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00:00New Year's bells chimed. Lark Hawthorne's first gift of the year was a photo of her husband Donovan,
00:05tangled in another woman's arms. Ten minutes prior, he'd held their daughter Susie watching fireworks.
00:11Ten minutes later, he was in someone else's bed. Simultaneously, Donovan's affair with a rising star
00:16blew up online. In the nightly estate's grand hall, all party guests turned to Lark, awaiting her
00:20reaction. Ma'am, do we make it bigger? No, contact PR, bury it. The assistant stared, stunned, and the
00:28room erupted in whispers. Everyone remembered Lark's past rage. Lark was just tired. Two years of
00:33screaming, smashing, and losing dignity had changed nothing. When the party ended, Lark carried sleeping
00:39Susie to their room. Then Lark went to the study. Donovan's mother Eleanor sat there, rubbing her
00:46forehead. Lark, I'm so sorry. I'll call him Donovan Knightley. Get your ass home now. Mom, I'm busy.
00:55I'll apologize tomorrow. It's Susie's birthday. Tell Lark she handled today well. Act like a real
01:00nightly wife. Keep it up. Mom, I'm not here for justice. Five years ago, when my mother was dying
01:05of liver failure, you donated half your liver to save her. I'll never forget it. You asked me to
01:10marry Donovan to keep him in line. I tried. I held on to him, but after Susie turned one, he
01:16slipped back.
01:17For two years, I raged, lost all dignity, and you protected me every time, but it didn't work.
01:22My dear, it was my mistake to tie you with gratitude. Tell me what you want. I'll give you
01:29anything. I want a divorce and full custody of Susie. All right, I'll help you. Stay with me for
01:36another two weeks. Back then, it was Donovan who fell in love with you at first sight and begged me
01:41to make you his. Lark paused. Donovan had loved her once. Everything I own is yours. I'm yours. When Susie
01:47was born, Lark had a difficult delivery, and Donovan prayed. He'd crafted a fairy tale of a
01:52reformed bad boy, yet love was the most fleeting thing in the world. Downstairs, her phone lit up.
01:57A huge transfer from Donovan, followed by a message. Heard you've changed. Playing it cool? I'm not used
02:03to it. I'm at the fall in the club you shut down last night. It's back open. Room V-888.
02:08Come cover and
02:09bring a condom. Lark stared at the message, her face unchanging. She didn't reply. Instead, she opened
02:17a delivery app, keyed in the address, and ordered a box of condoms. Sent to room V-888. She was
02:23exhausted,
02:24done with Donovan's provocations and games. The next morning, Lark braided Susie's hair. When the bedroom
02:30door opened, Donovan walked in, and Susie lit up. Daddy. He scooped her up, nuzzling her cheek,
02:36making her giggle. Lark watched silently, no matter how broken their marriage. Donovan was a good
02:41father, and they'd always kept his flings from tainting Susie's view of him. After playing with
02:47Susie, Donovan turned to Lark, casual as if the night's message never existed. We're still on for
02:52Susie's vaccine at 9, right? Mm? Lark replied, her voice flat, continuing to braid Susie's hair. I'll take
02:59you. In the car, Susie fell asleep quickly. Donovan tapped the steering wheel, then chuckled. I braced
03:06for paparazzi, cops maybe both, but just a delivery guy with condoms. Lark, that's new. Lark stared out
03:12the window, unruffled. Isn't this what you wanted? A wife who stays quiet and lets you play? Donovan
03:18stilled, then smirked. Hey, relax, you're still the one with the ring. They're just distractions. His words
03:24stung. He'd sworn she'd be his only one, yet the distractions never stopped. At the community
03:29hospital, Lark handed Donovan a thick stack of papers. Sign here, Susie's enrollment for next
03:34year. Hidden among them were divorce papers. Donovan didn't glance at them, signing each
03:40page. These little things, you handle them. He handed the papers back, then got out to
03:44carry sleeping Susie. Near the hospital entrance, a pale woman stumbled, pushed by staff. If you
03:50don't have money, get out. Lark recognized her, one of Donovan's old flings, the ones he'd
03:56cut off for her. Not going to help your old friend? Donovan cradled Susie, smirking. My
04:01daughter comes first today. The vaccine appointment finished, and Donovan was gone. A message pinged.
04:07Something came up. Take Susie home. I'll make it up to her on her birthday. Lark turned off
04:12her phone, expressionless. She took Susie to a kid-friendly restaurant, and soon headlines
04:17blared. Donovan Knightley, a hero who saved a woman at the hospital. Lark watched Susie eat
04:22ice cream, her voice soft. Susie, if mommy and daddy don't live together anymore, would
04:27you want to stay with me? I would, where mommy is, where I want to be. Daddy's busy a lot,
04:35but I have mommy. Good girl. Let's not tell daddy for now, okay? Okay. After dropping Susie with
04:40the nanny, Lark's phone rang. Ma'am, Mr. Knightley asked for Cloudwater keys. He's giving them to
04:45Mile Advance, a zealous actress. Cloudwater Manor was her pre-marriage property. Got it. She searched
04:52average rental prices and sent to Donovan. If he put Mila in her house, he'd pay rent. Donovan
04:57didn't reply, but a large transfer arrived. For days, Donovan was gone. Lark relished the
05:02piece. She picked up music composition again. A passion lost for two years. Free from Donovan,
05:08she felt light, unburdened. But her social media showed him with Mila. Throwing money around at a
05:13casino with Mila. Holding her waist at a yacht party. At a dating reality show set, his gaze fixed
05:18on Mila. He'd never doted on a fling this much. Susie's third birthday party arrived full of
05:23guests. Lark checked the kitchen menu, ensuring perfection. Returning to the ballroom, she saw
05:28Eleanor, face twisted. Mila stood before Susie, holding a diamond bracelet. Susie, this is a birthday
05:34gift. Let me put it on for you. Oh. Mila ignored her, grabbing Susie's wrist. Susie tugged away,
05:40looking at Donovan nearby. Looks like Susie doesn't like me much. I just wanted to make her happy.
