- 10 hours ago
Sweeter Life Without You
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:00On the day Noelle Rutherford found out she was pregnant, she braved the rain to head to a club that
00:00:05was one of Chester Gray's usual haunts.
00:00:07She stood outside a private room and dried her hair with some tissues, wanting to surprise him with the news
00:00:13of her pregnancy when he came out.
00:00:15She heard laughter through the ajar door.
00:00:19Chester, you're supposed to be marrying Noelle in a week. You're going to surprise her during the wedding, right? Is
00:00:24everything ready?
00:00:25Yeah, it'll be a day she'll never forget.
00:00:28Noelle paused and smiled sweetly.
00:00:31She and Chester had been together for three years and he'd truly treated her like a precious treasure, doting on
00:00:37her endlessly.
00:00:38Wanna bet she'll have a meltdown when she finds out the truth?
00:00:41She'll lose her mind on the big day when she discovers I've been pretending to be you and playing her
00:00:47this whole time.
00:00:48She'd never imagine Chester having an identical twin.
00:00:51When she finds out he's the one who's been getting into her pants these past three years, she's always been
00:00:56so proud, hasn't she?
00:00:58I can already imagine the look on her face when she finds out her boyfriend's brother has toyed with her
00:01:03for three years.
00:01:04The men's malicious laughter made Noelle freeze in place.
00:01:08The blood drained from her face.
00:01:10She could hardly believe her ears.
00:01:12Her feet moved on their own, taking a step forward so she could peer into the room.
00:01:17The next second, she saw a man who looked exactly like Chester sitting beside him.
00:01:23He was Chester's carbon copy, from his features to his hairstyle.
00:01:27Even the tiny mole at the corner of his eye was identical.
00:01:31It's her fault for bullying Winona.
00:01:34Winona is Chester's darling.
00:01:35As punishment, he'll make her feel on top of the world before dropping her into the abyss.
00:01:41Gotta say that he's put in some serious work to achieve that.
00:01:44You're the real MVP here, Simon.
00:01:46You did all the hard labor after all.
00:01:48If I didn't look so different from you two, I'd love to take over the job.
00:01:53Tell me about it.
00:01:54Man, Noelle's face and body.
00:01:57If she loses her mind after the wedding, how about you guys let us play with her first?
00:02:02Chester cooked up a plan like this for Winona, put on an act for three years, and still managed to
00:02:08keep himself untainted.
00:02:09He's a straight-up love saint.
00:02:11Noelle's mind buzzed, and her blood ran cold.
00:02:15She couldn't breathe.
00:02:17Her body trembled uncontrollably, and tears streamed down her widened eyes, which had turned bloodshot.
00:02:23Once upon a time, when she jolted awake from nightmares of being bullied by Winona, Chester had held her close
00:02:30and told her not to be scared.
00:02:32Once upon a time, she told him about the agony of being bullied.
00:02:36Chester had soothed her time and time again, even taking her to see therapists.
00:02:42Noelle didn't dare believe, nor did she want to.
00:02:44She couldn't understand it.
00:02:46The love she'd felt was so intense and vivid.
00:02:48How could it be safe?
00:02:50Winona's coming back soon, so you won't need to keep flying to her, Chester.
00:02:54Honestly, I don't know how you're not worn out from taking a flight every week.
00:02:58And I can finally be myself after three years of role-playing.
00:03:02I'm the one who's stuck with Noelle each time Chester goes abroad.
00:03:06Your voices are different, though.
00:03:08Hasn't she ever noticed anything?
00:03:11She's too big an idiot.
00:03:13I lower my voice, tell her I have pharyngitis, and that's enough to make her fuss over me.
00:03:19She gets up before the sun rises to make me something to soothe my throat.
00:03:25That's enough.
00:03:26Once the wedding is over, I'll give her a hefty sum as compensation.
00:03:30It'll be enough to ensure she's comfortable for life.
00:03:33My, my.
00:03:34Chester, you're not taking pity on her, are you?
00:03:38Noelle's heart flew to her throat, and she held her breath as she stared doggedly at Chester.
00:03:44As if.
00:03:45What about you, Simon?
00:03:46Has three years of putting it in her made you catch feelings?
00:03:49It's been three whole years I've long since gotten sick of her.
00:03:53You want to have her, Chester?
00:03:55She's too filthy.
00:03:56Anyway, she's the one who begged for this wedding.
00:03:59I'm just paying her off so she won't pester me.
00:04:01There's not much time left, so you guys need to help me.
00:04:05I'm going to propose to Winona in a week after revealing the truth.
00:04:11Noelle didn't know how she even left the club.
00:04:14Raindrops pelted her, but she felt nothing.
00:04:17All she could think about was the conversation from the private room, which replayed in her mind.
00:04:22Winona Johnson.
00:04:24Whenever that name came up, Noelle couldn't stop shaking.
00:04:28She couldn't understand.
00:04:30Winona had already gone abroad, so why wouldn't she let her go?
00:04:34Why was she hellbent on destroying her?
00:04:36All of this had happened over a meaningless campus bell title.
00:04:41Noelle's candid, bare-faced photo had beaten Winona's retouched contest entry.
00:04:46So Winona and her gang had dragged Noelle into the restroom to teach her a lesson.
00:04:50They'd used every cruel trick possible to torment her before shoving her head into a toilet.
00:04:56Noelle had refused to kneel and apologize.
00:04:58So they'd made the next three years of her life a living hell.
00:05:02They'd ganged up to beat her, stabbed her with needles, hidden thumbtacks in her shoes,
00:05:07rallied the entire class to isolate and bully her, wrecked her part-time jobs, and smeared her reputation.
00:05:14Winona had even arranged for a bunch of rich boys to pursue Noelle.
00:05:17Noelle had once overheard the plan Winona wanted her to be corrupted by money before having the rich boys done
00:05:22her.
00:05:23Winona never fully succeeded.
00:05:25Even by junior year, when Winona had left to study abroad, she still hadn't broken Noelle completely.
00:05:32However, by then, Noelle was already deep in depression with the severe urge to harm herself.
00:05:39That was when Chester appeared.
00:05:41Unlike those other rich boys who'd pursued her and eyed her the way men appraised goods,
00:05:45he hadn't flung credit cards at her and called it affection.
00:05:48He'd had a clear, righteous gaze.
00:05:50He'd taken time to understand her situation and listen to what she needed.
00:05:56When he learned that her grandmother, Marie Wakefield, needed long-term medication,
00:06:00he didn't look down on her.
00:06:02Instead, he'd done whatever he could, within the bounds of what she could accept, to improve her life.
00:06:09Chester had helped Noelle find internships and part-time jobs.
00:06:12When she rushed between gigs, he'd sit with her in a convenience store for dinner and gently pat her head.
00:06:18It must be tough, Elle. You're really amazing.
00:06:21Once, Marie had fallen ill while Noelle was out of town.
00:06:24It was Chester who'd brought her to the hospital and stayed by her side for a full day and night.
00:06:30The next day, when Noelle had made it back, he'd smiled and comforted her despite his exhaustion.
00:06:37Marie's fine, so don't worry. Don't wear yourself out.
00:06:40At the time, a voice inside her had said,
00:06:43This is it. Try to trust him. Whatever the ending, just cherish the present.
00:06:47And Chester really did keep treating her well.
00:06:49He'd even bravely defied his family for the sake of being with her.
00:06:53Simon's sneers echoed in Noelle's mind.
00:06:56She's so dumb.
00:06:57How could our family ever allow a nobody like her to marry in?
00:07:02All it took was hiring two people to play a part.
00:07:05Chester pretended to stand up to our parents, and Noelle was moved to bits.
00:07:09What an idiot. She didn't notice anything for the past three years.
00:07:13She's stupid.
00:07:15Even now, she thinks Chester's devoted to her.
00:07:18She's dumb. She's stupid. She's a fool.
00:07:21Noelle collapsed in the rain.
00:07:23Her tears spilled over and mixed with the downpour.
00:07:26She really was dumb.
00:07:28Much too dumb.
00:07:29She suddenly threw back her head and laughed, sounding wild and unhinged.
00:07:33She let the torrential rain pound her face without mercy.
00:07:37Just then, her phone rang.
00:07:39It was Marie's caregiver.
00:07:41Elle, come quick. Your grandmother's on the brink of death.
00:07:44Noelle's mind went blank, and her ears buzzed.
00:07:47Her limbs turned to jelly.
00:07:49On instinct alone, she scrambled to her feet and rushed to the curb to hail afar.
00:07:55However, every craft in place, their lights flashing and horns blaring, refusing to stop her.
00:08:02She was about to run to the hospital when a car pulled over.
00:08:05A tough-looking man and aspirations hit her.
00:08:08Beyond caring about Sydney, she dove into the car.
00:08:17By the time Noelle reached the hospital, the doctor had already issued a critical notice.
00:08:23She has respiratory failure.
00:08:25There's no point in further resuscitation.
00:08:27You should spend these last moments with her.
00:08:29Noelle dropped to her knees with a thud, her hands trembling as she clasped Marie's.
00:08:37Marie forced a smile.
00:08:39Elle, don't cry.
00:08:41I'm sorry.
00:08:42I couldn't hold on long enough to see your wedding.
00:08:46Noelle shook her head hard.
00:08:48She couldn't get any words out, nor could she stop her low, aching sobs.
00:08:53Marie struggled to scan the room.
00:08:55Where's Chester? I want to see him.
00:08:57Okay. Noelle's voice was so hoarse, it was barely there.
