#fullmovie #engsub #tvseries #freestreaming #watchonline #trending2026 #dramaseries #romancemovies #realitytv #fullhd #A Deal with the Devil #DRAMAX | Full Short Drama | English Sub 2026
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00:00:00no respect nothing at all had no war three years of marriage i had no warmth no respect nothing at
00:00:06all i exhausted myself saving my ex-husband from a car accident only for a scheming home
00:00:11wrecker to steal the credit after my heart died i signed the divorce agreement with my composure
00:00:17then i married a mysterious tycoon i tear apart the scumbag and the slut launching a satisfyingly
00:00:25ruthless counter-attack only three hours earlier madison and i had been abducted
00:00:30breaking free had pushed me past every limit but somehow i pulled it off
00:00:37i gripped the steering wheel with pain stabbing through my abdomen the kidnapper's car looms
00:00:42closer in the rearview mirror if we die out here you'll never forgive yourself will you declan
00:00:51in the passenger seat madison trembles her face paper white
00:00:59dana if i die out here declan will never forgive you shut up
00:01:06i calculate the distance and speed making a snap decision open the door we're jumping
00:01:13i can't i'm scared i can't do it
00:01:19then stay here and die i leap from the speeding car madison follows
00:01:27metal crashes against metal behind us my body hits the road hard tumbling over and over
00:01:33then an explosion the blast wave tosses me like a rag doll
00:01:42i lift my head hope sparkling in my exhausted eyes
00:01:46declan rushes towards us desperation on his face
00:01:51declan
00:01:58he moves right past me and pulls madison into his arms
00:02:07relief washes over his face as he holds her close
00:02:12maddie are you hurt
00:02:17you got here just in time if you hadn't showed up dana would have gotten me killed
00:02:22you set all this up didn't you
00:02:23we were both taken i nearly got myself killed trying to save her
00:02:27this was your plan all along you worked with the kidnappers one of them told me everything
00:02:32you'll pay for every filthy lie that just left your mouth
00:02:35how could you be this cruel i can't believe i married someone like you
00:02:39we'll settle this when i return
00:02:40he turned his back lifting madison effortlessly as she shot me a smug mocking glance
00:02:44i stand frozen bruces are nothing compared to the agony in my chest
00:02:48my arms hang stiff at my sides as i watch him lift madden effortlessly and hurry towards the car
00:02:52madison throws me a smug mocking glance over his shoulder
00:02:57my mind drifted to that night years ago when i dragged declin out of a wreck with my own hands
00:03:02then blacked out from exhaustion
00:03:05madison framed me for an affair
00:03:07when i woke madison had claimed she was the hero
00:03:10the memories crash over me
00:03:14i stumble forward before my strength gives out completely
00:03:18blood fills from my lips
00:03:19then everything fades into darkness
00:03:22three years of marriage
00:03:24no warmth
00:03:26no courtesy
00:03:27nothing
00:03:29i lie unconsciously in a hospital bed
00:03:32trapped in a dreamless slumber
00:03:33a man in a wheelchair sits silently beside me
00:03:36dressed in a perfectly cut black suit
00:03:38his face is flawlessly carved
00:03:40like a statue touched by the hands of gods
00:03:42everything about him exudes quiet
00:03:44effortless power
00:03:46mr hudson your health of the condition is worsening
00:03:50if we can't stop it permanent immobility is certain
00:03:53at this stage your only chance may lie with
00:03:55the wreath physician
00:03:56with my current condition
00:04:00is fathering a child still
00:04:02an option
00:04:03the doctor is stunned into silence
00:04:05the doctor withdrew silently
00:04:06and the door closed softly
00:04:08christopher was left alone in the ward
00:04:10i jolt awake with a sharp inhale
00:04:13antiseptic smells pungent
00:04:17my stomach twists
00:04:24you're awake
00:04:25christopher hudson
00:04:27christopher hudson
00:04:28you had no fear when you plotted against me for the foster group
00:04:32interesting how that bravery seems to vanish now
00:04:34his stare cuts through me like a blade
00:04:37i have to get a grip
00:04:40you were the one who saved me
00:04:41you're not entirely useless
00:04:43if i hadn't passed by and intervened
00:04:45you'd be dead by now
00:04:46i bite my lip
00:04:47rage flickering in my eyes
00:04:51i turn toward him
00:04:53and only then realize he's sitting in a wheelchair
00:04:56your legs
00:04:57that's why you disappeared
00:04:58three years ago
00:05:00so
00:05:01you going to laugh at me now
00:05:03no
00:05:04i wouldn't
00:05:05my thoughts race
00:05:06then i slowly ball my fists
00:05:08lift my chin
00:05:09mr hudson
00:05:10why don't we make a deal
00:05:11a deal
00:05:14a deal that benefits us both
00:05:16my voice was calm and firm
00:05:20the room turns oddly quiet
00:05:22i wait for christopher's response
00:05:25dana
00:05:26what makes you think you have the right to bargain with someone like me
00:05:30what if i told you
00:05:32i could help you walk again
00:05:34his expression flickers
00:05:36his hand grips the arm press tighter
00:05:42i slip out of bed and lower myself calmly in front of him
00:05:45start now
00:05:47and i promise you'll see results in three months
00:05:49my hand moves toward his leg
00:05:53he grabs my wrist
00:05:54squeezing tightly
00:05:55what the hell do you think you're doing
00:05:57with a ground
00:05:59he shoves my hand aside
00:06:00but i reach again without pause
00:06:02pressing expertly along nerve points on his calf
00:06:05a surge of feeling shoots through his leg
00:06:07sharp
00:06:08electric
00:06:09alive
00:06:09so
00:06:10how does that feel mr hudson
00:06:12what do you want in return
00:06:13help me crush foster group
00:06:15and reclaim everything my mother was robbed of
00:06:19you want me to go after your dear husband's empire
00:06:21don't forget
00:06:22you betrayed me once
00:06:24that project you backed out of and handed to deccan
00:06:27it cost me tens of billions
00:06:28give me three months
00:06:30i'll have you walking again
00:06:31that's all i ask
00:06:32we can strike the deal you want
00:06:35but what i need from you now
00:06:37is an heir
00:06:37my eyes widen
00:06:39body tensing in disbelief
00:06:42you can't even handle one condition
00:06:45then there's nothing more to talk about
00:06:47he spins his wheelchair around
00:06:49and heads for the exit
00:06:52wait
00:06:52i move to go after him
00:06:55but my knees buckle
00:06:56i collapse toward the wall
00:07:00christopher catches me by the waist
00:07:02his crisp
00:07:03woodsy scent surrounds me
00:07:05strangely comforting
00:07:06almost addictive
00:07:08are you finished putting on a show
00:07:13no i'm not done
00:07:15i was going to say that i agree to your condition
00:07:17let's just
00:07:19get married
00:07:21christopher tenses
00:07:22something dark stirs behind his cold eyes
00:07:25you really don't get scared of anything huh
00:07:27after you've almost died once
00:07:29nothing really scares you anymore
00:07:30i grab the test results and toss them to him
00:07:33whether you trust me or not
00:07:34i will marry you
00:07:36just give me a little time
00:07:37i'll wrap up everything here with deccan first
00:07:40after that he's out of my life for good
00:07:42christopher's mouth lifts
00:07:43ever so slightly
00:07:44one month
00:07:45play me again
00:07:46and you'll realize death was the easiest way out
00:07:52dana
00:07:53bring me a glass of water
00:07:55silence echoes back
00:07:56his face tightens
00:08:00where is she
00:08:04mrs foster hasn't come back yet
00:08:06what do you mean she hasn't come back
00:08:10since mrs foster got kidnapped
00:08:12we came back from the break
00:08:13and haven't seen her since
00:08:15so she finally grew a spine
00:08:18tried some pity stunt
00:08:19didn't work
00:08:19and now she storms off
00:08:20playing the victim
00:08:21let her sulk all she wants
00:08:22she can stay away for good
00:08:24for all i care
00:08:26sir mrs foster's back
00:08:32well look who finally remembers where she lives
