- 10 hours ago
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00.
00:49Sold my mom to the old farmer next door.
00:52My dad said that before he left for the army.
00:54The old farmer had a bad leg, but he was a savage man.
00:57People said he even killed his first wife.
01:01He was strong enough to knock out a bull with one punch.
01:04For my mom, marrying him was a death sentence.
01:07Three years later, the news came that my dad was dead.
01:10Right away, my grandma sold my mom to the monster for $2,000.
01:15The day we heard the news of dad's death, it was December, right after a blizzard.
01:20My mom was feeding the cattle barefoot.
01:23Grandmother never allowed her to wear shoes.
01:25She said a bitch like her didn't deserve them.
01:28I often went to the woods to gather branches for warmth, but my uncle would always snatch them away for
01:33his fireplace.
01:35No matter how we begged, it was useless.
01:37Grandmother would beat us and curse us for days.
01:40I felt sorry for mom and tried to help her feed the cows.
01:44Baby, go play over there.
01:46The sun is out.
01:47It's warmer there.
01:48My shoes were torn and falling apart.
01:50The sun was our only source of heat.
01:53After feeding the cows, we went back to the cabin.
01:56Grandmother was already waiting, fuming with rage.
01:59What took you so long?
02:00Were you out looking for other men again?
02:03She rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.
02:05The army sent word.
02:06Jason is dead.
02:08Ever since he married you, my son was cursed by your bad luck.
02:12She didn't look sad about her son's death at all.
02:14There had to be a secret behind this.
02:17Now that he's gone, get out of this house.
02:19Don't stay here and ruin the Hudson family name.
02:22She looked at us with disgust and kept grumbling.
02:25Luckily, my son sold you to Rick before he left.
02:28Otherwise, we would have lost so much money feeding you two.
02:32My mom didn't fight back.
02:34She just picked up her coat and held my hand tight.
02:37Mom, at least let me take the child with me.
02:39Grandmother looked me up and down.
02:41She had a wicked look in her eyes.
02:43That depends on if that old farmer pays more.
02:49A girl her age could fetch $2,000 at the town.
02:55She's worth much more than you.
02:57My mom gripped my hand even harder.
02:59We both knew the truth.
03:01As soon as she marries Rick, grandmother will sell me away.
03:05It was the day we were driven to Rick's ranch.
03:07The legendary monster was there, chopping wood.
03:11Each swing of his axe was terrifying.
03:13One of his legs was broken and propped on a wooden stool.
03:16He looked strange and menacing.
03:18A huge scar ran from his left eye down to his mouth.
03:21It looked like his face was split in two.
03:24I hid behind my mom, trembling.
03:26Rick looked at us coldly.
03:28You're forcing this woman on me for $500?
03:31Now you want $2,000 more?
03:33He clearly didn't want my mom.
03:35And he definitely didn't want a burden like me.
03:37My son Jason saved your life in that blizzard.
03:40Now that he's gone, you should be grateful to take her.
03:43This girl will be your daughter.
03:44It's a blessing.
03:45$2,000 is a bargain for you.
03:48$2,000 was a lot of money.
03:50It could buy so many seeds.
03:51I knew I wasn't worth that much.
03:54Rick glanced at grandmother but said nothing.
03:56People said he was a man of few words.
03:58But one look from him could scare anyone to death.
04:02Grandmother shoved my mom forward.
04:03My mom's thin body almost hit the ground.
04:06She pulled me along and knelt down instantly.
04:08Rick, my child eats very little.
04:10She can feed the cows and collect firewood.
04:13Please, give us a way to live.
04:16His eyes were sharp, judging me.
04:18Call him Dad.
04:21I looked at Rick and that terrifying scar.
04:24Dad.
04:25Rick froze.
04:26His scar looked even more twisted.
04:28Grandmother kicked me hard in the back.
04:30Your father just died and you're already calling him Dad.
04:34Just like your mother, a traitor to the family.
04:37She kept kicking me over and over.
04:39I lay on the ground, motionless.
04:42I didn't fight back or scream.
04:43I knew if she had her fun, she would eventually stop.
04:47Mom crawled over to save me.
04:48But Grandmother slapped her across the face.
04:51This was life in the Hudson house.
04:53Mom couldn't save me.
04:55And she couldn't save herself.
04:57Suddenly, Rick threw a roll of cash at Grandmother's feet.
05:01And enough!
05:02This girl belongs to my family now.
05:04No signature, no money.
05:06In the end, she gave in for the cash.
05:09Mom and I officially became part of Rick's family.
05:12Mom folded our two ragged coats by the cow shed.
05:15She started working right away.
05:17She wanted to be useful.
05:18She thought hard work would keep us from being beaten.
05:21Rick's cabin was simple.
05:23Three rooms and a living area.
05:25Only one bedroom had a bed.
05:26The other rooms were empty.
05:28Mom took me to the cow shed.
05:30It was kept very clean.
05:32Mom found some wooden boards to make me a bed.
05:34I will sleep here tonight.
05:36Don't be afraid, baby.
05:38I spread hay over the boards.
05:41I'm not scared, Mom.
05:43It was the same back at the Hudson Ranch.
05:45When Dad was home, he said I was in the way.
05:47He always kicked me out to the cow shed.
05:49The Hudson's shed was much filthier.
05:52There were rats and snakes everywhere.