05:45Lark's blood boiled. She stepped forward. She shoved Mila aside and scooped Susie into her arms.
05:51Donovan Knightley, keep your disgusting affairs away from us? And away from my daughter?
05:56The room froze. Mila fell to the ground, then teared up. Mr. Knightley, I just brought Susie a gift,
06:02like you asked. Donovan's expression darkened. He helped Mila up. Did you hurt yourself? Mila leaned
06:08into his arm, shaking her head. Donovan turned to Lark, eyes full of impatience. I thought you'd
06:13learn decorum. Looks like I was wrong. Mila is my new assistant. I brought her to learn Susie's
06:18routine, to help take care of her. Is this something you can't tolerate? Where's your dignity as Mrs.
06:23Knightley?
06:26For two years, she'd caught him cheating. She'd lost all dignity countless times. Now Mila was
06:31touching her daughter. When Susie fell asleep, Lark checked the family assets. She noticed something
06:36wrong with Susie's trust fund. A large sum was gone, approved by Donovan. A chill ran through her.
06:41She dialed Donovan's number. No answer. She hung up and drove straight to Knightley group.
06:46The secretary tried to stop her. Ma'am, Mr. Knightley is busy. Lark ignored her, walking to his office.
06:52As she reached for the door, she heard muffled moans. She froze, took a deep breath, and pushed
06:57the door open. The office reeked of lust. Mila was half-dressed. Mila locked eyes with Lark,
07:02then gasped, hiding. Donovan adjusted his clothes, lit a cigarette leisurely.
07:06Why are you here, Mrs. Knightley? Something wrong?
07:09The money's almost all gone. Did you take it? Mr. Knightley, I'm so sorry. Without my breach fee?
07:15Don't overreact. She cried for days. This is compensation.
07:18Compensation with their daughter's money? Lark's ears rang, her vision blurring for a moment.
07:23That belief shattered. A knock sounded. Mr. Knightley, the meeting is starting.
07:28Donovan adjusted his shirt, walking out with Mila.
07:30Come on, be happy. I ordered the latest jewelry for you.
07:33He left without waiting for a reply, leaving Lark alone. The jewelry arrived the next day.
07:38Lark didn't look at it, telling the maid to put it in the storage room.
07:42Donovan took her silence for compromise, tabloids filled. Mila, once obscure, was thrust into the
07:47spotlight. The word repeat unlocked painful memories for Lark. She focused on her career,
07:52her music composition studio. She'd poured her heart into it. Its biggest press event,
07:57in partnership with a brand. But on the event day, Mila walked on stage. Lark froze. She couldn't
08:02disrupt the event now. Then Donovan stood beside Mila. Donovan Knightley, what gives you the right
08:08to replace my guest? Mila's hot right now. Better buzz. Your resources are mine. She'll earn money.
08:14Lark's stomach churned. She took a deep breath. Suppressing her rage, she couldn't ruin her event.
08:20But as Mila began her presentation, she faltered. The technology is complicated,
08:24kinda like the algorithm. Mila knocked over a glass of water, splashing the system.
08:28The speakers screeched. The screen flickered, then went black. Chaos erupted. Is she here to
08:33sabotage? What a joke. Mila froze on stage, pale, tearing up, looking at Donovan. He motioned for
08:39bodyguards to escort her off. She was just nervous. We'll prepare her better. The event ended hastily.
08:45Lark's phone vibrated non-stop. The Oscar actress's manager accused the studio. The brand
08:50demanded an explanation and compensation. Three partners cancelled their contracts, demanding
08:55compensation.
08:57It's just a small accident. I'll handle it. Whatever the loss is, I'll pay you double.
09:02All I have to do is ask, and he'll hand me your studio. Lark Hawthorne, if I were you, I'd
09:07walk away
09:07quietly. Why cling to Mrs. Knightley when everyone hates you? Two years of screaming, smashing, acting
09:13insane? For what? You couldn't even keep his heart. Honestly, it's embarrassing.
09:17Yeah, I did go insane. Since who I am? Who gave you the courage to directly provoke me?
09:23Before Mila could react, Lark raised her hand and slapped her across the face.
09:27Lark Hawthorne. He shoved Lark aside hard, pulling Mila into his arms. Lark lost her balance,
09:32her hip slamming into the sharp corner of the display table. How long are you going to act
09:36like this? I said I'd pay double, triple. You used to just smash cars and burn clubs, but
09:41now you're hitting people? How vicious you are. Vicious? And you? Stealing from your own
09:47daughter's trust fund? Ruining my event? What does that make you, Donovan?
09:51Let's see how insane you can be. He wrapped an arm around Mila and stormed out. The man
09:55who once swore he'd rather die than see her hurt was gone. Her phone rang. Eleanor. Lark took
10:01a deep breath, making her voice sound normal. Hello. Lark. The paperwork is almost done.
10:08Finalized in five days. Tops. Don't worry. I know Donovan wronged you. Lawyers have everything sorted.
