- 2 hours ago
Love Died At That Intersection S
Category
π₯
Short filmTranscript
00:00Mom, Dad, I've made up my mind. I'm ready to come home and take over the family business.
00:05Ethan, will he come with you?
00:06No, I'm breaking up with him. Give me a week, I'll take care of everything here.
00:11After a few more exchanges, she ended the call, slipped her phone into her bag, and pushed open the door
00:16to the private room.
00:17It was packed inside, loud with overlapping voices and clinking glasses.
00:21The chatter stalled for a split second when she walked in, then picked right back up.
00:31Evelyn didn't react. Evelyn didn't react. She went straight to Ethan's side and sat down as if nothing had changed.
00:37Hey, sweetheart. That was a long call. Everything alright?
00:40Ethan, when are you and Sarah-Laure Brooks getting married?
00:43Evelyn gripped the wine glass tightly, her knuckles turning white.
00:46The family set the date two weeks from now.
00:49Every pair of eyes in the room snapped toward Evelyn. One guy raised his brows, clearly entertained.
00:54You're marrying Sarah-Laure. What about Evelyn, then?
00:56No, the wedding's just for the family. I only care about Evelyn.
01:00Laughter exploded around the room. Voices overlapped, teasing, and crude.
01:05Oh god, Ethan, you're such a romantic.
01:12Is that true love? But she doesn't understand French, right?
01:20Sarcasm washed over her, loud and ruthless.
01:23No one noticed Evelyn's shallow breathing or her aching fingers clutching the glass.
01:28She understood every word. She was never a Cinderella.
01:31She was the sole heiress of the world's richest family.
01:34For five years, Ethan had been devoted to her.
01:36Three days ago, she saw it.
01:39Bride, Sarin-Laure Brooks, the eldest daughter of the Brooks family.
01:42Groom, Ethan Knight.
01:44He kept saying he loved her, but he was already engaged to the right person.
01:48A woman approved by the family.
01:50A woman who belonged in his world.
01:52He could have his perfect marriage.
01:54She would go home and reclaim her empire.
01:56Their paths would never cross again.
01:58In that moment, all was clear.
02:00He could have had a perfect marriage.
02:01She'd claim her empire.
02:03Their paths would never meet.
02:05She'd claim her empire.
02:06Their paths would never meet.
02:08Night fell, drinks poured, laughter blurred.
02:10The crowd stumbled into the night, Evelyn close behind.
02:13A voice rose from the...
02:17Just as Evelyn was about to leave, a voice called out to her.
02:21It was her father's business partner.
02:23She sighed inwardly.
02:24Miss Carter?
02:25Her?
02:25Her whole outfit isn't worth $300.
02:28This time, they weren't speaking French.
02:30Every word was clearly audible.
02:32Ethan's face darkened.
02:33His warning gaze instantly silenced the commotion.
02:36The business partner didn't press, and the crowd quickly dispersed.
02:40Evelyn returned home with Ethan, the journey silent.
02:43The coldness of betrayal spread in the confined space.
02:46Honey, I won't take you to those kind of parties anymore.
02:48Do you think I embarrassed you?
02:49What are you thinking?
02:50I just don't want you to get hurt.
02:52But there will always be a gap between us.
02:54Hasn't your family urged you to marry for a lion's?
02:56Evelyn, you just need to know that I love you, and I'll handle everything else.
03:00If she hadn't been careful enough, she might have believed his lies.
03:02Ethan went to shower, and his phone on the nightstand rang once.
03:06He never hid his password from her.
03:08Ethan, we're meeting both parents tomorrow.
03:10If you don't come tonight, the elders will be suspicious.
03:13So this was your plan?
03:15Marry a suitable one and keep me by your side?
03:18Sir-in-law's words seemed humble, but they were actually pressing hard.
03:21Honey, something urgent came up at work.
03:23I have to go out.
03:24I won't be back tonight.
03:25He left in a hurry, not noticing that she didn't try to stop him this time, unlike usual.
