She entered a marriage expecting love… but lost everything instead. When her identity, life, and future are taken from her, she fights back in this intense short drama of betrayal, revenge, and reclaiming her destiny.
#checkedintomymarriagestolemylife #shortdrama #romancedrama #betrayal #revenge #identity #strongwoman #viralshort #dramastory #dailymotion
#checkedintomymarriagestolemylife #shortdrama #romancedrama #betrayal #revenge #identity #strongwoman #viralshort #dramastory #dailymotion
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Short filmTranscript
00:00The hotel just alerted me that a condom charge from the previous night had been posted to my bill.
00:05When I confronted my husband, Rex Dillon, he stared back at me with a look of utter bewilderment
00:11plastered across his face.
00:13Sweetheart, this has got to be a system glitch, or someone keyed in the wrong membership number.
00:18I'll call and lodge a formal complaint first thing tomorrow.
00:22Little does he know, the hotel's lead investor is my ride-or-die best friend.
00:28Hey, can you pull up who Rex checked into the hotel with last night?
00:31I'm gonna catch them red-handed.
00:33The card was linked exclusively to my personal information, meaning no one else could use it.
00:38Yet the hotel had called, claiming I'd checked into the presidential suite the night before
00:43and used the condoms in the room.
00:45I asked three times to confirm, and the person on the line insisted it was Leela Ruth herself who'd checked
00:50in.
00:51I couldn't swallow this humiliation.
00:53What made it worse was that once, when I'd mention using the card,
00:57What do you want me to say?
00:58Rex had looked utterly annoyed and snapped.
01:00Is our home not good enough for you?
01:02Why would you rather sleep elsewhere?
01:03I'm so sick of your ridiculous spending habits!
01:06I didn't get it.
01:07Why was he so pissed off just cause I wanted to use a free card?
01:11The angrier I grew, the faster I drove.
01:14Heading straight for the hotel.
01:16Hello, I'm Leela Ruth.
01:18You called me this morning.
01:20My anger simmering just beneath the surface.
01:23The receptionist looked up, her face clouding with confusion.
01:27Mrs. Ruth?
01:28I thought you just went back to your room.
01:30You made it clear that no housekeeping service was needed a moment ago.
01:34My face darkened instantly.
01:36The reception went on.
01:38Just ten minutes ago, Mrs. Ruth called and activated the Do Not Disturb service.
01:42I was so furious that I trembled all over.
01:46That woman had the nerve to check in under my name.
01:50Grinting my teeth.
01:52But I am the real Leela Ruth.
01:55The receptionist eyed me up and down impatiently.
02:00Madam, if you don't have a reservation, please leave.
02:03We have many guests today.
02:05Please don't cause a scene here.
02:07It hit me like a bolt of lightning.
02:09My husband had become someone else's husband?
02:13The irony was bitter enough to choke on.
02:17At that moment, the elevator dinged open.
02:20Tiffany Butler stepped out, clad in the latest Chanel suit of the season.
02:23The diamond necklace around her neck was the one I bought at auction for 1.8 million as far as
02:27I knew.
02:28She was just my husband's newly graduated junior, the receptionist's.
02:31Face lit up as if she'd spotted a savior.
02:34She pointed straight at Tiffany and said to me.
02:36This is the real Mrs. Ruth, the rightful one.
02:38I suggest you leave immediately and stop making trouble.
02:40Tiffany's face blanched the second she saw me, but she recovered fast, forcing a sickly sweet smile.
02:46What a coincidence.
02:48Are you staying here too?
02:49I coldly shook off her outstretched hand.
02:52Tiffany, don't you think you owe me an explanation?
02:55Why did you check in under my name?
02:57And why were the condoms you used charged to my account?
03:03Also, why are my shoes on your feet?
03:05And when did my husband become yours?
03:08My voice cut through the lobby, and the previously noisy crowd fell dead silent.
03:12Every pair of eyes locked onto Tiffany.
03:15Tiffany glanced around nervously, then her eyes immediately welled with tears.
03:19What are you talking about?
03:20My husband gave me this card because he felt bad about my frequent business trips,
03:24and he bought me these shoes as well.
03:26As for the condoms.
03:28She feigned shyness and lowered her head.
03:30What's wrong with me using them with my husband?
03:33Are you upset because your husband doesn't treat you well?
03:36Need my help to get you a psychiatrist?
03:41Look at her haggard face.
03:43Her husband must not want to touch her.
03:45A card like that starts at $300,000.