05:54Freezing in winter and boiling in summer.
05:56I survived all those years.
05:59Mom hugged me tightly.
06:02It's my fault I couldn't keep your father's heart.
06:05Dad was always talking to Mom.
06:07I knew there was a secret behind all this.
06:10Mom, why did Dad want you to marry Rick?
06:12Before, Dad never let her leave the ranch.
06:15He never let her look at anyone and lie.
06:18Grandmother always cursed her for flirting with outsiders.
06:21Why the sudden rush to marry her off?
06:24Mom's bitter laugh was muffled in her chest.
06:26Her voice was barely a whisper.
06:28Because only Rick had this much money and...
06:32She didn't finish the sentence, but I knew.
06:35Dad sent Mom here to die.
06:36Dad decided to sell Mom for money before he even left.
06:40He wasn't coming back, and he didn't want Mom to survive.
06:43He wanted to cut off her every means of escape.
06:45Even as a child, I could see their plot.
06:47It was so obvious that all the neighbors were talking about it.
06:51A moment later, Rick came back.
06:52He ignored us.
06:53He carried a pile of wooden boards into the house.
06:56The sound of his heavy hammering echoed, hitting our hearts.
06:59Mom stood outside, hesitant.
07:01She wanted to ask where the flour and beef were so she could cook.
07:04But she didn't dare.
07:05After a while, Rick came out.
07:07He saw us standing there like statues and frowned.
07:09Something wrong?
07:11His voice was gruff.
07:12I wanted to shrink back.
07:13But it was just me and Mom.
07:15If I backed down, she would be all alone.
07:18I stood my ground and held her hand tight.
07:21Rick noticed my move and his brow twitched.
07:23Mom asked hesitantly.
07:25I wanted to ask about dinner.
07:28Please give me the ingredients so I can cook.
07:33Rick frowned again, looking at us with confusion.
07:36He pointed toward the kitchen.
07:38In there.
07:41And the key?
07:42Rick's frown deepened.
07:44He walked over and kicked the door open.
07:45Then he looked back at us.
07:47I felt like he was asking if we were stupid.
07:49There was no lock, so why would there be a key?
07:51But things were different at the Hudson Ranch.
07:53The Hudson kitchen was always locked.
07:55Even the flour, beef, and butter were kept in locked cabinets.
07:59Mom cooked every meal, but Grandmother decided every gram of food.
08:02She would put the exact amount on the counter and watch Mom cook.
08:06If a single grain of flour was dropped, she would scream for hours.
08:10She called Mom a money waster and called us starving ghosts.
08:13All you do is eat!
08:15You're useless!
08:17She was afraid we would steal food.
08:19Mom led me into the kitchen.
08:20Seeing the flour, beef, and butter sitting there made her hesitate.
08:23She looked at Rick, but he had already gone back outside.
08:26Mom didn't dare touch the food.
08:28She was afraid that if she messed up, Rick would beat her.
08:30Just like Grandmother did.
08:31She was afraid of being accused of stealing.
08:34Mom made dinner with trembling hands.
08:36She put the food on the table.
08:37But we stood in the yard, not daring to move.
08:41Rick came back carrying two large wooden crates.
08:44He put them into the empty, unused room.
08:47He saw the food, and then saw us standing outside.
08:50His frown deepened.
08:52He sat down at the table and called us inside in a gravelly voice.
08:55While he ate, he grunted,
08:57Not enough.
08:58Make more tomorrow.
08:59He ate quickly, finishing half and leaving the rest for us.
09:02Then he stood there, chopping wood while watching us eat.
09:06We didn't dare to eat much, but I soon noticed something strange.
09:10When I took big bites, he focused on his work.
09:12The moment I put down my fork, he would stare at me and frown.
09:16Did he want us to eat more?
09:18We finished the meal in fear, waiting for the beatings to start.
09:22But Rick didn't yell or hit us.
09:24He just put away his axe and spoke.
09:28Wash up and go to sleep. It's been a long day.
09:31After Rick finished, Mom took me to wash up.
09:34We hadn't used hot water in three years.
09:36She kept muttering as she washed, her face full of nerves.
09:40I must get clean, then he won't hate me.
09:43The hot water hit my back, and I felt warm instantly.
09:46I never knew a bath could feel this good.
09:49At the Hudson Ranch, this was a heaven I couldn't even imagine.
09:52After the bath, I headed to the cow shed to sleep.
09:55Mom pulled me aside.
09:57Cover your ears.
09:58No matter what you hear, don't come out.
10:00Just pretend you're asleep.
10:02Okay?
10:03I nodded hard.
10:04I understood.
10:06Back then, Dad would come home drunk and beat me in the shed.
10:09He called me a waste of money and a curse.
10:11He blamed me for his gambling losses.
10:13One time, he almost killed me.
10:15Mom had to grab an axe to fight him off just to save me.
10:18Now, looking at Rick, he was much stronger than Dad.
10:21He could probably kill me with one kick.
10:23But he wasn't drunk, and he wasn't angry.
10:25He picked me up like a little chick and carried me into the empty room.
10:29Mom was already waiting there.
10:30The room wasn't empty anymore.
10:32There was a wide wooden bed inside.
10:34It was piled with old but clean quilts and two sets of warm clothes.
10:38Rick set me down and turned to leave.