00:09:02She pulled out her phone and called Chester again and again.
00:09:06Each call was rejected, so she fired off messages in a hurry.
00:09:10Chester, Grandma has respiratory failure.
00:09:13She can't hold on anymore.
00:09:15Please come to the hospital.
00:09:16She wants to see you one last time.
00:09:19Chester, Grandma's waiting for you.
00:09:21It's just one meeting.
00:09:23Can you come?
00:09:25Chester, I'm begging you.
00:09:27At that moment, the lies and betrayal didn't matter.
00:09:30As long as Chester came, as long as Marie could leave in peace, nothing else left.
00:09:36But Chester never replied.
00:09:38Noelle stopped and forced out an ugly smile.
00:09:41She squeezed Marie's hand and tried to comfort her.
00:09:44Grandma, I think Chester's tied up with something.
00:09:47Don't worry about us, alright?
00:09:49We're getting along fine, and our wedding is next week.
00:09:52I'll be happy, so please don't worry.
00:09:56Suddenly, Marie's grip tightened.
00:09:58She fixed her eyes on Noelle and whispered,
00:10:01Elle, live well, be happy.
00:10:04Her hand loosened and went limp.
00:10:07In her final moments, there was still worry in her gaze.
00:10:11Noelle stared at their hands dazedly.
00:10:13Then, she broke down and collapsed on the floor, crying her heart out.
00:10:17That night, she numbly went through the process of dealing with Marie's affairs.
00:10:23Chester still didn't reply.
00:10:25While waiting, she unblocked Winona's social media and checked her posts.
00:10:29I was going to fly home early for a surprise, but I was the one surprised!
00:10:34The attached photo was taken at the airport.
00:10:36Chester wore a mascot costume and held flowers.
00:10:39His head was slick with sweat, but he wore a warm smile, and his gaze was tender.
00:10:46There was another picture of him with Winona.
00:10:50She smiled sweetly while his head was turned to her, his gaze lingering and full of love.
00:10:57Noelle let out a bitter laugh and turned off the screen.
00:11:01The next day at noon, she returned to the hospital with Marie's urn in her arms.
00:11:06She did two things.
00:11:08First, she scheduled an abortion for three days later.
00:11:12Second, she submitted her application to join Doctors Without Borders.
00:11:17Her superior, Tanya Brown, was shocked.
00:11:21Weren't you getting married soon?
00:11:22Noelle went quiet for a moment.
00:11:24Not anymore.
00:11:25I want to leave, Dr. Brown.
00:11:27The faster, the better.
00:11:29Tanya didn't press for more information when she saw Noelle's bloodshot eyes and urgent expression.
00:11:35You just barely caught the application deadline.
00:11:37I'll give you the next few days off to prepare.
00:11:40Gather at the hospital to depart in a week.
00:11:42Got it.
00:11:43A week from now was exactly the day she was supposed to marry Chester.
00:11:47Not only would she leave on that day, but she would also send him, Simon, and Winona,
00:11:53a grand gift one they would never forget.
00:11:58Knowing she was heading somewhere dangerous, Noelle decided to give Marie a proper burial.
00:12:04She bought a cremation pendant, tucked a strand of Marie's hair, and a pinch of ashes inside,
00:12:10and buried the rest of the cemetery.
00:12:12Grandma, don't worry.
00:12:14I'm about to do what I've always wanted to do, and I'll keep myself safe.
00:12:20By the time Noelle returned to the villa, it was already dusk.
00:12:24The moment she stepped inside, she heard laughter in the living room.
00:12:28Come on, let me introduce you to two friends.
00:12:31A man and a woman stood from the couch and turned to look at her.
00:12:35Somewhat malicious mischief flickering in their eyes.
00:12:39It was Winona and Simon.
00:12:41Noelle couldn't stop the tremor that ran through her.
00:12:44It was her body's reflex whenever she faced Winona.
00:12:48Winona is a childhood friend, and Simon is my twin brother.
00:12:51They just got back from studying abroad, and happened to make it in time for our wedding.
00:12:55Elle and I know each other, we were roommates in college.
00:12:58Right, Elle?
00:12:59Every time Winona finished bullying her, she got angry and murdered.
00:13:04It's just some fun between roommates.
00:13:07Right, Elle?
00:13:08Elle, you still don't like me.
00:13:11I just want to get along with you.
00:13:13Both Chester's and Simon's expressions darkened.
00:13:17Chester, your fiancé's got quite the temper.
00:13:19She's not even part of our family yet, and she's already so full of herself.
00:13:24Noelle, apologize.
00:13:25Noelle stared at the three of them, her hands balling into fists by her sides.
00:13:30She felt her heart tear open as she thought of what she'd overheard the night before,
00:13:35leaving a raw and jagged mood.
00:13:37The Grey family is a proper household with deep roots, and manners are very important to us.
00:13:43You need to teach your fiancé a lesson, Chester.
00:13:46You're right.
00:13:47Elle, you're about to become the lady of the Grey household.
00:13:50You must watch your tongue and your behavior at all times.
00:13:54Reflect on what you did today.
00:13:57No!
00:13:59He dragged her down to the basement and shoved her into a roomie.
00:14:03Before she could react, the door slammed shut.
00:14:07The door was tightly sealed, shutting out every trace of light.
00:14:11Only then did Noelle realize it was a windowless, pitch-black room.
00:14:16Her breathing sped up in the pure darkness, and her panic surged.
00:14:21She pounded on the door, but no one answered, no matter how she shouted.
00:14:25Terror swallowed her boy.
00:14:28In college, Linova had locked Noelle in a dark room for three days with no sound or light.
00:14:33Time had stretched into a torture that felt endless.
00:14:37Noelle had had a breakdown then.
00:14:38She'd feared darkness ever since, and claustrophobia had followed.
00:14:43For years now, she'd kept every light on at night, even sleeping that way.
00:14:49At first, Chester couldn't get used to it, but after learning what she'd been through,
00:14:53he'd held her and soothed her.
00:14:55It's okay.
00:14:56From now on, we'll sleep with the lights on at home.
00:14:59Don't be scared.
00:15:03She knew.
00:15:04They all knew.
00:15:06Yet they'd still chosen this as Noelle's punishment,
00:15:09and it was just because she'd pushed Winona.
00:15:13Noelle curled up in the corner, hugging herself as she trembled,
00:15:17a dull ache throbbing in her chest.
00:15:19Of course, the tenderness had always been an act.
00:15:23They'd staged it for her sake.
00:15:26Even this dark room was likely designed just for her.
00:15:33Two days later, Chester opened the door with a pleased smile.
00:15:37Winona's not mad at you for what happened anymore.
00:15:39Clean yourself up.
00:15:40We're gonna try on wedding dresses and pick out rings.
00:15:43Noelle was taken to a bridal boutique.
00:15:45As soon as she got out of the car, she saw Winona and Simon already waiting inside.
00:15:49Elle, you're here.
00:15:51I didn't get to congratulate you last time.
00:15:53Chester and I are best friends.
00:15:54So let me keep you company and help you choose the perfect dress today.
00:15:59She smiled, clearly waiting to see Noelle lose her composure.
00:16:03I appreciate it.
00:16:07Then I'll try some on with you.
00:16:09I'm going to be a bride very soon myself.
00:16:12Congratulations.
00:16:13Winona's gaze turned frosty.
00:16:15From that moment on, any gown Noelle so much as glanced at,
00:16:19Winona would flag down a sales associate and rush to be the first to try it.
00:16:23Each time she came out of the changing room, she would grab Chester's hand.
00:16:27Chester, what do you think?
00:16:28Isn't it gorgeous?
00:16:30And each time, Chester would stare at her as if enchanted.
00:16:33He would shower her with grace.
00:16:35Simon hovered at Winona's side too.
00:16:37The two of them ignored Noelle completely.
00:16:39A sales associate sighed with envy.
00:16:42This bride is so lucky.
00:16:44Sorry, Elle.
00:16:45You're the actual bride.
00:16:46You should have tried first.
00:16:51See anything you like?
00:16:52Noelle picked one at random and went to try it on.
00:16:54When she came out, the three of them were already gone.
00:16:57Miss Johnson said she was going to pick out rings, miss.
00:17:00The two gentlemen went with her.
00:17:02It's fine.
00:17:05Soon after, Winona updated her social media with a photo of a diamond ring embedded with pave gemstones.
00:17:12Noelle glanced at it, locked her screen, and went back to packing.
00:17:15Beyond clothes and daily essentials she needed to take with her, she gathered up everything else that belonged to her,
00:17:21including the gifts she'd once given Chester and threw them away or destroyed them.
00:17:25As for anything Chester had given her, she didn't touch at all.
00:17:29She had just finished packing a suitcase and slid it into the closet when Chester walked in, holding a blue
00:17:36velvet box.
00:17:37I bought you this ring at an auction.
00:17:39Noelle recognized it.
00:17:40It was a free gift that had come with the ring Winona had shared on her social media.
00:17:43She accepted it calmly and set it aside.
00:17:46His gaze drifted and landed on the trash can where he saw the couple's mugs she used to cherish.
00:17:52Why'd you throw the mugs away?
00:17:54Are you mad?
00:17:56No.
00:17:57Is it because of what happened at the bridal boutique?
00:17:59Winona's just a good friend of mine.
00:18:01We haven't seen each other in years, so of course I paid her a little extra attention.
00:18:05There's no need to be jealous of her.
00:18:07If there was something between us, we would have gotten together long ago, right?