03:47She doesn't seem like someone who could afford it.
03:50Are they seriously letting in just anybody at such a high-end place?
03:55I was only wearing casual clothes today.
03:57Hardly the shabby mess they made me out to be.
03:59I never realized you were so good with words.
04:07Did you verify her identity when the co-called Mrs. Ruth checked in?
04:11The receptionist hesitated, her face flushing.
04:14She said she didn't have her ID, but Mr. Dylan is a regular, so...
04:19So you just broke the rules?
04:20Your hotel security is a joke.
04:25She's just a receptionist.
04:27Why are you picking on her?
04:29People stay at hotels they can't afford.
04:32Don't make a scene here.
04:39Answer it.
04:41Put it on speaker.
04:42Let's hear how Rex is going to spin this.
04:46As she tapped the speaker button, she burst into fake, heaving sobs.
04:50Honey, come to the hotel, quick!
04:52There's a crazy woman saying I'm not your wife and trying to kick me out!
04:56She wailed dramatically, and Rex's furious voice exploded from the phone at once.
05:01A crazy woman?
05:03Dare she bail you?
05:04Don't be skied.
05:05I'm on my way.
05:06A crazy woman?
05:07So that was what I was to him now.
05:08The onlookers stared at me with open disdain, some even stepping forward to comfort Tiffany.
05:14Don't take it to heart.
05:15She's insane.
05:16Tiffany murmured her thanks, then turned to me with a look of feigned concern.
05:20My husband will be here soon.
05:22He has a terrible temper.
05:24You better leave fast.
05:25Who knows what he might do to you?
05:27He just gave me that $300,000 VIP card, you know?
05:30Shows how much he spoils me.
05:32If he gets here, who knows what he might do to you?
05:34It sounded like a warning, but it was nothing but a slap in the face, a bare-faced provocation.
05:39I trembled with rage.
05:40Every fiber of me screaming to tear off her hypocritical mask right then and there.
05:44Rex arrived faster than I'd expected and he burst through the hotel doors.
05:49The second his eyes landed on me, they turned cold and vicious.
05:52He roughly shoved me aside, then pulled Tiffany into a tight, protective embrace.
05:57Don't be afraid, I'm here.
05:59The way he gently stroked Tiffany's hair was so tender it hurt to watch.
06:03Pushed by him, I stumbled backward, my waist slamming hard into the sofa arm behind me.
06:07If not for the furniture, I would have crashed straight to the ground.
06:10Meanwhile, Tiffany stood on tiptoes, wrapped her arms around his neck, and the two locked
06:14in a long, wet, lingering kiss.
06:17You're so good to me, honey.
06:19Tiffany panted, her voice thick with coquetry.
06:21You need to set this woman straight.
06:22She won't believe I'm your wife.
06:25Only then did Rex turn his gaze to me.
06:28There was no flicker of guilt.
06:29Only pure disgust thought he released Tiffany and strode over, then slapped me hard across
06:33the face.
06:35Tiffany, have you no shame?
06:37Just cause I turned you down when you tried to hint for a permanent position, you've held
06:41a grudge ever since.
06:42Now you dare to bully my wife in public?
06:44I clapped a hand to my cheek, which flared red, swollen, and burning hot.
06:49I stared at him in disbelief.
06:50The man before me was a stranger, terrifyingly unfamiliar.
06:53Before I'd come to the hotel, he'd feigned ignorance on the phone, using his usual gentle
06:58patience to tell me not to have a thing.
07:00Yet, in the blink of an eye, he could twist the truth without batting an eye and even hurt
07:04me.
07:05He'd always had two faces, it turned out.
07:08Now that I thought back, the signs had been there all along.
07:11He'd only lit up at the latest gaming console I'd bought him, but dismissed my painstakingly
07:15developed scientific research as nothing but scrap.
07:18His so-called concern had always circled, back to my bank card, maybe he'd never loved
07:22me.
07:23Maybe he'd never even tried to understand the real me out of strange sense of calm rose from
07:27the depths of my chest, drowning out all the anger.
07:30I lowered my hand from my face and looked straight at him, my voice shockingly steady,
07:34even to myself.
07:35Rex, repeat what you just said.
07:38Tell me who am I, and who is she?
07:41A flicker of panic crossed Rex's eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it came.
07:45You really are crazy!
07:46Wasn't I clear enough?
07:48She is my lawfully wedded wife, Lila.
07:51And you?
07:52You're just some intern who failed to climb the ladder, Tiffany.