10:40He went back to his own room and closed the door.
10:43Soon, I heard him snoring.
10:44I never thought I'd get to sleep inside a house again.
10:47That night, we slept restlessly, but it was so warm.
10:51I curled up in my quilt and whispered,
10:54Mom, it's so warm.
10:56I had never felt this warm in winter before.
10:59My stomach was full, and my heart felt safe.
11:02For the first time, I felt like I was actually alive.
11:06Mom stroked my hair.
11:07Baby, you called him Dad today.
11:11Call him that tomorrow and every day after.
11:14I nodded.
11:15Okay.
11:17Rick was already much better to me than my real father.
11:20After that, Mom slowly started making more food.
11:23She was careful, adding just a little more each time.
11:26It took days for her to figure out Rick's temper and appetite.
11:30He ate a lot, as much as Mom and me combined.
11:33But he never told us we couldn't eat.
11:35In fact, if we ate too little, he would frown.
11:38He went hunting in the mountains around the ranch.
11:40He sold the big one in town.
11:42But sometimes, he brought back rabbits or pheasants for Mom to stew.
11:46He only ate half and left the rest for us.
11:48In my whole life, I had only tasted meat three times.
11:52This was the fourth.
11:53The meat tasted so good.
11:55No wonder Grandmother and my uncle loved it so much.
11:58Mom saw how happy I was and gave me extra.
12:00I ate so much that I didn't notice the pain until midnight.
12:04I was rolling on the bed in agony.
12:06Mom rubbed my stomach, but nothing worked.
12:08She gave me hot water, but I threw it up instantly.
12:12I felt like I was dying.
12:14Rick burst into the room.
12:15He wrapped me in a quilt and hoisted me onto his shoulder.
12:19He started running.
12:20Mom stumbled along behind him, too scared to say a word.
12:24He ran all the way to the town doctor's house.
12:26He kicked the door open.
12:28The doctor's family was terrified.
12:30They started to complain, but one look at Rick's face silenced them.
12:34The doctor checked me with a stethoscope.
12:37He asked what I had eaten.
12:39It's indigestion.
12:40She ate too much.
12:41She's been malnourished for years.
12:44Her body can't handle this much meat all at once.
12:47I'll give her something to throw it up.
12:49He poured something into my mouth.
12:51I vomited everything out.
12:53The room smelled awful.
12:55The doctor's wife grumbled in the corner.
12:57Clearly, she's never had anything good in her life.
13:00She doesn't have the luck to enjoy good food.
13:02Rick looked up and gave her a death stare.
13:05She scurried back into her room, terrified.
13:08I felt so ashamed.
13:09I got sick just from eating meat.
13:12Maybe grandmother was right.
13:13Maybe I was just a starving ghost who didn't deserve anything.
13:18Rick carried me back home.
13:19On the way, he asked in a low voice.
13:22Have you never had meat before?
13:24I thought he was judging me.
13:26This was only my fourth time before I only ever had a bite.
13:31At the Hudson's, they wouldn't even give us the leftover broth.
13:34I truly had never had anything good.
13:37He gave a low grunt.
13:39You'll get used to it if you eat it more often.
13:42I was sick and could only eat rice porridge for a few days.
13:46Rick bought some supplements from town.
13:48Those were expensive things I had never seen before.
13:52I ate rice porridge with nutrient powder every meal.
13:55It was even better than what my mom ate when I was born.
13:59Rick watched me eat every day.
14:01Once my face looked healthy again, he stopped worrying.
14:05He went to fix the doctor's fence.
14:07Then he dragged the doctor back to check my heartbeat.
14:10Only after the doctor said I was fine did he let him go.
14:13He said he was going deep into the mountains to hunt.
14:16He wanted to catch something big.
14:18He would be gone for days and asked mom to pack some food.
14:22Mom mixed butter and brown sugar into the dough.
14:24The flatbread smelled delicious as she baked it.
14:28She also gave him thick insoles and a winter hat she had made.
14:33Rick took the food and looked at the gifts.
14:35He looked at her and his eyes softened.
14:38Christmas is coming soon.
14:40I'll buy you gifts once I sell the big game.
14:43Think about what you want.
14:45Mom and I stood at the ranch gate to see him off.
14:48Watching his limping figure, I couldn't help but shout,
14:51Dad, come back soon!
14:53Rick's body stiffened for a second.
14:55He didn't look back, but he waved his hand.
14:57Go inside, it's cold out here!
15:00We waited for five days, but he didn't come back.
15:06That night, the weather turned even colder.
15:09On the fifth day, snow began to fall from the sky.
15:13Mom looked at the darkening sky, then at me.
15:17She pointed to the food in the kitchen.
15:20She told me to take care of myself and fix something to eat if I got hungry.
15:25I'm going to find him.
15:28I'll be back soon.
15:29She put on thick clothes, strapped a dagger to herself, and took a flashlight.
15:36I was too worried to stay, so I hid a small curved knife on myself.
15:41I followed closely behind her.
15:44Where you go, I go, Mom.
15:45We're going to bring Dad home.
15:46In my heart, Rick was my father.
15:49He was a thousand times better than my real father.
15:54Mom sighed.
15:55If something really happened to him, you wouldn't survive alone.
15:58Let's go.
15:59Together.
16:00We held hands and walked deep into the mountains.
