- 17 hours ago
Now Watch Your Wife Disappear
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00Lark stared at the message, her face unchanging, she didn't reply, instead she opened a delivery app, keyed in the
00:06address, and ordered a box of condoms, sent to room V888, she was exhausted, done with Donovan's provocations and games,
00:14the next morning, Lark braided Susie's hair, when the bedroom door opened, Donovan walked in, and Susie lit up, daddy,
00:22he scooped her up, nuzzling her cheek, making her giggle, Lark watched silently, no matter how broken their marriage,
00:28Donovan was a good father, and they'd always kept his flings, from tainting Susie's view of him, after playing with
00:35Susie, Donovan turned to Lark, casual as if the night's message never existed, we're still on for Susie's vaccine at
00:41nine, right, Lark replied, her voice flat, continuing to braid Susie's hair, I'll take you, in the car, Susie fell
00:49asleep quickly, Donovan tapped the steering wheel, then chuckled, I braced for paparazzi, cops may be both, but just a
00:56delivery guy with condoms,
00:57Lark, that's new, Lark stared out the window, unruffled, isn't this what you wanted, a wife who stays quiet, and
01:04lets you play, Donovan stilled, then smirked, hey, relax, you're still the one with the ring, they're just distractions, his
01:12words stung, he'd sworn she'd be his only one, yet the distractions never stopped, at the community hospital, Lark handed
01:19Donovan a thick stack of papers, sign here, Susie's enrollment for next year, hidden among them were divorce papers,
01:25Donovan didn't glance at them, signing each page, these little things, you handle them, he handed the papers back, then
01:32got out to carry sleeping Susie, near the hospital entrance, a pale woman stumbled, pushed by staff, if you don't
01:38have money, get out, Lark recognized her, one of Donovan's old flings, the ones he'd cut off for her,
01:44not going to help your old friend, Donovan cradled Susie smirking, my daughter comes first today, the vaccine appointment finished,
01:52and Donovan was gone, message pinged,
01:54something came up, take Susie home, I'll make it up to her on her birthday, Lark turned off her phone
02:01expressionless, she took Susie to a kid friendly restaurant, and soon headlines blared,
02:06Donovan Knightley, a hero who saved a woman at the hospital, Lark watched Susie eat ice cream, her voice soft,
02:12Susie, if mommy and daddy don't live together anymore, would you want to stay with me?
02:18I would, where mommy is, where I want to be, daddy's busy a lot, but I have mommy, good girl,
02:24let's not tell daddy for now, okay?
02:26Okay, after dropping Susie with the nanny, Lark's phone rang, ma'am, Mr. Knightley asked for Cloudwater keys, he's giving
02:33them to Mila Vance, a zealous actress,
02:36Cloudwater Manor was her pre-marriage property, got it, she searched average rental prices and sent to Donovan,
02:42If he put Mila in her house, he'd pay rent? Donovan didn't reply, but a large transfer arrived, for days
02:48Donovan was gone, Lark relished the peace,
02:51she picked up music composition again, a passion lost for two years, free from Donovan, she felt light, unburdened, but
02:58her social media showed him with Mila,
03:00throwing money around at a casino with Mila, holding her waist at a yacht party, at a dating reality show
03:05set, his gaze fixed on Mila,
03:07he'd never doted on a fling this much, Susie's third birthday party arrived full of guests,
03:12Lark checked the kitchen menu, ensuring perfection, returning to the ballroom, she saw Eleanor, face twisted,
03:18Mila stood before Susie, holding a diamond bracelet, Susie, this is a birthday gift, let me put it on for
03:23you,
03:24Oh, Mila ignored her, grabbing Susie's wrist, Susie tugged away, looking at Donovan nearby,
03:30Looks like Susie doesn't like me much, I just wanted to make her happy, Lark's blood boiled, she stepped forward,
03:35she shoved Mila aside and scooped Susie into her arms, Donovan Knightley, keep your disgusting affairs away from us,
03:42and away from my daughter, the room froze, Mila fell to the ground, then teared up,
03:47Mr. Knightley, I just brought Susie a gift like you asked, Donovan's expression darkened, he helped Mila up,
03:53Did you hurt yourself? Mila leaned into his arm, shaking her head, Donovan turned to Lark, eyes full of impatience,
04:00I thought you'd learned decorum, looks like I was wrong, Mila is my new assistant, I brought her to learn
04:06Susie's routine,
04:07to help take care of her, is this something you can't tolerate? Where's your dignity as Mrs. Knightley?