00:18:11You're my bride, Elle.
00:18:13Don't you understand how I feel about you?
00:18:15Hearing that, Noelle's fingers trembled.
00:18:18In that instant, she wanted to question him.
00:18:20She wanted to peel back his sincerity from his lies,
00:18:23to know whether he'd harbor even a shred of genuine love for her in the past three years.
00:18:30Winona, I'll be right there.
00:18:32I've got something to take care of, so don't wait up for me.
00:18:34You'll be the most beautiful bride in a few days.
00:18:40Noelle sat on the bed and swallowed back her tears.
00:18:43Two hours later, she finished washing up and got into bed to hit the head.
00:18:47Just as she was drifting off, the door slung open.
00:18:50Chester, who was supposed to be hosting a party at a bar with Winona, walked in.
00:18:54He smelled an alcohol.
00:18:56He carelessly ripped open his shirt, tossed back the covers, and pressed down on Noelle.
00:19:00As soon as the two made contact, Noelle's drowsiness vanished.
00:19:04She became acutely aware that the person pressing down on her was indeed Simon.
00:19:09Noelle's body went rigid, and her face drained of all color.
00:19:12She threw all her strength into shoving Simon off her and curled up at the head of the bed.
00:19:16Are you still mad?
00:19:17He rubbed his temples, his mannerisms exactly like Chester's.
00:19:21Even his voice, soaked with alcohol, was indistinguishable.
00:19:23If Noelle hadn't heard that Chester had kept himself chaste for Winona, she wouldn't have been able to tell them
00:19:28apart.
00:19:29I already told you that if I had feelings for Winona, you and I would never be getting married.
00:19:34He moved to kiss her, her eyes widened, and she jerked aside, gagging.
00:19:39She retched until her eyes turned red.
00:19:41She couldn't stop.
00:19:42She shoved Simon away and ran for the bathroom.
00:19:45He watched her, his brows knitting and eyes glinting.
00:19:51You guys heard that, right?
00:19:52She's gagging.
00:19:53Don't tell me she's pregnant.
00:19:55Don't let this get out of hand, Simon.
00:19:57What if she clings to you after the truth is out?
00:20:00Noelle stiffened, and her blood ran cold.
00:20:02It hit her that Simon's phone had been on a call the whole time.
00:20:05Chester, Simon, this is too much.
00:20:07Too much?
00:20:08She's been targeting you for ages.
00:20:09This is the punishment she deserves.
00:20:12But what if she really is pregnant?
00:20:14That's impossible.
00:20:16Even if she is, we'll make sure it's taken care of.
00:20:18Right, Simon?
00:20:19Oh, of course.
00:20:20For some reason, he felt a sudden, sharp twist in his chest.
00:20:24The next second, he saw Noelle open the door and stare at him, her face as white as a sheet.
00:20:30What's wrong, Elle?
00:20:31You look awful.
00:20:32Are you feeling okay?
00:20:33Are you... pregnant?
00:20:35No, my stomach's just acting up.
00:20:38The following morning, Noelle went to the hospital for her scheduled abortion.
00:20:42Elle, the baby already has a heartbeat at seven weeks, and all the indicators look good.
00:20:47Are you sure you want to terminate?
00:20:49I'm positive.
00:20:53It was noon by the time she left the hospital.
00:20:55Chester called, and his car pulled up at the entrance moments later.
00:20:59Come on, I'm taking you to lunch.
00:21:01They rode in silence.
00:21:02A small smile playing on Chester's lips the whole time.
00:21:05It was also the one Noelle hated most.
00:21:08As soon as they reached the restaurant, they saw Winona and Simon already waiting for them.
00:21:13Elle, I crossed the line yesterday, so I queued for this trending cake to apologize.
00:21:18You have to try it.
00:21:19During the meal, she kept reminiscing about her, Chester, and Simon as kids.
00:21:23Chester and Simon have always spoiled me.
00:21:27When we played house, they'd fight over who got to be my groom.
00:21:30In middle school, some boys cornered me, and the two of them got hurt badly trying to protect me.
00:21:36They were in the hospital for ages.
00:21:38Once, I climbed a tree and couldn't get down.
00:21:41Chester sprawled on the ground to be my cushion.
00:21:44And Simon laughed along.
00:21:45The three of them chatted warmly, and Noelle stayed silent.
00:21:48Elle, why aren't you saying anything?
00:21:51Do you have a problem with me?
00:21:53I know we had misunderstandings in college, but I hope we can be best friends now that you're marrying Chester.
00:21:58Noelle didn't move for a long moment or even look at her.
00:22:01She suddenly clutched the front of her blouse as her breath came in gasps.
00:22:05Angry red hives spread across her forearm, forming a shocking and raw sight.
00:22:09She fumbled for her bag.
00:22:11You're having an allergic reaction.
00:22:13Noelle had a severe peanut allergy.
00:22:15She was usually careful, but in case of accidental exposure and no time to get help, she always kept an
00:22:21EpiPen in her bag.
00:22:22It was something that could save her life when seconds mattered.
00:22:25She'd already grabbed the EpiPen.
00:22:28Chester, I feel old.
00:22:32Winona.
00:22:32Chester, Winona looks like she's having an allergic reaction.
00:22:35Chester froze mid-stride, remembering that Noelle had ordered seafood broth during the meal.
00:22:39His expression went cold in an instant as he turned and stormed over to Noelle.
00:22:48You caused Winona to have an allergic reaction.
00:22:51She needs the medication first.
00:22:53With that, we marched straight to Winona and swiftly administered the injection without the slightest bit of hesitation.
00:22:59You're a doctor, Noelle.
00:23:00You should have other ways of saving yourself.
00:23:02Winona doesn't know anything.
00:23:03She needs the EpiPen more.
00:23:06I'll get the car.
00:23:07Noelle collapsed to the floor.
00:23:09Her bloodshot eyes locked on their retreating figures.
00:23:12From beginning to end, none of them looked back, doll.
00:23:17Miss, are you okay?
00:23:21Elle, you're finally awake.
00:23:22Are you feeling any discomfort?
00:23:24Elle, I know you're mad at me, but the Gray and Johnson families have deep ties.
00:23:28We can't let anything happen to Winona on our watch.
00:23:31I had no choice.
00:23:32You're about to become a member of the Gray family.
00:23:34We have shared interests.
00:23:36You should be more understanding.
00:23:37You know I love you most.
00:23:38Don't you?
00:23:39Come on, Noelle.
00:23:41Chester had no choice.
00:23:42Affluent families like ours have our own problems.
00:23:45We have to put the bigger picture first.
00:23:46As your family, we can only ask you to bear with it for now.
00:23:49Noelle's hands balled into tight fists under the blanket.
00:23:52She opened her eyes and fixed her gaze on the two men as she sneered inwardly.
00:23:56They were leaving no stone unturned to sweet-talk and brainwash her.
00:24:01I want to rest.
00:24:13Hello.
00:24:14Am I speaking to a live streaming company?
00:24:16I'd like to place an order.
00:24:20After hanging up, her hand moved on instinct to the pendant at her chest, only to grasp at nothing.
00:24:26The pendant containing Marie's hair and ashes was gone.
00:24:35She was about to go find a nurse when she received a text.
00:24:38Winona had sent a photo of her necklace.
00:24:40If you want it back, come now.
00:24:43Otherwise, I'll dump what's inside into the toilet.
00:24:46A crushing fury washed over Noelle, almost making her vision go dark.
00:24:53Her chest heaved with rage as she rushed to Winona's hospital room.
00:24:59Inside, Winona stood by the window, the necklace dangling from her fingertips.
00:25:04It swayed just outside the windowsill, ready to drop at any moment.
00:25:10Winona Johnson, give me back my necklace.
00:25:13You saw my social media updates, right?
00:25:17And here I thought you would keep putting on that holier-than-thou act.
00:25:22You wanted me dead so badly in the past, yet here you are, putting up with anything just to marry
00:25:29into the Grey family.
00:25:30Give me back my necklace.
00:25:33Get on your knees and prostrate yourself before me if you want it.
00:25:37Admit you're a pathetic hypocrite.
00:25:41Never.
00:25:43Don't push me too far, Winona.
00:25:45Is this the first time you've realized just how far I can push?
00:25:48That stubborn attitude of yours and your refusal to bend to anyone's will is what I hate most about you.
00:25:54If you'd just kneeled to me back then, I wouldn't have kept targeting you for years.
00:25:59You've seen how much I'm into Chester.
00:26:02Here's the deal.
00:26:04Grovel at my feet and beg me for mercy.
00:26:06Not only will I return the necklace, but I'll also help you get a solid foothold in the Grey family.
00:26:12I won't kneel.
00:26:14You couldn't break me before, and you never will.
00:26:18I will never bow to someone as vile as you.
00:26:22You.
00:26:25Fine, then.
00:26:26Since you don't want the necklace, let's just toss it.
00:26:33Give it back.
00:26:36She whirled to run downstairs, but Winona yanked tight on her clothes, holding her back.
00:26:43I'm sorry, Elle.
00:26:44I won't go near Chester again.
00:26:47Please don't push me off.
00:26:56Noelle Rutherford, what are you doing?
00:27:06Winona, are you okay?
00:27:08I'm sorry.
00:27:10It's all my fault.
00:27:14Chester, we should stop contacting each other from now on.
00:27:19What are you talking about?
00:27:22Don't worry.
00:27:22I won't let you suffer in silence.
00:27:26I can't believe you're still bullying Winona after all these years.