16:04Before, we only gathered firewood at the edge of the woods.
16:08People said there were wolves, wild boars, and man-eating black bears deep inside.
16:14But, as long as I was with Mom, and thinking that Dad was waiting for us, I wasn't scared at
16:21all.
16:21Heavy snow fell from the sky.
16:24It was only afternoon, but it was already completely dark.
16:28The path through the woods was extremely hard to walk.
16:33I stepped deep and shallow, sometimes falling into deep holes made of fallen leaves.
16:39Mom pulled me out and used a stick to check the path ahead.
16:43Before long, heavy footsteps came from ahead.
16:48Mom pulled out her dagger, and I gripped my curved knife tightly.
16:53We stared ahead, terrified and alert.
16:56In that moment, I thought, even if I die, I want to die with Mom.
17:02The footsteps grew closer.
17:04A tall, limping figure appeared.
17:07He was dragging a huge black bear, walking with difficulty with every step.
17:13We both froze.
17:15Dad!
17:16Dad!
17:16I let go of Mom's hand and rushed over suddenly.
17:19I hugged his leg tightly and looked up at him.
17:22The black bear fell heavily to the ground.
17:25What?
17:26What are you doing here?
17:27He looked at us, completely shocked.
17:29He reached out to pick me up.
17:31But he was clearly exhausted, trying several times but failing.
17:36I held tightly to his thigh.
17:38Dad, we came to take you home.
17:41That night, the weather turned even colder.
17:44On the fifth day, snow began to fall from the sky.
17:47Mom looked at the darkening sky, then at me.
17:50She pointed to the food in the kitchen.
17:53She told me to take care of myself and fix something to eat if I got hungry.
17:58I'm going to find him.
18:00I'll be back soon.
18:02She put on thick clothes, strapped a dagger to herself, and took a flashlight.
18:08I was too worried to stay, so I hid a small curved knife on myself.
18:13I followed closely behind her.
18:15Where you go, I go, Mom.
18:16We're going to bring Dad home.
18:18In my heart, Rick was my father.
18:20He was a thousand times better than my real father.
18:24Mom sighed.
18:25If something really happened to him, you wouldn't survive alone.
18:27Let's go.
18:29Together.
18:30We held hands and walked deep into the mountains.
18:33Before, we only gathered firewood at the edge of the woods.
18:37People said there were wolves, wild boars, and man-eating black bears deep inside.
18:42But, as long as I was with Mom, and thinking that Dad was waiting for us, I wasn't scared at
18:48all.
18:49Heavy snow fell from the sky.
18:51It was only afternoon, but it was already completely dark.
18:55The path through the woods was extremely hard to walk.
18:59I stepped deep and shallow, sometimes falling into deep holes made of fallen leaves.
19:05Mom pulled me out and used a stick to check the path ahead.
19:08Before long, heavy footsteps came from ahead.
19:12Mom pulled out her dagger, and I gripped my curved knife tightly.
19:17We stared ahead, terrified and alert.
19:20In that moment, I thought, even if I die, I want to die with Mom.
19:25The footsteps grew closer.
19:27A tall, limping figure appeared.
19:30He was dragging a huge black bear, walking with difficulty with every step.
19:35We both froze.
19:37Dad!
19:38Dad!
19:38I let go of Mom's hand and rushed over suddenly.
19:41I hugged his leg tightly and looked up at him.
19:43The black bear fell heavily to the ground.
19:46What?
19:46What are you doing here?
19:48He looked at us, completely shocked.
19:50He reached out to pick me up.
19:52But he was clearly exhausted, trying several times but failing.
19:56I held tightly to his thigh.
19:58Dad, we came to take you home.
20:00Mom rushed over as well.
20:03Rick, you've been gone for five days, and it started snowing.
20:08She didn't dare say she was worried.
20:10Back then, when my biological father didn't come home for days, Mom went to look for him, too.
20:16I was afraid something happened to you.
20:19But my father just slapped her across the face.
20:22Something happened?
20:23What could happen to a man like me?
20:25It's because you cursed me all day that I'm so unlucky!
20:27After that, Mom never dared to show her worry again.
20:31He wasn't a good husband, a good father, or even a good person.
20:36But Rick just looked at Mom and quirked his lips.
20:39He tried to smile, but maybe he hadn't smiled in years and forgot how.
20:44He gave us an explanation.
20:45This game was too big. That's why I'm late.
20:49He hoisted the black bear back up and told us to go home.
20:53Go back and start the fire. I'll be home soon.
20:57That bear was massive.
20:59He must have dragged it for so long that he was completely exhausted.
21:04Yet, he didn't demand our help.
21:06He wanted to carry the burden himself.
21:09Mom saw how tired he was and hesitated.
21:12She didn't want to disobey, but she desperately wanted to help.
21:16I ran forward and grabbed the bear's leg.
21:20Dad, we're going back with you.
21:22I didn't have much strength and the bear's fur felt terrifying.
21:26It was so huge that it looked fierce even in death.
21:30Mom found her courage and ran over too.
21:34We'll help you.
21:35It took all our strength to drag the black bear home.
21:39The snow on the ground was thick now.
21:42The ranch was pitch black and the trail was empty.
21:46We finally made it back.
21:48The giant bear lay in the snow, looking even more fierce.
21:53But I wasn't afraid.
21:54I circled it a few times and ran back to Rick.