07:56He raked his eyes over me.
07:58His voice cold and cruel.
08:02Look at yourself.
08:04You're pushing 40, aren't you?
08:06How could I possibly marry someone like you?
08:09Don't embarrass yourself, okay?
08:11Can't get a man herself, so she's jealous of others' happiness.
08:15I told you she must be crazy.
08:18Didn't think she'd start having delusions, too.
08:20That's really scary.
08:21Poor couple.
08:22They're so unlucky to run into a nut shed like this.
08:25I stayed quiet, just watching their little show.
08:28Rex was clearly dead set on protecting Tiffany, even if it meant grinding me into the dirt.
08:32But did he really think he could twist the truth with just a few lies, slowly?
08:36I pulled my ID card and marriage certificate out of my bag.
08:41These should be enough to prove who I am.
08:43Rex and Tiffany's faces froze at once, but Tiffany's eyes went wide with shock.
08:48Rex lunged forward, snatched the ID and marriage certificate out of my hand, and without even glancing at them, hurled
08:54them straight out the hotel's revolving glass door.
08:56Will you just stop?
08:58Last time, you waved a fake ID at me to disgust me, and now this new trick?
09:03Forging an ID and a marriage certificate?
09:06Tiffany, have some shame.
09:08Do you think I won't call the cops and report you for harassment and forging official documents?
09:13The onlooker's stare shifted from disdain to outright aggression, and they echoed immunity.
09:17Call the police!
09:18Do it now!
09:22She's a fraud.
09:23She should be arrested.
09:24She's not welcome here.
09:26Kick her out, or we'll complain about the hotel!
09:29Tiffany visibly relaxed at that.
09:31She snuggled back into Rex's eyes and spoke to me in a tone that sounded concerned but oozed malice.
09:36You've been so abused by your husband that you've lost your mind.
09:40I can introduce you to a good psychiatrist and a top divorce lawyer if you need.
09:45She stressed the word divorce extra hard.
09:47After all, once I was gone, she could step right into the role of Mrs.
09:52Dylan to ASA response, Rex kissed her forehead, then turned back to me, his eyes as cold as ice.
09:57Get out of here now, or I'm calling the police!
10:00Immediately!
10:01He snapped at the receptionist.
10:02Never here!
10:03If noodley it!
10:04Call security to drive this crazy woman out!
10:06Who knows what else she might do?
10:07What if she hurts other guests?
10:09Kick her out!
10:11We're going to complain about the hotel there!
10:12We're going to the hotel there!
10:14We're going to the hotel!
10:14We're going to the hotel!
10:16We're going to the hotel!
10:38I just wanted to help you up, and you deliberately fell to blame me?
10:46Unbelievable!
10:48My ankle swelled into a painful lump instantly, and a wide patch of skin was scraped raw on
10:52my knee, blood seeping out at once.
10:54My face paled with agony as I tried to stand, only to collapse back down.
10:58Rex stood there, watching coldly, as if I were a total stranger.
11:02My heart turned to ice at that moment.
11:04Any last shred of hope for him was snuffed out, with trembling hands, I fumbled in my pocket
11:09for my phone, desperate to call 911.
11:12But the second I unlocked it, Rex lunged forward and snatched it away.
11:16What are you trying to do?
11:17Call the police?
11:18He accused me falsely.
11:19Let me tell you, everyone here saw clearly that you fell on purpose.
11:24Don't even think about framing my wife and the hotel!
11:27I have a bleeding disorder!
11:29Call an ambulance now!
11:30I shouted through the pain, but Rex remained indifferent.
11:33Instead hurling my phone forcefully across the lobby, left alone, I endured the searing
11:37pain.
11:38Using my uninjured leg to prop myself up and crawl towards my phone, just then, a delicate
11:42high heel stomped down hard on my palm.
11:44Tiffany looked down at me condescendingly.
11:47Sign a statement and admit everything today was your fault, then I'll call an ambulance
11:50for you.
11:51Otherwise?
11:52She paused for effect.
11:53She pressed down harder.
11:54The excruciating pain in my hand, mixed with the agony from my knee and ankle, nearly
11:59made me black out.
12:00I could barely speak, trembling violently from both pain and rage, my consciousness growing
12:04hazy.
12:04Just as I thought I would pass out, a series of rapid, sharp high heel clicks echoed from
12:09the hotel entrance.
12:11My best friend Vivian was striding in.
12:13Lila, I found out.
12:14Rex really did cheat.
