questions about identity and integrity. At the start of the novel, a dreary afternoon draped in rain sets a melancholic tone as Félicia contemplates her recent exhibition and the feelings of emptiness that follow artistic acclaim. The scene emphasizes her discontent and the muddiness of her surroundings, mirroring her emotional state. The characters engage in conversations that reveal their inner turmoil; Félicia’s desire for connection and love contrasts sharply with her artistic aspirations, underscored by her interactions with Paul, a person from her past. The opening portrays a rich tapestry of emotions as it sets the stage for the deeper conflicts and romantic entanglements that will likely shape the story's progression. (This is an automatically generated summary.)