- 16 hours ago
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:01If I hadn't wanted to change villas, I would never have known this secret.
00:00:07Two years of marriage is like a joke.
00:00:13Are you absolutely certain about this, Brindley? It's a pity to see you leaving.
00:00:17I am. I'd like to spend more time with my family.
00:00:22Mrs. Palmer, good news! The owner of the villa you like has agreed to lower the price.
00:00:27Can you come view it this afternoon?
00:00:35This is the one. How do we proceed?
00:00:38Excellent. Will Mr. Palmer be joining you to sign the contract?
00:00:46No, he's tied up with work. Turingly, religiously, and telst.
00:00:50Rylan.
00:00:52I'll take care of it myself.
00:00:53Colin, I resigned today, and I found a villa I love.
00:00:58I'm planning to buy it for us.
00:01:00So sudden. But if it makes you happy, that's what matters.
00:01:04I'll come home early tonight. We'll celebrate.
00:01:10Mrs. Palmer, please, have a seat. I'll bring out the contract.
00:01:15Here's a copy of my marriage certificate.
00:01:17I'd like to register the house as joint marital property.
00:01:31That's odd. The system isn't pulling up your marriage registration record.
00:01:36What do you mean by that?
00:01:38What do you mean by that?
00:01:39Probably just a system error. It happens now and then.
00:01:43To get all of that to state Hunan, you confirm it directly at City Hall.
00:01:59Ma'am, the document you've presented is counterfeit.
00:02:03Our records show no marriage registration between you and Mr. Colin Palmer.
00:02:07This can't be. We were married here. Two years ago.
00:02:16I'm sorry, but there's no information in our system.
00:02:19If you believe you've been deceived, you should report it to the authorities.
00:02:31I can't believe all of this. I have decided to go and find him myself.
00:02:49I'm conflicted, but, you know, I just can't let go of Millie.
00:02:53What do you intend to do, then?
00:02:54Are you planning to stay with Brinley while marrying Millie Russell?
00:02:58Colin, that's not fair.
00:03:01Marrying Millie?
00:03:03Who is Millie?
00:03:07I know it isn't fair, but when Millie left to pursue her career abroad, I was heartbroken.
00:03:12Then Brinley came along. She reminded me so much of Millie.
00:03:16Dating her finally brought healing to my broken heart.
00:03:19So that's what I was? A substitute?
00:03:23Brinley is softer than Millie.
00:03:25She depends on me, loves me, in a way Millie never did.
00:03:29And you still justify deceiving her?
00:03:31I don't deceive her, I just... I can't cut Millie off completely.
00:03:37She was my first love.
00:03:38So you forged a marriage certificate?
00:03:41Colin, that makes you a scumbag.
00:03:43Yes, I'm a scumbag.
00:03:44I want Millie's fire and Brinley's gentleness. I want them both.
00:03:48I walked away from that conversation. My heart shattered.
00:03:51The man I loved for two years was a liar.
00:03:54I'm back.
00:03:55Welcome home.
00:03:58Mmm, what did you make? Smells delicious.
00:04:01Your favorite? Grilled meat.
00:04:03I watched him all through dinner.
00:04:05His phone never left the table, face down.
00:04:09My head aches a little.
00:04:11Could you fetch me some medicine from upstairs?
00:04:13Of course. You just rest here.
00:04:18The moment he was gone, I snatched his phone.
00:04:21My birthday didn't work.
00:04:22Our anniversary didn't work.
00:04:24You don't look well. Do you want to lie down?
00:04:26I'm fine.
00:04:27Is something wrong at the office?
00:04:29You kept glancing at your phone.
00:04:31Yes, a project issue.
00:04:32I might need to head back later.
00:04:33Then go.
00:04:34Work always comes first.
00:04:36Don't wait up for me.
00:04:37Get some rest.
00:04:39As the door clicked shut, my smile crumbled.
00:04:44I picked up my phone, my hand trembling.
00:04:48Dad, I've decided.
00:04:50I'll return home, and I'll accept the marriage alliance you arranged.
00:04:54Three months later, I arrived at the Knight Family's annual gala.
00:04:59Mrs. Shaw, you finally arrived. This way, please.
00:05:05Isn't that Brynlyn? What is she doing here?
00:05:07I can't believe she has the nerve.
00:05:09I heard Colin tossed her aside after catching her cheating.
00:05:11She has the audacity to show up tonight?
00:05:14The Shaw family cut her off completely.
00:05:16Look at her, still carrying herself as if she matters.
00:05:19Well, if it isn't Miss Shaw all by yourself tonight, where's Mr. Palmer?
00:05:23Oh, that's right. I heard you two split.
00:05:26Hardly shocking.
00:05:27A man like him could not tolerate a partner who was unfaithful.
00:05:30Do you really think showing up here will win Mr. Palmer back?
00:05:33That ship has sailed.
00:05:34Millie's the one by his side now.
00:05:35She's carrying his child.
00:05:36You all seem awfully fascinated with my personal life.
00:05:38My affairs, however, aren't open for your judgment.
00:05:40And as for why I'm here,
00:05:41does the Knight Family need your permission before extending an invitation?
00:05:44Get off your high horse, Brynly.
00:05:46Everyone knows about your scandal.
00:05:47No man would ever want you now.
00:05:49It's none of your business, Miss Dale.
00:05:51Instead of wasting your time on me,
00:05:52perhaps you should pay attention to Dale Group stock.
00:05:54Word is, it's been plummeting.
00:05:56What are you talking about?
00:05:57That's complete nonsense.
00:05:58Don't play dumb.
00:05:59You know exactly what I mean.
00:06:01But then I felt a familiar gaze from across the hall.
00:06:05Colin?
00:06:19Brynly?
00:06:20But when our eyes met,
00:06:21my gaze was ice.
00:06:24What are you doing here?
00:06:26Why did you disappear without a single word?
00:06:28I burned time and money trying to find you!