21:58I leaned against his leg and looked up.
22:01Dad, you're amazing.
22:03You actually killed a black bear.
22:06Rick was too tired to move, but he reached out.
22:09He gently patted my head.
22:12Yeah.
22:14His hand was large, rough, and heavy.
22:17But when he touched me, it was light and warm.
22:21Jason's hands were big too, but they weren't rough.
22:25He rarely did any real work.
22:27Jason wasn't even that strong.
22:30When he got into trouble in town, he would just curl up and take the hits.
22:35But when he hit me and Mom, he was very strong.
22:39His blows made my head ring every time.
22:42In this place, many men slapped their wives and children.
22:46I used to think all fathers and husbands were like that.
22:50I didn't know someone could be different.
22:53The next morning, before dawn, Rick borrowed a tractor.
22:58He woke us up to go to town and sell the bear.
23:01He knew exactly where to go.
23:04He stopped at a grand luxury house.
23:07A butler came out and greeted him warmly.
23:10They hugged and talked like old friends.
23:14I realized then that Dad could be so full of life.
23:17He could actually talk this much.
23:21Mom and I stayed back, staring at the fancy gates.
23:25We didn't dare step forward.
23:27Dad pointed at us.
23:29The butler looked us over and pulled out a small coin purse.
23:34Here, child. Take this.
23:37I was too scared to take it, but he pressed it into my hand.
23:41Dad nodded, so I finally accepted it.
23:46There was a silver coin inside.
23:49I immediately put the coin in Dad's hand.
23:54Dad, this is for you.
23:56The butler froze for a second, then burst out laughing.
24:01Rick, you have a sweet daughter. You're a lucky man.
24:05He handed me a big apple.
24:07The coin is for your dad, but this is for you.
24:13Keep it for yourself.
24:15Merry Christmas to your family.
24:17The butler bought the bear and invited Dad for a drink.
24:20Won't you come in for a drink?
24:23Rick waved him off and refused.
24:25No, thank you.
24:26We need to buy things for Christmas.
24:30The black bear sold for a lot of money.
24:33Dad took us to the streets.
24:35First, he bought a lot of candy.
24:38He put them into three red socks.
24:41I took one out and put it in my mouth, carefully.
24:45I peeled another one for Mom.
24:48Mom didn't dare to eat and looked at Dad.
24:51She wanted to save it for me, but Dad stopped her.
24:55Too much sugar makes kids sick.
24:59We don't want to see the doctor again.
25:01Mom remembered my stomach ache and didn't give me more.
25:05So, Mom finally opened her mouth and ate the candy.
25:11Dad then took us to buy meat, flour, and butter.
25:15He even bought spices for cooking.
25:19Finally, we went to a clothing store for new coats.
25:23Mom waved her hands and said no.
25:27Our old coats are still good.
25:29I said no, too.
25:32The old quilts and coats Dad gave us were already warm and clean.
25:36That was good enough for me.
25:39I had never worn such nice clothes in my life.
25:43But Dad insisted on buying new ones.
25:48I bought old ones because I was broke.
25:50Now we have money.
25:52In the end, we bought fabric and cotton instead of finished coats.
25:58I can sew quickly.
26:00They'll be ready before Christmas.
26:02She still didn't want to spend too much.
26:05She picked out a plaid fabric for Dad and held it up to him.
26:09Rick, this pattern looks good on you.
26:13It was the first time they were so close.
26:16I think I saw Dad's face turn red.
26:21Dad lifted me up and set me on his shoulders.
26:24I could see so far away.
26:27I laughed out loud.
26:29It was my first time being up this high.
26:33Mom was worried and kept checking Dad's leg.
26:36She was afraid he would get too tired.
26:39After a while, Dad bought me some toys.
26:42He also bought hair clips and brooches for me and Mom.
26:46Brother, your wife and daughter are beautiful.
26:49These brooches from the city suit them perfectly.
26:52Both Dad and Mom blushed at the same time.
26:56On the way back, we sat on the tractor.
26:58I hugged my red socks tightly.
27:01This was the happiest day of my life.
27:04As we passed the Hudson Ranch, I saw Grandmother.
27:07She was feeding the cows in the yard.
27:10My uncle was lounging under the eaves in the sun.
27:13He still had no job and no wife.
27:16He just ate, drank, and wasted his life.
27:19After selling us to Rick, he had that money.
27:22Now he worked even less.
27:24He said he was preparing for a blind date.
27:27Grandmother always called us lazy.
27:29But I never dared to say that my uncle was the laziest one.
27:33I gripped my red socks and stared at them.
27:36Grandmother and my uncle noticed us.
27:38Their eyes widened in despair.
27:40Grandmother was cursing at us.
27:42Dad stopped the tractor.
27:44He threw a stone and hit my uncle right on the head.
27:48My uncle jumped up in pain.
27:51Who did that?
27:53Dad threw another stone into Grandmother's water basin.
27:56They are my wife and daughter now.
27:59If you insult them again, you're dealing with me.
28:03He looked terrifying.
28:05Even with a limp, he stood like a mountain.
28:09Grandmother and my uncle were bullies who feared the strong.
28:12They were furious but didn't dare say a word.
28:17Mom gripped my hand.
28:19Her eyes turned red.
28:21As we drove away, I looked back.