12:16He's checked into this hotel more times than you have in the past few years.
12:19He even dared to use the exclusive membership card I gave you with that mistress.
12:22Her voice, however, cut off abruptly, the moment she saw me kneeling on the ground in such
12:27a miserable state.
12:30The receptionist, who had been so arrogant just moments ago, now turned pale, her voice
12:35trembling as she timidly called out,
12:37Dear Director Carter,
12:38affirmed Vivian's identity as the hotel's investor beyond any doubt.
12:42What?
12:43So she wasn't lying after all?
12:45The husband really brought his mistress to impersonate the real wife?
12:48Is this guy even human?
12:49My god, he helped the lover bully his own wife and even hit her!
12:53What a piece of trash!
12:54This disgusting pair is truly repulsive!
12:57Public opinion flipped on a dime.
12:59Anyone traveling with family or a partner instinctively recoiled at infidelity, and their
13:03words grew sharper by the second.
13:05Awkwardly, the security guards let go of me, not daring to lay a finger on me anymore.
13:09Vivian's face crumbled with pity as she tried to squat down and help me, but before her
13:14hand could touch me, Rex grabbed it.
13:16His face was plastered with a sip-of-horshick, panic-o-smile as he shook her hand roughly.
13:22Miss Carter, I'm so sorry for causing trouble at your hotel.
13:24Don't worry, I'll take this troublemaker away right now.
13:27She just has a habit of acting crazy.
13:29Please don't mind her.
13:29He even pretended to be chummy, leaning in like they were old friends.
13:34By the way, Miss Carter, who's your friend here?
13:36We'll all look out for her when you're not around.
13:40Tiffany chimed in fast, putting on a sickly sympathetic face.
13:43Yeah, Mrs. Carter, your friend is really pitiful, running into a man like him.
13:46It's so sad that she's betrayed.
13:49I froze for a beat, before realizing that these idiots still didn't believe the best
13:52girl Vivian was talking about was me.
13:54What are you waiting for?
13:56The investor's here, and you still haven't dragged this crazy troublemaker out?
14:02The guards exchanged nervous looks, glancing back and forth between Vivian and me, unsure
14:07what to do.
14:08Vivian was absolutely livid.
14:10With a sudden, sharp motion, she wrenched her hand free from Rex's grip.
14:13Her voice was glacial.
14:16Stay away from me.
14:18But Rex held on stubbornly.
14:20He planted himself directly in front of Vivian, blocking her view of me, and continued his
14:23tirade without an ounce of shame.
14:25Miss Carter, please don't be upset.
14:26This woman is clearly trying to extort money.
14:29Her injuries may look serious, but she's perfectly fine.
14:32I said, stay away from me.
14:34Someone clean this up immediately.
14:36It's an eyesore.
14:37Are you deaf?
14:38I said, stay away from me.
14:40If anything happens to Leela, I will make sure you regret it.
14:44With that, she shoved both Rex and Tiffany aside and rushed to meet AT the sight of the
14:48blood staining my skirt and my deathly pale complexion.
14:51Her voice wavered.
14:52Blood loss was clouding my vision.
14:54I clung to the last shreds of consciousness and gripped her wrist.
15:00Call an ambulance.
15:02Without hesitation, Vivian dialed emergency services around us.
15:06The whispers among the onlookers grew louder.
15:08So, this guy hasn't even met his wife's best friend?
15:12Unbelievable.
15:13He brings his lover here to bully his wife, and now they targeted her friend, the hotel
15:18investor.
15:19Miss Carter, just teach them a lesson.
15:21They disgusting.
15:23Rex was really embarrassed, but he still refused to accept what was unfolding before
15:27him.
15:28Tiffany tugged at his sleeve, unwilling to back down.
15:30Rex, something's not right.
15:32If she really is Miss Carter's best friend, why don't any of the hotel staff recognize
15:36her?
15:37Miss Carter owns this place.
15:39It doesn't make any sense.
15:41Sensing the cracks in Rex's confidence, Tiffany leaned in, pressing her point with growing
15:46boldness.
15:46Besides, I went through Miss Carter's social media recently.
15:50There wasn't a single post or mention of anyone named Lella.
15:55Do you think Lella might have fooled Miss Carter somehow?
15:59Rex's gaze darkened with renewed suspicion.
16:01Turning back to Vivian, he said with certainty.
16:03Miss Carter, surely you've been misled.
16:05This woman knows exactly how to play the victim.
16:08She's mastered the art of manipulation.