10:17You and Susie won't be shortchanged. Thank you, Eleanor. There's one more thing.
10:23Your father-in-law's funeral is coming up. We're gathering the family. He always loved you.
10:30Like his own daughter. Would you help me one last time? Okay, Mom. I'll help.
10:36The funeral day was grey and heavy. Lark directed the servants, her final respect for the kind old
10:41man. An engine growled outside. Donovan was back and Mila walked arm in arm with him. Donovan acted as
10:47if it was nothing. Throughout the ceremony, Lark and Donovan didn't speak. Mila stayed by his side,
10:52quiet and demure, the picture of belonging. After the ceremony, the family gathered for a meal.
10:57Donovan's aunt couldn't hold back. Donovan, today is your father's funeral. Why bring her here?
11:04Lark is still your wife. Show some respect. The room fell silent. Mila's shoulders trembled,
11:09tears filling her eyes. I know I shouldn't be here, but I'm pregnant. He's still a Knightley. I just
11:15wanted the baby to honor his grandfather. So the Knightley family is growing. Absolute silence.
11:20Even Donovan looked stunned. Mila bit her lip, pitiful. I wasn't sure how to tell you, Donovan.
11:26You're not angry, are you? Since she's carrying a Knightley, it's natural she comes to pay respects.
11:30His admission was a knife to Lark's heart. Have you lost your mind? What about Lark? What about Susie?
11:37Auntie, today is about Mr. Knightley. Let's not disturb him. Donovan glanced at her, surprised he'd
11:43expected fireworks. Eleanor, I'm not feeling well. I'm taking Susie home. Please take care here.
11:48She walked to Susie, who played with toys quietly, taking her hand. Her back as she left stirred a
11:54strange unease in Donovan. Mom, are we going home? Yes, we're going home.
12:01Lark sent Susie home, instructing the nanny carefully, then locked herself in the study.
12:05If Donovan wanted Mila's child, so be it. She was ready to leave with Susie. Before nightfall,
12:11the nanny banged on the study door, holding a small voice recorder, tears streaming.
12:15Ma'am, Susie is missing. I just went inside for a moment and she was gone. This is all I
12:20found.
12:21Lark, you're in my way. Your child is in my way too. You both deserve to die.
12:26Thankfully, Lark had put a tracking chip in Susie's shoes. Lark grabbed her car keys,
12:31speeding there, and called her assistant, calm. Dig up everything on Mila. Nightclub photos,
12:36fake degree videos. Release it all. Buy out every headline. I want her completely ruined within 24
12:42hours. At the dock, Lark saw a small wooden boat drifting in the water. Leaking, slowly sinking.
12:51Water rose to Susie's chest. Susie. Lark's heart shattered. She jumped into the water,
12:57pulling Susie into her arms. Susie was unconscious, cold, trembling uncontrollably. Lark's tears of rage
13:03fell. Her hatred for Mila boiled over. She swam to shore, clutching Susie, rushing her to the hospital.
13:12When she confirmed Susie was safe, she changed out of her wet clothes, breathing a sigh of relief.
13:17In three hours, Mila's reputation was destroyed. Her social media flooded with hate. All endorsements
13:22cancelled. Donovan stormed in, furious, followed by Mila, red-eyed and pitiful.
13:27Lark, it's you? You leaked everything? You're trying to destroy her? I told you no one will
13:33replace you. Why use these filthy tricks? She's pregnant, Lark. You know how fragile a pregnant
13:38woman is? Donovan, do you know? Your daughter was kidnapped this afternoon? And almost drowned?
13:44Donovan's anger froze, his pupils narrowing. Mila's face turned pale, her eyes darting nervously.
13:49Susie. Susie, is she okay? Lark turned away, unwilling to look at him. I'm worried about her,
13:54too. I'll get to the bottom of it. That has nothing to do with Mila. Are you sure?
14:02Donovan stared at the recorder, not moving to take it. No, that's not my voice, it's fake.
14:07Mrs. Knightley, you hate me so much, destroying my name wasn't enough? Now you say I tried to kill Susie?
14:13Donovan loves Susie so much, I treat her like my own. How could I hurt her? You're pushing me too
14:18far.
14:19The baby and I, you want us dead? Donovan's doubtful face darkened completely.
14:24Lark, are you trying to ruin Mila? Donovan, you're truly one, both in eyes and heart.
14:29Susie slept, her little face pale but breathing steady. Lark sat by the bed, brushing her soft
14:34hair, her heart calming. She sat until sunset, and her phone lit up with two messages.
14:38Mila's emotional state is unstable. The baby is in danger. The doctor says no more stress. No matter
14:44what, the child is a nightly. To calm her, I might give her a name. Stay calm.
14:49It won't affect you. Go ahead. Lark, all paperwork is done and sent to the airport.
14:56Susie's custody documents too. Take care. Thank you, Eleanor. Lark handled Susie's discharge
15:03papers. Mommy, are we going home? Yeah, we're going home. Lark kissed her forehead, lifting
15:09her into the car. Back at the memory-filled villa, Lark didn't linger. She went to the walk-in closet,
15:14grabbed a suitcase. Packing efficiently essentials for her and Susie, a few old keepsakes. The expensive
15:20jewelry, luxurious clothes, she left them all. She glanced around the home one last time, calm and
15:25unshaken. She got in the car, heading straight for the airport. As the plane ascended, clouds
15:30stretching beneath them. Susie slept soundly in her arms. Lark looked out of the window,
15:35watching the ground shrink and fade. The plane would land in a new city. No Donovan,
15:40no Mila, no suffocating entanglements. Her new life with Susie was just beginning.