28:24I could still see their hateful glares.
28:27I suddenly felt brave.
28:29I waved my red socks and made a face at them.
28:33I had a real dad now.
28:35They could never bully us again.
28:37Back home, Mom started decorating the tree and making apple pie.
28:43Dad spent his time fixing everything in the house.
28:47He gathered wood and never stayed idle.
28:50He brought back more pheasants and rabbits.
28:53Eat more meat, then your stomach won't hurt anymore.
28:57I wanted to follow him into the mountains, but he refused.
29:01Kids stay home and play.
29:03I tried to help Mom, but she sent me away too.
29:07Your dad wants you to play.
29:10Go on, you haven't had a chance to be a kid yet.
29:13At the Hudson Ranch, I never had time to play.
29:16Now that I could, I didn't know how.
29:20I walked along the path with some candy.
29:23I saved them carefully, not wanting to eat them.
29:26But then, I ran into some mean kids from a nearby farm.
29:31They swarmed me and grabbed my candy.
29:34You're a brat born from that limp farmer.
29:36Your grandmother said so, it must be true.
29:39A bitch and her brat.
29:41No wonder her husband just died and she remarried already.
29:45I fought back with all my might.
29:47That's not true!
29:49Grandmother kicked us out!
29:50My mom isn't a bitch and I'm not a brat!
29:55But I was too small.
29:57I couldn't beat them.
29:59My clothes were torn.
30:01My candy was gone.
30:03Even my new hair clip was missing.
30:06They laughed and ran off with my sweets.
30:09I sat in the mud and cried.
30:12Grandmother and my uncle stood nearby, watching with wicked smiles.
30:18You deserve this!
30:20We should have sold them to the town tavern back then!
30:23I screamed at them.
30:24I am not a brat!
30:26You are the bad people!
30:29You are evil!
30:30I was so small back then.
30:33My mom had already had a child.
30:35The tavern would never pay that much for us.
30:37They thought I was too young to understand.
30:40But I had overheard their conversation.
30:42They were the truly wicked ones.
30:45They wanted to leave us at the ranch.
30:47They wanted to watch Rick beat us to death.
30:49But they never expected this.
30:53Dad never hit us.
30:55He never tortured us even for a second.
30:58He treated us so well.
31:00They couldn't stand it.
31:02So they spread rumors behind our backs.
31:05They framed us everywhere.
31:07Clearly, they are the real monsters.
31:10I lost the hair clip and candy Dad bought me.
31:13I was too ashamed to go home.
31:15I lingered near the gate, hesitating.
31:17Dad came down from the mountain.
31:19He saw me covered in mud and blood.
31:22He dropped his pheasants in shock.
31:25I had never seen him so angry.
31:27Who did this?
31:29I trembled in fear.
31:31I am sorry.
31:32I am so sorry.
31:34He panicked, trying to wipe the mud off my face.
31:38Tell Dad who hit you.
31:41His hands were rough, but they calmed my racing heart.
31:44I stuttered through the whole story.
31:47The more I spoke, the darker his face became.
31:52He took me back and left me with Mom.
31:54Then he grabbed his axe to head out.
31:57Rick!
31:58Mom pulled him back and shook her head.
32:01Dad thought for a moment.
32:03He dropped the axe and grabbed a wooden club instead.
32:08That day, the parents of those bullies all got it for me.
32:12If you can't teach your kids I won't hit them, I'll hit you instead!
32:17Those grown men were chased like rabbits.
32:22By a man with a limp.
32:25Dad moved slowly but steadily.
32:28He caught up to them and struck them down.
32:32The men wailed in pain.
32:34Everyone in the ranch came out to watch.
32:37Then Dad went to the Hudson ranch.
32:40He gave my uncle a brutal beating.
32:43My uncle screamed and begged for mercy.
32:46He promised he would never do it again.
32:48I won't do it again! I promise!
32:51Dad turned to the crowd of onlookers.
32:53If you have something to say, say it to my face.
32:55No one dared to speak.
32:57They all waved their hands and shook their heads.
33:00We all know what the Hudsons are like.
33:02Just go live your life.
33:03Look at how happy your family is now.
33:06Dad dropped the club.
33:07He patted my head and led me home.
33:14Have you lived this long without a name?
33:17I shook my head.
33:19Grandmother called me a brat.
33:21Mom only called me baby.
33:23Dad pulled me close and looked at the stars.
33:26From now on, your name is Stella.
33:30Shine like a star and have a bright future ahead.
33:35For the first time, I had a real name.
33:39Stella Cooper, I have my own name now.
33:42I smiled at Mom.
33:44Dad smiled too and patted my head.
33:47I finally have a daughter of my own.
33:51That night, Mom talked to me.
33:53Stella, you're a big girl now.
33:58Starting tomorrow, you sleep on your own, okay?
34:01If I sleep alone, where will Mom sleep?
34:04I thought about it and nodded hard.
34:07Okay, Mom.
34:08You and Dad have a baby brother or sister soon.
34:11I'll play with them.
34:12This time, I really wanted a sibling.
34:15A sibling just like Dad would be wonderful.
34:20The next morning, Dad woke me up early.
34:23Stella, was I cool when I handled those bad guys yesterday?
34:27I nodded vigorously.
34:28So cool!
34:29If you want to protect yourself, you want to rely on more forever.
