Nathalie... 2006

Catherine, a forty-something gynecologist, makes a shocking discovery about her husband, Bernard, a businessman who has been unfaithful. In a bid for both revenge and understanding, she employs an upscale prostitute and hairdresser to take on the persona of Nathalie, tasked with seducing Bernard to gather details about their encounters. As Nathalie embraces her role, a rich and complex dynamic forms between the two women, filled with both tension and unexpected intimacy.

Nathalie’s descriptions of her meetings with Bernard are stark and raw, filled with crude frankness that forces Catherine to confront the reality of her husband’s betrayal. Their contract, designed to keep emotions at bay, is repeatedly crossed, often driven by feelings that blur the lines of their arrangement. Despite moments of doubt about her motives, Catherine continually seeks to reconnect with Nathalie, deepening their bond.

Their relationship evolves, leading to a moment where Nathalie, now without a home, relies on Catherine for assistance. Catherine goes above and beyond by not only securing Nathalie a place to stay but also introducing her to her own mother, further entangling their lives.

However, things take a turn when Nathalie reveals that Bernard wants to start a new life with her. This revelation leaves Catherine in disbelief, prompting her to confront Bernard. He vehemently denies any wrongdoing, asserting that there is no other woman in his life. Feeling conflicted, Catherine guides Bernard to the bistro where she regularly meets Nathalie. When Nathalie unexpectedly arrives and spots the couple, she panics and runs away.

Eventually, Nathalie confesses to Catherine that she fabricated the entire story and never engaged in any intimacy with Bernard. Faced with this revelation, Catherine opts to “forgive and forget,” choosing to set aside the betrayal in pursuit of her own emotional clarity.