16:10You have to see that.
16:11You have to see.
16:12No way she's your friend.
16:14The reinforces point, he gestured to Tiffany.
16:16Miss Carter, this is Miss Tiffany Burtler.
16:19She's the heirate to Ruth Group, Mr. Ruth's daughter.
16:21I'm sure you've crossed paths before.
16:23She'll vouch that you've never met Lella.
16:25His words landed like a slap.
16:27I blinked in disbelief.
16:28Even Vivian looked momentarily speechless.
16:30Caught between disbelief and fury.
16:32The heiress to Ruth Group?
16:33I was the only daughter of the Ruth family.
16:36After choosing to pursue a career in science rather than take over the company, I'd fallen
16:40out with my father and stepped away from the public eye, keeping my identity-
16:43Get the hell out of my office!
16:44And yet, this imposter had the nerve to claim it.
16:47Oh?
16:48The heiress to Ruth Group?
16:49Then why does she have the last name Butler?
16:52It's due to a complicated family matter.
16:53But make no mistake, Tiffany truly is Ruth Group's heiress.
16:58Vivian let out a cold, sharp snore.
17:00She immediately pulled out her phone, dialed my father's number, and tapped the speaker
17:04button for the entire lobby to hear.
17:07Hello, Mr. Ruth?
17:09Hello, Mr. Ruth?
17:10I heard you suddenly have a daughter named Tiffany.
17:13Are you aware she's the mistress of Lella's husband?
17:15And they're bullying a galette together.
17:17Vivian!
17:18What nonsense are you talking about?
17:20I only have one daughter, Lila.
17:21Where did this Tiffany come from?
17:25Who's spreading laws about my girl?
17:28Where are you?
17:30I'm on my way.
17:31The lobby fell into a deathly silence.
17:33Rex, who'd been oozing smutness moments earlier, froze mid-step.
17:37He whirled around abruptly, snatching Tiffany's arm as she tried to slink away unnoticed.
17:45Tiffany, come on.
17:46Call your father right now.
17:47What the hell is going on here?
17:50I, I, I never said I was the heir out of Ruth Group.
17:53You just assumed it yourself.
17:55Rex looked as if he'd been struck by lightning.
17:58What?
17:59But when I pressed you about your background, you never denied it.
18:02You even hinted you could help me land that cooperation project with Ruth Group.
18:05Mocking laughter erupted around them, cutting through the tense air.
18:08A cold chill seeped into my bones.
18:11Settling deep in my chest, IT turned out that Rex had believed all this time that his shot
18:15at that crucial Ruth Group partnership came from Tiffany.
18:17He had no clue it was me, pulling strings and smoothing paths.
18:21Who'd paved the way for every opportunity he'd gotten.
18:23AT that moment, the wail of an ambulance grew louder.
18:26Echoing closer to the hotel, blood loss blurred my vision.
18:29And a violent ship erect my body.
18:31As the paramedics lifted me onto the stretcher, I stared up at the hotel's opulent crystal
18:35chandelier, its light refracting into a dizzying haze.
18:38The whole scene felt like an absurd, cruel nightmare.
18:42Rex made a move as if to rush over.
18:43Seemingly he had nothing to say, but Vivian stopped him sharply.
18:47The last thing I heard before darkness swallowed me was Vivian's unyielding promise.
18:50I'm here.
18:52This time, I'll make sure they pay for everything they did.
18:55The hospital room reeked of sterile disinfectant.
18:57And four drip trickled slowly from the blood transfusion bag into my veins.
19:01I stared out the window at the gray, overcast sky.
19:04My heart feeling far colder than my body.
19:06Giving my love to a man like Rex had been the cruelest irony of my life.
19:10Vivian sat beside me, holding my uninjured hand gently.
19:13Her voice soft with comfort.
19:15He's not worth your tears, Leela.
19:18You deserve better.
19:20I forced a faint smile, but before I could say anything,
19:23the ward door slammed open with a crash.
19:25Rex stood in the doorway.
19:27His face livid with rage.
19:28There was no trace of guilt in his eyes.
19:31Only raw, bitter accusation.
19:32He strode to the bedside, jabbing a finger inches from my nose.
19:35His voice a snarl.
19:37Leela, why didn't you tell me earlier your parents ran Ruth Group?
19:39If you had, how could I have offended both Ruth Group and Carter Group?
19:45Now look what you've done.
19:46I've been fired from the company, and everything I've worked for is ruined.
19:50Are you satisfied?