34:34You have to rely on yourself.
34:36Do you want like me strong?
34:39I nodded again.
34:40Yes.
34:41I wanted to be strong like him.
34:44I wanted to protect my parents and my future siblings.
34:47I wanted to hunt bears and earn lots of money.
34:51Dad looked proud.
34:52He made me run 50 laps around our ranch cabin.
34:56By the end, I could barely stand.
34:59He gritted his teeth and wouldn't let me stop.
35:03Mom looked pained, but she didn't say a word.
35:06She just made extra food and added two fried eggs for me.
35:11After running, there was weight training.
35:14Dad brought sandbags from the ranch warehouse.
35:17They felt like a thousand pounds on my arms.
35:21After a day of training, my hands and feet were covered in blisters.
35:26Mom washed my feet and popped the blisters for me.
35:29Stella, train hard.
35:32Your dad is doing this for your own good.
35:36I know, Mom.
35:38Most ranch families only teach girls to gather wood, wash clothes, and cook.
35:43Who would ever teach a girl how to be strong?
35:46I understood how much Dad cared for me.
35:49That night, Mom moved into Dad's room.
35:51I heard them talking for a bit before the lights went out.
35:55My body ached all over, but I slept peacefully.
35:58The next morning, Dad woke up late.
36:01I had already finished 30 laps when he came out.
36:04His eyes were bloodshot from lack of sleep.
36:07All day long, Dad and Mom were blushing.
36:10They kept stealing glances at each other.
36:12Why hide it?
36:13Just look if you want to.
36:16Grown-ups are so strange.
36:17We had a perfect Christmas.
36:19Dad used the bear money to expand the ranch.
36:22He bought two dairy cows and a few beef cattle.
36:25When we weren't farming, we were managing the ranch.
36:27During the off-season, we went hunting.
36:30Dad started taking me into the mountains.
36:32He taught me how to track animals and read their droppings.
36:35He showed me how to avoid bears and wolves.
36:38He taught me to set traps and use a hunting rifle.
36:41He even showed me how to knock someone out with minimal force,
36:44and how to spot poisonous plants in the woods.
36:47I was weak, so my progress was slow.
36:50But Dad was always patient.
36:51Our family was happy.
36:53But the rumors never truly stopped.
36:55Most of them came from the Hudson's.
36:58Rick's fault he's a cripple.
37:00That person pretends to be arrogant and married a cripple.
37:04So what if Jason was handsome?
37:06His only talents were hitting us, gambling and drinking.
37:11I started staring at Dad's leg.
37:13Dad noticed and tried to walk slower to hide his limp.
37:16Sometimes he would lean on the ranch fence for support.
37:21Your dad is so good to you, Stella.
37:25Don't be heartless.
37:27Don't look down on him like others.
37:29Mom thought I was becoming ungrateful.
37:31Her eyes turned red with anger.
37:33But she couldn't bring herself to hit me.
37:34I quickly grabbed her hand to explain.
37:37Mom, I don't look down on Dad.
37:39I feel bad for him.
37:41I want to study medicine.
37:43I want to fix his leg.
37:44I didn't care that he limped.
37:46I didn't care about the scar on his face.
37:48I just hated seeing him unable to sleep when it rained.
37:52I hated that hunting was harder for him than others.
37:56Mom understood my thoughts, but she was worried.
37:59There were no medical schools in town.
38:01Besides, I was only a six-year-old girl.
38:04Dad overheard us from outside the cabin.
38:06He stayed silent for two days.
38:08He just sat on the porch, staring at the mountains.
38:12Two days later, he took me back to the city.
38:14We found the butler who bought the black bear.
38:17Dad asked him for a favor.
38:18The man looked at me carefully.
38:20He patted Dad's shoulder and agreed happily.
38:23If she wants to learn, she can start as an assistant in the pharmacy.
38:29Stella, studying medicine is very hard.
38:32You have to memorize names, mix medicine, and care for the sick.
38:37People might yell at you or even hit you.
38:41Can you handle it?
38:42I slapped my chest and spoke loudly.
38:44I can.
38:45I'll fix my dad's leg and earn lots of money.
38:49I'll take care of my parents and my future siblings.
38:53The man burst out laughing and nudged Dad's arm.
38:56Rick, your daughter is so sweet.
38:59Is the next one already on the way?
39:01Dad's face turned bright red instantly.
39:04He waved his hands quickly.
39:06It's still too early for that!
39:08I lived at the pharmacy in town, doing odd jobs.
39:11I tried my best to learn everything about medicine.
39:14I only went home to the ranch once every two weeks.
39:17I brought the sandbags Dad gave me to the pharmacy.
39:20No matter how busy I was, I found time to train.
39:24Mom hated leaving me alone in town.
39:26She held my hand and wouldn't let go when she dropped me off.
39:29With red eyes, she told me to eat well and not overwork.
39:33Come home if anyone treats you badly, she said.
39:36I waved and smiled to comfort her.
39:39Don't worry, Mom. I can take care of myself.
39:42When I learn everything, I'll fix Dad's leg.
39:45Mom laughed through her tears and wiped them away.
39:48Alright, I'll be waiting.
39:50I'll make your favorite snacks for when you come home.
39:53The doctor at the pharmacy was an old friend of the butler's.
39:56He was kind to patients but very strict with apprentices.