00:27:30Noelle.
00:27:31I didn't.
00:27:34She threw my necklace, and I...
00:27:36That's enough.
00:27:37Even now, you're making excuses.
00:27:40Winona has always been gentle and timid.
00:27:43How could she ever bully anyone?
00:27:46You're the one who's at fault.
00:27:48Someone else bullied you.
00:27:49Yet you took it out on her.
00:27:51I didn't.
00:27:52She's the one who's been bullying me.
00:27:55She's tormented me this whole time.
00:27:59You still won't see sense.
00:28:02If you aren't taught a lesson now, who knows what you'll do?
00:28:05You'll push someone out a window today.
00:28:07So will you start committing murder tomorrow?
00:28:22What are you doing?
00:28:24No one answered.
00:28:26No matter how she fought, Chester and Simon just hauled her forward in silence, their tight jawlines carved with fury.
00:28:34In one last glance back at the hospital room, Noelle met Winona's eyes.
00:28:39They were smug, vicious, and triumphant.
00:28:46Noelle was led to a bungee platform at the mountaintop.
00:28:49The tower rose over 300 feet, and the cliff yawned beneath her feet.
00:28:54The second she stepped onto it, her face went chalk white, and her legs started to shake.
00:29:01Chester's and Simon's expressions remained icy.
00:29:04They took the safety locks from the staff and personally buckled them on her, forcing her to the edge of
00:29:10the jump platform.
00:29:12Noelle stared into the abyss below, her whole body going rigid.
00:29:16All she could hear was the thundering of her own heart gate.
00:29:20Chester, you know I'm terrified of heights.
00:29:23I know.
00:29:24Since you tried to push Winona out the window, I'll give you a taste of what it's like to fall.
00:29:28This is the punishment you deserve, Elle.
00:29:31The lady of the gray household can't be a vicious woman.
00:29:34Learn your lesson today.
00:29:35If you're sincere about correcting your errors, we'll get married as planned.
00:29:39Don't be scared.
00:29:40You won't die.
00:29:42With that, they reached out and shoved her over the edge.
00:29:45The brutal drop seized her.
00:29:48Noelle's heartbeat stopped for a few seconds, and her chest ached.
00:29:53Terror beyond words sealed her throat.
00:29:55She couldn't even scream.
00:29:57All that came out were strangled whimpers and tears that scattered in the wind.
00:30:03Her eyes held nothing but desolation and despair.
00:30:11She was left hanging upside down over the cliff for half an hour.
00:30:15Only when her breathing faltered and her consciousness began to fray did they haul her back up.
00:30:21Noelle collapsed on the platform, gasping for air, trying to ease the tingling in her limbs from lack of oxygen.
00:30:30Miss Rutherford, before Mr. Chester and Mr. Simon left, they ordered you had to jump ten times before you can
00:30:37leave.
00:30:38Noelle hadn't even processed the words when she was pushed off again.
00:30:41Once, twice, thrice.
00:30:43Each time, she was left dangling over the cliff for half an hour.
00:30:47The brief breaks in between didn't ease the oxygen deprivation.
00:30:51As Noelle's mind grew fuzzier, the ten jumps were finally over.
00:30:55The sky was already pitch black.
00:30:57The platform's harsh white floodlights were all that held Noelle's last scraps of awareness.
00:31:09Take me to the hospital.
00:31:12I'm sorry, Mrs. Rutherford.
00:31:14Mr. Chester and Mr. Simon made it clear that no one is to help you.
00:31:18The Grey family owns this area, and I don't want to lose my job.
00:31:22He left.
00:31:23The glare of the floodlight stung Noelle's eyes, making tears slip down her face.
00:31:29She rested there for a while before forcing herself to stand and make her way down the mountain.
00:31:36She was halfway down it when she came across a kind tourist who was also on the way back.
00:31:43They brought her back to the city.
00:31:45Noelle didn't go back to the villa.
00:31:47Instead, she went straight to the hospital and, with a flashlight,
00:31:51started searching the lawn beneath the inpatient department for the necklace.
00:31:56As time dragged on, she grew more frantic.
00:32:01Tears shimmered in her bloodshot eyes.
00:32:05Who are you?
00:32:06What do you think you're doing?
00:32:08It was a hospital security guard.
00:32:11With his help, she found the cleaner in charge of the lawn.
00:32:16Yeah, I did notice a necklace.
00:32:18I figured nobody wanted it and tossed it into the trash.
00:32:24Which trash can?
00:32:28It's already been cleared and sent to the dump.
00:32:31I'm afraid you won't be able to find it.
00:32:33Even if you want it now.
00:32:40Which dump?
00:32:41That necklace is very important to me.
00:32:43I have to get it back.
00:32:47Noelle searched the junkyard for an entire day.
00:32:50The moment she found the necklace,
00:32:51the tears she'd been holding back finally fell.
00:32:55But the next second, she realized the pendant was empty.
00:32:58The hair and ashes she'd stored inside were gone.
00:33:01Her head buzzed,
00:33:02and she ran for the hospital with the necklace clutched in her hand.
00:33:06Just as she reached the entrance,
00:33:08she ran into Winona, who had been discharged.
00:33:14Which dumpster did this piece of garbage crawl out of?
00:33:19Where are the things that were in my pendant?
00:33:25You mean that filthy stuff.
00:33:27I dumped them in the toilet and flushed them away ages ago.
00:33:32Winona Johnson!
00:33:34Winona staggered backward, clutching her cheek.
00:33:37She fell into Chester's arms.
00:33:40You still haven't learned your lesson, Noelle.
00:33:44She flushed my grandma's ashes down the toilet.
00:33:47That's enough.
00:33:50I can't believe you're even cursing your own grandmother to hurt Winona.
00:33:54You make me sick.
00:33:55The next second, he seized her wrist and shoved her hard.
00:34:00The driver of a speeding cab blared the horn.
00:34:03Unable to break in time, he slammed into Noelle.
00:34:06She was sent flying before landing the flower hole.
00:34:09Agonizing pain tore through her chest.
00:34:12Thick blood spilled from the corner of her mouth.
00:34:15She instinctively looked toward Chester.
00:34:17Only to see him shielding Winona with heartache in his eyes.
00:34:21He ushered her into the car Simon had brought around.
00:34:24From beginning to end, he didn't spare Noelle a single glance.
00:34:27She blacked out.
00:34:29Noelle lay in the hospital for two days.
00:34:32Through Winona's social media updates, she saw Chester escorting her to banquets and public events.
00:34:38With the wedding so close, he couldn't hold back anymore.
00:34:42He didn't even bother putting on an act.
00:34:45Noelle made her own preparations for the wedding day.
00:34:49The afternoon before the wedding, Chester came to pick her up from the hospital.
00:34:53He brought her favorite bellflowers.
00:34:55I was too impulsive the other day, so this is my apology.
00:34:58But you need to stop targeting Winona too.
00:35:01Tomorrow is our wedding.
00:35:03I've prepared a surprise for you.
00:35:07Perfect.
00:35:09I've prepared a surprise for you too.
00:35:11Chester paused.
00:35:13A flicker of awkwardness flashed in his eyes before he smoothed it over.
00:35:17On the drive back to the villa, the weather turned.
00:35:20And there was a torrential downfall.
00:35:22When thunder cracked, Chester grew restless and on edge.
00:35:26He kept one hand on the wheel while dialing Winona over and over again with the other.
00:35:31The calls went unanswered.
00:35:32He abruptly slammed on the brakes, pulled over, and grabbed an umbrella from the car.
00:35:39He handed it to Noelle.
00:35:40I've got something to deal with.
00:35:42You should grab a cab back.
00:35:44Noelle didn't take the umbrella.
00:35:45She simply gave Chester an unreadable look before stepping out without a backward glance and shutting the door.
00:35:51He hesitated and stared at the umbrella in his hand.
00:35:54An odd feeling flickered through him.
00:35:56But Winona's call came at that moment.
00:35:59She sounded like she was on the verge of tears.
00:36:02Chester, I'm scared.
00:36:05Hurry up and come to me.
00:36:07Chester blanched.
00:36:09His hand moved away from the door handle and he immediately drove off.
00:36:12Noelle stood there, only just realizing that she'd carried the bouquet Chester had given her out of the car.
00:36:19As she watched the taillights vanish into the rain, she set the flowers on a trash can and hailed it
00:36:24back.
00:36:25Back at the villa, she received a message from Chester.
00:36:28I've got some urgent matters to deal with, so I won't be home tonight.
00:36:32She didn't reply.
00:36:33Maybe it was because she'd been in the rain, but she ran a low fever that night, drifting in and
00:36:38out of dreams.
00:36:39One moment, she saw Winona beating her up until she couldn't stand.
00:36:43Then, she pressed a foot to her face to humiliate her.
00:36:46The next moment, she saw Chester soothing her, cooking for her, and watching movies with her.
00:36:53Lastly, she saw the first time they'd slept together and the countless times after.
00:36:58Tears slid from the corners of her eyes.
00:37:01When she woke, her gaze was nothing but ice.
00:37:04It was her and Chester's wedding day, which happened to fall a week after Marie's death.
00:37:09At first light, Noelle took her suitcase to the cemetery.
00:37:13After leaving the gravesite, she grabbed a cab to the hospital to join the group departure.
00:37:19On her way there, she checked her WhatsApp to confirm every detail and contingency for the wedding with the team.
00:37:27Then, she found a livestream channel she'd bookmarked and tapped in.
00:37:31On camera, a glamorous influencer greeted the audience.