00:08:35what's the matter
00:08:36coughing up blood wasn't dramatic enough for you
00:08:39had to put on a full show for the crowd huh
00:08:43dana
00:08:43did you suddenly go deaf
00:08:45or are you just pretending i'm not standing here
00:08:47move
00:08:49try me again
00:08:50and i swear you'll regret it
00:08:53oh really
00:08:55you already watched me bleeding on the ground and walked away
00:08:58were you planning to finish the job next time
00:09:03what the hell is that supposed to mean
00:09:06i've already done you a favor by not making you pay for what you did to madison
00:09:12and now you're pulling this stunt
00:09:16you actually believe i orchestrated that
00:09:18no wonder you're so easy to manipulate
00:09:21calling you dumb would be generous
00:09:26get back here
00:09:27now
00:09:28three seconds dana
00:09:30or i'm filing for divorce
00:09:34then let's go get it done
00:09:37i'm ready
00:09:39declin storms to his studio
00:09:41and slams a divorce agreement onto the table
00:09:45you want a divorce
00:09:46let's make it official
00:09:54i calmly pick it up
00:09:56scan the pages
00:09:57and sign with one smooth deliberate stroke
00:10:00declin stares at me
00:10:02speechless
00:10:04his phone rings sharply
00:10:05he glances at the screen
00:10:09what
00:10:09you found the wraith physician
00:10:11stay where you are
00:10:13i'm on my way
00:10:14my steps falter mid-stride
00:10:16this divorce can still be undone
00:10:20my eyes narrow
00:10:22if you still want to be my wife
00:10:23show up at the hospital by eight tomorrow
00:10:25apologize to maddie
00:10:27or we're through for real
00:10:28i stand still for a moment
00:10:30hand tightening
00:10:35goodbye
00:10:37and good riddance
00:10:43within weeks
00:10:44the divorce is finalized
00:10:46i stand quietly outside city hall
00:10:48calm as ever
00:10:50a man in a clean blue shirt
00:10:52sits ahead of me
00:10:53relaxed in his wheelchair
00:10:54good morning mr hudson
00:10:56let's go
00:10:58the process is quick
00:11:00paper signed
00:11:01confirmed
00:11:02confirmed
00:11:03filed
00:11:05we're legally married
00:11:06i step out
00:11:08relief and excitement
00:11:10bubbling inside me
00:11:11mr hudson
00:11:13let's hope this partnership
00:11:15goes smoothly
00:11:16christopher doesn't move
00:11:18you're moving into my downtown
00:11:20vidaday
00:11:21no delays
00:11:22wait
00:11:24this is a contract marriage
00:11:26why do we have to live together
00:11:29don't forget your role
00:11:31you're mrs hudson now
00:11:32my heart skips a beat
00:11:33there's no divorce with me
00:11:35only death do us part
00:11:37you married me
00:11:38so don't even think about walking away
00:11:41from now on
00:11:42i'll protect you
00:11:43you won't have to suffer again
00:11:45i stare at him
00:11:46stunned
00:11:47my heart gives an involuntary flutter
00:11:51my phone lights up
00:11:53missed calls
00:11:54and angry messages
00:11:55from declan
00:11:56i calmly block his number
00:11:59and
00:11:59erase the entire call log
00:12:04christopher catches it with a single glance
00:12:06my phone lights up again
00:12:08another call
00:12:09no name
00:12:10just a number
00:12:12christopher goes still
00:12:14completely frozen
00:12:18i pause
00:12:19sneaking a quick look at christopher
00:12:21before hitting decline
00:12:23i send a quick message to nell
00:12:33my gaze sharpens
00:12:41is it declan
00:12:42ugh
00:12:43that fool didn't even know his wife was the miracle physician
00:12:46and has spent millions to go find you
00:12:48interested nell
00:12:48i'm over it
00:12:49trash like him
00:12:50doesn't deserve a second more of my time
00:12:59my phone buzz
00:13:00nell calling
00:13:01i decline and start typing
00:13:05mrs hudson
00:13:05seriously which hudson are you even referring to
00:13:07because not many big jobs in town have that name
00:13:09don't tell me you mean christopher hudson
00:13:13it's him
00:13:14you're totally walking into the tiger's cage
00:13:30i silence the phone
00:13:31when i look up
00:13:32christmas is still staring at me
00:13:34expression darkened
00:13:36so mind telling me exactly what tiger's cage means
00:13:39it's where the most dangerous creatures are kept
00:13:42two years ago
00:13:43sherwood group tried to mess it with hudson group
00:13:45to take over the global energy market
00:13:46but in just one day
00:13:47they got exposed for fraud
00:13:48and completely fell apart
00:13:49so tell me mr hudson
00:13:51what woman wouldn't feel like
00:13:52she was walking into a tiger's cage
00:13:53by marrying you
00:13:54christopher lets out a low laugh
00:13:55so
00:13:55you've been digging into my past
00:13:59we're married now
00:14:00right
00:14:01isn't it normal to get to know each other better
00:14:04christopher gives a quiet cold laugh
00:14:07he looks away
00:14:08letting it go
00:14:14the car eases to a stop
00:14:16in front of a grand five star hotel
00:14:20aren't we supposed to be going home
00:14:21why are we stopping here
00:14:23i know we rushed the marriage papers
00:14:25but we should still do things properly
00:14:28and don't worry about the ceremony
00:14:30i'll make it up to you
00:14:31my cheeks turn red without a warning
00:14:33a ringtone breaks the silence
00:14:35everything's ready
00:14:36head inside
00:14:37i'll go find you later
00:14:43welcome mrs hudson
00:14:44mr hudson reserved everything this morning
00:14:47please come this way
00:14:48dana
00:14:52dana
00:14:52you've got the nerve to show up in front of me
00:14:55i have every right to be here
00:14:57i walk past him like he doesn't exist
00:15:00dana
00:15:01have i been too easy on you
00:15:03who said you could treat me like this
00:15:05declan who even are you
00:15:07why would i waste my time on you
00:15:09she's just afraid of losing you
00:15:10it's okay
00:15:11but if you call the cops
00:15:13she'll get humiliated
00:15:14humiliated
00:15:15she should have thought of that
00:15:16before pulling a stunt like that
00:15:17don't think i don't know what you're doing dana
00:15:20ignoring me
00:15:20and then suddenly showing up here
00:15:22trying to play hard to get
00:15:24what do you think you've got
00:15:25that's worth chasing
00:15:27what do you think you've got that's worth chasing
00:15:33she's not playing hard to get
00:15:35she's done
00:15:37with garbage like you
00:15:39every word hits us hard and cold
00:15:41we all turn
00:15:43christopher is pushed here on a wheelchair
00:15:45face serious
00:15:46presence still powerful
00:15:48his sharp eyes lock onto declan
00:15:51if christopher hadn't had that accident
00:15:54mr hudson
00:15:55i didn't know you were back in town
00:15:58christopher doesn't even look at him
00:15:59he keeps his eyes on me
00:16:03come here
00:16:04i step forward without hesitation
00:16:09let's go
00:16:09the comfort between us is obvious
00:16:12easy
00:16:13natural
00:16:15you still didn't do what i asked
00:16:17do i have to make you
00:16:19dana
00:16:19i get that you're mad at declan
00:16:21but this isn't the way to deal with it
00:16:22getting close to another guy just to make him jealous
00:16:25that'll only make him pull away more
00:16:26i gave you a chance
00:16:28dana
00:16:29don't push me
00:16:30say sorry
00:16:31right now
00:16:32say sorry
00:16:34right now
00:16:34are you actually brain dead
00:16:37when did i ever agree to say sorry
00:16:39it's okay
00:16:40i know i was in the hospital for a few days because of it
00:16:42but
00:16:43i don't hold it against you dana
00:16:44everyone messes up now and then
00:16:46you've been yapping about calling the cops this whole time haven't you
00:16:49then go ahead
00:16:49let's see who really ends up in trouble
00:16:51me or your sweet innocent princess maddie
00:16:54i've been nice enough not to embarrass you in public already
00:16:59how dare you talk to her like that
00:17:01she's so considerate
00:17:02stop putting on airs
00:17:03oh please
00:17:04i'm just trying not to throw up looking at the two of you
00:17:10when did the hotel's security get so subpar
00:17:13now just anyone can wander in and start making scenes
00:17:18uh sir i
00:17:19i
00:17:21mr hudson this is something personal
00:17:23i'd appreciate it if you stayed out of it
