Loving a Leaf (Refined)

Author: [French] émile Zola
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-09-01
Features: "A Leaf of Love" is another masterpiece by Zola. The upright and kind protagonist, Elena, lives with her daughter, Jane, after becoming a widow. Jane is frail and nearly dies, but is brought back to life under the careful care of Dr. Henry. Over time, Elena and Henry fall in love, but their feelings remain unspoken. By chance, Elena discovers that Henry's wife is having an affair outside and learns their trysting time and place. Out of righteous anger, Elena writes to Henry, asking him to meet her there at the designated time, actually intending for him to catch them in the act. At the last moment, Elena changes her mind and devises a plan to help the couple escape. Henry mistakes Elena for confessing her love to him and boldly makes a move, making Elena unintentionally become his mistress. Later, Jane discovers the truth and becomes deeply sorrowful, her old illness recurring and leading to her death. Elena spends the rest of her life in regret.