00:06:30Tell me you didn't throw me away for someone else!
00:06:34Colin, please, calm down.
00:06:38Miss Shaw must have had her reasons.
00:06:41Miss Shaw, I know you still have feelings for him,
00:06:43but you should move on.
00:06:45Showing up like this just makes things harder.
00:06:47What is she even after?
00:06:48Colin has moved on.
00:06:50Someone needs to toss her out.
00:06:51She's dragging down the class of this event.
00:06:53Brynly, I know you regret leaving me.
00:06:55Just apologize.
00:06:56I can even put in a word with Mrs. Knight
00:06:58and help you stay.
00:07:10Miss, this is a private event.
00:07:12If you don't have an invitation,
00:07:13I'll have to ask you to leave.
00:07:14You'd really rather be tossed out
00:07:15than give me an apology?
00:07:16Be sensible, Miss Shaw.
00:07:17With all these eyes on you,
00:07:19why put yourself through more shame?
00:07:45I'll go along with whatever arrangements Mrs. Knight has made.
00:07:50Understood.
00:07:51Mrs. Knight was just speaking of you.
00:07:53Please, this way.
00:07:57As Ryan led me away,
00:08:00the man who tried to kick me out
00:08:02crashed to his knees.
00:08:04Mrs. Shaw, please!
00:08:05Forgive my rudeness!
00:08:06Grant me mercy!
00:08:09You've broken the family rules.
00:08:11That's why you're fired.
00:08:12Not because of Miss Shaw.
00:08:17Escort him out!
00:08:17His employment is terminated.
00:08:22Make it clear he will never be rehired.
00:08:25Wait!
00:08:25Ryan, please!
00:08:26Don't do this!
00:08:33Colin, let's sit down over there.
00:08:35It's getting far too crowded.
00:08:36Fine.
00:08:37Just watch your step.
00:08:45Is that Mr. Moore?
00:08:46Oh my God, what on earth is Austin Moore doing here?
00:08:48He never shows up to these things.
00:08:49Mr. Moore!
00:08:50What an honor to have you with us tonight.
00:08:57Sir, your wife is already upstairs in the VIP lounge.
00:09:02The knights left Austin Moore waiting?
00:09:04This is about to get ugly.
00:09:07Colin, my stomach feels a little uneasy.
00:09:10What's wrong?
00:09:10Come, I'll take you to the lounge so you can rest.
00:09:13Mr. Moore, you probably haven't been told,
00:09:15but the Knight family has been pouring all their attention on Miss Shaw tonight.
00:09:18One might assume she was some exalted figure.
00:09:21Oh?
00:09:21My wife sure knows how to stir things up, huh?
00:09:25Your...
00:09:25Your wife?
00:09:28Your wife?
00:09:32Sir, that's enough.
00:09:33Please come with us.
00:09:34What are you doing?
00:09:35I was just trying to let Mr. Moore know...
00:09:37Mr. Moore's business is not yours to discuss.
00:09:46Mr. Moore has arrived.
00:09:48My head lifted instinctively.
00:09:50It was the very first time I had seen my husband since our marriage.
00:09:55I was just thinking how lucky I was to have such a handsome husband.
00:10:02Mr. Moore, we've been waiting anxiously for your arrival.
00:10:07It's so rare to catch a glimpse of you.
00:10:09Gentlemen, please, take a seat.
00:10:10Mr. Moore will be with you all day.
00:10:12Let me introduce Miss Brinley Shaw.
00:10:14Ah, Miss Shaw.
00:10:15Easy on the eyes, but your judgment?
00:10:17Not so impressive.
00:10:18You cut ties with your family for a man becoming a joke.
00:10:21Perhaps you should focus on family affairs, not business.
00:10:24Oliver!
00:10:25That's enough!
00:10:33So, Mr. Simpson, in your opinion my wife doesn't measure up to your standards?
00:10:39Your wife?
00:10:40Mrs. Moore, my apologies.
00:10:42I just meant you have exquisite taste in beautiful women.
00:10:47Mr. Simpson, your words remind me of something.
00:10:51And what is that?
00:10:53I've heard rumors that some influential businessman keeps several young women at once.
00:10:58Utterly shameless.
00:11:01Surely you've heard them too?
00:11:03I have no idea what you're talking about.
00:11:05Instead of speculating about my life, wouldn't it be wiser to tend to your own affairs?
00:11:12Well, Brinley certainly has a sharp tongue.
00:11:15Everyone, let's sit down!
00:11:16Quite the impression you've made, my dear wife.
00:11:20Like what you saw?
00:11:30The lavish bank felt suffocating, and I had to get away.
00:11:35Austin, I need to use the West Room.
00:11:37I can't sit here any longer.
00:11:39Don't take too long.
00:11:46Mrs. Moore, I...
00:12:00Unhomber...
00:12:07It's probably an extra Liu for us.
00:12:13I can't sit down.
00:12:15Well, baby, I'm going to open the Tür.
00:12:16Here's the weakness of the new leading friend.