04:14For two years she'd caught him cheating, she'd lost all dignity countless times, now Mila was touching
04:19her daughter, when Susie fell asleep, Lark checked the family assets, she noticed something wrong with
04:25Susie's trust fund, a large sum was gone, approved by Donovan, a chill ran through her, she dialed
04:30Donovan's number, no answer, she hung up and drove straight to Knightley group, the secretary tried to
04:35stop her, ma'am Mr. Knightley is busy, Lark ignored her, walking to his office, as she reached for the
04:41door,
04:41she heard muffled moans, she froze, took a deep breath, and pushed the door open, the office reeked
04:47of lust, Mila was half dressed, Mila locked eyes with Lark, then gasped, hiding, Donovan adjusted his
04:53clothes, lit a cigarette leisurely, why are you here Mrs. Knightley, something wrong? The money's almost
04:58all gone, did you take it? Mr. Knightley, I'm so sorry, without my breach fee? Don't overreact, she cried
05:05for days, this is compensation, compensation with their daughter's money, Lark's ears rang, her vision
05:10blurring for a moment, that belief shattered, a knock sounded, Mr. Knightley, the meeting is
05:15starting, Donovan adjusted his shirt, walking out with Mila, come on, be happy, I ordered the latest
05:20jewelry for you, he left without waiting for a reply, leaving Lark alone, the jewelry arrived the
05:26next day, Lark didn't look at it, telling the maid to put it in the storage room, Donovan took her
05:31silence for compromise, tabloids filled, Mila, once obscure, was thrust into the spotlight, the word
05:36repeat unlocked painful memories for Lark, she focused on her career, her music composition
05:41studio, she'd poured her heart into it, its biggest press event, in partnership with a
05:46brand, but on the event day Mila walked on stage, Lark froze, she couldn't disrupt the
05:51event now, then Donovan stood beside Mila, Donovan Knightley, what gives you the right to
05:56replace my guest? Mila's hot right now, better buzz, your resources are mine, she'll earn
06:01money, Lark's stomach churned, she took a deep breath, suppressing her rage, she couldn't
06:07ruin her event, but as Mila began her presentation, she faltered, the technology is complicated,
06:12kinda like the algorithm, Mila knocked over a glass of water, splashing the system, the
06:17speakers screeched, the screen flickered, then went black, chaos erupted, is she here
06:21to sabotage, what a joke, Mila froze on stage, pale, tearing up, looking at Donovan, he motioned
06:27for bodyguards to escort her off, she was just nervous, we'll prepare her better, the
06:32event ended hastily, Lark's phone vibrated non-stop, the Oscar actress's manager accused
06:36the studio, the brand demanded an explanation and compensation, three partners cancelled their
06:42contracts, demanding compensation, it's just a small accident, I'll handle it, whatever
06:48the loss is, I'll pay you double, all I have to do is ask, and he'll hand me your studio,
06:53Lark Hawthorne, if I were you, I'd walk away quietly, why cling to Mrs. Knightley when
06:58everyone hates you, two years of screaming, smashing, acting insane, for what, you couldn't
07:03even keep his heart, honestly, it's embarrassing, yeah, I did go insane, since who I am, who gave
07:08you the courage to directly provoke me, before Mila could react, Lark raised her hand and
07:13slapped her across the face, Lark Hawthorne, he shoved Lark aside hard, pulling Mila into
07:18his arms, Lark lost her balance, her hip slamming into the sharp corner of the display,
07:23table, how long are you going to act like this, I said I'd pay double, triple, you used
07:27to just smash cars and burn clubs, but now you're hitting people, how vicious you are,
07:32vicious, and you, stealing from your own daughter's trust fund, ruining my event, what does that
07:38make you, Donovan, let's see how insane you can be, he wrapped an arm around Mila and stormed
07:43out, the man who once swore he'd rather die than see her hurt was gone, her phone rang,
07:48Elinor, Lark took a deep breath, making her voice sound normal, hello, Lark, the paperwork
07:54is almost done, finalized, in five days, tops, don't worry, I know Donovan wronged you, lawyers
08:03have everything sorted, you and Susie won't be shortchanged, thank you, Elinor, there's one more
08:10thing, your father-in-law's funeral is coming up, we're gathering the family, he always
08:18loved you, like his own daughter, would you help me one last time, okay mom, I'll help,
08:24the funeral day was grey and heavy, Lark directed the servants, her final respect for the kind
08:29old man, an engine growled outside, Donovan was back and Mila walked arm in arm with him,
08:34Donovan acted as if it was nothing, throughout the ceremony, Lark and Donovan didn't speak,
08:39Mila stayed by his side, quiet and demure, the picture of belonging, after the ceremony
08:44the family gathered for a meal, Donovan's aunt couldn't hold back, Donovan, today is your
08:49father's funeral, why bring her here, Lark is still your wife, show some respect, the room
08:55fell silent, Mila's shoulders trembled, tears filling her eyes, I know I shouldn't be here
09:00but I'm pregnant, he's still a nightly, I just wanted the baby to honor his grandfather,
09:05so the nightly family is growing, absolute silence, even Donovan looked stunned, Mila
09:10bit her lip, pitiful, I wasn't sure how to tell you Donovan, you're not angry are you,
09:15since she's carrying a nightly, it's natural she comes to pay respects, his admission was
09:19a knife to Lark's heart, have you lost your mind, what about Lark, what about Susie,
09:25auntie, today is about Mr. Nightly, let's not disturb him, Donovan glanced at her, surprised
09:30he'd expected fireworks, Eleanor, I'm not feeling well, I'm taking Susie home, please
09:36take care here, she walked to Susie, who played with toys quietly, taking her hand, her back
09:41as she left stirred a strange unease in Donovan, um, are we going home, yes, we're going home,
09:49Lark sent Susie home, instructing the nanny carefully, then locked herself in the study,
09:54if Donovan wanted Mila's child, so be it, she was ready to leave with Susie, before nightfall,
09:59the nanny banged on the study door, holding a small voice recorder, tears streaming,
10:04ma'am Susie is missing, I just went inside for a moment and she was gone, this is all I
10:08found,
10:09Lark you're in my way, your child is in my way too, you both deserve to die,
10:15thankfully, Lark had put a tracking chip in Susie's shoes, Lark grabbed her khakis,
10:19speeding there, and called her assistant, calm, dig up everything on Mila, nightclub photos,
10:24fake degree, videos, release it all, buy out every headline, I want her completely ruined within 24
10:30hours.