00:17:26as far as i'm aware
00:17:27miss murray is no longer your wife
00:17:30which makes her entirely her own person
00:17:33so you moved on already
00:17:34you were messing around behind my back weren't you
00:17:43what they actually split up
00:17:46unlike you
00:17:47some of us still know what decency looks like
00:17:50i should have known better than to let you back in
00:17:52mr hudson don't let her trick
00:17:54mr foster
00:17:55you really shouldn't think so highly of yourself
00:17:58aren't you even curious what kind of woman she really is
00:18:02my fists clench
00:18:03nails biting into her skin
00:18:06declan please
00:18:07lower your voice
00:18:08even if daya made mistake before
00:18:10doesn't she deserve the chance to start over
00:18:12what if this all goes public
00:18:14how will she face it
00:18:15she's the one who invited this
00:18:16daya come here and apologize
00:18:18that's the only way you'll walk out of here with any shred of dignity
00:18:22i takes a measured step forward
00:18:24head high
00:18:25icy gleam in her gaze
00:18:27repeat that
00:18:28i dare you
00:18:36aren't you just mad that i'm telling the truth
00:18:39my hand shoots out
00:18:40a sharp slap cracks across his face
00:18:42her knee drives hard into his shin
00:18:43he crumples with a startled grunt
00:18:47declan
00:18:48i stands over him
00:18:49tall and unyielding
00:18:50eyes burning with cold resolve
00:18:52if you'd used even an ounce of that brain of yours
00:18:55you might have bothered to check the facts
00:18:56but no
00:18:57you're too busy clinging to your sad little victim act
00:19:00seriously what's wrong with you
00:19:02is your ego that fragile
00:19:03or do you just enjoy acting like a helpless cucklid
00:19:06you've completely lost your mind
00:19:07dayma even if declan talked about your
00:19:09past in front of everyone
00:19:11he was simply being honest
00:19:12how could you hit him like that
00:19:13i turn slowly
00:19:14eyes narrowing on madison with pure disgust
00:19:16my hand swings up
00:19:18the slap lands on madison's cheek
00:19:21dana
00:19:22echoing loud and sharp
00:19:25he looks at her with concern
00:19:27maddie
00:19:29then turns to dana with rage
00:19:31just because christian's on your side now
00:19:33you think you can walk all over everyone
00:19:35you've really got to have nerves of steel to cry victim after everything you've done
00:19:41everything you've done
00:19:43get down on your knees and apologize to madison now
00:19:45let her slap you back
00:19:47declan
00:19:48dana's always gotten the wrong idea about me
00:19:50if taking this slap helps you two make up
00:19:53then i'll take the humiliation
00:19:54i don't mind
00:19:56do what i tell you or forget about ever coming back into my life
00:19:59christer's voice cuts through
00:20:02you really shouldn't think highly of yourself mr foster
00:20:06talking to your ex like that doesn't make you strong
00:20:09it just makes you look pathetic
00:20:11so that's how it is huh
00:20:12i didn't realize you and dana were this close
00:20:15you jumping to defend her says a lot mr hudson
00:20:19dana i really think you and declet should talk it out
00:20:21maybe this is all just one big misunderstanding
00:20:24miss reed you've got quite the gift
00:20:26you managed to make people crunch and laugh all at once
00:20:29should we get you a trophy for that brilliant little act
00:20:31that kind of sad performance
00:20:33only a fool would buy it
00:20:34mr hudson like i've said this is a private matter
00:20:38do you really have to step in
00:20:39if you're going after dana you're going through me first
00:20:42so before you talk tough
00:20:43maybe ask yourself if you're ready for that
00:20:46i gives them one last frosty look
00:20:48then turns away
00:20:50fingers resting lightly on christoph's wheel tear
00:20:52as she pushes him out with quiet grace
00:20:54i was just about to speak to christopher
00:20:57when someone suddenly burst in
00:21:00sir
00:21:01something happened
00:21:02miss hudson collapsed
00:21:04it looks like a heart attack
00:21:05she's unconscious and they've rushed her to the hospital
00:21:08get me there
00:21:09now
00:21:16christopher and i arrive in record time
00:21:18eveline has had a heart defect since birth
00:21:22she's always been weak
00:21:27don't worry too much
00:21:29medicine these days is advanced
00:21:31she'll make it
00:21:35a stylish woman paces nervously
00:21:37celesta hudson
00:21:39christopher's mother
00:21:41thank god you're here
00:21:44mom
00:21:45eveline has been on medicine right
00:21:47how could this happen
00:21:48i don't know
00:21:49she was just reading
00:21:51and then she collapsed
00:21:53at that moment i was overcome by a strong sense of unease
00:21:57things were far worse than i had imagined
00:22:04it's bad
00:22:04really bad
00:22:06she suffered a severe heart attack
00:22:08her oxygen levels are critically low
00:22:11and her right atrium's already showing rigidity
00:22:14even if we operate now
00:22:16her chances of making it are under 30 percent
00:22:19honestly this is beyond what we can handle
00:22:21unless the wraith physician steps in
00:22:23there's almost no chance she'll survive
00:22:30i walk down the corridor toward the staff locker room
00:22:33i have to go
00:22:34only i can save her
00:22:39no one even knows what the wraith physician looks like
00:22:44how are we
00:22:45how are we supposed to find her now
00:22:47i can't lose eveline
00:22:50i just can't
00:22:52christoph said not a word
00:22:53but his gaze was as sharp as a blade
00:22:59no need to worry
00:23:00the wraith physician's already on it
00:23:02she's inside performing the surgery as we speak
00:23:04we just have to wait
00:23:05christoph frowned looking confused
00:23:07then it suddenly dawned on him
00:23:09i was gone
00:23:12word reaches madison that the wraith physician
00:23:14is at north cove general hospital
00:23:16declin they found her
00:23:18the wraith physician
00:23:20she's at north cove general hospital
00:23:22right now we have to go
00:23:24you're serious
00:23:28that's incredible
00:23:29maddie
00:23:29you're my good luck charm
00:23:36the surgery drags on for two full hours
00:23:39i slip out the same quiet way i came in
00:23:45no way could it really be dana
00:23:47was she the wraith physician all along
00:23:49i freeze for a slip second
00:23:51when i spot declin and madison
00:23:52dana what are you doing here
00:23:54my mind jumps back
00:23:55he'd shot me down without a second thought
00:23:57when i offered to treat his father
00:23:58i told him i was the wraith physician
00:24:01he thought it was a joke
00:24:02and how exactly is that your problem
00:24:04i turn my back and start walking off
00:24:06why are you here really
00:24:08tell me the truth
00:24:10are you the wraith physician
00:24:12do you seriously believe someone like me
00:24:15could pretend to be someone as legendary as the wraith physician
00:24:18then explain why you're here
00:24:20and what's with the mask
00:24:22why should i explain anything to you
00:24:24maybe you showed up because you heard the wraith physician was here
00:24:28and wanted to meet her
00:24:29but you should probably take off your mask
00:24:32wouldn't want anyone to get the wrong idea
00:24:34or worse annoy the real wraith physician
00:24:38she's just trying to trick everyone
00:24:40and pretend to be the wraith physician
00:24:42this isn't the first time she's done something like this for attention
00:24:45no one's stupid enough to fall for your games
00:24:47the wraith physician isn't someone you can mess with
00:24:49and if you get in the way of her treating my family
00:24:51if you cause even the slightest delay
00:24:53i swear you won't get away with it
00:24:54she agreed to treat your family
00:24:57maddie knows the right people
00:24:58she already got the wraith physician to help
00:24:59dana look at the difference
00:25:02what i need is someone smart and supportive
00:25:05if it helps you
00:25:07i'll always give it my best
00:25:09then i hope you two stay happy forever
00:25:11just don't come crawling back to ruin someone else's life
00:25:15dana
00:25:15have i been too soft on you
00:25:19have you forgotten where you stand
