A Nearly Normal Family

Ulrika observes the trial with a growing sense of despair, realizing the gravity of the situation and the shattered dreams of her daughter. Ulrika reflects on her relationship with Stella, feeling a deep sense of failure as a mother. Ulrika longs for a deeper connection with both her daughter and Adam.

Ulrika reminisces about her early relationship with Adam and his humble, thoughtful nature and ability to respectfully challenge her views. Ulrika acknowledges that Adam’s pastoral aspirations initially caused her discomfort, yet she defended him, focusing on their deep connection based on security, solidarity, and belonging. Nevertheless, she regretted allowing Adam to persuade her to become pregnant with Stella.

In the courtroom, Ulrika watches Stella recount her relationship with Christopher. Stella emphasizes that their relationship was casual and not serious, as she had plans for an extensive trip to Asia. Stella also addresses Amina’s involvement with Christopher, insisting that their interactions were harmless. Stella maintains her innocence, stating that she was terrified by Linda Lokind’s stalking and only sought safety at Christopher’s place on the night of the murder. She asserts that she returned home after finding Christopher’s apartment empty, unaware of the events that transpired thereafter.

The prosecutor, Jenny Jansdotter, challenges Stella’s previous statements about the events leading to Christopher Olsen’s death. Stella admits to lying in a previous police interview to punish her father but states that she was home before midnight, not at two o’clock as she initially claimed. She explains her actions as a response to her father’s overprotectiveness and a moment of childishness. Stella denies any sexual relationship between Amina and Christopher, insisting that she and Amina had decided not to see him anymore.

Ulrika reflects on Stella’s relationship with Amina, considering their unshakeable solidarity. She contemplates her own life, noting her lack of close friendships and her tendency to hide emotions. As the prosecution presents forensic evidence linking Stella to the crime scene, Ulrika becomes increasingly distressed, especially during testimonies that portray Stella in a negative light.

Adam gives his testimony in court, focusing on his relationship with his daughter. Adam admits to struggling with some of Stella’s life choices and with the difficulty of parenting a teenager. He provides an account of the night of the murder, stating that he was awake and noticed Stella returning home at 11:45 p.m.

Ulrika reflects on her relationship with Adam and their journey as parents. She acknowledges the doubts and challenges they faced—especially her own struggles with balancing motherhood and her career. Ulrika appreciates Adam’s unwavering support and his ability to be a constant, nurturing presence for Stella. However, Ulrika also envies the close bond between Adam and Stella.

Jenny Jansdotter probes Adam about his claim of being awake when Stella arrived home. A recovered deleted text from Stella’s phone contradicts Adam’s statement about the time of her return, showing she replied that she was on her way home at a time when Adam claimed she was already there.

Adam is under intense scrutiny from the prosecutor. Adam struggles to explain the text message discrepancy, suggesting that texts can be delayed. The prosecutor also interrogates him about Stella’s missing cell phone and bloody blouse, but Adam firmly denies any knowledge or involvement in their disappearance.

Ulrika reflects on the gradual improvement in her relationship with Stella over the years, attributing much of this progress to Amina. However, she feels guilty over finding it easier to communicate with Amina than with her own daughter. After Adam leaves the witness stand, Ulrika comforts him, realizing that their family is the most important thing and must stand together.

Amina takes the witness stand, affirming her enduring friendship with Stella and describing Stella’s unique and brave personality. Her emotional testimony impacts the courtroom atmosphere.

Amina testifies about her and Stella’s acquaintance with Christopher Olsen, emphasizing that Stella and Christopher were not in a serious relationship: They were physically involved but not emotionally connected. Ulrika recalls her actions upon discovering Stella’s phone and her worries about Stella’s situation. Amina, under pressure from the prosecutor, eventually reveals that she had a sexual encounter with Christopher.

Ulrika reflects on the dynamics of her family, highlighting Stella’s dominating personality and tendency to manipulate her parents. Amina serves as a balancing force, helping mediate between Stella and her parents. Ulrika recalls a handball game where Amina expressed her exhaustion at constantly needing to excel in all areas of her life. This resonated with Ulrika.