00:12:21brinley i was wrong give me another chance
00:12:26mr palmer please control yourself we are done i can't do without you he's three months apart
00:12:32i feel like i'm going mad enough of your nonsense stay away from me or you'll regret it get lost
00:12:42take this as your warning colin if you dare try this again you'll regret it
00:12:47far more with that i was done with him forever after the banquet ended i tried to leave
00:12:58exhausted by the night's events
00:13:03but my escape was cut short by a familiar imposing presence
00:13:12get in mr moore i have my own car
00:13:18i already had it sent back i want to return to my own place your place have you forgotten we're
00:13:24married that means we're supposed to live together but no buts i prepared our new home three months
00:13:30ago you're coming back with me drive
00:13:41from today onward this is your home
00:13:57mr moore since this is a marriage of convenience i think it's better we establish some clear
00:14:01boundaries go ahead i'm listening first we don't interfere each other's private lives
00:14:06second we keep our finances separate neither of us will touch the other's assets
00:14:10third if we ever divorce we'll part on good terms with no complications
00:14:15don't you think you're being a little too cold with me
00:14:19remember we're legally husband and wife now
00:14:21i think you should understand that this is just a partnership
00:14:24and there are no feelings attached i don't want unnecessary trouble
00:14:28trouble is that what you think i am
00:14:30that's settled all right as you wish my dear wife
00:14:43this one i like the vintage feel you do have unusual taste but in the winter the drafts will
00:14:48be harsh it doesn't matter i can manage the cold
00:14:54hungry yes i didn't eat properly at the party
00:14:59let's get you something to eat
00:15:07i didn't expect what are you doing just standing
00:15:11come help
00:15:18in the soft glow of the kitchen my hands moved on autopolt
00:15:21the familiar rhythm of the knife a small comfort
00:15:24you handle that knife quite well did you often cook for colin
00:15:28yes looking back it was a complete waste of effort
00:15:31he never did deserve you
00:15:33oh do you regret it
00:15:37why should i for someone so undeserving it's best not to mention him at all
00:15:43so indifferent i find that interesting
00:15:48what do you expect that i cry endlessly when it comes to love you gamble i can take the loss
00:15:54i'll take care of the rest it's our first night under the same roof you shouldn't tire yourself out
00:15:59you do know how to be thoughtful fine i'll take you up on that
00:16:03a few minutes later he set three dishes on the table the beef was charred black the broccoli was burnt
00:16:08and i could see sugar crystals that hadn't even melted
00:16:09you looked rather skilled slicing the beef but your cooking seems to be lacking
00:16:14i've trained with a knife heat control isn't my strength
00:16:17are you trying to upset me with this culinary adventure
00:16:20you've got quite a sense of humor
00:16:22as he ate i saw an old scar winding across his forearm
00:16:25a sharp contrast to the gentle man he was pretending to be
00:16:28pull yourself together brinley this is just a marriage of convenience
00:16:32don't let appearances deceive you when he finished cleaning the kitchen
00:16:36he leaned against the doorway all plainness gone
00:16:40now that i've returned there are formalities
00:16:44next week we visit your father the wedding also needs to be properly arranged
00:16:50the purpose of this alliance has been fulfilled there's no need for a wedding ceremony is there
00:16:53what do you mean no need even a marriage of convenience will have a wedding
00:16:58my father is tied up with a major project it's really not a good time
00:17:01don't worry i'll have my assistant coordinate with your father's secretary
00:17:10i'll call my father first to see when he's available
00:17:15he agreed but his eyes told me this wasn't a negotiation
00:17:17the battle was over before it even began
00:17:21i watched austin go upstairs his sudden attention making me suspicious
00:17:24but i had no time to dwell on him my own company
00:17:28vantage path realty needed me colin parmer chose deceit
00:17:32now i will crush his pride in the one field he values most
00:17:36mrs shaw the final version of the bid presentation is ready
00:17:41good
00:17:46two years of a fake marriage he has no idea what's coming
00:18:06meanwhile across the city colin was holding a meeting this project will be palmer group's highest priority
00:18:14for the next three years
00:18:17the city director has already acknowledged our proposal is superior
00:18:21mr palmer we've poured 30 million into the assessment our connections are firmly established
00:18:25palmer group is set on winning this project
00:18:27by the way i heard brinley has registered a company
00:18:31vantage path realty she's preparing to bid as well and now that she's austin's wife
00:18:35she might carry more weight well i relax she's just an ordinary woman what could she possibly
00:18:41know about real estate development that company of hers is nothing but a shell she set up on a whim
00:18:46she always shows up wherever i am perhaps she's just trying to get my attention again
00:18:52three days later the bidding send you buzzed with anticipation
00:19:04i know you're coming brinley show yourself the moment i walked into the bidding hall i felt colin's
00:19:11stare he expected the soft naive woman he once knew not the ceo of vantage path realty and our
00:19:18innovative spatial planning can increase land use efficiency by 30 percent a flawless presentation
00:19:24next the palmer group our proposal focuses on mr palmer
00:19:28vantage path realty's proposal is clearly superior to yours but our data our policy interpretation
00:19:34the committee's decision is unanimous the contract is awarded to vantage path realty
00:19:38after the meeting he cornered me in the rolevo his composure shattered
00:19:41why you knew how important this project was to me was this all just revenge
00:19:46fine take the project i don't care about anything else just come back to me
00:19:53mr palmer we won fairly this project was never yours to grant me it was mine to earn
00:20:01what you should be asking is why the palmer group failed
00:20:08that evening the satisfaction of winning had washed away my tiredness when i returned to the villa
00:20:14you are back you're home early today congratulations securing this project gives vantage path
00:20:21a promising future thank you we talked about visiting your father when would he be available
00:20:32my dad's been very busy lately maybe in a few more days later that night i finally made the call
00:20:41i've
00:20:41been avoiding well if it isn't the ceo of vantage path realty the work alick finally has time to call
00:20:46her
00:20:47father dad i secured the blian project that's good to hear now tell me how's austin treating you is he