00:37:34Hello, everyone. Today, by the bride's invitation, we're attending a wedding and broadcasting it live.
00:37:42Noelle stared at the phone screen, a cold, dark light glinting in her eyes.
00:37:51At the wedding venue, Chester wore a groom's tuxedo, while Simon and Winona were dressed as the best man and
00:37:57maid of honor.
00:37:58The ceremony was a simple garden one, and the guests were all young, familiar faces.
00:38:03Every guest knew exactly what they were waiting for the show to begin.
00:38:07When the livestream crew walked in, Chester froze for a beat and stepped forward to ask what they were doing
00:38:12there.
00:38:13He frowned when he heard Noelle have hired them.
00:38:15I'm sorry, but it's inconvenient to livestream today's wedding. Please.
00:38:19Before he could finish, Winona came over and tugged on his sleeve.
00:38:23She said sweetly,
00:38:25Chester, since Elle invited them, we should respect her wishes.
00:38:29Hi, everyone. I'm today's maid of honor and a childhood friend of both the groom and his best man.
00:38:34Noelle smiled mockingly as she watched things play out on her phone screen.
00:38:38It was time for the ceremony to start, yet the bride still hadn't arrived.
00:38:43Chester called Noelle again and again, only to be told each time that her phone was powered off.
00:38:50He furrowed his brows and turned to his assistant.
00:38:53Check the hospital. See whether Noelle is with her grandmother.
00:38:56He deliberately left Marie out of the ceremony that day, afraid that she would be upset or aggravated by what
00:39:03was about to happen.
00:39:03As he listened to the cool, robotic voice tell him that Noelle's phone was off, he grew increasingly anxious.
00:39:11Had she found something out?
00:39:12Just then, the massive screen behind them crackled to life with voices.
00:39:17Chester, will Noelle have a meltdown when she finds out I've been pretending to be you and playing her this
00:39:22whole time?
00:39:23Chester's and Simon's faces drained of color. Noelle had found out ahead of time.
00:39:28She'd never imagine Chester having an identical twin.
00:39:30When she finds out he's the one who's been getting into her pants these past three years, that's punishment.
00:39:35He'll make her feel on top of the world before dropping her into the abyss.
00:39:39Gotta say that he's put in some serious work to achieve that.
00:39:41Panic surged in both of them. Before they could react, the footage on the screen cut to a new scene.
00:39:48In a bathroom, Winona ordered a group of young women to strip Noelle and press lit cigarettes to her skin
00:39:54one by one to burn her.
00:39:56She also made them slap her across the face before finally shoving her head down into a toilet.
00:40:01The crowd fell silent. Only Noelle's screams echoed through the stillness.
00:40:05On the screen, Winona's flawlessly made-up face twisted with venom and arrogance.
00:40:10Noelle, brotherhood. You've got nerve to steal my credit to the campus bell.
00:40:15Get on your knees and drop it at my feet now, or I'll make the next four years of your
00:40:20life a living head.
00:40:21Chester and Simon stood frozen in place as their blood ran cold.
00:40:25One scene after another showed Winona bullying well recessively.
00:40:30The video finally firms on Winona's cruel expression.
00:40:34Only then did the brothers snap to their senses and stiffly turn to look at Winona.
00:40:38She'd been lying to them all along.
00:40:43Winona screamed like she'd lost her mind.
00:40:46Turn it off. Shut it off.
00:40:48Right then, the massive scream started playing the bullying footage again.
00:40:53This time, however, Winona looked younger, and the victim was someone else.
00:40:58A girl in a high school uniform.
00:41:00More clips popped up one after another, and multiple videos played at once.
00:41:05Aside from Winona's frantic shrieks, there were all kinds of other screams.
00:41:16It was you! You drove my daughter to jump to her death! You destroyed my family and forced us to
00:41:21leave!
00:41:21All the staff who were supposed to be doing their jobs charged out, accusing her of her crimes and beating
00:41:27her.
00:41:27Every single one of them was either a victim or a victim's family.
00:41:32Winona had caused more than one person's death, but whenever these people had tried to ask the internet or the
00:41:37police for help, their efforts had been suppressed almost immediately.
00:41:41The victims had either died or begged for mercy until Winona was satisfied.
00:41:46Then, she'd moved on to the next target.
00:41:49Noelle was her longest-lasting victim.
00:41:51She was also the one Winona hated most.
00:41:53The more Noelle refused to break, the more Winona wanted to destroy her.
00:41:58At first, Noelle had exposed Winona online and tried going to the police, but nothing worked.
00:42:03Later, she'd spent a lot of time gathering evidence of Winona bullying others.
00:42:08She'd put in a lot of effort convincing these people to trust her and hand over their proof.
00:42:12She'd also persuaded them to side with her.
00:42:15Even during the years Winona was abroad, Noelle hadn't given up on her plan for revenge.
00:42:20From the moment she'd overheard the plot against her while standing outside that private room,
00:42:25she'd decided to use this wedding to broadcast Winona's crimes live for everyone to see.
00:42:30Only if there were enough victims, only if public outrage grew big enough, would the Johnsons be unable to smother
00:42:36this.
00:42:37The venue fell into a dead hush, broken only by the victims' families' curses and punches.
00:42:42Chester, save me! Save me!
00:42:44Chester and Simon clenched their fists so tightly, their bodies trembled.
00:42:48Their eyes turned bloodshot.
00:42:50The person they'd protected since childhood, someone they thought was gentle and timid,
00:42:54had turned out to be someone like this.
00:42:56For her, they'd set up a trap against Noelle.
00:42:58They'd fancied themselves righteous judges, but they were actually accomplices to evil.
00:43:03They charged ahead and pushed into the crowd.
00:43:06Winona struggled toward them when she saw them.
00:43:08Chester, Simon, save me!
00:43:10But the next second she met their bloodshot eyes that were cold and full of disgust.
00:43:15Chester grabbed her by the collar and hauled her up,
00:43:18his voice shaking with anger and pain as he roared,
00:43:21You've been lying to me all along, Winona.
00:43:24You egged me on to go after Noelle.
00:43:26He thought of all the years of deception and how Noelle already knew the truth.
00:43:30He thought about their confrontation in the hospital.
00:43:32She looked at him with disbelief and pain before the emotions had faded into dead hopelessness.
00:43:37He couldn't stop shaking as panic crawled up his chest.
00:43:40Meanwhile, Simon stood beside him, looking at Winona like he wanted to kill her.
00:43:44I... I didn't.
00:43:47That wretch Noelle set me up.
00:43:49The videos are fake.
00:43:51You're still lying.
00:43:52She reached for him, pleading.
00:43:54She picked on me first.
00:43:55I was just fighting back.
00:43:57Chester, you have to believe me.
00:43:59Simon kicked her square in the chest, sending her flying with a brutal thud.
00:44:03The crowd surged forward again, swarming her and bleeding her.
00:44:07Stop right there!
00:44:08The police officers still in the gauntlet, taking Winona and the victims in for an investigation.
00:44:13They collected all the evidence before we reached.
00:44:15By then, Noelle had already reached the airport.
00:44:18She exited the live stream and checked the news online.
00:44:22The internet had exploded.
00:44:23There were headlines everywhere about how Winona, the Johnson family's heiress, was a bully.
00:44:30Chester and Simon were also being rehearsed to hell and back for what they'd done.
00:44:35A faint smile tugged at Noelle's lips.
00:44:38She pulled her old phone out of her bag and turned it on.
00:44:41Then, she sent Chester and Simon some photos, her abortion procedure form, and the images
00:44:46of the aborted embryo.
00:44:48Then, she removed the SIM card, snapped it in two, and dropped the phone into an airport
00:44:54trash bin.
00:44:55She boarded her flight without another look back.
00:45:00As Winona was dragged past Chester, she fought back and grabbed his sleeve.
00:45:05The next second, she met a pair of bloodshot eyes that blazed with hatred.
00:45:09She froze, and he flung her off roughly.
00:45:13The venue fell silent, leaving only Chester and Simon behind, looking distraught.
00:45:18Chester's assistant, who'd gone to the hospital, returned.
00:45:25Mr. Chester, Ms. Rutherford isn't at the hospital.
00:45:28The nurse said her grandmother passed away a week ago.
00:45:31What?
00:45:33No way.
00:45:34Why didn't she say anything if her grandma died?
00:45:37The time of death was last Friday at 11 p.m.
00:45:42I double-checked.
00:45:43Last Friday, the night of their get-together in that private room, could it be that Noelle
00:45:47had overheard their conversation and chosen not to tell them about Marie's death?
00:45:51Chester suddenly remembered how Winona had taken his phone to check on him when they'd
00:45:55been at the airport.
00:45:56He pulled it out and saw dozens of missed calls wiped from the log, along with deleted
00:46:01text messages.
00:46:02Damn it.
00:46:03He bolted, and Simon hurried after them.
00:46:07They jumped into the car and sped toward the building.
00:46:10No one was there.
00:46:11There was a USB drive on the coffee table, and a note was pinned beneath it.
00:46:16Chester Gray, trusting you so easily is the thing I regret most.
00:46:21Chester's fingers trembled as he held the note, and his eyes reddened in an instant.
00:46:25Simon had already plugged the USB drive into the computer, and opened the folder.
00:46:31Inside were three years' worth of evidence of Noelle being bullied.
00:46:36Just then, both their phones pinged at once.
00:46:39They saw the photos of the abortion procedure form, and the images of the aborted embryo that
00:46:45Noelle had sent them.
