I agree, I don't think it's the balloon either. The balloon would have to be on the near side of the chair and even then the reflection would only be on the nearest solid surfaces and if there was a reflection reaching the back wall the light would be bent that way. I know I'm not describing this correctly haha I just hope you know what I'm talking about.

the refraction of light feels different, hugging the sweater and going toward the gentleman. I got a soothing feeling from it the moment I saw it

Not only do you have the balloon, but also all the different reflective surfaces in the home there. I agree it's an odd picture.

This is a reflection from the sun outside hitting a window pane behind the camera. I've seen these before. You can see how the reflection goes all the way onto the back wall of the kitchen.

Light refraction from glass or more likely a mirror in the room to be honest.