00:25:23christoph moves in front of me
00:25:24shielding me
00:25:25even from his wheelchair
00:25:27his sharp gaze feels like a knife
00:25:32step away
00:25:33mr houston
00:25:34why are you always taking her side
00:25:39don't tell me you two are actually
00:25:40loud noises come from the other end of the hallway
00:25:43where did the wraith physician go
00:25:45i literally just
00:25:47where did the wraith physician go
00:25:49i literally just saw her
00:25:51she's my inspiration
00:25:52i need to meet her at least once
00:25:54at the head of ucus wants me a better
00:25:55i don't care how much it costs
00:25:56i'm hiring her for our hospital
00:25:58no matter what
00:25:59their greed and frenzy
00:26:01it makes my blood run cold
00:26:03i swear
00:26:04it wasn't me who leaked it
00:26:09dr lewis
00:26:10you've been keeping the wraith physician here the whole time without saying a word
00:26:13come on
00:26:14let us meet her
00:26:15you're too late
00:26:16you're too late
00:26:16she's already left after completing the surgery
00:26:19she's already gone
00:26:20i'm afraid so
00:26:22you should all head back
00:26:23oh
00:26:24you're all looking for the wraith physician too
00:26:27funny
00:26:28you might have just missed her
00:26:32i think i saw someone leaving earlier
00:26:35could have been her
00:26:36which way did she go
00:26:37maybe she's still nearby
00:26:38hard to say
00:26:39but maybe you should ask dana
00:26:41the one over there wearing a surgical mask
00:26:44she was just with her
00:26:45something might have happened between them
00:26:47i mean the wraith physician left pretty suddenly
00:26:50all eyes on me like i'm the culprit didn't she
00:26:52what did you say to her
00:26:53do you have any clue how long we've waited for this moment
00:26:55really you just swallow whatever people feed you
00:26:58next time you're saving lives
00:26:59maybe give your own brain a check up first
00:27:01let's not fight
00:27:02maybe i made a mistake
00:27:03i mean dana's not even a doctor right
00:27:04but then why the mask
00:27:06to filter out the stink of some people's two-faced lies of course
00:27:09dana i didn't mean anything by it
00:27:12you could have just corrected me
00:27:14did you really have to humiliate me
00:27:20dana that's enough
00:27:21do you honestly think everything is about you
00:27:25it's honestly impressive that someone with your level of intellect
00:27:28has managed to keep foster group running this long
00:27:30mr hudson why do you keep butting into my issues with dana
00:27:33she still owes maddie an apology
00:27:36with that prideful combative attitude of hers
00:27:38it's no wonder the wraith physician left so suddenly
00:27:40honestly i wouldn't be shocked if dana was the reason
00:27:44please everyone calm down
00:27:47this young lady here had absolutely nothing to do with the wraith physician leaving
00:27:51and how would you know
00:27:54i heard a voice cutting through the noise
00:27:56unexpected and bright
00:27:59a stunning blonde struds into sight
00:28:02wait isn't that nell mason the wraith physician's agent
00:28:05she might know where the doctor went
00:28:07miss mason i'm declan foster we've spoken before
00:28:09okay what's all this fuss about
00:28:12this arrogant woman dared to offend the wraith physician
00:28:15don't be ridiculous dana's a close friend of the wraith physician
00:28:18shock ripples through the group
00:28:20what you really think i came here just to play games with you
00:28:24come on i need a quick word let's find somewhere private
00:28:38i guide christoph's wheelchair towards a bench near the water
00:28:41nell tugs my arm and pulls me aside behind a line of trees
00:28:47dama be straight with me
00:28:48does christoph have something over your head
00:28:50no leverage
00:28:50just a deal between two adults that's all
00:28:52that still doesn't mean you had to marry him
00:28:55i turn around and meet christoph's gaze
00:28:57he sits in silence
00:28:59casually tapping the arm press of his wheelchair
00:29:01in a slow unbothered rhythm
00:29:02miss mason
00:29:03would it be possible for me to talk to the wraith physician in private
00:29:07if my last offer wasn't good enough
00:29:09i can offer more
00:29:10your behavior is boarding on harassment
00:29:13please i'm begging you
00:29:15do you even know how she decides who to help
00:29:20how
00:29:21she chooses based on character
00:29:23dana don't push me
00:29:25you had the wraith physician's contact this whole time
00:29:28and you didn't think to give it to me
00:29:29declan are you seriously that dense
00:29:31how many times did i tell you i'd contact her myself
00:29:34dana back then declan just couldn't imagine someone like you knowing someone so important
00:29:37but if it were me if the roles were reversed and he needed help
00:29:40i would have done everything i could to support him
00:29:41you were his wife
00:29:42weren't you supposed to stand by him
00:29:43i can't even imagine how much that must have hurt
00:29:45his wife
00:29:45yeah i was
00:29:46but you
00:29:47what do you think you are exactly to talk like that
00:29:49what a lovely spot
00:29:50too bad it got ruined by the arrival of two pests
00:29:54let's go now
00:29:55turns and heads back to kristin
00:29:57grips the wheelchair handles
00:29:59ready to push him away
00:30:01dana let me make this clear
00:30:02i won't keep playing your silly games forever
00:30:04don't come begging when it's already too late
00:30:06but if you can convince the wraith physician to do the surgery for my father
00:30:09i've seen dumb people
00:30:10but you're both dumb and completely out of touch with reality
00:30:13a real eye opener
00:30:15dana stops walking for a second
00:30:16slowly turns around
00:30:19if you really want the wraith physician's help
00:30:21fine
00:30:21but i have three conditions
00:30:23if you agree to them
00:30:24i'll make it happen
00:30:25what's the first condition
00:30:27give back the eniad project
00:30:38absolutely not
00:30:40that's extortion
00:30:42do you really think i'm that stupid
00:30:43the eniad project is a damn goldmine
00:30:45and you expect me to just hand it over like it's nothing
00:30:47that deal was never yours to begin with
00:30:49it was meant for the murrays
00:30:50you're not giving it up
00:30:51you're giving it back
00:30:52christoph stays quiet
00:30:54watching
00:30:54hold on to something long enough
00:30:55and you start thinking it's yours
00:30:56how ridiculous
00:30:57dana
00:30:58helping decade should be a no-biner
00:31:00if i were you
00:31:00i'd just let him have the credit
00:31:02shut your mouth
00:31:03madison freezes
00:31:04face draining of color
00:31:05give back the enea project
00:31:07that's condition one
00:31:08if you can't do that
00:31:10then don't waste my time
00:31:12i turn and start pushing christopher's chair forward
00:31:14come to dinner tonight
00:31:15nine o'clock
00:31:17maybe then we can still talk
00:31:19i raise my middle finger in his direction
00:31:21without turning around
00:31:27christoph's car is already parked outside the hospital
00:31:29i slip into the back seat beside him
00:31:31but deliberately keep my distance
00:31:33so where are we headed now
00:31:34to the hudson family house
00:31:36my eyes widen
00:31:37don't you think it's
00:31:38a little too soon
00:31:40christoph places a file next to me
00:31:42then my eyes widen as i flip through it
00:31:44a cheat sheet for surviving his house
00:31:46i've already memorized all the names
00:31:47likes
00:31:48nice likes
00:31:48everything
00:31:49don't bother
00:31:50just get a rough sense of who you're dealing with
00:31:52still
00:31:52they're your family
00:31:53they don't deserve your respect
00:31:55don't ever forget that
00:32:07the car rolls to a stop in front of the massive hudson house
00:32:19christoph and i return to the hudson estate
00:32:25a woman in a sharp black body cod skirt
00:32:28hurried down the stairs
00:32:29a fake smile plastered on her face
00:32:31well well
00:32:32look who finally made an appearance
00:32:34and who my this is
00:32:36oh it doesn't really matter
00:32:38if kristin brought you here
00:32:39you must mean a great deal to him
00:32:40that makes you family in my book