10:34At the dock, Lark saw a small wooden boat drifting in the water, leaking, slowly sinking,
10:40water rose to Susie's chest, Susie, Lark's heart shattered, she jumped into the water,
10:45pulling Susie into her arms, Susie was unconscious, cold, trembling uncontrollably,
10:50Lark's tears of rage fell, her hatred for Mila boiled over, she swam to shore, clutching Susie,
10:56rushing her to the hospital, when she confirmed Susie was safe, she changed out of her wet clothes,
11:04breathing a sigh of relief, in three hours Mila's reputation was destroyed, her social media
11:09flooded with hate, all endorsements cancelled, Donovan stormed in, furious, followed by Mila,
11:14red-eyed, and pitiful, Lark, it's you, you leaked everything, you're trying to destroy her,
11:20I told you no one will replace you, why use these filthy tricks, she's pregnant Lark,
11:25you know how fragile a pregnant woman is, Donovan, do you know, your daughter was kidnapped this
11:30afternoon, and almost drowned, Donovan's anger froze, his pupils narrowing, Mila's face turned
11:36pale, her eyes darting nervously, Susie, is she okay, Lark turned away, unwilling to look at him,
11:41I'm worried about her too, I'll get to the bottom of it, that has nothing to do with Mila,
11:47are you sure? Donovan stared at the recorder, not moving to take it,
11:53no that's not my voice, it's fake, Mrs. Knightley you hate me so much, destroying my name wasn't
11:58enough, now you say I tried to kill Susie, Donovan loves Susie so much, I treat her like my own,
12:05how could I hurt her, you're pushing me too far, the baby and I you want us dead,
12:09Donovan's doubtful face darkened completely, Clark are you trying to ruin Mila? Donovan you're
12:14truly one, both in eyes and heart, Susie slept, her little face pale but breathing steady,
12:20Lark sat by the bed brushing her soft hair, her heart calming, she sat until sunset and her phone
12:25lit up with two messages, Mila's emotional state is unstable, the baby is in danger, the doctor says
12:31no more stress, no matter what the child is a nightly, to calm her I might give her a name,
12:36stay calm, it won't affect you, go ahead, Lark, all paperwork is done and sent to the airport,
12:45Susie's custody documents too, take care, thank you, Eleanor, Lark handled Susie's discharge
12:52papers, mommy, are we going home, yeah, we're going home, Lark kissed her forehead, lifting her into
12:58the car, back at the memory filled villa, Lark didn't linger, she went to the walk-in closet,
13:02grabbed a suitcase, packing efficiently essentials for her and Susie, a few old keepsakes, the expensive
13:08jewelry, luxurious clothes, she left them all, she glanced around the home one last time, calm and
13:13unshaken, she got in the car, heading straight for the airport, as the plane ascended, clouds stretching
13:19beneath them, Susie slept soundly in her arms, Lark looked out of the window, watching the ground shrink
13:24and fade, the plane would land in a new city, no Donovan, no Mila, no suffocating entanglements,
13:30her new life with Susie was just beginning, I was so scared our baby almost, it's okay
13:37now, for three days his phone had been eerily quiet, since locks go ahead, no messages, no
13:42calls, this wasn't the Lark he knew, the one who'd cause a scene, his phone rang, Cloudwater
13:48Manor's property manager, Miss Hawthorne authorized the sale of the manor, she dared to sell the
13:53house, Mr. Knightley, the title is solely Miss Hawthorne's, Donovan slammed the phone
13:58down, rage burning in his chest, what are you playing at, selling the house, you think
14:05you can control me with silent treatment, stop the childish tricks, if you want something,
14:10just say it, no reply, Donovan, what's wrong, nothing, rest up, I'll handle something, where
14:15is she, Sir, Mrs. Knightley took Susie and left a few days ago, where did they go, Donovan tugged
14:21at his tie, furious, he imagined Lark cold-faced, waiting for him to beg, he wouldn't, he was
14:26curious how long she could stay calm, a woman who'd gone crazy over him, how could she really
14:31let go, let's go, your discharge is arranged, Mila nodded eagerly, in the following days,
14:36Donovan grew even more high profile, as if proving something to himself and suppressing
14:40his unease, he took Mila to fashion shows, auctions, private parties, bought her jewelry,
14:46luxury houses, made her the spokesperson for a new Knightley project, media rumors blared,
14:52Donovan Knightley replaces his wife, Mila basked in compliments, her confidence soaring high,
15:01but Donovan felt so empty, pleasant indulgences felt dull, amid glasses and chatter, he zoned
15:07out, thinking of past, if he'd been this blatant, Lark would have driven her car, thrown a bottle
15:12at him then, now absolutely nothing, no calls, no confrontations, a friend approached him,
15:18worried your wife makes a scene, we'll guard the door for you, Donovan downed his drink,
15:22she dares, she learned her lesson now, making a scene is useless, women shouldn't be spoiled,
15:28now everything's perfect, and Mila's so very sweet, Donovan didn't reply, his gaze drifted
15:34to Mila, she was laughing in the hall, but his mind flashed to Lark, her face lit by compliments,
15:39then stained with bitter tears, hysteria from his betrayal, Mila's obedience felt lacking,
15:45it simply lacked all life, he waved the thought away, discomfort of losing a cat, nothing more,
15:50just that, Lark couldn't live without him, like a fish without water, all she did was grab attention,
15:56a dramatic plea for more, he pulled out his phone, typing a spiteful message,
16:00had enough fun yet, Lark, come back when you're done, don't wait for me to ask,
16:04no reply, then a call, from Eleanor, his mother, mom, what's going on, I'm busy right now,
16:10Eleanor's voice was cold, busy flaunting that thing, around town, are you, get your ass back home now,
16:17she hung up abruptly, Donovan stared at the tone, furrowing his brow deeply, mother rarely spoke like
16:23this, especially after his marriage, she always defended Lark, unease washed over him,
16:28he suppressed it quickly, just gossip, a lecture, he stood up from the bar, ignored Mila's glance,
16:34headed to his waiting car, back at nightly estate, study bright but oppressive,
16:38Eleanor sat at tablehead, no warmth in her eyes at all, staring coldly at Donovan,
16:43mom, what is this about, Donovan loosened his tie, sitting lazily on the couch,
16:48Eleanor didn't answer him, her gaze was piercing sharp,
16:51Donovan, do you know now, where Lark and Susie are,
16:55Donovan scoffed loudly, she's hiding with the kid, throwing a silly tantrum,
17:00she'll crawl back to me, when she's finally done,
17:05throwing a tantrum, Eleanor repeated sharply, sarcasm in her voice,
17:09she stood up, slamming a file on the coffee table,
17:12Donovan nightly, do you still think she's throwing a tantrum,
17:16open your eyes, she's completely done with you, what the hell are you dreaming about,
17:23divorce, does she think this threatens me,
17:24after a suffocating silence, he forced a cold laugh,
17:28Lark had given up almost everything,
17:29this can't be, Donovan muttered, his fingers crumpling the paper,
17:34Donovan was lost in memories,
17:35Donovan, I'm marrying you just for who you are,
17:38do you get it now, she's not blackmailing you, she's done,
17:42why the hell, who does she think she is,
17:44taking my daughter and walking away, in her dreams,
17:47if she wants to play, I'll play along,
17:49let's see how long she can hide,
17:50find them, use every resource,
17:52turn the world upside down,
17:54get Lark and Susie for me, now,
17:56he hung up and the study fell silent,
17:58Eleanor watched him, disappointment and weariness in her eyes,
18:01Donovan paced trying to shake off uneasiness,
18:04then he remembered the voice recorder,
18:06Mila had cried it was a forgery,
18:07and he'd been too distracted,
18:09a thought struck him,
18:10what if it was real,
18:14Donovan dialed a forensic expert,
18:16I need a technical analysis,
18:17of a recording of Susie's kidnapping,
18:19most detailed report, fast,
18:21the following hours were torture,
18:23finally a call came,
18:24Mr. Knightley,
18:25the recording is almost certainly not forged,
18:28his phone vibrated again,
18:29the hospital caretaker said,
18:31Miss Vance woke up,
18:32emotional,
18:33crying for you,
18:34her stomach hurts,
18:36Donovan hung up abruptly,
18:37more investigation results trickled in,
18:39Miss Vance's pregnancy reports are suspicious,
18:42the doctor got a large sum,
18:44her past is complicated,
18:45she was involved with several men,
18:47Donovan grabbed his car keys,
18:49furious storming out of the estate,
18:51speeding to the hospital,
18:52he barged into Mila's VIP room,
18:55Mr. Knightley,
18:56you're here,
18:57I...
