’s been a lot of changes, but I think it’s what I needed. Starting fresh.”
Sandrine: “Well, I’m glad you’re finding a way to move forward. And if you ever need a distraction, there’s a dance class that just opened up down the street.”
Julie: “A dance class?”
Sandrine nods.
Sandrine: “Yeah, it’s supposed to be really fun. I was thinking about signing up myself.”
Julie considers it for a moment.
Julie: “That actually sounds like a good idea.”
Sandrine grins.
Sandrine: “Great! I’ll sign us up tonight.”
Julie feels grateful for Sandrine’s presence in her life.
Julie: “Thank you, Sandrine. For everything.”
Sandrine: “Of course. You’re my friend, Julie. And friends stick together.”
Scene 9
INT. JULIE’S CHILDHOOD HOME – DAY
Julie stands in the doorway of her childhood home, staring at the familiar surroundings. Memories wash over her, both happy and painful. She takes a deep breath and steps inside.
JULIE:
(to herself)
You can do this.
As she makes her way through the house, she is struck by the feeling that everything is frozen in time. Old photographs line the walls, capturing moments from her past. She stops in front of a framed picture of her husband and daughter, tears welling up in her eyes.
Julie continues on into the living room, where she finds a piano sitting in the corner. It’s the same piano her husband used to play, the one she hasn’t touched since the accident. She hesitates, but something pulls her towards it.
Julie sits down at the piano and runs her fingers over the keys. Her heart races as she tries to remember the music her husband used to play. Slowly, she finds a melody and begins to play. The music fills the room, echoing through the house.
As she plays, memories flood back to her – memories of her husband and daughter, of their life together. She feels a sense of peace that she hasn’t felt in a long time. For a moment, it’s as if they are all together again.
But as she finishes the song, the reality of her loss hits her once again. She stands up from the piano, tears streaming down her face.
JULIE:
(to herself)
I miss you so much.
She takes one last look around the room before leaving the house, the weight of her grief heavy on her shoulders.
Scene 10
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits on her couch, staring at the phone in her hand. She is hesitant to call Olivier, not wanting to lead him on.
JULIE
(to herself)
Why can’t I just push him away like everyone else?
Suddenly, her phone rings, startling her.
JULIE
(answers phone)
Hello?
OLIVIER (V.O)
Hey Julie, it’s Olivier. How are you?
JULIE
I’m doing okay, just trying to keep busy.
OLIVIER (V.O)
I was hoping we could grab a coffee or something. It’s been awhile since we’ve caught up.
Julie hesitates, but ultimately agrees.
JULIE
Sure, that sounds nice.
CUT TO:
INT. CAFÉ – DAY
Julie and Olivier sit across from each other at a small table. There is an awkward silence between them at first.
OLIVIER
So, how have you been holding up?
JULIE
(hesitant)
It’s been tough, but I’m trying to take things one day at a time.
OLIVIER
I can only imagine how difficult it must be. I just want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what.
Julie looks at Olivier, grateful for his presence.
JULIE
(smiling softly)
Thank you, Olivier. That means a lot to me.
Olivier reaches across the table and takes Julie’s hand in his. They share a moment of connection, both feeling the weight of their emotions.
CUT TO:
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Julie sits at her piano, playing a beautiful melody. She closes her eyes and lets the music wash over her, finding comfort in its familiar notes.
CUT TO:
INT. CONCERT HALL – DAY
Julie stands on stage, facing a crowded concert hall. She takes a deep breath and begins to play her husband’s unfinished composition. The audience is captivated by her performance, moved by the raw emotion in the music.
CUT TO:
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Julie sits alone in her dark apartment, her face stained with tears.
JULIE
(whispering to herself)
I miss them so much…
CUT TO:
INT. JULIE’S THERAPIST’S OFFICE – DAY
Julie sits in her therapist’s office, holding back tears.
THERAPIST
I know it’s difficult, Julie, but you can’t blame yourself for what happened. You need to find a way to forgive yourself and move forward.
Julie nods, taking in the therapist’s words.
CUT TO:
INT. JULIE’S NEW APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits in her new apartment, surrounded by moving boxes.
JULIE
(to herself)
This is my chance to start fresh. To leave everything behind and begin again.
CUT TO:
INT. SANDRINE’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Julie and Sandrine sit on the couch, drinking wine and chatting.
SANDRINE
(smiling)
You know, Julie, I’m really proud of you. You’ve come so far since the accident.
Julie smiles, feeling grateful for Sandrine’s unwavering support.
JULIE
(thanking her)
Thank you, Sandrine. I couldn’t have done it without you.
CUT TO:
INT. OLIVIER’S APARTMENT – DAY
Olivier and Julie sit on the couch, laughing and talking. There is a sense of ease between them, their connection deepening with each passing day.
OLIVIER
(smiling)
Julie, I know we’ve been taking things slow, but I want you to know how much you mean to me. I love you.
Julie looks at him, surprised but happy.
JULIE
(tearfully)
I love you too, Olivier.
They embrace, both feeling a sense of belonging in each other’s arms.
CUT TO:
INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT – DAY
Julie sits at her piano, playing a new melody. The sunlight streams in through the window, illuminating her face.
JULIE
(to herself)
I may have lost them, but their love will always live on through me.
The music swells, filling the room with a sense of hope and renewal.
FADE TO BLACK.
