“Your mother is gone. Tears won’t bring her back—so wipe your face, make dinner, and don’t look like a grieving child when my guests arrive.” That was what my husband said.

Then I got ready to go, not to the kitchen or the market, but to the company headquarters. I stood in front of the large mirror in my room. My reflection had changed. My face, once dull and always tired from mental pressure, now looked fresh and radiant. My eyes, once swollen from tears, now emanated determination and intelligence. I wore a professional, elegant suit, without excessive frills, but which exuded an aura of authority. I adjusted my scarf slightly, making sure everything was perfect. Today was an important day. An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders would be held, and I, Sarah, would take the place my mother should have occupied.