18:58The recording is real Mila,
19:00what else do you have to say?
19:01Oh it's fake,
19:02Lark framed me,
19:03framed you,
19:03what about,
19:04the fake pregnancy,
19:05the multiple men,
19:06is that Lark's doing too?
19:08Mila collapsed back onto the bed,
19:10once pitiful,
19:10now only ugly deceit,
19:12Mila you'll pay for everything,
19:13from today you have no place,
19:15in the entertainment industry,
19:17in this city,
19:18pray I don't find more evidence,
19:20otherwise it's not just your reputation,
19:22Donovan returned to the villa,
19:23he pushed open the door,
19:25greeted by oppressive silence,
19:26he turned on the lights,
19:28the chandeliers shown on luxurious,
19:29lifeless furniture,
19:31Susie's favorite toy on the couch,
19:33an unfinished picture book,
19:34the piano lid open with a music sheet,
19:36everywhere traces of their life,
19:38now only him,
19:41the plane taxied to a stop,
19:43and Lark unbuckled her seatbelt,
19:45Susie rubbed her sleepy eyes,
19:47Mom,
19:47are we there yet?
19:49We're here,
19:50Lark said,
19:50taking a deep breath,
19:52picking up Susie,
19:53and walking toward the exit,
19:54in the bustling arrival hall,
19:56Lark's eyes locked onto a tall figure,
19:58leaning against the railing,
19:59Julian Hawthorne,
20:01their gazes met,
20:01and time stopped,
20:03Julian stepped forward,
20:04wrapping his arms gently around Lark and Susie,
20:07you've worked hard Lark,
20:08his words exposed her false appearance,
20:10a small break in her composure,
20:12I buried her face in his shoulder,
20:14the scent of home wrapping around her,
20:16Julian released her quickly,
20:18bending down to wink at Susie,
20:19Susie do you remember Uncle Julian?
20:21Susie snuggled closer to Lark,
20:23staring at him with curious eyes,
20:25Julian chuckled,
20:26taking the heaviest suitcase from Lark,
20:28lifting Susie onto his shoulder,
20:30Little princess,
20:31we're heading to the palace,
20:32Susie wrapped her arms around his neck,
20:34giggling brightly,
20:35Lark's tense nerves relaxed,
20:37seeing her daughter bond with Julian so quickly,
20:39they got into Julian's modified SUV,
20:42and Susie stared out the window,
20:44curious about the new surroundings,
20:46the car drove into a quiet residential area,
20:48stopping in front of an elegant three-story house,
20:51Lark spotted her parents at the door,
20:53eager,
20:53before the car stopped,
20:55Mrs. Hawthorne ran over,
20:56tears in her eyes,
20:57grabbing Lark's hand,
20:58You're back,
20:59it's so good you're back,
21:01Mr. Hawthorne stood behind her,
21:03his eyes red patting her arm,
21:05You've lost weight,
21:06Julian carried Susie out,
21:08and the little girl ran to her grandmother,
21:10Mrs. Hawthorne crouched down,
21:12embracing her,
21:13Precious,
21:14Julian set down the luggage,
21:15saluting mockingly,
21:17reporting in sir,
21:18mission accomplished,
21:19two princesses delivered safely,
21:21awaiting orders,
21:22Mr. Hawthorne laughed,
21:23scolding,
21:24Always making fun of things,
21:26Mrs. Hawthorne chuckled through tears,
21:28hitting him lightly,
21:29the somber atmosphere lifted instantly,
21:32Lark watched her family,
21:33a bittersweet pang in her chest,
21:35warm,
21:36tearful,
21:36not sad or painful,
21:38she smiled softly,
21:39Dad, Mom,
21:40we're home,
21:40I'm inside,
21:41dinner's ready,
21:42everything you love,
21:44Julian flung an arm around Lark's shoulder,
21:46leading her in,
21:48Mom's best dishes,
21:49don't let them get cold,
21:50the gate closed behind them,
21:52shutting out the capital's cold,
21:54and the nightly's chaos,
21:55locking them into a warm,
21:56new world,
21:59Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne filled plates,
22:01asking gentle questions,
22:03after dinner,
22:04Mrs. Hawthorne took Susie to the bathroom,
22:06Mr. Hawthorne took a work call in the study,
22:08the living room was quiet,
22:10only Lark and Julian left,
22:11Julian tossed Lark a milk can,
22:13cracking open a beer,
22:14so how's it going,
22:15getting used to everything,
22:16yeah,
22:17what are your plans now,
22:18rest for a while,
22:19spend time with Susie,
22:21then I'll pick up composing again,
22:23that's my sister,
22:24if it weren't for,
22:25forget the bad times,
22:26whatever you want to do,
22:27go for it,
22:28money,
22:28manpower,
22:29anything you need,
22:29I'll handle it,
22:30here she truly belonged,
22:33Mrs. Hawthorne came downstairs,
22:34her eyes red,
22:35Lark,
22:35come help me sort the attic,
22:37your old things are there,
22:39Lark followed her up,
22:40they entered the dusty attic,
22:41filled with old memories,
22:43Mrs. Hawthorne opened a cardboard box,
22:45Lark's student music trophies,
22:47handwritten scores faded with time,
22:49photos of her performing,
22:50with the school orchestra,
22:51young Lark had bright eyes,
22:52a confident smile,
22:54violin in her arms,
22:55a future full of possibility,
22:57and it feels like yesterday,
22:58you were so radiant,
23:00if I hadn't gotten so sick,
23:01if Mrs. Knightley hadn't,
23:03donated her liver,
23:04I might have,
23:05your father and I tried to stop you,
23:08doing it the most,
23:09said that Knightley boy,
23:11was too flighty,
23:12couldn't settle down,
23:13but we couldn't convince you,
23:15Lark froze,