15:46I was so scared our baby almost. It's okay now. For three days, his phone had been eerily quiet.
15:52Since Lark's go-ahead, no messages, no calls. This wasn't the Lark he knew, the one who'd cause a
15:57scene. His phone rang, Cloudwater Manor's property manager. Ms. Hawthorne authorized the sale of the
16:03manor. She dared to sell the house? Mr. Knightley, the title is solely Ms. Hawthorne's. Donovan slammed
16:10the phone down, rage burning in his chest. What are you playing at? Selling the house?
16:16You think you can control me with silent treatment? Stop the childish tricks. If you want something,
16:21just say it. No reply. Donovan, what's wrong? Nothing. Rest up. I'll handle something. Where is she?
16:27Sir, Mrs. Knightley took Susie and left a few days ago. Where did they go? Donovan tugged at his tie,
16:33furious. He imagined Lark cold-faced, waiting for him to beg. He wouldn't. He was curious how long she
16:39could stay calm. A woman who'd gone crazy over him, how could she really let go? Let's go,
16:44your discharge is arranged. Mila nodded eagerly. In the following days, Donovan grew even more high
16:49profile, as if proving something to himself and suppressing his unease. He took Mila to fashion
16:54shows, auctions, private parties. Bought her jewelry, luxury houses. Made her the spokesperson for a new
17:01Knightley project. Media rumors blared. Donovan Knightley replaces his wife.
17:09Mila basked in compliments, her confidence soaring high. But Donovan felt so empty. Pleasant indulgences
17:15felt dull, amid glasses and chatter. He zoned out, thinking of past. If he'd been this blatant,
17:21Lark would have driven her car, thrown a bottle at him then. Now absolutely nothing. No calls,
17:27no confrontations. A friend approached him. Worried your wife makes a scene? We'll guard the door for you.
17:32Donovan downed his drink. She dares? She learned her lesson now. Making a scene is useless. Women
17:39shouldn't be spoiled. Now everything's perfect. And Mila's so very sweet. Donovan didn't reply.
17:45His gaze drifted to Mila. She was laughing in the hall. But his mind flashed to Lark.
17:50Her face lit by compliments, then stained with bitter tears. Hysteria from his betrayal. Mila's
17:55obedience felt lacking. It simply lacked all life. He waved the thought away. Discomfort of losing a
18:01cat. Nothing more, just that. Lark couldn't live without him. Like a fish without water. All she
18:06did was grab attention. A dramatic plea for more. He pulled out his phone. Typing a spiteful message.
18:12Had enough fun yet, Lark? Come back when you're done. Don't wait for me to ask. No reply, then a
18:17call.
18:17From Eleanor, his mother. Mom, what's going on? I'm busy right now. Eleanor's voice was cold.
18:23Busy flaunting that thing? Around town? Are you? Get your ass back home now. She hung up abruptly.
18:30Donovan stared at the tone, furrowing his brow deeply. Mother rarely spoke like this. Especially
18:36after his marriage. She always defended Lark. Unease washed over him. He suppressed it quickly.
18:41Just gossip. A lecture. He stood up from the bar. Ignored Mila's glance. Headed to his waiting car.
18:47Back at nightly estate. Steady bright but oppressive. Eleanor sat at tablehead. No warmth in her eyes at
18:53all. Staring coldly at Donovan. Mom, what is this about? Donovan loosened his tie. Sitting lazily on
18:58the couch. Eleanor didn't answer him. Her gaze was piercing sharp. Donovan, do you know now where Lark and
19:06Susie are? Donovan scoffed loudly. She's hiding with the kid. Throwing a silly tantrum. She'll
19:12crawl back to me. When she's finally done. Throwing a tantrum? Eleanor repeated sharply,
19:19sarcasm in her voice. She stood up, slamming a file on the coffee table. Donovan nightly. Do you still
19:26think she's throwing a tantrum? Open your eyes. She's completely done with you. What the hell are
19:33you dreaming about? Divorce? Does she think this threatens me? After a suffocating silence he forced
19:38a cold laugh. Lark had given up almost everything. This can't be. Donovan muttered, his fingers
19:44crumpling the paper. Donovan was lost in memories. Donovan, I'm marrying you just for who you are. Do you
19:50get it now? She's not blackmailing you. She's done. Why the hell? Who does she think she is? Taking my
19:56daughter and walking away? In her dreams. If she wants to play, I'll play along. Let's see how long
20:01she can hide. Find them. Use every resource. Turn the world upside down. Get Lark and Susie for me.
20:07Now. He hung up and the study fell silent. Eleanor watched him. Disappointment and weariness in her
20:12eyes. Donovan paced trying to shake off uneasiness. Then he remembered the voice recorder. Mila had cried it
20:18was a forgery and he'd been too distracted. A thought struck him. What if it was real?
20:25Donovan dialed a forensic expert. I need a technical analysis of a recording of Susie's
20:30kidnapping. Most detailed report fast. The following hours were torture. Finally, a call came. Mr.
20:36Knightley, the recording is almost certainly not forged. His phone vibrated again. The hospital
20:41caretaker said, Miss Vance woke up emotional, crying for you. Her stomach hurts. Donovan hung up
20:48abruptly. More investigation results trickled in. Miss Vance's pregnancy reports are suspicious.
20:53The doctor got a large sum. Her past is complicated. She was involved with several men.