19:51His shamelessness disgusted me.
19:53I told you.
19:54More than once.
19:55You were just too impatient to listen.
19:58Too busy, disglistings.
19:59My family affairs is trivial.
20:01Rex, you basted by cameling a loafer.
20:03You did this to yourself.
20:04You deserve it.
20:06Stung by my words, he flew into a more hysterical rage.
20:09Blame me?
20:11If you hadn't spent all your time in that lab,
20:13neglecting yourself and turning into someone who no longer fit your expectations,
20:17would I have strayed?
20:18You never cared if I was tired after work.
20:21Even with all these family resources, you never once lifted a finger to help me.
20:25You never cared if I was tired after work.
20:27Even with all these family resources, you never once lifted a finger to help me.
20:31At that moment, Tiffany walked in.
20:32Yeah, Leela.
20:33Two become one flesh in marriage.
20:35Rex's love for you faded a long time ago,
20:37but he still stayed with you out of duty.
20:40Yet you schemed against him like this.
20:42His layoff was your doing too, right?
20:45That's so mean.
20:46Rex was such a fool.
20:48Immediately, he was emboldened by her few words,
20:50and his gaze towards me turned even more venomous.
20:53I looked at this dramatic pair with utter scorn.
20:55I didn't help you.
20:57Why do you think your little company could manage to connect with Ruth Group?
21:00All on your own.
21:01Or was it through Tiffany's fake identity as the Ruth Aaronress?
21:04Rex, the resources you stole from me didn't just feed you.
21:08They inflated your greed and your audacity.
21:10Rex's face paled, and he fell silent.
21:13I pressed on, my voice trembling with barely suppressed rage.
21:16You claimed to stay with me out of duty.
21:18Then why did you cheat?
21:21Why did you let others call me a lunatic and hit me, your legitimate wife?
21:25Rex, you destroyed your bright future with your own hands.
21:29I'd already prepared the documents to promote you to vice president of the company.
21:34Now, you don't deserve it.
21:42Tiffany shrieked in defense.
21:44We didn't hit you.
21:46You fell on your own.
21:47Yeah, right.
21:48Leela, don't be so dramatic.
21:50I stared at him, a crushing sense of sadness washing over me.
21:54I have a bleeding disorder, and you're aware of it.
21:57A small cut while chopping vegetables can make me bleed uncontrollably, yet you never cared.
22:04I lost so much blood this time, and you call me delicate.
22:08Kit, do you know what I'm most grateful for now?
22:10That we don't have children.
22:13Otherwise, how pitiful they would be.
22:17I... I didn't mean it.
22:18Whether intentional or not, it doesn't matter anymore.
22:21Vivian spoke coldly, holding up her phone screen for us all to see.
22:25I found something interesting.
22:27Rex, the luxury goods you've given Tiffany over the years far exceed your legitimate income.
22:31You stole many of the gifts Leisha's father and I gave her to please that woman.
22:35As for the money you spent...
22:36I stared at the clear transfer records on the screen, stunned by Rex's audacity.
22:42You... dared to embezzle company funds?
22:45I didn't.
22:46My father stood there with a stern face, two uniformed police officers behind him.
22:50Whether it's a false accusation, we'll find out soon.
22:55His gaze swept over Rex and Tiffany, finally resting on me with a look of tender concern.
23:03Officers, the evidence has been handed over.
23:05Go ahead and deal with him.
23:07The facade of hypocrisy on his face collapsed instantly, replaced by sheer terror.
23:11He lunged at Tiffany, frantically trying to tear off the diamond necklace around her neck and the luxury watch on
23:16her wrist.
23:17His movements were so rough that he almost knocked her over.
23:22Leela, Leela, believe me.
23:24I didn't know anything.
23:27I didn't do any of that?
23:31Leave.
23:31I...
23:31What's knocked her on?
23:32I do any of that?
23:33I only gave her these pieces of jewelry because I thought they were cheap replicas.
23:37They're yours.
23:37Here, I'm giving them back to you.
23:39Rex, what are you doing?
23:40You're hurting me.
23:41The bodyguard beside my father reacted instantly, stepping forward and hitting Rex's neck out hard.
23:46With a sickening thug, Rex crumpled to the ground, letting out a sharp cry of pain.
23:50Daring to bully my daughter.
23:52My father's voice was like ice.
23:54Do you take me as nothing?
23:56He took a step forward, looking down at the cowering man on the floor, then took a folder from his
24:00assistant and threw it directly into Rex's face.