23:16she'd never known her brother,
23:17opposed her marriage,
23:18so fiercely,
23:19while she'd thrown herself,
23:21into love and gratitude,
23:22her family had seen the danger,
23:23hidden in the fog,
23:26mom don't say anymore,
23:28but you've suffered so much,
23:30would have what,
23:31now you see who has sharp eyes,
23:32you're always teasing your sister,
23:35oh I'm so hurt,
23:36I'm just educating my sister,
23:38the past was unchangeable,
23:39a few days later,
23:40Lark rented a music studio,
23:42Julian handled everything,
23:43registration,
23:45calling it safeguarding,
23:46a future music master,
23:47he criticized her curtain choices,
23:49but drove across the city,
23:51for fabric,
23:51the scratch of her pen,
23:53complained about her coffee machine,
23:55but made her the first cup,
23:56sat on the sofa,
23:57working while she composed,
23:59Mrs. Hawthorne visited often,
24:00watching Julian fuss over Lark,
24:02pride in her eyes,
24:03one afternoon,
24:04after Lark sent off a partner,
24:06Mrs. Hawthorne came to the studio,
24:08Julian stepped out for a call,
24:10mom,
24:10what brings you here,
24:11Lark,
24:12there's something,
24:12I've been meaning to tell you,
24:16Lark sat down,
24:17a vague premonition in her mind,
24:19Julian,
24:20he's not your biological brother,
24:21Lark stared at her,
24:22disbelieving,
24:23not your father's either,
24:25he's adopted,
24:27Mrs. Hawthorne sighed,
24:28lost in memory,
24:29back then,
24:30I was in poor health,
24:31couldn't have children,
24:32your grandparents pressured us,
24:34we saw Julian at the orphanage,
24:36he was stubborn,
24:37eyes sharp,
24:38but I felt a connection,
24:40the moment I saw him,
24:42Julian is thoughtful,
24:43keeps things to himself,
24:45but his kindness to you,
24:46from childhood to now,
24:48your father and I,
24:49have seen it all,
24:51he knew he wasn't your real brother,
24:53but he's always been a good one,
24:55Lark froze,
24:55a thousand memories flashing,
24:57childhood Julian rushing to her defense,
24:59when she was bullied,
25:00fighting until,
25:01his face was bruised,
25:03him sitting beside her,
25:04while she practiced the violin,
25:06dozing but not leaving,
25:07him vehemently opposing her marriage,
25:09red eyed on her wedding day,
25:11if you're hurt,
25:12just come back,
25:13I'll take care of you,
25:14all the protection she'd taken for granted,
25:16had a deeper reason,
25:18more than sibling love,
25:19her chest tightened,
25:20a heavy sour ache filling her heart,
25:22the studio door opened,
25:24I just closed a big deal,
25:25we need to celebrate,
25:26mom you come too,
25:28I know a new private kitchen,
25:29his words stopped,
25:30noticing the silence,
25:33what's going on,
25:35mom reminiscing with Lark,
25:36don't make my sister cry,
25:38she's our protected species,
25:39you siblings talk,
25:41I'll leave,
25:42creative block,
25:43you're furrowing your brows,
25:44like you'll squash a flag,
25:46nothing's more important,
25:47than food,
25:48come on,
25:49treat your hardworking manager,
25:50alright,
25:51in the following days,
25:52a subtle unspoken atmosphere,
25:54grew between them,
25:55she accepted the closeness,
25:56glancing at him only,
25:57when his touches crossed a line,
25:59I didn't do anything,
26:00touches held a hint,
26:02Lark didn't pull away,
26:03she accepted the closeness,
26:05his smile deepened,
26:08Julian no longer acted,
26:09as her brother,
26:10he stepped into the finer details,
26:12of her life,
26:13he left a warm bowl,
26:14of porridge beside her,
26:15when she stayed up composing,
26:16no words needed,
26:18client gave them,
26:18we waste not to use,
26:20he held two movie tickets,
26:21inviting her along,
26:22Lark knew exactly,
26:23what was happening,
26:24her mother's words,
26:25were less an announcement,
26:27more a careful assist,
26:28by Julian,
26:29he was no longer content,
26:30to be her brother,
26:31he was patiently,
26:32positioning himself,
26:32for a new role,
26:33Lark,
26:34after an exhausting marriage,
26:36didn't mind,
26:36this subtle maneuvering,
26:37she watched him busy,
26:38in her studio,
26:39for the first time,
26:40she seriously considered,
26:42this relationship,
26:43shifting from sibling bond,
26:44to something more,
26:45might be worth courage,
26:47but she needed more time,
26:48before she could decide,
26:49her piece was shattered,
26:51Lark bent over the soundboard,
26:53adjusting a string arrangement,
26:54then the door knocked,
26:56come in,
26:56the door opened,
26:58but no one entered,
26:59Lark paused,
26:59straightening up,
27:00came here to hide,
27:01and find peace,
27:02is there something you need,
27:04where's Susie,
27:05I came to see my daughter,
27:06she's at kindergarten,
27:08she organized music sheets,
27:09a signal to end the conversation,
27:11her calm and rage,
27:12Donovan,
27:13no tears,
27:13no questions,
27:14no hysteria,
27:15nothing he'd expected,
27:17this complete indifference,
27:18was unbearable,
27:19Lark have you had enough,
27:20does this runaway act amuse you,
27:22Donovan you've got it wrong,
27:24the divorce agreement,
27:25is signed,
27:25we have no relationship,
27:27if you want to see Susie,
27:29schedule an appointment,
27:30this is my workplace,
27:31you're not welcome here,
27:32no relationship,