20:59Donovan grabbed his car keys. Furious, storming out of the estate. Speeding to the hospital,
21:04he barged into Mila's VIP room.
21:06Mr. Knightley, you're here. I... The recording is real, Mila. What else do you have to say?
21:12Oh, it's fake. Lark framed me. Framed you? What about the fake pregnancy? The multiple men? Is that
21:18Lark's doing too? Mila collapsed back onto the bed, once pitiful, now only ugly deceit. Mila,
21:24you'll pay for everything. From today, you have no place. In the entertainment industry. In this city.
21:29Pray I don't find more evidence. Otherwise, it's not just your reputation. Donovan returned to the
21:34villa. He pushed open the door. Greeted by a press of silence, he turned on the lights. The chandeliers
21:40shone on luxurious, lifeless furniture. Susie's favorite toy on the couch. An unfinished picture
21:45book. The piano lid open with a music sheet. Everywhere, traces of their life. Now only him.
21:53The plane taxied to a stop, and Lark unbuckled her seatbelt. Susie rubbed her sleepy eyes.
21:58Mom, are we there yet?
22:00We're here. Lark said, taking a deep breath. Picking up Susie and walking toward the exit.
22:05In the bustling arrival hall, Lark's eyes locked onto a tall figure. Leaning against the railing,
22:11Julian Hawthorne. Their gazes met and time stopped. Julian stepped forward,
22:16wrapping his arms gently around Lark and Susie.
22:18You've worked hard, Lark.
22:19His words exposed her false appearance. A small break in her composure. I buried her face in his
22:25shoulder. The scent of home wrapping around her. Julian released her quickly, bending down to wink
22:30at Susie. Susie, do you remember Uncle Julian? Susie snuggled closer to Lark, staring at him with
22:35curious eyes. Julian chuckled, taking the heaviest suitcase from Lark, lifting Susie onto his shoulder.
22:41Little princess, we're heading to the palace. Susie wrapped her arms around his neck,
22:45giggling brightly. Lark's tense nerves relaxed, seeing her daughter bond with Julian so quickly.
22:51They got into Julian's modified SUV, and Susie stared out the window, curious about the new
22:56surroundings. The car drove into a quiet residential area. Stopping in front of an elegant three-story
23:02house, Lark spotted her parents at the door, eager. Before the car stopped, Mrs. Hawthorne ran over,
23:08tears in her eyes, grabbing Lark's hand.
23:10You're back. It's so good you're back.
23:12Mr. Hawthorne stood behind her, his eyes red, patting her arm.
23:17You've lost weight.
23:18Julian carried Susie out, and the little girl ran to her grandmother.
23:22Mrs. Hawthorne crouched down, embracing her.
23:24You're precious.
23:25Julian set down the luggage, saluting mockingly, reporting in, sir. Mission accomplished.
23:31Two princesses delivered safely, awaiting orders. Mr. Hawthorne laughed, scolding.
23:36Always making fun of things.
23:38Mrs. Hawthorne chuckled through tears, hitting him lightly.
23:41The somber atmosphere lifted instantly. Lark watched her family, a bittersweet pang in
23:46her chest. Warm, tearful, not sad or painful. She smiled softly.
23:50Dad, Mom, we're home.
23:52Come inside. Dinner's ready. Everything you love.
23:56Julian flung an arm around Lark's shoulder, leading her in.
23:59Mom's best dishes. Don't let them get cold.
24:02The gate closed behind them, shutting out the Capitol's cold, and the nightly's chaos,
24:07locking them into a warm, new world.
24:10Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne filled plates, asking gentle questions.
24:14After dinner, Mrs. Hawthorne took Susie to the bathroom. Mr. Hawthorne took a work call
24:19in the study. The living room was quiet. Only Lark and Julian left. Julian tossed Lark a
24:24milk can, cracking open a beer.
24:25So how's it going? Getting used to everything?
24:28Yeah.
24:28What are your plans now?
24:30Rest for a while. Spend time with Susie.
24:32Then I'll pick up composing again.
24:34That's my sister. If it weren't for... Forget the bad times. Whatever you want to do, go
24:38for it. Money, manpower, anything you need, I'll handle it.
24:42Hmm.
24:42Here she truly belonged.
24:44Mrs. Hawthorne came downstairs, her eyes red.
24:46Lark, come help me sort the attic. Your old things are there.
24:50Lark followed her up. They entered the dusty attic, filled with old memories.
24:54Mrs. Hawthorne opened a cardboard box. Lark's student music trophies.
24:58Handwritten scores faded with time. Photos of her performing with the school orchestra.
25:03Young Lark had bright eyes, a confident smile. Violin in her arms, a future full of possibility.
25:08And it feels like yesterday you were so radiant. If I hadn't gotten so sick, if Mrs. Knightley
25:13hadn't donated her liver, I might have. Your father and I tried to stop you.
25:19Julian opposed it the most, said that Knightley boy. Was too flighty, couldn't settle down.
25:24But we couldn't convince you. Lark froze. She'd never known her brother opposed her marriage.
25:30So fiercely. While she'd thrown herself into love and gratitude, her family had seen the danger hidden
25:35in the fog.
25:38Mom, don't say anymore.
25:39But you've suffered so much.
25:41Would have what? Now you see who has sharp eyes.
25:44You're always teasing your sister.
25:46Oh, I'm so hurt. I'm just educating my sister.
25:49The past was unchangeable. A few days later, Lark rented a music studio.
25:53Julian handled everything. Registration.
25:56Calling it safeguarding a future music master.