24:02Embezzling company funds, falsifying accounts, sifling project money to support your lover, Rex Dillon, you must have a death wish.
24:11Papers scattered across the floor, revealing clear bank statements and account details that left Rex's face drained of all color.
24:17He looked up in panic, his gaze darting wildly to Tiffany, who was pale-faced beside him, and shouted,
24:23Mr. Ruth, it's not my fault. It's all Tiffany. She told me to do it all.
24:27Oh, she claimed to be your daughter, saying that it didn't matter if we used the company's money.
24:33But might I stand I didn't, they gotta maver this money's money.
24:36I were thoughted you, Andra Lee. No one would dare question it.
24:41She deceived me.
24:43Her lips trembled, but no sound came out.
24:45A cold dread crept from the sauls of my feet to the top of my head when I heard that.
24:49It dawned on me that this man, no matter who stood beside him, could be so utterly selfish, so quick
24:55to discard anyone without a second thought.
24:57The love he once claimed ran deep.
25:00In his heart, it likely weighed less than the empty promises scribbled on paper.
25:04Rex was still scrambling to prove his loyalty.
25:06He even dropped to his knees and moved toward my father.
25:09Dad, we're family.
25:11Please forgive me this once.
25:13I'll treat Lila well from now on, I swear.
25:16His gaze suddenly fell on the blood transfusion bag beside my hand, and as it struck by a wonderful idea,
25:21he blurted out urgently.
25:22Lila has lost too much blood.
25:24Then let Tiffany make up for it with her blood.
25:25She can give blood instead.
25:28She's young.
25:29She should be able to handle it.
25:31I shuddered all over, a wave of nausea crashing over me.
25:34How could he suggest something like that so casually?
25:36It was as if Tiffany weren't a living, breathing person, but just an object to be tossed aside whenever he
25:41pleased.
25:42We're not family.
25:43My voice was cold, frayed with the exhaustion of having used up every last ounce of strength.
25:49Rex, we're getting a divorce.
25:51No, we can't!
25:52He struggled to push himself up from the ground.
25:55I won't agree, Lila.
25:57I know I messed up, I'm sorry.
25:59Just give me another chance.
26:01It doesn't matter whether you agree or not.
26:03I closed my eyes, no longer able to bear the sight of his repulsive face.
26:07It's not your call to make.
26:09Later, Rex and Tiffany were taken away by the police.
26:12During my stay in the hospital, my parents and Vivian took turns looking after me.
26:16They were careful around me and never once mentioning Rex's name.
26:20They tried everything to lift my spirits, terrified that the ordeal would leave a permanent mark on me.
26:25Then came the day I was discharged.
26:27My mother took my hand, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.
26:31Lila, come home and live with us.
26:35Your father, he misses you terribly.
26:41What do you say we have a family reunion dinner?
26:46Life had been easy for me since childhood because they got everything taken care of.
26:51Their only wish had always been for my safety and happiness.
26:55But as I got older, I became headstrong, devoting myself entirely to the world of scientific research.
27:01Sometimes, research could be dangerous.
27:03When they'd objected, I'd simply left home for five years, even refusing to invite them to my wedding out of
27:09sheer stubbornness.
27:10I'd known they were only afraid I'd get hurt.
27:13But I'd been too willful back then.
27:15They'd said that if I found someone reliable to marry, they'd let me continue my research without pressuring me to
27:20quit.
27:21Without a second thought, I'd married Rex, who'd seemed gentle and thoughtful at the time.
27:25But after we got married, my mother-in-law despised me for not having a child in five years.
27:30And Rex grew colder towards me with the passing year.
27:33I realized then that the only people who truly loved me unconditionally were my parents.
27:38I hadn't dared tell them what I'd been through, afraid to see the disappointment in their eyes and terrified they'd
27:43blame me for not following their advice.
27:45Rex owed his so-called triumph with the Ruth group entirely to me.
27:49I was the one who persuaded Vivian to pull strings for him when he had nothing to offer.
27:53But that very act of mine had stoked Rex's ambition and, in the end, revealed what kind of person he
27:58truly was.
27:59Back in the early days of our marriage, he had indeed been kind to me, caring and attentive.
28:04But everything changed after Tiffany appeared.
28:06Although my parents had never approved of my involvement in scientific research,
28:10they still pulled me into a proud hug whenever I won an important award.
28:14Rex, by contrast, always found a way to downplay my achievements.
28:17This time, I couldn't bear to break my parents' hearts again.