00:32:42i'm dana murray
00:32:44dana what a beautiful name
00:32:46aunt johanna
00:32:47you don't have to put on a show
00:32:49she's a little reserved
00:32:50hello
00:32:50i steers christoph's wheelchair
00:32:52right past johanna
00:32:53elida
00:32:54hurry down
00:32:55christoph has finally brought a woman home
00:32:56this is historic for the hudson family
00:33:04the family matriarch alita hudson
00:33:06silver-haired
00:33:07leaning on a polished cane
00:33:09gaze sharp and assessing
00:33:11enters
00:33:13not bad at all
00:33:14tell me your name
00:33:15and how did you and christophie cross paths
00:33:20i'm dana murray
00:33:21murray
00:33:22as in the murray group
00:33:23we haven't done business with them in ages
00:33:25no wonder you look unfamiliar
00:33:27alita look at these two
00:33:29they're practically made for each other
00:33:31honestly it's a perfect match
00:33:33when a young lady walks through our doors on her own
00:33:34we really should make sure she doesn't slip away
00:33:36there's no need to rush into these things
00:33:38what matters most is that you two get along
00:33:40have you eaten
00:33:41let me know your favorite dish
00:33:42i'll have the chef make it
00:33:43i'm easy to please ma'am
00:33:44anything will do
00:33:45you'd better take good care of dana
00:33:48if the two of you decide to take things further
00:33:51we should arrange a formal introduction for both families
00:33:56that won't be necessary
00:34:06it's already official
00:34:09dana is my wife
00:34:14no absolutely not
00:34:15i won't allow this
00:34:16how could you marry a woman who's already had a marriage before
00:34:20charles hudson storms down the staircase
00:34:22anger clear
00:34:23please dad try to relax
00:34:25you know christoph made this choice himself
00:34:27he must have his reasons
00:34:28christmith
00:34:29you've led the hudson group for so many years
00:34:31did you ever stop to think about what this could do to the company's reputation
00:34:35has this woman bewitched you so completely that you're willing to risk everything we've built
00:34:39my hand balls into a fist inside my sleeve
00:34:41dana is my wife
00:34:43and that's not up for discussion
00:34:44are you really upset that is it the fact that your son isn't sitting in my place at the head
00:34:49of the company
00:34:51i'm saying all this for your benefit nothing more
00:34:54whom i marry is my own affair
00:34:56how did you get your claws into christopher
00:34:59was deccan faster not enough for you
00:35:01johanna slaps a hand over her mouth
00:35:03acting
00:35:03i just saw an article the other day talking about the two of
00:35:06exactly did you see that story about me and my ex-husband blissfully in love
00:35:11oh
00:35:11it was just a headline
00:35:12i saw in the entertainment news
00:35:15really now
00:35:17yes
00:35:18yes i used to be married to declin so well hidden that even the press never caught a wisp
00:35:24so johanna i'm honestly wondering where did your information come from
00:35:29maybe i got the details wrong
00:35:34that's odd you sounded absolutely convinced a moment ago
00:35:37a woman with a failed marriage your doesn't belong in our family
00:35:41your very presence embarrasses christopher enough
00:35:44if you know what's good for yourself you'll walk away now
00:35:48if a divorce is on the table that decision belongs solely to me and christopher
00:35:52not you
00:35:53you hear that
00:35:55she's shameless
00:35:56letting her in will ruin our family's name
00:36:00it's interesting everyone was so insistent that i get married but now that i have no one approves of my
00:36:04choice
00:36:05but no one said you should marry a woman with a divorce in her past
00:36:10since when did being divorced become a crime
00:36:13grandpa
00:36:14do you plan to force us apart too
00:36:16this marriage has to end
00:36:18i won't have this scandal dragging us down
00:36:21grandma what do you think about all this
00:36:23bring her home
00:36:25and you'll get no argument from me
00:36:27mom think about what this means for the company
00:36:32christopher's choices are his own
00:36:33we owe him that respect
00:36:35so what if people talk
00:36:37as long as dana's his wife in the eyes of the law
00:36:40she's under this family's protection
00:36:42if it comes to forcing us apart i won't fight you
00:36:45but just so you know
00:36:46every share and asset i owned
00:36:48dana holds them now
00:36:50should we divorce
00:36:52i'll walk away with nothing but myself
00:36:55shock ripples through the room
00:36:56i find myself momentarily speechless
00:36:59have you lost your mind
00:37:00you went behind our backs for something that drastic
00:37:04you'd risk everything the family built just to make a woman happy
00:37:08you'll be the death of me
00:37:09if you're ready to see me out on the street
00:37:11go right ahead and push for a divorce
00:37:13now dana
00:37:15let's head upstairs
00:37:20i take hold of the wheelchair handles
00:37:22and begin guiding christopher away
00:37:33did you really just say that
00:37:39shouldn't you check on what's happening downstairs
00:37:42your grandfather looked ready to collapse when we left
00:37:44we keep a family physician on standby
00:37:48the old man will survive
00:37:50he's far too fond of living to let something like this finish him off
00:37:53i detected the bitterness and hostility in his words
00:37:56we'll spend the night here
00:37:58you can have the bed
00:38:00i'll make do in the study
00:38:01that hardly seems fair
00:38:03we did come here today as husband and wife after all
00:38:05how about we compromise
00:38:06i'll ask the staff to bring up extra blankets
00:38:09you keep the bed
00:38:10and i'll manage just fine on the floor
00:38:12out of the question
00:38:12i won't have you sleeping on the floor
00:38:14we're doing this my way
00:38:15i nodded slightly
00:38:16and said no more in protest
00:38:23christoph
00:38:24your grandfather wants to see you in his study
00:38:26he needs to have a word with you
00:38:29all right
00:38:32stay here and wait for me
00:38:34i won't be long
00:38:36okay
00:38:41the room stretches wider after christom's departure
00:38:44a wall-to-wall bookshelf overflows with novels and biographies
00:38:49trophies and medals crowd every corner
00:38:51all for auto racing
00:38:58who's there
00:38:59it's me
00:39:01elida
00:39:07i've done some digging into your past dana
00:39:09if i'm honest
00:39:11you and christoph aren't a textbook match
00:39:14my heart tightened emisciately
00:39:16filled with unease
00:39:17but i have faith in christoph's judgment
00:39:19he never kept company with any woman before you
00:39:22i promised long ago
00:39:24to stand behind every decision he makes
00:39:26from this day forward
00:39:27you are the only granddaughter-in-law i recognize
00:39:29whatever the future holds
00:39:31the hudson family will always be in your corner
00:39:34christoph might seem unyielding
00:39:36but he's gentle beneath the surface
00:39:37he will care for you
00:39:39i know it
00:39:40my hope is that the two of you stay together for life
00:39:43this is too much
00:39:44something so precious i really can't accept
00:39:45this bracelet is worn by every wife in the hudson family
00:39:48you married christoph so it belongs with you now
00:39:52the more important it is
00:39:53the less i feel right taking it
00:39:56did you and christoph come to some kind of agreement
00:40:02what makes you say that
00:40:03marriage isn't a game to me
00:40:05if there's nothing wrong
00:40:06you'll accept the bros
00:40:07keep arguing
00:40:09and i'll have someone dig into this
00:40:12i'll cherish it
00:40:14remember what i told you dana
00:40:15christoph is someone you can rely on
00:40:21alita
00:40:22you're not gonna believe what i just read
00:40:24there's a way to fix christopher's legs
00:40:26are you serious
00:40:27that's nothing to joke about
00:40:30why would i make up something so important
00:40:33but
00:40:38i watch as johanna with calcutting eyes
00:40:41you'd better read this as yourself
00:40:44a carefully orchestrated fake news story
00:40:47became the most powerful weapon in her hands
00:40:50the only doctor who can fix christopher's legs