00:46:46She'd also written a message.
00:46:49As you wished, the baby's been taken care of.
00:46:52Dead silence settled over the room.
00:46:55Noelle had gotten pregnant, and she'd terminated it.
00:46:58Chester and Simon shook as they held their phones.
00:47:01Jealousy and heartbreak tore through Chester, while Simon's eyes filled with tears.
00:47:06That was his baby.
00:47:08He remembered the look in Noelle's eyes when she'd come out of the bathroom that night.
00:47:15Suddenly...
00:47:15I told you to be careful.
00:47:20You're the real culprit here.
00:47:22They grasped and swung at each other, unleashing every ounce of pent-up resentment.
00:47:28Only when the blows landed on their bodies did they dull the guilt and regret that threatened
00:47:34to swallow them whole.
00:47:35They kept fighting until they were covered in bruises and too exhausted to throw another
00:47:40punch.
00:47:40They collapsed on the floor, gasping for breath.
00:47:44After a moment, Chester scrambled to his feet.
00:47:52I'm going to find her.
00:47:54Simon rushed after him.
00:47:56They drove straight to the hospital and made a beeline for the department where Noelle worked.
00:48:02Everyone there had seen the news online.
00:48:05Tanya looked at them, her expression cold and full of contempt.
00:48:12Elle signed up for Doctors Without Borders.
00:48:14She left today.
00:48:15I don't know where exactly she's gone.
00:48:23Chester and Simon could hardly believe their ears.
00:48:26Doctors Without Borders?
00:48:27That's way too dangerous.
00:48:29Has she lost her mind?
00:48:30Chester was equally frantic.
00:48:33He shot Tanya an icy look before turning on his heel and leaving.
00:48:37Check Noelle's flight.
00:48:38I need to know where she went.
00:48:40Now.
00:48:40As soon as he hung up, he got a call from his family.
00:48:44You and Simon are to get the hell back here right now.
00:48:47Stanley Gray and Marjorie White were Chester and Simon's parents.
00:48:52They also had an older brother, Felix Gray.
00:48:54The three of them sat on the couch in the Gray residence and stared down at Chester and Simon.
00:48:59The tension in the room was palpable.
00:49:01Look what you two have done.
00:49:03Gray Corporation's stock is on the verge of a limit down, thanks to your stupidity.
00:49:07Have you forgotten your manners?
00:49:08Who gave you permission to treat a young woman like that?
00:49:11Chester, Simon, you went too far.
00:49:13This isn't just a devastating blow to that young woman.
00:49:16It's also a significant hit to Gray Corporation's public image.
00:49:20There's a public outcry against our family now.
00:49:22If we don't handle this properly, our reputation will suffer for a long time.
00:49:26The best move now is to apologize.
00:49:28Make sure it's sincere.
00:49:30You keep apologizing until she forgives you.
00:49:32At the same time, you pin the responsibility on Winona.
00:49:35The Johnsons are already in chaos.
00:49:37Winona isn't getting out of this.
00:49:39He narrowed his eyes dangerously at his brothers.
00:49:42You don't still have feelings for her, do you?
00:49:46Of course not.
00:49:47The thought that she's that vicious and that she's been playing us for years makes me want
00:49:51to wring her neck.
00:49:52We know we messed up.
00:49:54We'll cooperate fully on PR.
00:49:56Good.
00:49:56Our top priority now is earning that young woman's forgiveness.
00:50:00Ideally, get her to issue a joint statement with us.
00:50:03Noelle Rutherford, right?
00:50:04Where is she now?
00:50:05The living room fell silent.
00:50:07After a long beat, Chester slumped and said,
00:50:10She's gone.
00:50:11She joined Doctors Without Borders.
00:50:13We don't know her exact location.
00:50:15Oh?
00:50:15Interesting.
00:50:16She held her ground despite years of bullying and seized the moment to fight back after
00:50:21learning about your stunt.
00:50:22That's impressive.
00:50:23Indeed she is.
00:50:24If you can earn her forgiveness, I'll agree to let her marry into our family.
00:50:28Chester and Simon exchanged a look, both secretly thrilled.
00:50:32That's beside the point now.
00:50:33Even if she isn't here, you still need to apologize.
00:50:37Today, you'll work with PR to record an apology video.
00:50:41Then, issue a written statement.
00:50:43Once the public outrage dies down and we recoup the losses, whether you chase after her is
00:50:48your business.
00:50:49I won't interfere.
00:50:50I only have one condition.
00:50:51You two can't turn on each other over a woman.
00:50:54Two hours later, Grey Corporation's official apology statement climbed to the top of the
00:50:59trending list, thanks to careful orchestration.
00:51:01Elle, I'm truly sorry.
00:51:04After three years together, you've genuinely moved me with all the goodness in you.
00:51:09I hesitated about following through with the plan, but after Winona's endless crying and
00:51:13accusations, I was tricked into believing her and decided to teach you a lesson at the wedding.
00:51:18I know I messed up, and I know you don't want to see me right now, but I'll find you
00:51:23and
00:51:23ask for your forgiveness in person.
00:51:25The public didn't buy it.
00:51:26Most of the online community stayed clear-headed and tore into the Grey Brothers without mercy,
00:51:31seeing the backlash grow stronger.
00:51:33Grey Corporation issued another statement that Chester's and Simon's family shareholding
00:51:38would be reduced, and their rights to inherit executive management were revoked.
00:51:45Late at night, inside a private room at a club, Chester and Simon kept plying themselves
00:51:51with liquor.
00:51:52A pile of empty bottles already lined the table.
00:51:55Their friends, who had once schemed and planned alongside them, sat in a circle around them.
00:52:00However, what had once been a rowdy, lively atmosphere had fallen into dead silence.
00:52:05Chester!
00:52:05Stop drinking!
00:52:07Keith Miller snatched the glass from Chester and reached for Simon's next.
00:52:11Things have already turned out this way.
00:52:13Booze won't fix anything.
00:52:15Exactly.
00:52:16Why exactly are you drinking anyway?
00:52:17Is it for your inheritance, Winona, or Noel?
00:52:20Tell us, and we'll help you analyze the situation.
00:52:22Chester and Simon finally stirred from their drunken state at the mention of Noel's name.
00:52:28L.
00:52:28Before Winona's return, his heart had belonged to her.
00:52:32He'd convinced himself that anything with Noel was just an act.
00:52:35No real feelings were involved.
00:52:37Even though he'd always felt weird and off about her intimacy with Simon, he'd never
00:52:41dug into it.
00:52:42Now that Winona's true colors had been exposed, the guilt he felt toward Noel came crashing
00:52:47in.
00:52:47And with it, resentment toward Simon.
00:52:49If he hadn't touched Noel and gotten her pregnant, maybe none of this would have happened.
00:52:55You jerk!
00:52:56Who said you could touch her?
00:52:58Who allowed you to touch her?
00:52:59She's mine!
00:53:00Fueled by alcohol, he let loose the jealousy and frustration he'd buried for years.
00:53:05Did he love Noel?
00:53:07He didn't know.
00:53:07All he knew was that with the truth out, she seemed more perfect and precious than ever.
00:53:12Simon fought back without mercy.
00:53:14Yours?
00:53:14You're the one who said you only loved Winona, Chester.
00:53:17You handed Noel over to me.
00:53:19She was mine for the past three years.
00:53:21Who the hell do you think you are?
00:53:22He was losing it too.
00:53:24Every time he thought about Noel's pale face and dead eyes when she'd walked out of the
00:53:28bathroom that night, his heart twisted like a knife was lodged in it.
00:53:32She really had been perfect.
00:53:34She'd carried his child.
00:53:36She must have heard him say he wanted it gone.
00:53:38That was why she'd made the ruthless choice to terminate her own pregnancy.
00:53:42Simon had lied last week in the private room.
00:53:45He wasn't sick of sleeping with her at all.
00:53:47He just hadn't understood how he'd felt about her.
00:53:50He'd pegged her as malicious and cruel.
00:53:52And because of that, he'd hurt her again and again.
00:53:55But now, he knew how catastrophically wrong he'd been.
00:53:58She had to despise them both.
00:54:00After all the disgusting and vile things she'd heard and the hurt she'd suffered, there
00:54:04was no way she'd forgive them.
00:54:06Chester and Simon brawled like madmen as they saw red.
00:54:09No one could hold them back, no matter how hard they tried.
00:54:13I'm the one she loves, Simon.
00:54:15I'm the one she was going to marry.
00:54:17Who do you think you are?
00:54:18Thinking about Simon's entanglement with Noel, Chester grabbed a bottle from the table
00:54:23and smashed it hard on Simon's head.
00:54:25As the glass exploded, Simon grabbed another bottle and cracked it against Chester's skull
00:54:31in return.
00:54:32The room fell into a deathly silence.
00:54:35A beat later, blood streamed down both their foreheads and they collapsed in a heap.
00:54:48Chester and Simon found themselves in the hospital when they woke up.
00:54:53Why are you here?
00:54:56Chester, what is your apology statement supposed to mean?
00:55:00Didn't you say you've always loved me?
00:55:02We grew up together and I have no idea when you became like this.
00:55:06Or maybe you were always like this and you've been wearing a mask all along.
00:55:11Every extra second that I look at you now makes my skin crawl.
00:55:16Chester, how can you say that?
00:55:18I'm pregnant with your child.
00:55:21I was just bailed out.
00:55:23What did you say?
00:55:26When did we even...