27:34so what if you signed a paper,
27:35do you think you can walk away from me,
27:37playing hard to get is too late,
27:39name your price,
27:39what will it take,
27:40for you to come back with the child,
27:42don't test my patience,
27:43the studio door opened again,
27:45Lark are you done,
27:46Susie's school is ending,
27:47mom wants us for dinner,
27:49Julian's voice froze,
27:50seeing the scene,
27:51his carefree smile vanished,
27:53replaced by sharp cold intensity,
27:57Mr. Knightley,
27:58what brings you here,
27:59looking for my sister,
28:00I came to see Lark and Susie,
28:02this is husband and wife business,
28:04none of your place to interfere,
28:06husband and wife,
28:06Donovan,
28:07are you sleepwalking,
28:08does my sister have relation with you,
28:10slap divorce papers on your face,
28:12Julian,
28:12I've been polite,
28:13my family matters are not your business,
28:15Lark was confused,
28:16you should stop her,
28:17not fan the flames,
28:19Lark is my sister,
28:19my precious sister,
28:21the one I watched grow up,
28:22you promised to care for her,
28:24what did you do,
28:25let a lowly woman humiliate her,
28:27almost kill Susie,
28:29now you talk about family outsiders,
28:30that was an accident,
28:31mirror she,
28:32shut up,
28:33don't mention her name,
28:34she dirtied my sister's life,
28:36last warning,
28:36leave my sister's sight,
28:37never come near her,
28:38harass Susie,
28:40Julian Hoffman,
28:40who are you,
28:41I have the right to see my daughter,
28:43it's my duty,
28:45Julian's eyes sharpened,
28:46he punched Donovan's face fast and hard,
28:48full of pent up fury,
28:51Donovan was caught off guard,
28:52staggering back,
28:53crashing into the sofa,
28:54his lips split,
28:55blood seeping out,
28:56he clutched his face,
28:57glaring at Julian,
28:59that punch was for Lark and Susie,
29:01Donovan Lark softened for you,
29:02let you trample,
29:03things are different,
29:04my sister and niece are protected,
29:06show up again,
29:07I'll be there,
29:08test me,
29:08Donovan locked eyes with Julian,
29:10then at Lark,
29:11cold and unyielding,
29:12Julian turned,
29:13wrapping an arm around Lark's shoulder,
29:14his tone soft instantly,
29:16it's fine now,
29:17let's pick up Susie,
29:18Lark didn't look at Donovan once,
29:20Donovan sank on the sofa,
29:21his cheek burning,
29:22he refused to believe Lark would truly let go,
29:25he will target Susie,
29:28expensive toys,
29:29imported snacks,
29:30handwritten cards,
29:31for my beloved Susie from daddy,
29:33flooded the Hawthorne home,
29:35Donovan called the landline at kindergarten dismissal,
29:38his voice soft,
29:39Susie,
29:39do you miss daddy?
29:41Mrs. Hawthorne always cut him off,
29:43it's not convenient for the child,
29:45don't call again,
29:46when Lark found out,
29:47she told her mother to return all gifts,
29:50and reminded the kindergarten,
29:51only designated family could pick up Susie,
29:54but some things couldn't be stopped,
29:55during bedtime stories,
29:57Susie hugged her teddy bear quiet,
29:59um,
29:59why doesn't daddy live with us anymore,
30:02why did we send the doll back,
30:03he said he misses me,
30:05the confusion and sadness in her eyes,
30:07pierced Lark's heart,
30:08she pulled Susie close,
30:10you have mommy grandma,
30:11uncle,
30:12you're still happy right,
30:13Susie nodded,
30:14burying her face in Lark's chest,
30:16um,
30:16but sometimes I miss daddy too,
30:19Lark realized avoidance wasn't the answer,
30:21the more she blocked him,
30:22the tighter he clung,
30:23leaving deeper mocks on Susie,
30:25she needed a direct conversation,
30:27not to reconcile,
30:28but to sever ties completely,
30:30a few days later,
30:31after Donovan sent another batch of toys,
30:33Lark dialed his number,
30:35he answered quickly,
30:36Lark,
30:36tomorrow at 3pm,
30:38quiet shores cafe,
30:39we need to talk,
30:40just the two of us,
30:41she hung up,
30:42no chance for him to argue,
30:43on the other end,
30:44Donovan smiled,
30:45see she couldn't hold out,
30:47the cold war,
30:48the move,
30:48all a tantrum,
30:49he cancelled his plans,
30:51thought about his outfit,
30:52his words,
30:53this was his chance to bring them back,
30:55Mila was just a distraction,
30:57once he was done with her,
30:58he'd return to his family,
31:00Susie missed him,
31:00Lark would come back,
31:01he sipped his drink,
31:03rehearsing their reunion in his mind,
31:05the quiet shores cafe,
31:06a place for serious talks,
31:10today a final reckoning,
31:11Donovan showed up on time,
31:13dressed to impress,
31:14Lark arrived first,
31:15he sat across from her,
31:17scanning her face for exhaustion,
31:18longing,
31:19Lark,
31:19I thought a lot,
31:20before I was an idiot,
31:22blinded by selfishness,
31:23hurt you and our family,
31:25especially with Mila,
31:26I misunderstood you,
31:27apologies don't make up for it,
31:29but believe me,
31:30my feelings,
31:30for you never changed,
31:32you have no one else now,
31:33give me a chance,
31:34to make it right,
31:35let me pursue you again,
31:37start over,
31:37give Susie a complete home,
31:39I promise only you and Susie,
31:40never repeat mistakes,
31:42Donovan,
31:42you've got a few things wrong,
31:44first,
31:44I'm not here,
31:45to listen to your confession,