28:21I squeezed my mother's hand in return, my voice thick with emotion.
28:25Mom, I'm willing to go home.
28:28When I arrived at the house, I hadn't stepped foot in for five years.
28:31Everything felt just as it had been.
28:32My father, once so imposing in the business mark, teared up the moment he saw me walked in.
28:37He stepped forward, pulled me into a tight embrace, his shoulders trembling slightly, and finally let his tears fall freely.
28:43It's good you're back.
28:44I'm so glad.
28:45With my parents in my arms, the grievances I'd bottled up for five years burst forth like a flood.
28:51They didn't mention Rex at all, not a word.
28:53They just gently patted my back, wordlessly telling me this place would always be my safe haven.
28:58Later, the verdict was finally delivered.
29:00Rex was sentenced to seven years in prison for embezzlement and related charges.
29:03And Tiffany, as his accomplice, received a five-year term.
29:06Most of the jewelry Rex had stolen and gifted to Tiffany was recovered.
29:09Before the sentencing, Rex sent a message through his lawyer, begging to see me one last time.
29:13I refused flatly.
29:14The very thought of laying eyes on him now made my stomach churn.
29:17I once asked my father how much of the embezzled funds could be recovered.
29:21He sighed and shook his head.
29:22It can't be recovered.
29:23I share part of the blame.
29:25If I hadn't opened those doors for him, handed him control of the key projects for your sake,
29:31he never would have been able to siphon off the money so smoothly.
29:36He looked at me, his eyes gentle yet resolute.
29:39But it's okay.
29:40The foundation of Ruth Group won't be shaken by this amount.
29:43But I want you to know this.
29:44I'll support you continuing your scientific research.
29:47Feel free to do whatever you want, sweetie.
29:50I've got your back.
29:51Later, I threw myself back into my scientific research,
29:54diving headfirst into a new project and leading my team with renewed focus.
29:58Vivian later told me that after the incident,
30:00the hotel had overhauled its entire security system and implemented stricter identity verification procedures.
30:06Around that time, my mother started showing up at my lab almost daily with homemade lunches.
30:10She knew how easily I lost track of time once I was immersed in research,
30:14so she appointed herself my personal alarm clock.
30:16Every day at mealtime, she appeared right on schedule,
30:19gently nudging me away from my microscope and reminding me to nourish myself.
30:23Later, I led my team in developing an automated intelligent medical device.
30:27Soon after it hit the market, it sent shockwaves through the industry.
30:30Hailed as a groundbreaking innovation, standing on stage at the product launch,
30:33I explained our achievements with confidence and calm,
30:36facing countless astonished and admiring glances.
30:38As soon as I finished my speech and stepped off the stage,
30:41a tall, elegant man with a refined convener stopped me.
30:44He wore a well-fitted dark suit, his bright eyes filled with undisguised admiration.
30:48Dr. Ruth, your presentation was truly wonderful.
30:51Handing me his business card.
30:52I'm Darnell Pansy, head of Corey Medical.
30:54I was wondering if I might have the honor of getting to know you better?
30:57I took his card and, meeting his clear, sincere gaze,
31:00nodded.
31:00Of course.
31:01From then on, we crossed classes at various industry events and academic conferences.
31:06He always took the initiative to talk to me,
31:08offering insightful opinions and showing great respect and passion for scientific research.
31:13Later, at a charity gala, he invited me to dance.
31:16In the ballroom, he was graceful and courteous,
31:18his steps steady and his gaze warm.
31:20After the gala, he confessed to me,
31:22saying he admired my talent and felt sympathy for my past experiences,
31:25hoping to have the chance to take care of me.
31:27I didn't drown in the new romance and replied calmly,
31:30Thank you for your kind offer, but it's too early to talk about this now.
31:34He showed no sign of frustration or pressure, only quiet understanding.
31:38And though he kept his distance, his concern was constant, but we kept it that way for two years.
31:42In the sterile world of her lab, his quiet presence was a gentle Androsian,
31:46a reminder that she was not alone.
31:47He would bring her tea when she was lost in her research,
31:50and tidy her desk when she was too focused to notice.
31:52My parents met him a few times and spoke highly of him,
31:55saying he had his eyes set on me, genuinely,
31:57not for status or gain on a sunny afternoon.
32:00He formally asked me to date again, looking into his eyes,
32:02as sincere as ever.
32:04And thinking of his quiet vigilance over these two years,
32:06I smiled and nodded.
32:07Okay?
32:08Okay?
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