00:20:53bad to you no actually he suggested visiting you he's even talking about a wedding ceremony i'd love
00:20:58for you to come visit but i still haven't forgiven you for what happened with colin dad i was foolish
00:21:03back then enough no need to drag up the past how about next saturday and tell austin he better not
00:21:08come
00:21:08empty-handed what made you suddenly want to take me out to dinner the candlelight danced in the
00:21:12populent restaurant but a question flickered in my mind you're my wife it's only right that i treat
00:21:16you his answer a great deal about too smooth even the no obscure design award i won years ago how
00:21:20that
00:21:20even i had almost forgotten it isn't hard to learn about someone cheers there's an urgent problem at
00:21:28the company head upstairs and get some rest back home his sudden departure felt like an escape
00:21:36but his words about my past echoed in my mind i found myself drawn to his study the study was
00:21:42just
00:21:43as he was organized imposing and full of secrets my fingers brushed against a loose board on a shelf
00:21:49revealing a hidden compartment inside was a scroll unfolding it my heart stopped they were my sketches
00:21:55the ones i thought had burned in a fire what are you doing here
00:22:03mr moore i thought you went to the company
00:22:09what are you hiding behind your back hiding my sketches don't you think that crosses into invading
00:22:15my privacy fear gave was a violation this was i found them by chance they had a certain spark i
00:22:22thought
00:22:22they might be useful for a project since when do you pay attention to a university student's designs
00:22:27anything with potential tends to draw my attention it feels like more than a coincidence that the
00:22:33designs you admire happen to belong to me he closed the distance in an instant
00:22:41trapping me against the desk it does feel like quite the coincidence
00:22:52tell me brinley
00:22:56are you doubting me
00:22:59i i was only asking i shouldn't have come into your study he stepped closer lifting his hand to brush
00:23:05a lop of hair from my forehead his touch set my skin on fire the study's rather cold why don't
00:23:12you rest
00:23:12upstairs for days i doubted him at every turn if he was in the dining room i ate in my
00:23:22room
00:23:23if he was on the stairs i hurried past without a word
00:23:33in the car the silence was suffocating until my brother's name lit up my phone like a lifeline
00:23:42hey felix brinley i just heard overseas colin dumped you didn't he no need to worry i'm doing
00:23:49fine and it wasn't him who ended things that bastard swore he'd treat you well he dares to toss
00:23:57you aside i told him everything that happened my marriage to austin colin's harassment
00:24:04felix i was so stupid before i'm sorry what are you apologizing for to hell with him he should have
00:24:12been dumped long ago but he hurt you damn it i'm getting the first flight home i swear i'll make
00:24:16that
00:24:17asshole pay no absolutely not i can deal with colin myself you need to stay focused on your races
00:24:25when the call ended we had arrived at the shaw mansion felix really looks out for you he's my brother
00:24:37let's go
00:24:41what are you doing let go of my wrist his palm was firm and warm and the feeling was surprisingly
00:24:47steady
00:24:47what are you doing in front of your family we've got to look convincing you wouldn't want your father
00:24:52getting the wrong idea right don't you want him to feel at ease i rolled my eyes but didn't pull
00:24:58my
00:24:58hand away felix you hear me run that race and come back with a trophy brinley's affairs aren't your
00:25:03problem austin is a million times more reliable than you keep running your mouth and i'll cut your
00:25:07allowance right off oh you're here sweetheart come here dad were you yelling at felix serves him right
00:25:15that reckless brat by the way felix wired you a hundred million it's all yours my phone buzzed
00:25:22it was a transfer notification felix note said if colin bothers you again i'll fly back and wreck
00:25:28his company myself mr shaw my first visit i brought a small token for you my daughter has a stubborn
00:25:33streak if she gives you trouble i hope you'll let it slide brinley is incredibly thoughtful having her
00:25:38as my wife makes me the lucky one i know how deeply you cherish her i will make sure she's
00:25:41cared
00:25:41for and i won't allow her to endure any grievances good come inside the food's on the table he clapped
00:25:47austin on the shoulder guiding him in i watched this man who could dominate boardrooms act like
00:25:51any ordinary son your insights on business are sharp austin i simply offer a different perspective
00:25:54mr shaw he was so calm so patient with my father watching him my heart grew increasingly complicated
00:26:00take good care of my daughter my father's words were heavy a final plea before entrusting me to him
00:26:05you have my word in the car on the way back the silence was comfortable but i knew he would
00:26:11be the
00:26:11one to break it tell me have you been avoiding me lately why would i i've been drowning in work
00:26:18i can hardly breathe is that so funny every time i'm in the living room you suddenly remember urgent
00:26:25overtime on the stairs you always bolt past me with your head down you're reading too much into it i've
00:26:30just been really busy really because i can't shake the feeling it's about what happened in the study no
00:26:36we're home let's get out i ran into the villa furious that he always had the upper hand i swore
00:26:42i'd seize
00:26:42the next chance the pool is freshly maintained want to give it a try fine let's go
00:26:54he was already there a towel slung low on his hips water tracing the lines of his muscles
00:26:59you've been watching me for three minutes straight with a body like this you could easily walk a runway
00:27:08though i have to say touching it feels even better
00:27:15brinley isn't this exactly what you like then why the sudden blush
00:27:22i left him standing there and went to my room my heart pounding from my own daring
00:27:27why am i so tempted by him this is a marriage of convenience i can't forget that
00:27:33colin was the same and he destroyed everything
00:27:39brinley you really know how to turn me on
00:27:42i walked in after a long day and froze austin was in the living room bare chested sweat gleaning
00:27:48on his sculpted muscles careful the dumbbell crashed to the floor and i rushed forward but
00:27:54he swept me into his arms pressing me against his hot damp chest i'm exhausted let's rest a little
00:28:02austin you your sweat is getting on my blouse is it
00:28:09his nose grazed my ear and i shivered but then my training kicked in i twisted dug my knee into
00:28:16his side and rolled him onto the mad playing helpless mr moore with muscles like these i must
00:28:23admit those lines they're sculpted like a fashion models but in a flash he reversed our positions