00:55:28Remembering the trip he'd made a month ago to see her, he'd had too much to drink and
00:55:33had woken up to find them in the same bed.
00:55:35He couldn't remember whether anything actually happened and Winona had been coy, shy and evasive.
00:55:42You remember, don't you?
00:55:44You remember, don't you?
00:56:12Simon turned ashen as she stared down at the papers.
00:56:15She shot to her feet, wanting to leave the room.
00:56:18However, Simon came in just then and clamped his fingers around her throat.
00:56:23He dragged her to the window in a brutal yank.
00:56:26You flushed L's grandmother's ashes down the toilet, then threw her necklace out the window and framed
00:56:31her for pushing you.
00:56:33That's enough.
00:56:34That's enough.
00:56:34Or do you want to go to prison over her?
00:56:36Simon shot him a resentful look.
00:56:39Then, he lifted Winona and flung her aside.
00:56:43My baby.
00:56:45Save my baby.
00:56:49This is your retribution, Winona.
00:56:51After Chester and Simon were discharged, they returned to the villa where Noelle had lived.
00:56:57The place still looked the same as before, but everything that belonged to her had vanished.
00:57:03None of her clothes were left in the closet, and the gifts she'd given them had been cleared
00:57:07out completely, not even leaving a trace.
00:57:10The gifts they had given her, though, were still there.
00:57:14This was how she declared her resolve to sever herself from them.
00:57:18A memory of Noelle curled up in his arms with her arms around his waist appeared in his mind's eye.
00:57:23He really did like her.
00:57:26It was in that instant that Chester finally realized how he truly felt.
00:57:32When he was with Winona, he had to plan a lot.
00:57:35He needed to line up activities and prepare surprises, just to feel like there really was
00:57:41anything between them.
00:57:42But when he was with Noelle, he didn't need any of that.
00:57:46He could just relax and lounge.
00:57:49It had calmed him, mind and soul.
00:57:52By the time he realized it, it was too late.
00:57:55On the other hand, Simon sat on the stool at the vanity, absently rubbing an empty photo frame.
00:58:01There used to be a picture in it, Noelle, in a nightgown with her long hair loose as she
00:58:07sat reading by the bay window.
00:58:09The morning light had been perfect that day.
00:58:12He'd shot the photo, had it printed, and kept it on the vanity ever since.
00:58:18Simon, when we find out, let's compete fairly.
00:58:21What's past is past.
00:58:22Let's start over.
00:58:24Simon was silent for a long time before answering raspally.
00:58:27Okay, we start over.
00:58:30We compete fairly.
00:58:34It had been half a month since Noelle's arrival at the Warzone.
00:58:38Aside from the panic and confusion on the first day, she'd adapted quickly to life there.
00:58:43Every day, she treated countless wounded.
00:58:46People were injured from blades, stray bullets, and explosions.
00:58:50Some died the moment they reached the hospital, and most of those who survived would still face
00:58:55life with missing limbs.
00:58:56Here, she had no time to dwell on the bullying, the deceit, and the manipulation she'd suffered
00:59:01in the past.
00:59:02She didn't even have time to unlock her phone and check what was happening back home.
00:59:06In the face of so much death, the pain that once cut to the bone felt insignificant.
00:59:11To be alive and with all four wounds in the trap, all red and fresh in the woods.
00:59:15The following day, the war alarm glared outside the hospital.
00:59:19A civilian neighborhood had been bought.
00:59:20The wounded were beyond captive, and they needed new first place.
00:59:23Noelle signed up immediately and went out with a medical team.
00:59:26What caught Noelle's eye most were a few flashes of bullying.
00:59:29They belonged to a peacekeeping unit from Katia.
00:59:32They were also assisting in the rescue.
00:59:34She merely glanced at them once before focusing fully on treating the injured.
00:59:38Gunpires sounded in the distance with help of us, and shells fell from the sky from time
00:59:42to time.
00:59:43As they worked, they had to stay alert, ready to duck for cover at any moment.
00:59:47Suddenly, a shell landed not far from Noelle.
00:59:50She instinctively scooped up the child she was killed.
00:59:53An instant later, the blast wave threw her off her feet.
00:59:56She rolled twice on the ground.
00:59:57Thankfully, she suffered only scrapes along her arm.
01:00:01Before she could apply the medicine, a stray bullet whistled from afar and hurtled straight
01:00:05toward her.
01:00:06At the last possible moment, a tall figure sprinted at her and dove, knocking her down.
01:00:11He was from Katia's peacekeeping force.
01:00:14As she looked at him, he did the same.
01:00:16Their eyes met, and they both froze.
01:00:18It's you?
01:00:19The man who saved Noelle was the same one who'd driven her to see Marie one last time.
01:00:23Even though it had been raining cats and dogs that night, he'd rolled down his window
01:00:27to ask whether she was okay.
01:00:29Out of gratitude, Noelle had etched his strong, rugged face into her memory.
01:00:33She'd also left all the cash in her bag on his seat before getting out.
01:00:37Hi, I'm Gideon Quill.
01:00:39Hi, I'm Noelle Rutherford.
01:00:40Thanks for saving me.
01:00:42We actually met back in Katia.
01:00:43You drove me to the hospital.
01:00:45Do you remember?
01:00:46I do.
01:00:47I didn't think we would cross paths again.
01:00:49He remembered Noelle vividly.
01:00:51He'd been on leave when he saw someone frantically trying to flag down a car by the side of the
01:00:55road.
01:00:56She'd been a mess, soaked, desperate, and right on the edge of breaking down.
01:00:59He'd taken her straight to the hospital, never expecting that she would leave a wad of cash
01:01:03behind in his car.
01:01:05Take care of yourself.
01:01:07He quickly added.
01:01:08Then, he went back to his mission.
01:01:10Noelle pulled her gaze away and returned to saving lives.
01:01:13As she worked, a cheer rose at the hospital's entrance.
01:01:16She vaguely heard that there was a convoy delivering medical supplies.
01:01:19Noelle ran out as well.
01:01:20She needed antibiotics.
01:01:22She pushed into the crowd just as a man jumped down from the back of a truck.
01:01:25She only saw his back, but something about him felt familiar.
01:01:28No way.
01:01:29She shut the thought down.
01:01:30There was no way he would be.
01:01:31But then the man turned and lifted another person down from the truck.
01:01:35As he turned, his features came into sharp focus.
01:01:38Noelle's eyes widened and she froze where she stood.
01:01:41Standing before her were Chester and Simon.
01:01:47A slightly hoarse voice pulled Noelle out of her reverie.
01:01:51Chester stood beside her.
01:01:53Elle.
01:01:54We came to Arbery just to look for you.
01:01:57We still owe you a proper apology.
01:01:59I'm sorry, Elle.
01:02:01Truly, I am.
01:02:03We only found out at the wedding that Winona was the one who bullied you.
01:02:07We were all deceived by her.
01:02:09We...
01:02:09Chester, the night Grandma passed, she wanted to see you one last time.
01:02:14I once thought that if you showed up and let her go in peace, then I could forgive everything.
01:02:20But where were you then?
01:02:25I...
01:02:26It was Winona.
01:02:28She took my phone.
01:02:29She deleted your messages to me and I didn't get your calls.
01:02:32If I'd known about Marie's condition, I would have rushed over.
01:02:35No, you wouldn't have.
01:02:38You would have chosen Winona.
01:02:40That's why I won't ever forgive you.
01:02:43Elle, don't treat me like this.
01:02:57He abruptly stopped talking when he saw the cool indifference and mockery in Noelle's eyes.
01:03:04He had never imagined that those bright eyes could hold emotions like that.
01:03:10My rest time is precious, and you're interrupting it.
01:03:14Chester felt like something was lodged in his throat.
01:03:16It felt so sore that he couldn't get any words out.
01:03:20After a long moment, he managed to squeeze out...
01:03:24Ellie, I'm sorry.
01:03:26Then, he fled.
01:03:29Chester had just left when Simon stepped out from the shadows behind the tent.
01:03:34He stopped in front of Noelle.
01:03:38Elle, I'm sorry.
01:03:40Got it.
01:03:41Please leave.
01:03:43No, you don't get it.
01:03:46Noelle, I've always liked you.
01:03:48I fell for you the moment I met you.
01:03:51But you were already Chester's girlfriend then, and I...
01:03:54So, you pretended to be Chester and slept with me?
01:03:59You toyed with me and hurt me?
01:04:02Is that it?
01:04:03Is that what you call liking someone?
01:04:06No, I...
01:04:07Simon faltered.
01:04:09He pressed his lips together, not knowing how to defend himself.
01:04:13He had no defense.
01:04:15I just...
01:04:16I kept suppressing what I really felt.
01:04:20I kept lying to myself.
01:04:23Each time we slept together, I kept wondering who you thought I was.
01:04:27I...
01:04:27I thought you were Chester each time, Simon.
01:04:30Because to me, it's only ever been Chester.
01:04:35Who do you think you are?
01:04:37You're just the younger brother who came back from studying abroad a week before my wedding.
01:04:42Aren't you?
01:04:43Elle, I...
01:04:44Get lost.
01:04:45Save your fake apologies.
01:04:46I don't want them.
01:04:49Simon left.
01:04:51Noelle didn't linger.
01:04:53She got up and returned to her dorm.
01:04:57That night, Chester and Simon didn't sleep at all.
01:05:00Noelle's attitude left them feeling lost.
01:05:03For the first time, they felt there was no way to win her back.
01:05:08Noelle's mood dipped for a moment, but bone-deep exhaustion had her asleep the second her head
01:05:14hit the pillow.