00:40:53is the wraith physician
00:40:54but word on the street says we've crossed her
00:40:57how did this happen
00:40:59what's the real story here
00:41:01alita may i see the article
00:41:03i scrolls through the content
00:41:05blurry photos
00:41:06sensationalized stories suggesting dana deliberately impersonated the wraith physician
00:41:10blurry photos a hastily crumbled story
00:41:13yet it's generating massive traffic and debate
00:41:15anyone believing this garbage should question their sanity
00:41:22you've destroyed his final chance
00:41:24did you marry him solely to sabotage his future
00:41:27you place more faith in some dubious online gossip than in christoph's wisdom when he chose me
00:41:33if i could deceive him so effortlessly
00:41:36how did he expand the hudson group to its current prosminence in mere years
00:41:42stop deflecting dana is the article accurate or not accurate didn't i just address that if you're so convinced by
00:41:49these flimsy articles i could commission someone to write a hundred such articles claiming the world ends tomorrow will that
00:41:55prompt you to pack your things and prepare to flee
00:42:05enough johanna you're far too mature for such pettiness
00:42:10dayla has a point
00:42:15however this article mentions you're acquainted with the wraith physician
00:42:19is that true if so could you persuade her to treat christoph's condition
00:42:23his injury haunts my every waking moment without proper healing i'll carry this burden to my grave
00:42:33sudden footsteps ring out from the doorway
00:42:36christoph appears in the doorway
00:42:41grandma i can take care of myself there's no need to worry
00:42:43how can you say that
00:42:45you're meant to lead the hudson group one day and you have to be healthy and strong
00:42:48i can protect you from the schemers while i'm still here but who'll have your back once i'm gone
00:42:52don't talk like that grandma you're not going anywhere
00:42:54i'll leave your other choices alone but i won't budge on one thing
00:42:57i'm going to get those legs of yours fixed
00:42:59whatever it takes i'll track down this so-called miracle healer the wraith physician
00:43:06it's getting late everyone should rest for now
00:43:09we'll come together for dinner when it's ready
00:43:12alita those rumors online might still hold some weight
00:43:15stories like that don't just appear out of thickener
00:43:18so what exactly are you trying to say
00:43:22we have to bring in the wraith physician
00:43:25christom's legs are the priority
00:43:27here's how it is dana
00:43:28if you manage to bring the wraith physician here
00:43:30the hudson family will welcome you with open arms
00:43:32but if christus recovery gets held up because of you
00:43:35trust me you'll carry all the blame
00:43:37didn't realize my legs mattered that much to you aunt johanna
00:43:41we're family christophy
00:43:43naturally i want to see you up and walking again
00:43:46dana think of this as your shot to prove yourself
00:43:48can you do it funny i don't remember you being in charge of the hudson family
00:43:53or my personal life
00:43:54if you're itching to interfere maybe worry about your own household first
00:43:59i hear your son's been losing fortunes at the casino again
00:44:05enough
00:44:07let's just go and give these two some space
00:44:14alita exits quietly brushing off janana's attempt to steady her
00:44:21i takes out her phone
00:44:22her social media has exploded with vicious insults
00:44:26a handful of messages come from obvious trolls
00:44:29but the coordination hints at a calculated effort
00:44:36i'll have someone deal with this
00:44:37that won't be necessary
00:44:39i've got an easy fix
00:44:42without meeting christopher's eyes
00:44:44i log into the official wreath physician account
00:44:49this is wraith physician
00:44:51dana murray is a trusted friend
00:44:53spread lies about her and i will pursue legal action
00:45:01i draft her first update
00:45:07i hit send and my phone explodes with alerts
00:45:09i don't bother glancing at the no vacations
00:45:11i already know what kind of storm is brewing
00:45:13within minutes the comment section flips on its head
00:45:15people who'd been so quick to tear me down
00:45:17are suddenly tripping over themselves to apologize
00:45:19ignoring the digital chaos
00:45:20i place another call
00:45:21i want the name of whoever set up today's smear campaign against me
00:45:24then file a lawsuit
00:45:25no delay i make no effort to keep my conversation private
00:45:27christopher who just read wraith physician's post himself
00:45:29is clearly listening in
00:45:31if something like this crops up again
00:45:32i'll handle it
00:45:33he studies me in silence
00:45:35curiosity flittering across his face
00:45:38i appreciate it
00:45:39but i don't really make a habit of relying on others
00:45:42we're married you know
00:45:43looking out for you is part of the deal
00:45:45all right if i run into trouble next time
00:45:48you'll be the first to know
00:45:49there's something in his tone that feels strangely personal
00:45:51as if he'd forgotten this was only a business arrangement
00:45:54i check my watch
00:45:57let's do some therapy on your legs
00:46:01a rush of warmth spreads through christema's legs
00:46:04the pressure sharp and almost electric
00:46:06christmas endures the discomfort without a word
00:46:08sweat gathering along his brow
00:46:10i'll put together an herbal soap for you later
00:46:12it'll help boost circulation in your legs
00:46:15after spending so long crouched
00:46:16a sudden wave of dizziness hits me
00:46:18i lose balance
00:46:20strong arms catch me
00:46:22holding me steady
00:46:24christmas fresh woodley scent sweeps over me
00:46:26you all right
00:46:29did you get dizzy
00:46:31i'm fine
00:46:32just been running around all day
00:46:34it could be low blood sugar
00:46:36i try to rise again
00:46:38i try to rise again
00:46:39but my legs give out a second time
00:46:40i pitch forward
00:46:49a wave of dizziness crashes over me
00:46:52threatening to swallow me whole
00:46:53then everything goes dark
00:46:55dana
00:46:56he scrambles for my wrist
00:46:58fingers searching for a pulse
00:47:00when he finds it steady beneath his touch
00:47:02he exhaled a trembling sigh of relief
00:47:05it isn't until deep into the night
00:47:06that i finally drift back to consciousness
00:47:08i blink disoriented
00:47:10a soft nightlight paints the room in gentle gold
00:47:13across the room
00:47:14the glow catches the angles of his face
00:47:17lending warmth to his usually cold features
00:47:23what happened to me
00:47:24you fainted from exhaustion
00:47:25the doctor gave you a glucose shot
00:47:27if you're still feeling unwell
00:47:29i can call him back
00:47:32i'll be fine
00:47:35my phone's piercing ring shatters the quiet
00:47:37i glance at the screen
00:47:39decan
00:47:40i decline without a second thought
00:47:41the phone immediately buzz again
00:47:43i let out a frustrated sigh and pick up
00:47:46dana why didn't you come home tonight
00:47:48didn't i say this was your last shot
00:47:50and when exactly did i promise i'd show up for your drunken circus
00:47:53i've told you before dana
00:47:55playing hard to get won't get you anywhere
00:47:57if this deal gets sealed i might just overlook your mistakes
00:48:00it's a miracle someone as toxic as you is still walking around
00:48:04that's enough
00:48:05this call qualifies as harassment
00:48:07my legal team would be more than happy to handle it
00:48:10dana where are you right now
00:48:12and why the hell is a man with you
00:48:15where i am is none of your concern
00:48:16we're divorced declan try to remember that
00:48:19keep this up and you'll be hearing from my lawyer
00:48:22i don't wait for another outburst
00:48:23with one smooth motion
00:48:25i end the call and block his number for good
00:48:28your ex really doesn't know when to quit
00:48:30maybe it's time his business took a neap dive
00:48:35glad we're on the same page
00:48:41look at my phone
00:48:42the alarm system at one of my places has been triggered
00:48:45i open the security footage and stop in my tracks
00:48:47declan stands out front staring hard at the dark window on the second floor