00:28:30pinning me beneath him when he ate on health tone clea fierty with tons his face inches from mine
00:28:38is just touching enough for you you get off gotcha let go of my leg
00:28:49there's something in your hair
00:28:53what
00:28:57just a feather
00:29:00now are you planning to move in down there on the floor
00:29:04you did that on purpose what do you mean you're the one who couldn't stop staring at me
00:29:11you practically dived into my arms i was not staring why are you even working out in the living
00:29:17room the ac in the gym broke the ac is broken this place is falling apart maybe you should just
00:29:23buy
00:29:23a new villa is that so i'm going to eat
00:29:29narrator i arrived at the business gala as the new ceo of vantage path realty determined to prove my
00:29:34ambition was more intoxicating than any man colin look it's her she looks different more dazzling than
00:29:42ever i ignored their stairs but a man with an oily grin soon cornered me on the terrace
00:29:51miss shaw all by yourself i'm rogelio scott a big company must be exhausting for a young woman like
00:29:58you you're flattering me mr scott vantage path thrives because of its team what team can measure
00:30:04up to a dependable man with me you wouldn't have to work so hard i can give you more than
00:30:09your sugar
00:30:09baddie ever could i'm afraid you've mistaken me a woman of my league is nowhere near your reach
00:30:14ha everything has a price miss shaw just name it stay by my side and the entire scott group could
00:30:20be
00:30:20yours narrator his thick fingers reached to pinch my chin i slapped him across the face the sound
00:30:27silencing the entire hall you dared to slap me what's wrong with that look at yourself pathetic oily and
00:30:35shameless mr scott laying hands on a woman hardly suits a gentleman mr palmer with your company stock
00:30:41in free fall you still have the nerve to metal worry about your own crumpling empire and you don't think
00:30:47a pretty face makes you exceptional and dick at the end of the day you're just a woman what could
00:30:54you possibly accomplish you pathetic whore say that again i dare you before he could repeat the insult
00:31:01i kicked the back of his knee seized his tie and slammed his cheek against the polished floor
00:31:12i'll make sure you learn what respect really means the party was in full swing a symphony of
00:31:17laughter and clinking glasses until a sudden gape cut through the noise it's austin moore he's here
00:31:22a hush fell over the room like the red sea parting the crowd made a path for him he walked
00:31:27straight
00:31:27through the silent crowd to me his eyes fixed on a single target his eyes burned with a cold fire
00:31:33as he reached me a flicker of something unreadable in their depths as he draped his jacket over my
00:31:38shoulders mr moore it's a misunderstanding i swear miguel throw him out and from this moment though
00:31:49not more group is targeting echoed in the dead silence each single project run by death sentence
00:31:53his voice no please mr moore have mercy as they dragged him away screaming the reality of his
00:31:58power settled over the room like a shroud i looked up at the man who had just destroyed another for
00:32:04my
00:32:04sake trying to understand why are you here you never come to these things
00:32:15because you're here mr moore if i may who is this lady to you she is my wife brinley moore
00:32:23and i warn
00:32:24anyone who dares to lay a hand on her you will find yourself standing against the full power of my
00:32:30company then through the sea of stunned faces i saw my ex colin watching us his face pale brinley
00:32:40i remembered your throat always acts up i had them prepare that special drink you like
00:32:45thank you mr palmer but i'll take care of my wife's needs you should direct that concern towards your
00:32:50companion colin oh wait my mistake she isn't your wife yet is she
00:32:56my husband doesn't enjoy socializing mr palmer if you'll excuse us my project was suspended leaving
00:33:03me stuck at home my attempts at cooking were a disaster starting with a batch of burnt cookies
00:33:10wow these are something else what do you call them charcoal brigands if you're hungry there are
00:33:17sandwiches in the fridge don't touch those he'd been coming home early every day then i remembered
00:33:24he'd sent the chef and housekeeper on medical lee last week you orchestrated this on purpose
00:33:32actually i think your cooking has a kind of everyday warmth to it honestly it's more satisfying than a
00:33:38michelin three-star dinner i know it's bad your comfort is unhelpful austin did you lose your taste buds
00:33:46it's not every day i find you cooking as your husband i should at least act grateful if you
00:33:51enjoy it so much i'll make car grilled avocado with pickled herring tomorrow
00:33:57now that sounds like a challenge i'll be looking forward to your masterpiece for days
00:34:02i curled out one strange dish after another
00:34:09your cooking just keeps getting better
00:34:14do you actually enjoy torturing your taste buds for me it's an honor to eat anything you've made
00:34:20yourself
00:34:23i excused myself and snuck into the kitchen to call his assistant
00:34:28miguel i need to ask what is austin like at the company mr moore today he called a competitor's
00:34:35proposal garbage garbage and the man nearly collapsed garbage last week he sued a business partner into
00:34:42bankruptcy he is ruthless
00:34:48the man he described as a stranger a ruthless tycoon who praises my terrible cooking
00:34:57what is his secret agenda is this marriage just part of some hidden game
00:35:02i sat there my mind racing what if this whole marriage is just a plot to harvest my organs
00:35:11something bothering you you look pale
00:35:17later that night my fear dragged me into a nightmare a twisted reality where my darkest
00:35:21thoughts came to life you monster austin you're after my kidney i swear i'll fight you off in my
00:35:25dream his shadow fell over me a monstrous giant with something glimpering in his hand a single
00:35:29tear escaped a testimony to the terror that held me captive even in sleep i heard his footsteps coming
00:35:34up the stairs each one a heavy thup that echoed my own frantic heartbeat he walked down the dark
00:35:38corridor a shadow moving towards the slimmer of light from my room the doorknob turned with
00:35:43agonizing slowness the click of the lash sealing my fate my kidney austin give it back he loomed over
00:35:48me in the darkness his hand reaching out and for a moment my nightmare and reality merged the instant
00:35:53his hand touched my cheek my eyes snapped open ah austin you really came to steal my kidney brinley
00:35:59it's all right you were caught in a bad dream but his voice was calm a gentle anchor in my
00:36:02storm
00:36:02of panic the terror receded leaving a disorienting fog of confusion in its whack you were mumbling quite