01:05:15She thought Chester and Simon would soon leave, but to her surprise, they stayed and helped
01:05:22at the hospital.
01:05:23They carried supplies, lifted patients, soothed the injured.
01:05:28They did whatever they could.
01:05:31Noelle's stance remained crystal clear.
01:05:34No matter what they said or did, she wanted no more ties with them at all.
01:05:42A year later, a plane touched down on Justin Katia.
01:05:46A woman with short hair, a lean frame, and sun-tanned skin strode out of the airport.
01:05:52She walked with purpose, and her eyes sparkled.
01:05:54It was Noelle.
01:05:55Her one-year contract with Doctors Without Borders was over, and she was bashed.
01:06:00Chester and Simon trailed not far behind her.
01:06:02They'd also changed compared to a year ago.
01:06:04After witnessing life, death, and faith up close, they'd found their own direction and
01:06:07goals.
01:06:08The one thing that hadn't changed was their love for Noelle.
01:06:11Even though she'd treated them like strangers for the past year, she was even more distant
01:06:15with them than she was with her co-workers.
01:06:17Their respect for her had only deepened, as had their love.
01:06:21The Grey family had pushed them countless times to come home in the past year, but they'd
01:06:24chosen to stay by Noelle's side, guarding a hopeless love.
01:06:27Noelle booked a hotel room, then went straight to Marie's grave.
01:06:30She bought flowers, a drink, and all sorts of treats.
01:06:34She stood before the tombstone and told Marie about what she'd experienced.
01:06:38Grandma, I finally did what I've always wanted to do.
01:06:41I'm doing well now.
01:06:43My heart feels full.
01:06:44I've found the courage to face anything.
01:06:47And I finally understand what you meant when you said that all suffering is temporary.
01:06:52I promise I'll find happiness, so don't worry about me.
01:06:56She stayed until dusk before leaving the cemetery and catching a cab back to the hotel.
01:07:01She went to the hospital.
01:07:02When Tanya saw her again, she smiled with relief, and her eyes reddened slightly.
01:07:07She patted Noelle's shoulder.
01:07:08It's good that you're back.
01:07:09We've all been waiting for you.
01:07:11I'll give you a week to rest up before coming back to work.
01:07:14As Noelle turned to leave, she saw her colleagues gathered at the doorway, beaming at her.
01:07:19A few of her closest co-workers had tears glimmering in their eyes.
01:07:24They rushed forward and hugged her tightly.
01:07:26Elle, we were so worried about you.
01:07:29Warmth bloomed in Noelle's chest, and she gave them a genuine smile.
01:07:33She picked up her luggage from the hotel and headed home.
01:07:36It was a two-bedroom apartment in an old complex.
01:07:38It was small, but it was where Marie had lived for decades.
01:07:41She put her things back in her room and started cleaning the place, working straight through until evening.
01:07:46Then, she drove to the supermarket to stock up.
01:07:48The kitchen was bare, so she filled an entire shopping cart with groceries.
01:07:52It was piled so high that her view was blocked when she lifted everything into her arms.
01:07:57Just as she reached the entrance, an unruly kid came bailing out and slammed into her.
01:08:03Everything in her arms crashed to the ground, and she lost her balance.
01:08:06She toppled toward the floor.
01:08:11A warm, strong hand grabbed Noelle's arm and pulled her back.
01:08:15You okay?
01:08:16The voice was familiar.
01:08:18Noelle's head snapped up, and she met a pair of twinkling eyes.
01:08:22Gideon?
01:08:23You're back too!
01:08:24She broke into a genuine smile, feeling pleasantly surprised.
01:08:27She and Gideon had crossed paths plenty over the past year in Arbery.
01:08:32They'd grown much closer.
01:08:33Yeah, the peacekeeping mission was for a year, and I'm done now.
01:08:37I'll be based in Justin from now on.
01:08:39What about you?
01:08:40I'm heading back to work at Justin Prime Hospital.
01:08:42Noelle gathered the things.
01:08:43She was about to scoop them up when Gideon got everything.
01:08:47He said,
01:08:47I've got this.
01:08:49You lead the way.
01:08:50After they put everything away, she offered,
01:08:53Let me treat you to a meal.
01:08:55He didn't object, and they settled on a restaurant after a quick discussion.
01:08:59Though they'd known each other for a year, this was their first proper meal together.
01:09:03The conversation started with Arbery, and there was never an awkward lull.
01:09:08As they delved deeper, the atmosphere grew more comfortable.
01:09:11Dinner ended on a high note, and they parted ways to head home.
01:09:14On the way back, Gideon couldn't keep the smile off his face.
01:09:17As for Noelle, the loneliness she'd been carrying seemed to have been swept away, at least a little.
01:09:23The next day, Noelle went back to her old high school and visited her homeroom teacher.
01:09:28When work came up, she talked about her year away.
01:09:31No sooner had the words left her mouth than a familiar voice rang out from the left.
01:09:35Miss Burton, long time no see.
01:09:38Noelle turned, and there was Gideon, standing not far away.
01:09:42He wore the same surprised expression she had.
01:09:45After that day, they started talking more often.
01:09:48There was an unspoken intimacy between them.
01:09:51Three days later, Noelle returned to the hospital for work, and Gideon's break ended.
01:09:55Dr. Rutherfield, someone sent you flowers.
01:09:59The front desk nurse came bustling over with a massive bouquet of roses.
01:10:03Noelle's first thought was Gideon, but her expression cooled when she saw the card that came with the bouquet.
01:10:09It was from Chester.
01:10:10Before she could say anything, another nurse came over with a second bouquet.
01:10:14This one was from Simon.
01:10:16Her irritation welled up, and she pressed her lips together.
01:10:21Throw them out.
01:10:21Every day after that, Chester and Simon sent flowers to the hospital.
01:10:26They never showed up in person, but their presence was loud enough to be exhausting.
01:10:30On her 27th birthday, as Noelle stepped out of the hospital, Chester and Simon walked to her with flowers and
01:10:36gifts.
01:10:37Elle, happy birthday!
01:10:39Chester, Simon, stop sending me flowers, and stop harassing me!
01:10:44Elle, can you at least give me a chance to pursue you?
01:10:49Elle, I want to start over with you.
01:10:51I've made myself perfectly clear.
01:10:53Keep this up, and I'll...
01:10:55Go to hell, you bitch!
01:10:57A kitchen knife came hurtling toward Noelle from the left.
01:11:00Across from her, Chester's and Simon's eyes bulged in terror as they lunged toward her.
01:11:04Elle!
01:11:05At the same time, Gideon, who'd just arrived at the hospital, pushed through the crowd and charged toward her.
01:11:14Noelle reacted fast.
01:11:15The moment she heard Winona's voice, she saw the flash of silver that flickered to her left.
01:11:20She stepped back and leaned away, narrowly dodging the kitchen knife.
01:11:24Having missed on the first swing, Winona quickly raised the knife and went for a second.
01:11:28That was when Simon rushed forward.
01:11:29As the blade came down, he yanked Noelle toward him and turned, shielding her with his body.
01:11:34In an instant, the knife sliced open the flesh on his back.
01:11:37Chester lunged to grab Winona.
01:11:39You should go to hell, too.
01:11:40When she saw him, she didn't hesitate.
01:11:42She could have leveraged her pregnancy to get a one-year bail, during which her family would have pulled strings
01:11:47to work something out.
01:11:48But Chester and Simon had made her miscarry, forcing her to serve time.
01:11:52For a whole year, once word of her crimes got around, the other inmates had tormented her relentlessly.
01:11:58Everyone had targeted her, making her life a living hell.
01:12:01When a hand clamped around her wrist, the knife was whipped away in a heartbeat.
01:12:05Then, a powerful force slammed her to the ground, twisting her arms behind her.
01:12:14Gideon had arrived.
01:12:15The crowd had scattered.
01:12:16Medical staff burst out with gurneys and rushed Chester and Simon inside.
01:12:20Neither had passed out.
01:12:22As they were lifted onto the beds, they kept their eyes locked on Noelle.
01:12:25They were desperate to catch a flicker of mercy, any sign of her softening, or even heartache for them.
01:12:31But there was nothing.
01:12:32Noelle looked at Gideon and walked straight to him, without a backward glance.
01:12:36Are you okay?
01:12:38Yeah.
01:12:40Thank God you're fine.
01:12:41I was worried about you, Elle.
01:12:43Noelle was taken aback.
01:12:45Then, her eyes prickled.
01:12:47She raised her arms and wrapped them around him.
01:12:49Gideon accompanied Noelle to the police station to have her statement taken.
01:12:53His eyes reddened from heartache when he learned about how she'd been bullied.
01:12:56It was past 8 p.m. when they stepped out of the police station.
01:13:00He took her to a popular restaurant that was surprisingly empty.
01:13:03It was decorated with flowers and balloons, and a formally dressed pianist played for them.
01:13:09Noelle's heart raced when she saw all of this.
01:13:12After dinner, Gideon took out a bracelet and officially confessed.
01:13:15Elle, I started developing feelings for you when we were in Arbery.
01:13:19Spending time together since we both got back has only made me more certain that you're the partner I've been
01:13:25searching for.
01:13:26I really like you.
01:13:28Will you be my girlfriend with marriage as our endgame?
01:13:31Noelle smiled.
01:13:32I will.
01:13:32He clasped the bracelet, glittering with pave diamonds around her wrist.
01:13:38With it, he also clasped her heart.
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