00:48:50how could dana not be home at this hour
00:48:52and that guy's voice on the phone
00:48:54who the hell is he
00:48:55is she actually serious about leaving me
00:48:57he finds that his number has already been blocked by me
00:48:59he glares fiercely at the camera full of spite
00:49:02dana if you're messing me over
00:49:03all you're asking for trouble
00:49:04so don't come crying when it hits you
00:49:13some people are rotten right down to the bone
00:49:23what's your next move
00:49:25i'm taking back that eneog project
00:49:27it's late get some sleep
00:49:36it's locked from the outside
00:49:37i'm guessing grandma's putting us through a test
00:49:40trying to figure out what's really going on between us
00:49:45so what now
00:49:46i can sleep on the floor
00:49:51we'll share the bed
00:49:52don't worry
00:49:53i won't make a move
00:49:55i trust you
00:49:56but i'm simply not used to sleeping next to anyone
00:50:00i've been flying solo for a while
00:50:01no way
00:50:02the floor's freezing this time of year
00:50:04and you'd catch a cold
00:50:05i'll take the floor
00:50:06i curl up on one side
00:50:08leaving plenty of room between us
00:50:10i stare at the ceiling
00:50:11feeling completely out of place
00:50:13all right
00:50:14we'll share the bed
00:50:15i curl up on one side
00:50:16one side
00:50:17leaving plenty of room between us
00:50:19i stare at the ceiling
00:50:21feeling completely out of place
00:50:25just as i fear i'll be wide awake all night
00:50:27a sudden wave of tiredness washes over me
00:50:30mom
00:50:31i miss you more than words
00:50:33you finally came back to me
00:50:35i'm all grown up now
00:50:36i could keep you safe
00:50:37but it's too late isn't it
00:50:39mom i miss you so much
00:50:42i wake and take in the sight before me
00:50:44my heart catches in my throat
00:50:46christoph's features are impossibly close
00:50:48sharp and undeniably handsome
00:50:49i find myself pressed tightly against his chest
00:50:52wrapped up in an embrace that feels far too intimate
00:50:54i could feel his body heat
00:50:56and the crisp clean scent of cedar on him
00:50:58i begin inching out of his arms
00:50:59slow and cautious
00:51:00after what seems like an eternity
00:51:02i finally slip free
00:51:03a quiet breath of relief escapes me
00:51:05as i hurry out of the room
00:51:06not daring to glance back
00:51:08what escapes my notice is christoph's
00:51:10who seems to be deep in sleep
00:51:11cracking his eyes open in silence
00:51:15i make my way straight out to the garden
00:51:17chill still lingers in the air
00:51:22a figure lurks at the edge of my vision
00:51:25my gaze sharpens
00:51:28aunt johanna
00:51:33hey dana how'd you sleep
00:51:34if anything is bothering you
00:51:36just say so
00:51:37i'll handle it myself
00:51:39i appreciate the concern
00:51:40i slept fine
00:51:41you're new here
00:51:42if anyone gives you trouble
00:51:43or treats you poorly
00:51:44come to me
00:51:45i never had a daughter of my own
00:51:46but the moment i saw you
00:51:48i felt something melt inside me
00:51:49maybe destiny works in strange ways
00:51:52i've always longed for a daughter
00:51:54so the universe must have decided
00:51:55to bring you to me
00:51:56from now on
00:51:57i'll treat you just like my own
00:52:01i appreciate the sentiment
00:52:02but i already had a mother
00:52:04she actually died when i was a child
00:52:09is there anything else
00:52:10if not i'd like to go now
00:52:13wait up
00:52:14i missed my chance to welcome you
00:52:16into the family properly yesterday
00:52:17this necklace is so your style
00:52:20think of it as small token from me
00:52:22let's skip the formalities
00:52:23and get straight to the point
00:52:26honestly it's nothing major
00:52:27i just happened to catch
00:52:29wraith physician's latest post
00:52:30would you be able to introduce me
00:52:33why the urgency to meet wraith physician
00:52:35are you not feeling well
00:52:36it's not for me
00:52:37i've got a very close friend
00:52:38who's been struggling for ages
00:52:40we've now finally had some real connection
00:52:42to wraith physician
00:52:42if you could make the meeting happen
00:52:44she leans in
00:52:45lowering her voice to whisper confidently in my ear
00:52:49that's all you've got to offer
00:52:51well
00:52:52lend me a hand with this
00:52:53and i'll make it worth your while
00:52:54i'll sing your praises to charles
00:52:56to make sure you and chrismith don't hit any bumps
00:52:58you actually think this is tempting
00:53:01christoph and i are already married
00:53:02and the paperwork signed
00:53:03you know that right
00:53:07so what
00:53:08the hudson family don't take no for an answer
00:53:11your marriage certificate means nothing
00:53:13don't get comfortable
00:53:14if charles decides you're out
00:53:16your marriage is over before you know it
00:53:18and i'd think twice about your ex-husband too
00:53:20i dials her expression back to sweet and warm
00:53:23honestly dana i'd love nothing more than to treat you like my own daughter
00:53:26it's up to you to make the smart move
00:53:28you must be confused
00:53:30like i just said
00:53:31my mother's already gone
00:53:33if you want to take her place
00:53:34you'd have to join her first
00:53:43you
00:53:44i swoops in and snatches the necklace right out of her grasp
00:53:49i'll be keeping this
00:53:50thank you aunt johanna
00:53:51can't say i expected a welcome present
00:53:54but
00:53:55i'm touched
00:53:56without waiting for a response
00:53:58i turn around and walk off
00:54:00christoph is already awake
00:54:01i find christoph already prepped for the day
00:54:04his gold-rimmed glasses giving him an extra edge of justification
00:54:06his wheelchair faces away from the doorway
00:54:09but he's clearly waiting
00:54:10the maid said breakfast is ready
00:54:12let's go eat
00:54:14so
00:54:15what did janna want from you
00:54:16nothing major
00:54:17she tried to rope me into helping her friend get an appointment with the wreath physician
00:54:21i told her to find someone else
00:54:23him
00:54:23i fish out the necklace
00:54:24dangling it in front of him
00:54:26oh and this was her grand gesture
00:54:28a welcome present
00:54:30apparently
00:54:31johanna's notorious for pinching pennies
00:54:33for her to hand over something like that
00:54:35you know she's desperate
00:54:36so whoever johanna's trying to save
00:54:38must really matter to her
00:54:39you like rubies
00:54:41i can't resist a good gemstone
00:54:43since she was practically giving it away
00:54:45why not let her
00:54:46that's a smart choice
00:54:49his fingers begin to drum softly on his chair's armrest
00:54:52i don't break his concentration
00:54:55in silence
00:54:56i continue steering him towards the dining room
00:55:03the rest of the hudson clan has already taken their seats
00:55:06charles holds court at the table's head
00:55:09expression dark and unwelcoming
00:55:12as i join them
00:55:14i feel the weight of charles's icy glares
00:55:17are you close to the wraith physician
00:55:21i am
00:55:22bring her here tomorrow
00:55:24we've got a big medical conference coming up
00:55:26she can check them out too
00:55:33a loud crash echoes through the dining room
00:55:36the sound of a knife and fork being set down
00:55:42christoph what's going on here
00:55:44do you have a problem with what i just said
00:55:46grandpa
00:55:47the wraith physician has been hard to catch for years
00:55:49are you really planning to take advantage of dana's link to her
00:55:51seeing her as just a means to an end
00:55:53pay her handsomely
00:55:53all that talk about her being some legendary doctor
00:55:55it's just noise from the press
00:55:57us agreeing to work with her is already doing her a favor
00:55:59remember when we first tried to get wraith physician on board
00:56:02didn't we have to ask her a dozen times
00:56:04if money was all it took
00:56:05why did she drag her feet so long
00:56:06that was now
00:56:07she's acknowledged her link to dana
00:56:09hasn't she
00:56:09if you follow my orders and bring wraith physician here
00:56:12i'll accept you as my granddaughter-in-law
00:56:14that won't be needed