00:36:06a bit something about me being after your kidney heat flooded my cheeks i couldn't meet his gaze
00:36:10i was just rambling nonsense some steam softening with an under chasing me you should go get some
00:36:14sleep he didn't press and i was alone again the silence of the room amplifying the chaos in my
00:36:18mind but the moment he was out of my sight the gentle husband vanished replaced by someone i didn't
00:36:23know he waited his face a cold calculating mask in the glow of the screen i could almost feel the
00:36:29shift in him the moment his suspicion hardened into certainty we need to have a talk tomorrow the next
00:36:33morning the sunlight that filled the dining room did nothing to dispel the chilling atmosphere
00:36:37between us do you have time this morning i'd like to talk about last night it was just a dream
00:36:41nightmares happen don't read too much into it with those words she shut the door on any conversation
00:36:46leaving us in a silence colder than any nightmare i had to know what austin was hiding after escaping
00:36:51our silent breakfast i slipped back inside and crept up to his study my heart pounded against my ribs a
00:36:56frantic drumbeat of fear and determination taking a deep breath i committed it can't be locked please
00:37:02yes i moved quickly silently my hands searching for any trace of myself any clue to his secrets but
00:37:08it's nothing photographed not a mention of my work where is it the clippings from my exhibition he's
00:37:12removed everything a cold dread washed over me as the truth settled in it's like i never existed in
00:37:16here the room was a sterile monument to a life i was apparently never a part of i was staring
00:37:19into the
00:37:19void of an empty shelf when his voice cut through the silence cold are you looking for ice shot through
00:37:24my
00:37:24veins i froze he was leaning against the doorframe a predator watching his prey i spun around so fast
00:37:28i knocked over a stack of books my words tumbling out in a panicked rush i was just looking around
00:37:32time seemed to slow as the books tumbled towards the floor in one motion he moved with impossible
00:37:36speed he caught them easily effortlessly and steadied me his hand burning against my waist there's
00:37:41nothing worth your attention in here perhaps we were suddenly impossibly close his voice a low murmur
00:37:46i have to go i'll be in my room his touch was electric i had to get away later that
00:37:49day
00:37:49i tried to sneak out to see my father but austin was in the foyer blocking my path
00:37:54my escape was cut short he was there with miguel miguel's shock was almost mr moore
00:37:59you're wearing an apron and he was a crisp white apron over his expensive suit if you want to
00:38:03surprise your wife i can call a ship it's different miguel she eats restaurant food all the time
00:38:07he ignored miguel's suggestion his focus elsewhere i think she might like something homemade for a fleeting
00:38:13moment i saw something else in his eyes then his eyes found me he knew i was there all along
00:38:17where are you going caught my heart sank i tried to sound casual to hide the tremor in my voice
00:38:23to visit my father i need to talk to him his answer was not a request it was a command
00:38:28i've made
00:38:29dinner eat with me first he moved subtly trapping me then i'll go with you i felt the walls closing
00:38:36in
00:38:36the air growing thin that's not necessary you don't have to he closed the distance between us his
00:38:41try my cooking overwhelm a silent order was given and obeyed instantly and then there were two
00:38:48miguel's gone it'll just be the two of us i followed austin into the dining room a perfect
00:38:53feast was laid out a cruel contrast to the charred food i'd been making for days what are you standing
00:38:58therefore sit down and see for yourself i'll pass i'm not hungry just have a taste i told you i'm
00:39:08not
00:39:09hungry just one bite if it's awful you can throw the plate at my face i finally gave in my
00:39:18fingers
00:39:18curling around the fork with resistance oh so how is it it's fine but my hand betrayed me reaching for
00:39:33the lobster then the soup then the lamb i ate like someone who hadn't seen food in d's
00:39:41why are you looking at me like that slow down it's not like anyone's going to snatch it from you
00:39:48i guess it's not terrible
00:39:55have the legal department drop the papers immediately i'm on my way
00:40:00something urgent came up at the company i'll need to step out all right
00:40:07take your time and enjoy it the moment the door clicked shut my appetite vanished replaced by an
00:40:14explicable hollowness i reached for the bowl of soup he'd left untouched and drank every last flat
00:40:23dad i need the truth what's really behind this arranged marriage to austin
00:40:32brinley
00:40:33brinley there are things you're old enough to hear now
00:40:37years ago austin's mother was in a devastating car accident
00:40:44your mother risked her own life to save her
00:40:50my mother out of gratitude their family proposed a marriage alliance they've been waiting for you all
00:40:57these years even when you were with colin
00:41:06dad i get it now i'll come by to see you soon bye
00:41:31who is it
00:41:33it's me austin let me down i have legs of my own
00:41:37stop moving the floor's slick you'll make us both fall
00:41:52you
00:41:53i didn't do it on purpose
00:42:00you call that an accident we kissed you shameless rogue
00:42:06why didn't it feel wrong have i lost my mind
00:42:11get away from me
00:42:40stop it
00:42:58Brinley. I love Millie. She's the one who fits me. Body and soul.
00:43:12That's why I never touched you.
00:43:29Brinley.
00:43:32Austin? Why aren't you in bed?
00:43:34I heard a noise. Want a drink?
00:43:40Let's go to the rooftop.
00:43:42Is this about Colin?
00:43:45Do you honestly think I'd drink myself silly over an ex?
00:43:50No. I just think something's weighing on you.
00:43:53Spare me the questions. If you're not going to keep me company, you can go.
00:44:00Colin's a bastard! And Millie's no better!
00:44:03Two shameless cheats!
00:44:06And you, Austin, you're an idiot!
00:44:09Out of all the women in the world, why did you marry me?
00:44:12I've wanted to marry you since I was 14.
00:44:17Huh? What was that?
00:44:21When I was 14, at that party, it was the anniversary of my mother's death.
00:44:28My siblings cornered me, calling me a curse, a bringer of misfortune.
00:44:36At that banquet, you were just a little girl with braids, but you stood in front of me and protected
00:44:40me.
00:44:41From that moment, I told myself I'd wait for you to grow up.
00:44:44I've waited all these years, and now, you're finally mine.
00:44:54Have a nice dream, Brinley.
00:45:03Hello?
00:45:04Mrs. Moore, do you know where Mr. Moore is?
00:45:06He's missed a crucial meeting and isn't answering his phone.
00:45:09I- I'll check right now.
00:45:16Austin? Are you in there?
00:45:18Austin, answer me!