25:58He criticized her curtain choices.
26:01But drove across the city for fabric.
26:03The scratch of her pen.
26:04Complained about her coffee machine.
26:06But made her the first cup.
26:08Sat on the sofa working while she composed.
26:10Mrs. Hawthorne visited often.
26:12Watching Julian fuss over Lark pried in her eyes.
26:14One afternoon, after Lark sent off a partner,
26:17Mrs. Hawthorne came to the studio.
26:19Julian stepped out for a call.
26:21Mom, what brings you here?
26:22Lark, there's something.
26:24I've been meaning to tell you.
26:27Lark sat down, a vague premonition in her mind.
26:30Julian, he's not your biological brother.
26:33Lark stared at her, disbelieving.
26:35Not your father's either.
26:36He's adopted.
26:38Mrs. Hawthorne sighed, lost in memory.
26:40Back then, I was in poor health.
26:42Couldn't have children.
26:43Your grandparents pressured us.
26:45We saw Julian at the orphanage.
26:47He was stubborn, eyes sharp.
26:49But I felt a connection.
26:51The moment I saw him.
26:53Julian is thoughtful.
26:54Gives things to himself.
26:56But his kindness to you.
26:57From childhood to now.
26:59Your father and I have seen it all.
27:02He knew he wasn't your real brother.
27:04But he's always been a good one.
27:06Lark froze, a thousand memories flashing.
27:08Childhood, Julian rushing to her defense.
27:11When she was bullied, fighting until.
27:13His face was bruised.
27:14Him sitting beside her.
27:16While she practiced the violin.
27:17Dozing but not leaving.
27:19Him vehemently opposing her marriage.
27:21Red-eyed on her wedding day.
27:22If you're hurt, just come back.
27:24I'll take care of you.
27:25All the protection she'd taken for granted.
27:27Had a deeper reason.
27:29More than sibling love.
27:30Her chest tightened.
27:31A heavy, sour ache filling her heart.
27:33The studio door opened.
27:35I just closed a big deal.
27:36We need to celebrate.
27:38Mom, you come too.
27:39I know a new private kitchen.
27:40His words stopped.
27:42Noticing the silence.
27:45What's going on?
27:46Mom reminiscing with Lark?
27:48Don't make my sister cry.
27:49She's our protected species.
27:51You siblings talk.
27:52I'll leave.
27:53Creative block?
27:54You're furrowing your brows.
27:55Like you'll squash a fly.
27:57Nothing's more important.
27:58Than food.
27:59Come on.
28:00Treat your hardworking manager?
28:01Alright.
28:02In the following days,
28:03a subtle, unspoken atmosphere grew between them.
28:06She accepted the closeness,
28:08glancing at him only when his touches crossed a line.
28:10I didn't do anything.
28:12Touches held a hint.
28:13Lark didn't pull away.
28:14She accepted the closeness.
28:16His smile deepened.
28:19Julian no longer acted as her brother.
28:21He stepped into the finer details of her life.
28:24He left a warm bowl of porridge beside her.
28:26When she stayed up composing,
28:28no words needed.
28:29Client gave them.
28:30We waste not to use.
28:31He held two movie tickets,
28:32inviting her along.
28:34Lark knew exactly what was happening.
28:35Her mother's words were less an announcement,
28:38more a careful assist by Julian.
28:40He was no longer content to be her brother.
28:42He was patiently positioning himself for a new role.
28:45Lark, after an exhausting marriage,
28:47didn't mind this subtle maneuvering.
28:48She watched him busy in her studio.
28:50For the first time,
28:52she seriously considered
28:53this relationship shifting from sibling bond
28:55to something more
28:57might be worth courage.
28:58But she needed more time
28:59before she could decide her peace was shattered.
29:02Lark bent over the soundboard,
29:04adjusting a string arrangement.
29:05Then the door knocked.
29:07Come in.
29:08The door opened,
29:09but no one entered.
29:10Lark paused,
29:11straightening up.
29:12Came here to hide and find peace?
29:13Is there something you need?
29:15Where's Susie?
29:16I came to see my daughter.
29:17She's at kindergarten.
29:19She organized music sheets,
29:20a signal to end the conversation.
29:22Her calm and rage, Donovan.
29:24No tears,
29:24no questions,
29:25no hysteria.
29:26Nothing he'd expected.
29:28This complete indifference was unbearable.
29:30Lark, have you had enough?
29:31Does this runaway act amuse you?
29:33Donovan, you've got it wrong.
29:35The divorce agreement is signed.
29:37We have no relationship.
29:38If you want to see Susie,
29:40schedule an appointment.
29:41This is my workplace.
29:42You're not welcome here.
29:44No relationship?
29:45So what if you signed the paper?
29:46Do you think you can walk away from me?
29:48Playing hard to get is too late.
29:50Name your price.
29:51What will it take?
29:52For you to come back with the child?
29:53Don't test my patience.
29:55The studio door opened again.
29:56Lark, are you done?
29:57Susie's school is ending.
29:59Mom wants us for dinner.
30:00Julian's voice froze,
30:01seeing the scene.
30:02His carefree smile vanished,
30:04replaced by sharp, cold intensity.
30:08Mr. Knightley, what brings you here?
30:10Looking for my sister?
30:11I came to see Lark and Susie.
30:13This is husband and wife business.
30:15None of your place to interfere.
30:17Husband and wife?
30:17Donovan, are you sleepwalking?
30:19Does my sister have a relation with you?
30:21Slap divorce papers on your face?