39:59If we forgot a drug's name, he yelled.
40:02If we missed a detail in a patient's record, he yelled.
40:05If we took blood pressure incorrectly, he yelled.
40:08Sometimes he made us copy drug names as punishment for being slow.
40:11The other students felt mistreated.
40:14Before long, they all went home crying and never came back.
40:18But I wasn't afraid.
40:19What was this little bit of hardship?
40:21Compared to Grandmother's beatings or Jason's violence, this was nothing.
40:25I was already used to it.
40:27Besides, I knew the doctor wanted me to grow fast.
40:30Just like Dad wanted me to be strong.
40:32The doctor was strict, but he never treated us poorly.
40:35He made plenty of food for us every day.
40:38Sometimes he even gave us nutrient powder.
40:40I might not be the smartest, but I know who was truly kind.
40:43I kept training the way Dad taught me.
40:45I ran five kilometers with weights every morning and night.
40:48I grew stronger, and my movements became faster.
40:51The doctor started teaching me massage techniques.
40:54At first, I practiced on him.
40:56Slowly, I began helping the elderly patients ease their pain.
40:59The doctor worked so hard with his patients and medicine.
41:02I massaged him to help him relax.
41:04He started smiling at me more.
41:06He even taught me about heat and cold therapy.
41:09He said these skills would really help my Dad.
41:11When I went home every two weeks, the first thing I did was massage Dad's leg.
41:15I rubbed the stiff muscles from his knee to his ankle.
41:19Then I used the heat therapy the doctor taught me.
41:22At first, Dad refused.
41:24He thought it was awkward for a man to have his legs rubbed.
41:26I had to beg him for a long time before he finally agreed.
41:30After the massage, he stood up and took a few steps.
41:33His eyes lit up and turned a bit red.
41:36Stella is so smart.
41:38My leg feels much better now.
41:41Mom saw this and asked me to teach her too.
41:43When you're away, I can do it for him.
41:46He worked so hard on the ranch and in the mountains.
41:49I taught them both step by step.
41:51I laughed and said,
41:53When I'm not here, you two can massage each other.
41:55That way, you'll both feel better.
41:57Both their faces turned bright red instantly.
41:59They glanced at each other and quickly looked down.
42:02Mom gave me a little pinch for talking nonsense.
42:04They are so strange.
42:06What is there to be embarrassed about?
42:08I studied in the city for five years.
42:10My medical knowledge and physical strength grew fast.
42:13I went from a skinny little girl to a strong, healthy teenager.
42:17The fear in my eyes was gone, replaced by confidence.
42:21During this time, Mom and Dad never had another child.
42:25Rumors started spreading around the ranch.
42:27Most of them came from the Hudson's.
42:29They claimed Dad couldn't have children.
42:31It must be Rick's fault.
42:32He's disabled.
42:33He probably doesn't even have the strength to father a child.
42:36Maybe that's why his first first wife fought with him before she died.
42:39I overheard some workers gossiping when I returned home.
42:42I clenched my fists, ready to fight them.
42:44But Mom grabbed my hand and stepped forward.
42:46She raised her voice so everyone could hear.
42:48It's my fault!
42:50I was abused at the Hudson's and it ruined my health!
42:53It has nothing to do with my husband, Rick!
42:55Stop your lies!
42:56Dad was healthy, but Mom was right.
42:59Years of hunger, heavy labor, and beatings had left her scarred.
43:03She had been taking medicine for five years, but nothing happened.
43:06Mom was anxious and often sat by the creek staring into space.
43:10Sometimes I caught her wiping away tears.
43:13Dad was always there to comfort her.
43:15Raising Stella is enough.
43:17She's smart and capable.
43:20She's worth more than ten sons.
43:24With her around, we have nothing to worry about.
43:32But right then, my biological father, Jason, suddenly returned.
43:36I studied in the city for five years.
43:39My medical knowledge and physical strength grew fast.
43:42I went from a skinny little girl to a strong, healthy teenager.
43:46The fear in my eyes was gone, replaced by confidence.
43:50During this time, Mom and Dad never had another child.
43:54Rumors started spreading around the ranch.
43:56Most of them came from the Hudson's.
43:58They claimed Dad couldn't have children.
44:00It must be Rick's fault.
44:01He's disabled.
44:02He probably doesn't even have the strength of father a child.
44:05Maybe that's why his first first wife fought with him before she died.
44:08I overheard some workers gossiping when I returned home.
44:11I clenched my fists, ready to fight them.
44:13But Mom grabbed my hand and stepped forward.
44:15She raised her voice so everyone could hear.
44:17It's my fault!
44:19I was abused at the Hudson's and it ruined my health!
44:22It has nothing to do with my husband!
44:23Rick, stop your lies!
44:25Dad was healthy, but Mom was right.
44:28Years of hunger, heavy labor, and beatings had left her scarred.
44:32She had been taking medicine for five years, but nothing happened.
44:35Mom was anxious and often sat by the creek staring into space.
44:39Sometimes I caught her wiping away tears.
44:42Dad was always there to comfort her.
44:44Raising Stella is enough.
44:46She's smart and capable.
44:49She's worth more than ten sons.
44:52With her around, we have nothing to worry about.
45:01But right then, my biological father, Jason, suddenly returned.
45:04Then we will be buttering up here, her friend.
45:05I can cry!
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