00:45:30Austin?
00:45:32Austin?
00:45:40The medicine bottles, so many stomach pills, the burnt steak, the horrible soup, he ate
00:45:48every last bite of my terrible cooking, you absolute fool, Austin, please wake up, I can
00:46:01smell the alcohol, he was already sick and he still drank with me last night, why are
00:46:09you here, you should go, who's supposed to take care of you if I walk out, lie down and
00:46:18stop fighting me, it might be contagious, you should go, don't be ridiculous, contagious,
00:46:25try moving again and I'll throw you out myself, Mrs. Moore, the doctor is here, doctor,
00:46:31please check him right away, acute gastric bleeding, accompanied by the high fever, he needs to
00:46:40be transferred to the hospital at once, I'll go with him, I know exactly what he's eaten
00:46:48in these last few days, the doctor said it's from eating terrible food and drinking alcohol,
00:47:02what now are you planning to blame this on me, I'm definitely putting the blame on you,
00:47:06I'm telling you now, don't even think about it, stop laughing, do you even remember you're
00:47:12supposed to be resting, eat, you haven't eaten either, have a taste, I'm not hungry, go ahead,
00:47:27eat it yourself, do you really have to push yourself this far, the company won't crumble
00:47:32without you for a few days, I'd hate for you to think I can't measure up to your standards,
00:47:38when you've recovered, let's set our companies against each other and watch which one thrives
00:47:42more, I'm in, quit staring, you should watch it, follow your instructions my dear wife, boss,
00:48:10the meeting has started, sit here, he's so focused it's like he's in his own world,
00:48:30the key is to acquire their patents before the merger is complete, you need to make them an
00:48:34offer they can't refuse, the merger will create a new market leader, the key is to get the
00:48:40shareholders on board, what's the matter, caught up in your husband's charm are you, who's looking
00:48:51at you, I was thinking about my project, your cloud vista states project, do you want my help,
00:48:58he leaned so close, I could feel his breath,
00:49:07sorry, did that hurt, you're still recovering,
00:49:12I'm alright, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Moore, I, I didn't see a thing,
00:49:20what's wrong, I'll go see about dinner,
00:49:44you don't have to put yourself through all this, I'm not that picky, that was why you had managed to
00:49:49land
00:49:50yourself in the hospital, now open up, what now, eat it before it cools,
00:50:01want something else tomorrow, the doctor said you could try other foods,
00:50:05you planning to cook it yourself, of course not, I'll ask the butler to send something up,
00:50:12just wishing I could eat something you make,
00:50:18get well first, then you can chase down every bizarre cravings you want,
00:50:23I've cleared the dishes, I'll sleep in the caregiver's room next door, wait,
00:50:26my stomach's acting up, do you want me to call the doctor,
00:50:29no, it's an old problem, I can manage, just, it's hard being alone if it gets worse in the night,
00:50:35fine, I'll sleep on the folding bed in here,
00:50:39Austin, you jerk, sneaking off with my cookies again,
00:50:49still dreaming about that, are you?
00:50:57what's going on?
00:51:00you look even paler than last night
00:51:05it's nothing, I just need to go to the bathroom
00:51:08go on your own then
00:51:12help me, I feel dizzy
00:51:17the bathroom door, help me, inside
00:51:20Austin, handle it yourself, if you can't, I'll get a male nurse
00:51:23no, I don't like strangers, I hate being touched by anyone else
00:51:27then why do you keep leaning on me?
00:51:29because you're different
00:51:31he just stared at me, so I stormed out
00:51:37I told you to call the nurse, but no, you had to be stubborn
00:51:40now look at you, you can barely stand
00:51:43don't worry, I'm fine
00:51:46with you here, I feel much better
00:51:49Mr. Moore, these need your signature
00:51:51I've turned away the media, and also the person the Moore family sent to inquire
00:51:55good, tell my father I'm fine
00:51:57I pretended to read, but his family's indifference felt strangely cold
00:52:01why just someone to ask?
00:52:03why not come themselves?
00:52:07what's on your mind?
00:52:08you've been staring into space
00:52:12nothing, I'll get you some water
00:52:19that evening, just as I was clearing his dinner plates
00:52:22he suddenly tensed
00:52:23a sharp gasp of pain
00:52:25escaping his lips
00:52:26is it flaring up again?
00:52:29yeah, it'll ease up soon
00:52:31don't call anyone
00:52:32you have a fever
00:52:33I'm calling the nurse
00:52:33I tried to pull my hand free to press the call button
00:52:36but he gripped my wrist
00:52:37his skin burning against mine
00:52:38sometimes hassle is necessary
00:52:40let go
00:52:41Brinley, just stay with me
00:52:47did you always have stomach problems?
00:52:50for years
00:52:51I skipped too many meals for work
00:52:53it caught up to me
00:52:55promise me you'll eat properly from now on
00:52:57with you looking after me
00:52:59I wouldn't dare skip another meal
00:53:01who said I'd be looking after me?
00:53:03it's chilly
00:53:03the fever must be breaking
00:53:05here, I'll get you another blanket
00:53:07you know, you toss and turn a lot when you sleep
00:53:09what are you talking about?
00:53:10I caught you mommling last night
00:53:11and you kicked the blanket so hard
00:53:12you nearly sent the bed rail flying
00:53:13you're making that up
00:53:14I sleep soundly
00:53:15I don't even dream
00:53:15oh really?
00:53:16care to see the video proof?
00:53:21he caught my wrist
00:53:26still planning to grab my phone?
00:53:31let go of me
00:53:37you jerk
00:53:46good night Brinley
00:53:49over the next few days
00:53:50a stream of visitors arrived
00:53:52but his guard, Miguel
00:53:54turned every single one away
00:53:57Mr. Moore is resting
00:53:58he won't be receiving visitors
00:53:59his father sent me
00:54:00I must see him
00:54:01he's just fallen asleep
00:54:02I will deliver his father's regards
00:54:08your family situation seems
00:54:12rather complicated, doesn't it?