30:23Julian, I've been polite.
30:24My family matters are not your business.
30:26Lark was confused.
30:27You should stop her.
30:28Not fan the flames.
30:30Lark is my sister,
30:31my precious sister.
30:32The one I watched grow up.
30:33You promised to care for her.
30:35What did you do?
30:36Let a lowly woman humiliate her.
30:38Almost kill Susie.
30:39Now you talk about family outsiders?
30:41That was an accident near a sheep.
30:44Shut up.
30:44Don't mention her name.
30:45She dirtied my sister's life.
30:47Last warning.
30:47Leave my sister's sight.
30:49Never come near her, harass Susie.
30:51Julian Hoffman, who are you?
30:52I have the right to see my daughter.
30:54It's my duty.
30:56Julian's eyes sharpened.
30:57He punched Donovan's face fast and hard,
30:59full of pent-up fury.
31:02Donovan was caught off guard,
31:03staggering back, crashing into the sofa.
31:05His lips split, blood seeping out.
31:07He clutched his face, glaring at Julian.
31:10That punch was for Lark and Susie.
31:12Donovan, Lark, soften for you.
31:13Let you trample her.
31:14Things are different.
31:15My sister and niece are protected.
31:17Show up again.
31:18I'll be there.
31:19Test me.
31:19Donovan locked eyes with Julian,
31:21then at Lark, cold and unyielding.
31:23Julian turned, wrapping an arm around Lark's shoulder,
31:26his tone soft instantly.
31:27It's fine now.
31:28Let's pick up Susie.
31:29Lark didn't look at Donovan once.
31:31Donovan sank on the sofa, his cheek burning.
31:33He refused to believe Lark would truly let go.
31:36He will target Susie.
31:39Expensive toys, imported snacks, handwritten cards,
31:42for my beloved Susie from Daddy.
31:44Flooded the Hawthorne home.
31:46Donovan called the landline at kindergarten dismissal.
31:49His voice soft.
31:50Susie, do you miss Daddy?
31:52Mrs. Hawthorne always cut him off.
31:54It's not convenient for the child.
31:56Don't call again.
31:57When Lark found out, she told her mother to return all gifts.
32:01And reminded the kindergarten, only designated family could pick up Susie.
32:05But some things couldn't be stopped.
32:07During bedtime stories, Susie hugged her teddy bear quiet.
32:10Um, why doesn't Daddy live with us anymore?
32:13Why did we send the doll back?
32:14He said he misses me.
32:16The confusion and sadness in her eyes pierced Lark's heart.
32:19She pulled Susie close.
32:21You have mommy, grandma, uncle?
32:23You're still happy, right?
32:24Susie nodded, burying her face in Lark's chest.
32:27Um, but sometimes I miss Daddy too.
32:30Lark realized avoidance wasn't the answer.
32:32The more she blocked him, the tighter he clung.
32:34Leaving deeper mocks on Susie, she needed a direct conversation.
32:38Not to reconcile, but to sever ties completely.
32:41A few days later, after Donovan sent another batch of toys, Lark dialed his number.
32:45He answered quickly.
32:47Lark?
32:47Tomorrow at 3 p.m., Quiet Shores Cafe.
32:50We need to talk.
32:51Just the two of us.
32:52She hung up.
32:53No chance for him to argue.
32:54On the other end, Donovan smiled.
32:56See, she couldn't hold out.
32:57The cold war.
32:59The move.
32:59All a tantrum.
33:00He canceled his plans.
33:02Thought about his outfit.
33:03His words.
33:04This was his chance to bring them back.
33:06Mila was just a distraction.
33:08Once he was done with her, he'd return to his family.
33:11Susie missed him.
33:11Lark would come back.
33:12He sipped his drink, rehearsing their reunion in his mind.
33:16The Quiet Shores Cafe.
33:17A place for serious talks.
33:20Today, a final reckoning.
33:22Donovan showed up on time.
33:24Dressed to impress.
33:25Lark arrived first.
33:26He sat across from her.
33:28Scanning her face for exhaustion, longing.
33:30Lark, I thought a lot.
33:31Before I was an idiot.
33:32Blinded by selfishness, hurt you and our family.
33:36Especially with Mila.
33:37I misunderstood you.
33:38Apologies don't make up for it.
33:40But believe me, my feelings for you never changed.
33:43You have no one else now.
33:44Give me a chance to make it right.
33:46Let me pursue you again.
33:48Start over.
33:49Give Susie a complete home.
33:50I promise only you and Susie.
33:51Never repeat mistakes.
33:53Donovan, you've got a few things wrong.
33:55First, I'm not here.
33:56To listen to your confession or give you a chance.
33:59I'm here to inform you.
34:01The past is completely over.
34:02For me.
34:03Second, my life is good now.
34:05I don't need your makeup or start over.
34:08Without you, Susie and I are better.
34:10Third, who told you I don't have anyone else around me?
34:13The cafe door opened.
34:14Julian walked in, a loose gray sweater, tall and calm.
34:18He walked to Lark's side, placing a hand on the back of her chair, natural and intimate.
34:22Are you done talking?
34:23Donovan stared at their gesture, his pupils contracting, blood draining from his face.
34:27Julian, you, you too.
34:29Your siblings are killed.
34:35Brother and sister?
34:37Donovan, who told you that we're siblings?
34:39Sorry to disappoint you, I'm not.
34:40I was originally the childhood partner prepared for Lark by the family.
34:44I've watched her grow up, protected her, and waited for her.
34:47I'm clean, guaranteed pure.