00:56:16dana doesn't have to do anything to earn anyone's approval
00:56:19she's my choice
00:56:21not the hudson's
00:56:29there's no use dragging out this meal
00:56:30let's go
00:56:40chrismith
00:56:40your grandfather is just worried about the hudson family's future
00:56:44is it really right for you to talk to him like that
00:56:46she fixes her gaze on me
00:56:47voice cutting
00:56:48and you dana
00:56:49christoph has always been level-hearted
00:56:51now he's clashing with his own grandfather because of you
00:56:53what have you been whispering in his ear
00:56:54aunt johanna you're giving me way too much credit
00:56:56grateful physician is just a friend
00:56:58not some pod i'd use to secure a spot in the hudson family
00:57:00i wouldn't stoop to that
00:57:01you're a divorced woman marrying into our clan
00:57:03we are showing mercy
00:57:04by only laying down this one rule for you
00:57:06don't act like you're above it
00:57:07uncle trevor
00:57:08let me be crystal clear one last time
00:57:10dana is my wife
00:57:11while i'm around
00:57:12no one's gonna force her into anything
00:57:14is this how you talk to your own blood
00:57:17after all these years
00:57:18is this the fruit of my hard work
00:57:23grandpa
00:57:24your lessons are something i'll never forget
00:57:29you might think you're out of my reach now
00:57:31but my word still holds
00:57:32if she doesn't follow my rules
00:57:34she's not welcome under this roof
00:57:36dana didn't marry the hudsons
00:57:37she married me
00:57:38you all think dana's lucky to wed me
00:57:40but honestly i'm the fortunate one
00:57:42what family would let their daughter walk into a poisonous place like the hudson household
00:57:48christoph mind your tongue
00:57:51grandma please take care of yourself
00:57:53i'll drop by again when i get the chance
00:57:57catching the hint
00:57:58i quietly steer him towards the exit
00:58:00you and your grandfather
00:58:10sorry
00:58:11i shouldn't
00:58:13shouldn't have asked
00:58:15i instantly regret mentioning the subject
00:58:18don't worry about it
00:58:19there's nothing private about the hudson mess
00:58:22if it weren't for grandma wanting to meet my wife
00:58:24i'd never have come back
00:58:25my mother was stunning in her prime
00:58:27brilliant
00:58:28ambitious
00:58:29and fiercely independent
00:58:30then she was forced to marry my father
00:58:32for so-called mutual family interests
00:58:34reality boxed her in until she faded away
00:58:37my father wasn't just a winemaker
00:58:39he was a chronic womanizer
00:58:40it nearly broke my mother
00:58:42christoph's eyes slide shut
00:58:44i noticed the veins straining across his clenched fists
00:58:46and my grandfather
00:58:48rather than protect her
00:58:49he locked her in a mental hospital
00:58:50to keep the family secret safe
00:58:52her mind began to unravel
00:58:54and the whole family just looked the other way
00:58:56and pretended she never existed
00:58:59gradually
00:59:00not even the public remember her anymore
00:59:07without a word
00:59:08i reach out
00:59:09and take his hand
00:59:12he blinks open his eyes
00:59:14gaze dropping to my slim
00:59:15pale hand enveloping his
00:59:17we're what's left of them in this world
00:59:19as long as we keep going
00:59:20their stories will never vanish
00:59:23you're right
00:59:24i'll make sure everyone knows the truth about my mother
00:59:28sooner or later
00:59:29the hudson's mask will crack
00:59:30and the world will see what they've hidden
00:59:33come on let's get outside
00:59:34some sunshine might chase away these old ghosts
00:59:38yeah let's do that
00:59:49i join him in the back seat
00:59:50noticing how the distance between us feels much less than when we first met
00:59:56today we start those herbal baths
00:59:58give me three months
01:00:00and you'll be on your feet like anybody else
01:00:03all right
01:00:04where to sir
01:00:06bloomstead
01:00:06it's a condo i bought a while ago
01:00:08our place
01:00:08as a married couple
01:00:11moving in together already
01:00:13isn't this a little fast
01:00:15it's a business arrangement sure
01:00:17but the law calls us husband and wife
01:00:21i'll swing by my place first
01:00:23then grab my things
01:00:24and meet you there
01:00:27the driver will take you
01:00:34i let myself in with a fingerprint scan
01:00:36wasting no time as i begin to pack
01:00:47just as i'm about to head out
01:00:49a tall figure materifies in my doorway
01:00:51blocking my exit
01:00:52dana
01:00:54where were you last night
01:00:56and who the hell were you with
01:01:02declin stare falls on my outfit
01:01:03spotting the wrinkles
01:01:06annoyments flares as he clamps down on my wrist hard
01:01:11who were you with last night
01:01:13which guy was it
01:01:15let go
01:01:16you're just a downright slut
01:01:18how could i have been so stupid to marry you
01:01:21you're wanting up to this rod hum
01:01:22twists his arm
01:01:24flips him over her shoulder
01:01:26slamming him down with ease
01:01:31since when did you learn to fight like that
01:01:33we're divorced now
01:01:34what i do is none of your concern
01:01:36if you bother me again
01:01:38next time i won't hold back
01:01:42i've said it before
01:01:44those little games won't fool me
01:01:46say nothing happened last night
01:01:48declin you're both pathetic and ridiculous
01:01:51let me spell it out
01:01:52i was with another man last night
01:01:54that's my choice
01:01:55and you've got no say in it
01:01:56i'm filing for a court order
01:01:58to keep you at least 50 meters away
01:02:00every moment i spent loving you makes me sick
01:02:03declin's face drains of color
01:02:05a spark of panic flickers across his features
01:02:08his phone buzzes
01:02:10hello
01:02:11without a word
01:02:12he moves forward and grabs my wrist again
01:02:14my mother's in the hospital
01:02:16call wraith physician for me
01:02:18right now
01:02:20what's that got to do with me
01:02:22she's your mother-in-law
01:02:23i don't have time for this fight
01:02:26come with me to the hospital now
01:02:27and get rest your physician to step in
01:02:29no way
01:02:32my hand hovers over the alarm button by the door
01:02:36you forced my hand
01:02:38my mom is dying in the emergency room dana
01:02:40i'm through with your nonsense
01:02:42bring wraith physician to her now
01:02:43you're breaking the law
01:02:45let go of me
01:02:47he was too strong
01:02:49he shoved me into the passenger seat
01:02:51and grabbed my phone
01:02:52you're coming with me to the hospital
01:02:54when wraith physician arrives
01:02:55i'll let you go
01:02:56wraith physician won't lift a finger
01:02:57for your rotten family
01:02:58think you can twist her arm by using me
01:02:59if you just go back to being the good wife
01:03:01you used to be
01:03:01we wouldn't be in this mess
01:03:02your family's punching bag
01:03:03no chance in hell
01:03:04he locked the doors with a sharp click
01:03:06and slammed the gas pedal
01:03:07i was trapped
01:03:08don't you think you look like a fool
01:03:09i offered to bring wraith physician before
01:03:12and you humiliated me
01:03:13now you pull this stunt
01:03:16i thought you were bluffing back then
01:03:18you never took me seriously
01:03:20our marriage was doomed from the start
01:03:22you messed this up
01:03:24you cheated on me first
01:03:25i've told you the truth about that night
01:03:26you'd rather blame me for your own betrayal
01:03:28and play the victim
01:03:29i'm done talking about it
01:03:30the city lights blurred past
01:03:31painting fleeting patterns on the glass
01:03:33first we deal with my mom's surgery
01:03:34after that we settle our score
01:03:35an oppressive silence fell between us
01:03:37heavier than any words
01:03:38the second we stopped at the hospital
01:03:40he was out of the car
01:03:41he yanked open my door
01:03:43and hauled me toward the er
01:03:44let go of me
01:03:45help this man is trying to hurt me
01:03:47let her go
01:03:48no causing trouble in the hospital
01:03:50step back
01:03:51she's my wife
01:03:55in the guard's face
01:03:56when i saw what was on it
01:03:57my eyes went wide with shock
01:04:03i saw what where was
01:04:05sto origami
01:04:05oh
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