00:54:18why do you say that?
00:54:21I saw the butler
00:54:22the way he looked at your door
00:54:25it was full of meaning
00:54:28you are actually perceptive
00:54:31so it's true?
00:54:32more than half of the Moore family
00:54:34is just waiting for me to fall
00:54:37what I have is far too admirable
00:54:39I won't get caught up in it, will I?
00:54:42no
00:54:42I hesitated
00:54:43but walked over to him
00:54:45he took my hand
00:54:46his warmth seeping into my skin
00:54:49as long as I'm here
00:54:50no one can touch you
00:54:55even without you
00:54:56no one can touch me
00:55:03of course
00:55:07the chef and staff have arrived
00:55:09dinner will be prepared
00:55:10according to Mr. Moore's
00:55:11dietary requirements
00:55:13now that you're discharged
00:55:14what do you want for dinner?
00:55:16whatever you cook will be fine
00:55:19don't even dream of it
00:55:20the doctor said your stomach
00:55:22is badly damaged
00:55:22the chef is back
00:55:24and he'll be handling your food
00:55:25I won't be stepping into
00:55:27the kitchen again
00:55:27I can't risk hurting you
00:55:30alright
00:55:31I'll do as you say
00:55:39Mrs. Moore
00:55:40please don't worry
00:55:41every dish is soft
00:55:42and easy to digest
00:55:45watch your step
00:55:48why are you here?
00:55:49shouldn't you be resting?
00:55:51I was waiting for you
00:55:52the doctor said
00:55:53light walks will help
00:55:54join me in the garden
00:55:55Austin
00:55:57aren't you worried
00:55:58people will use
00:55:58your sickness
00:55:59to cause trouble
00:56:00at the company?
00:56:01don't let it weigh on you
00:56:02Miguel will handle it
00:56:12Mr. Moore
00:56:13Mrs. Moore
00:56:13the Moore family
00:56:14has invited you
00:56:15to the estate
00:56:16for dinner
00:56:17tell them
00:56:18we will visit
00:56:18this weekend
00:56:20you're really going?
00:56:21but you're still recovering
00:56:22I'll be fine
00:56:23it's time you met my father
00:56:25and the rest of the family
00:56:26can I skip it?
00:56:27the thought of them
00:56:28all staring at me
00:56:29absolutely not
00:56:30you are my wife
00:56:30you are tied to the Moore family
00:56:31the sooner you adapt
00:56:32the easier it will be
00:56:34fine
00:56:34I'll go
00:56:41Miguel
00:56:42what has Brynlyn
00:56:43been up to lately?
00:56:44sir
00:56:45she's been running
00:56:46all over the city
00:56:46luxury malls
00:56:48auctions
00:56:48antique shops
00:56:49she's hunting for gifts
00:56:50for your family
00:56:51she went by herself?
00:56:53yes
00:56:53she said she wanted
00:56:55to choose everything
00:56:55personally
00:56:58you're home
00:56:59looks like you went
00:57:00a little overboard
00:57:00pretty much
00:57:01I'm completely wiped out
00:57:02my legs are killing me
00:57:04I'm sorry I didn't realize
00:57:05this one's for my dad
00:57:06right?
00:57:06the painting?
00:57:06Miguel said he's into art
00:57:07I can only hope
00:57:08he appreciates it
00:57:09he'll love it
00:57:09you handpicked it
00:57:10he'd be a fool not to
00:57:13you really don't need
00:57:14to go to so much trouble
00:57:15it's fine if you don't
00:57:16prepare gifts for my family
00:57:18how can you say that?
00:57:19it's my first zint
00:57:20what if they think
00:57:21I tap proper manners
00:57:22and that I'm not
00:57:23good enough for you?
00:57:24that won't fapping
00:57:25as long as I'm with you
00:57:27no one will dare
00:57:27utter a word against you
00:57:33Mrs. Moore
00:57:33all the gifts
00:57:34have been taken
00:57:35into the car
00:57:36no need to confirm
00:57:37them again
00:57:37let's go
00:57:39you look stunning
00:57:47don't be afraid
00:57:48I'm here
00:57:56Austin we've been
00:57:57waiting for you
00:57:58and this must be
00:57:58Brinley
00:57:59please come inside
00:58:21Dad
00:58:22Dad
00:58:28oh so this is austin's new wife she certainly looks young but i heard she was married before
00:58:38what do you mean by that carolyn brinley is my wedded wife
00:58:45austin i only meant it out of concern there's no need for your concern
00:58:53we handle our own affairs come now we're all family that's enough brinley since it's your
00:59:01first time here try the coffee i just brewed thank you
00:59:20please bring in the prepared gifts
00:59:27since it was my first time visiting i brought gifts for wesley and your painting for briseis
00:59:31a limited release scarf oh my gosh brinley you are really generous you've been very thoughtful
00:59:36but these gifts cost a foreign buy our family has always preached restraint exactly dimma could be
00:59:41so careless and isn't it austin's money you're burning they saw me as an easy target a way to
00:59:47make austin look bad i lifted my handbag slipped out a stack of printed pages
00:59:54how about you take a look at these i chose every gift myself and i paid for them with my
01:00:00own money
01:00:00here are the itemized receipts and my bank statements go ahead and verify them
01:00:08hold on this painting is from last month's auction we're talking 32 million no way this was an arranged
01:00:16marriage why would you torch that much money
01:00:21if you doubt me feel free to look into it yourself
01:00:26i've built up plenty over the years using my own savings to buy gifts for my husband's family
01:00:32tell me what's wrong with that carolyn since you feel the gifts are over the top
01:00:37i'll come empty-handed next time brinley thank you for your gift
01:00:44that's enough rider why are you being so harsh with austin's wife
01:00:48careful you might spook her i shouldn't have said that don't take it to heart brinley
01:00:53don't take it to heart
01:00:54so
01:00:59you
01:01:01you
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