34:49From the start to the end, I've only had eyes for her.
34:51So now she has someone.
34:52It's me, understand?
34:53The words, childhood partner, hit Donovan like a thunderclap.
34:57The impact echoed in his mind.
34:58The world seemed to spin.
35:00In the following days, Donovan seemed to vanish from the world.
35:03No calls, no messages, and no appearances.
35:06But a few days later, in the afternoon, the familiar black Maybuck appeared.
35:09Donovan saw Lark and Julian walking side by side.
35:12When he saw Julian naturally pick up Susie, lifting her high in his arms.
35:16Donovan's face hardened, a deep frown settling upon it.
35:20Susie, daddy's here to take you home.
35:22Susie's smile froze as she saw Donovan.
35:24She instinctively shrank into Julian's arms, her little hands clutching his neck tightly.
35:29Susie, come here to daddy.
35:30Daddy will take you to buy the latest doll and have your favorite ice cream.
35:33I don't want to, I want uncle and mommy.
35:36Be good, I'm your daddy.
35:37Donovan, you're scaring a child.
35:39What do you think you are?
35:40Who are you to hold my daughter?
35:42Susie, look closely.
35:43He's a bad man who wants to take your mommy away.
35:48Lark, step aside.
35:49I need my daughter to see this man for who he really is.
35:52Daddy's bad.
35:53The air seemed to freeze.
35:54He froze completely.
35:56I hate daddy.
35:57You yelled at uncle.
35:58You scared Susie.
35:59You're a bad daddy.
36:00I don't want to go with you.
36:02I like uncle.
36:03Uncle tells me stories.
36:04Uncle plays with me.
36:06He never yells at me.
36:07The innocent direct words of a child were like a dagger piercing Donovan's heart.
36:11He couldn't believe what he was hearing from his daughter.
36:14He stumbled backward crashing into the cold car door.
36:17His mind was a blank.
36:20Donovan never showed up again after that.
36:22Days passed quietly, like pages turning without resistance.
36:26Her studio slowly found its footing.
36:28A score she composed for a documentary caught industry attention.
36:31The chaos that had once dominated Lark's life seemed to fade, replaced by an unfamiliar calm.
36:36She only accepted projects that respected the music itself, not her past.
36:40She was composer Lark Hawthorne.
36:42Susie adapted quickly to her new world.
36:44New kindergarten.
36:45New friends.
36:46New routines.
36:47She took them all in stride, her laughter returning.
36:50Brighter and more carefree than before.
36:52Julian quietly stepped into the space that had once been hollow, filling the role of a father.
36:56He sat with Susie through childish craft projects, patiently answered her wild, endless questions.
37:02And stayed by her bedside on nights when nightmares jolted her awake.
37:05Susie began to rely on him more and more.
37:07Seeing this, Mrs. Hawthorne and her husband finally relaxed.
37:11They began planning trips of their own, leaving space for the younger generation to breathe.
37:16Everything, at last, seemed to be moving in the right direction.
37:19Julian took on all the heavy lifting at home without a word.
37:22When a lightbulb burned out or a pipe clogged he was already rolling up his sleeves.
37:26Only occasionally, when Lark worked late into the night and fell asleep at her desk.
37:30She would wake to find his jacket gently draped over her shoulders.
37:33And when frustration hit, when a melody refused to resolve and irritation tightened her chest.
37:39He would quietly set a warm cup of milk beside her, then step away without comment.
37:43This kind of silent, steady presence seeped in slowly, like a soft spring rain.
37:48Noticed at first, then impossible to ignore.
37:50Lark felt it.
37:51Of course she did.
37:52Her last marriage destroyed all her romantic fantasies about love.
37:56What she wanted now wasn't fireworks, but something solid, calm, reliable, and strong enough to last.
38:01And that kind of relationship seemed to be taking shape right in front of her, piece by piece.
38:07One evening, after picking Susie up from kindergarten, Lark returned home.
38:11She found Julian busy in the kitchen, wearing a floral apron wildly out of sync.
38:15You're back? Go wash your hands. Dinner's ready. Try my cooking tonight.
38:19Three simple dishes and a bowl of soup sat on the table, fragrant and warm.
38:23It tasted exactly like the kind of home Lark remembered.
38:26The kind she had missed.
38:28When did you learn how to cook?
38:29Back when I first went abroad? Just figured it out.
38:32If it's not good, I'll do better next time.
38:34Dinner passed easily. Susie chatted non-stop about her day while Julian listened patiently.
38:39Afterward, he began clearing the table.
38:41Go look at your scores. I've got this.
38:43For the first time in a long while, a quiet, comforting sense of security wrapped around her.
38:48Her phone rang. It was Eleanor.
38:50Lark Donovan transferred all of his remaining assets to Susie.
38:53He chose to go teach in a remote mountain region.
38:56He said it's his way of making amends. He asked me to pass on an apology and to say he
39:01hopes you and Susie live well.
39:02Thank you, Mrs. Knightley. Please take care of yourself.
39:05Donovan chose to go teach in a remote mountain region. He said it's his way of making amends.
39:10Something wrong?
39:11Nothing. Donovan left part of his assets to Susie.
39:14She deserves it. What about you? What do you want to do next?
39:17Lark met his eyes without flinching. In them, the usual hint of mischief had softened.
39:22She suddenly felt that the answer didn't need to be rushed. Didn't need to be spoken aloud.
39:26For now, this is enough.
39:28Right now, this was good. The future was long and they had all the time in the world.
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