31:47or give you a chance,
31:48I'm here to inform you,
31:50the past is completely over,
31:51for me,
31:52second,
31:53my life is good now,
31:54I don't need your makeup,
31:55or start over,
31:57without you,
31:57Susie and I are better,
31:59third,
31:59who told you I don't,
32:00have anyone else around me,
32:01the cafe door opened,
32:03Julian walked in,
32:04a loose gray sweater,
32:05tall and calm,
32:07he walked to Lark's side,
32:08placing a hand on the back of her chair,
32:10natural and intimate,
32:11are you done talking,
32:12Donovan stared at their gesture,
32:14his pupils contracting,
32:15blood draining from his face,
32:16Julian,
32:17you,
32:17you too,
32:18your siblings,
32:19I'll kill you,
32:24brother and sister,
32:26Donovan,
32:26who told you that we're siblings,
32:28sorry to disappoint you,
32:29I'm not,
32:29I was originally,
32:30the childhood partner,
32:32prepared for Lark,
32:32by the family,
32:33I've watched her grow up,
32:34protected her,
32:35and waited for her,
32:36I'm clean,
32:37guarantee pure,
32:38from the start to the end,
32:39I've only had eyes for her,
32:40so now she has someone,
32:41it's me,
32:42understand,
32:42the words childhood partner,
32:44hit Donovan like a thunderclap,
32:45the impact echoed in his mind,
32:47the world seemed to spin,
32:49in the following days,
32:50Donovan seemed to vanish,
32:51from the world,
32:52no calls,
32:53no messages,
32:54and no appearances,
32:55but a few days later,
32:56in the afternoon,
32:57the familiar black Maybug appeared,
32:59Donovan saw Lark,
32:59and Julian walking side by side,
33:01when he saw Julian,
33:02naturally pick up Susie,
33:04lifting her high in his arms,
33:06Donovan's face hardened,
33:07a deep frown settling upon it,
33:09Susie,
33:09daddy's here to take you home,
33:11Susie's smile froze,
33:12as she saw Donovan,
33:13she instinctively,
33:14shrank into Julian's arms,
33:15her little hands,
33:16clutching his neck tightly,
33:18Susie come here to daddy,
33:19daddy will take you,
33:20to buy the latest doll,
33:21and have your favorite ice cream,
33:23I don't want to,
33:23I want uncle and mommy,
33:25be good I'm your daddy,
33:26Donovan you're scaring a child,
33:28what do you think you are,
33:29who are you to hold my daughter,
33:31Susie look closely,
33:32he's a bad man,
33:33who wants to take your mommy away,
33:37Lark step aside,
33:38I need my daughter,
33:39to see this man,
33:40for who he really is,
33:41daddy's bad,
33:42the air seemed to freeze,
33:43he froze completely,
33:45I hate daddy,
33:46you yelled at uncle,
33:47you scared Susie,
33:48you're a bad daddy,
33:49I don't want to go with you,
33:51I like uncle,
33:52uncle tells me stories,
33:53uncle plays with me,
33:55he never yells at me,
33:56the innocent direct words of a child,
33:58were like a dagger,
33:59piercing Donovan's heart,
34:01he couldn't believe,
34:01what he was hearing,
34:02from his daughter,
34:03he stumbled backward,
34:04crashing into the cold car door,
34:06his mind was a blank,
34:09Donovan never showed up again,
34:11after that,
34:11days passed quietly,
34:13like pages turning,
34:14without resistance,
34:15her studio slowly,
34:16found its footing,
34:17a score she composed,
34:18for a documentary,
34:19caught industry attention,
34:20the chaos that had once,
34:22dominated Lark's life,
34:22seemed to fade,
34:23replaced by an unfamiliar calm,
34:25she only accepted projects,
34:26that respected the music itself,
34:28not her past,
34:29she was composer,
34:30Lark Hawthorne,
34:31Susie adapted quickly,
34:32to her new world,
34:33new kindergarten,
34:34new friends,
34:35new routines,
34:36she took them all in stride,
34:38her laughter returning,
34:39brighter and more carefree,
34:40than before,
34:41Julian quietly,
34:42stepped into the space,
34:43that had once been hollow,
34:44filling the role of a father,
34:46he sat with Susie,
34:47through childish craft projects,
34:48patiently answered,
34:49her wild endless questions,
34:51and stayed by her bedside,
34:52on nights when nightmares,
34:53jolted her awake,
34:54Susie began to rely,
34:55on him more and more,
34:57seeing this,
34:57Mrs Hawthorne and her husband,
34:59finally relaxed,
35:00they began planning,
35:01trips of their own,
35:02leaving space,
35:02for the younger generation,
35:04to breathe,
35:05everything,
35:05at last,
35:06seemed to be moving,
35:07in the right direction,
35:08Julian took on,
35:09all the heavy lifting,
35:10at home without a word,
35:11when a light bulb,
35:12burned out or a pipe clogged,
35:13he was already rolling,
35:14up his sleeves,
35:15only occasionally,
35:16when Lark worked,
35:17late into the night,
35:18and fell asleep at her desk,
35:20she would wake,
35:20to find his jacket,
35:21gently draped,
35:22over her shoulders,
35:23and when frustration hit,
35:24when a melody,
35:25refused to resolve,
35:26and irritation,
35:27tightened her chest,
35:28he would quietly,
35:29set a warm cup of milk,
35:30beside her,
35:31then step away,
35:31without comment,
35:32this kind of silent,
35:33steady presence,
35:34seeped in slowly,
35:35like a soft spring rain,
35:37noticed at first,
35:38then impossible to ignore,
35:39Lark felt it,
35:40of course she did,
35:42her last marriage,
35:42destroyed all her romantic,
35:44fantasies about love,
35:45what she wanted now,
35:46wasn't fireworks,
35:47but something solid,
35:48calm,
35:49reliable,
35:49and strong enough to last,
35:51and that kind of relationship,
35:52seemed to be taking shape,
35:53right in front of her,
35:54piece by piece,
35:55one evening,
35:56after picking Susie up,
35:58from kindergarten,
35:59Lark returned home,
36:00she found Julian busy,
36:01in the kitchen,
36:02wearing a floral apron,
36:03wildly out of sync,
36:04you're back,
36:05go wash your hands,
36:06dinner's ready,
36:07try my cooking tonight,
36:08three simple dishes,
36:09and a bowl of soup,
36:10sat on the table,
36:11fragrant and warm,
36:12it tasted exactly,
36:13like the kind of home,
36:14Lark remembered,
36:15the kind she had missed,
36:17when did you learn,
36:18how to cook,
36:19back when I first went abroad,
36:20just figured it out,
36:21if it's not good,
36:22I'll do better next time,
36:23dinner passed easily,
36:25Susie chatted nonstop,
36:26about her day,
36:26while Julian listened patiently,
36:28afterward,
36:29he began clearing the table,
36:30go look at your scores,
36:31I've got this,
36:32for the first time,
36:33in a long while,
36:34a quiet comforting sense,
36:35of security wrapped around her,
36:37her phone rang,
36:38it was Eleanor,
36:39Lark Donovan transferred,
36:40all of his remaining assets,
36:42to Susie,
36:43he chose to go teach,
36:44in a remote mountain region,
36:45he said it's his way,
36:46of making amends,
36:47he asked me to pass on,
36:48an apology,
36:49and to say he hopes,
36:50you and Susie live well,
36:51thank you Mrs. Knightley,
36:53please take care of yourself,
36:54Donovan chose to go teach,
36:56in a remote mountain region,
36:57he said it's his way,
36:58of making amends,
36:59something wrong,
37:00nothing,
37:01Donovan left part,
37:02of his assets to Susie,
37:03she deserves it,
37:04what about you,
37:05what do you want to do next,
37:06Lark met his eyes,
37:07without flinching,
37:08in them the usual hint,
37:09of mischief had softened,
37:11she suddenly felt,
37:12that the answer,
37:12didn't need to be rushed,
37:14didn't need to be spoken aloud,
37:15for now this is enough,
37:17right now,
37:18this was good,
37:19the future was long,
37:19and they had all the time,
37:21in the world,
37:23new year's bells chimed,
37:25Lark Hawthorne's,
37:26first gift of the year,
37:27was a photo,
37:27of her husband Donovan,
37:29tangled in another woman's arms,
37:31ten minutes prior,
37:32he'd held their daughter Susie,
37:33watching fireworks,
37:34ten minutes later,
37:35he was in someone else's bed,
37:37simultaneously,
37:38Donovan's affair,
37:39with a rising star,
37:39blew up online,
37:41in the nightly estate's,
37:42grand hall,
37:42all party guests,
37:43turned to Lark,
37:44awaiting her reaction,
37:45ma'am,
37:46do we make it bigger,
37:47no,
37:48contact PR,
37:48bury it,
37:49the assistant stared,
37:51stunned,
37:51and the room erupted,
37:52in whispers,
37:53everyone remembered,
37:54Lark's past rage,
37:55Lark was just tired,
37:56two years of screaming,
37:58smashing,
37:58and losing dignity,
37:59had changed nothing,
38:00when the party ended,
38:01Lark carried,
38:02sleeping Susie,
38:03to their room,
38:06then Lark went,
38:07to the study,
38:08Donovan's mother,
38:09Eleanor sat there,
38:09rubbing her forehead,
38:11Lark,
38:12I'm so sorry,
38:13I'll call him,
38:14Donovan Knightley,
38:16get your ass home,
38:17now,
38:18Mom I'm busy,
38:19I'll apologize tomorrow,
38:20it's Susie's birthday,
38:22tell Lark,
38:22she handled today well,
38:23act like a real,
38:24Knightley wife,
38:25keep it up,
38:25Mom I'm not here for justice,
38:27five years ago,
38:28when my mother was dying,
38:29of liver failure,
38:30you donated half your liver,
38:32to save her,
38:32I'll never forget it,
38:34you asked me to marry Donovan,
38:35to keep him in line,
38:36I tried,
38:37I held on to him,
38:38but after Susie turned one,
38:39he slipped back,
38:41for two years I raged,
38:42lost all dignity,
38:43and you protected me every time,
38:45but it didn't work,
38:46my dear,
38:47it was my mistake,
38:48to tie you with gratitude,
38:50tell me what you want,
38:52I'll give you anything,
38:53I want a divorce,
38:54and full custody of Susie,
38:56all right,
38:57I'll help you,
38:59stay with me,
39:00for another two weeks,
39:01back then,
39:02it was Donovan,
39:03who fell in love with you,
39:03at first sight,
39:04and begged me,
39:05to make you his,
39:06Lark paused,
39:07Donovan had loved her once,
39:08everything I own is yours,
39:10I'm yours,
39:10when Susie was born,
39:12Lark had a difficult delivery,
39:13and Donovan prayed,
39:14he'd crafted a fairy tale,
39:16of a reformed bad boy,
39:17yet love,
39:17was the most fleeting thing,
39:19in the world,
39:20downstairs her phone lit up,
39:21a huge transfer from Donovan,
39:23followed by a message,
39:24heard you've changed,
39:25playing it cool,
39:26I'm not used to it,
39:27I'm at the fall,
39:28in the club you shut down,
39:29last night,
39:29it's back open,
39:30room V888,
39:32come cover,
39:33and bring a condom,
39:33and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:34and bring a condom,
39:35and bring a condom,
39:35and bring a condom,
39:36and bring a condom,
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