03:30With just one word from me, Ethan came running.
03:33We're meeting the parents tomorrow, picture after picture, eroding the last vestiges of her love.
03:38Ethan didn't come home that night, and Evelyn didn't care.
03:41The next morning, after washing up, she headed straight to the office.
03:45She submitted her resignation.
03:47Before leaving work, all procedures were completed.
03:50I always see those videos, resigning from work to go home and inherit billions.
03:53Evelyn, you resigned so decisively.
03:56Could it be the same for you?
03:57Yes, I'm going home to inherit the family fortune.
04:00Her colleagues burst into laughter, thinking she was joking.
04:03She smiled slightly, offering no explanation.
04:06After lunch, she packed her things and moved back home.
04:09You resigned?
04:10Yes.
04:10Didn't you really like that job?
04:12Why did you suddenly resign?
04:13Because I found a job I like even more.
04:15She turned gracefully, and the prelude to the Queen's comeback officially...
04:22If work gets too tiring, just come home.
04:24I can't stand seeing you work so hard every day.
04:26I'm not anyone's trophy.
04:38Darling, how can you say such things?
04:40Why are you home so early today?
04:41Didn't you go to the office?
04:43I've been too busy lately.
04:44No time for you.
04:45I specially cleared my day today, just for us.
04:48Want to watch a movie?
04:49Or something else?
04:50Whatever you wish.
04:51A week ago, she might have been melted by it.
04:54Saren, help me with spring cleaning.
04:55There's a lot of old stuff at home.
04:57No need to keep it.
04:58Ethan slowly realized that every item Evelyn discarded carried their shared memories.
05:08Evelyn, have you found something out?
05:09What could I know?
05:10Are you hiding something from me?
05:17Evelyn, no matter what happens, please remember, I love you.
05:21Her lips twitched, but she said nothing.
05:23After cleaning, Ethan insisted on taking her out.
05:25She agreed for fear he might sense something.
05:28After the spring cleaning, Ethan insisted on taking Evelyn out.
05:31She knew she'd soon be gone from his life.
05:38After dinner and the movie, the car stopped at the auction house.
05:41As they were about to enter, an elegant lady in a Chanel suit approached.
05:46A look of discomfort flashed across Ethan's face, and Evelyn noticed it at once.
05:51This is Saren Law Brooks, daughter of a family friend.
05:54This is my girlfriend, Evelyn.
05:56I've heard so much about you.
05:58They say Ethan's girlfriend is stunning, and it's certainly true.
06:01Ethan instantly understood this was no coincidence.
06:04They had come prepared.
06:10Saren Law cleverly steered the conversation towards the porcelain, showcasing her erudition.
06:20Are you cold?
06:21Is this better?
06:22Evelyn, I know you're not interested in these things, but bid on whatever you like.
06:26Don't worry about the price.
06:32Ethan is really trying to save her face.
06:35She probably doesn't even know how to bid.
06:37This kind of high-end auction, it must be...
06:42Their whispers, their eyes were filled with disdain.
06:44As if on purpose, they didn't whisper, but spoke aloud.
06:48She disdained to respond, for it was meaningless.
06:51Next time they meet, they will bow to her.
06:58A jade carving reportedly by Master Foster himself.
07:01Saren Law's eyes lit up.
07:03She raised her paddle excitedly, and leaned toward Ethan.
07:06Ethan, this is precious grandma's birthday is the day after tomorrow.
07:10This will be the perfect gift.
07:11Evelyn looked up at the stage at the name of Master Fortell, which unsettled her.
07:15She looked away, her calm voice cooling Saren Law's excitement at once.
07:19This is a fake.
07:21Saren Law stared at her in disbelief, nearly blurting out,
07:23How would you know?
07:24Miss Carter, how can you be so sure?
07:27The genuine piece was given to her grandmother by the Carter heir years ago.
07:30She meant to warn her, but Saren Law and the men behind her burst into laughter.
07:34Evelyn, if you don't know, don't talk nonsense and humiliate yourself.
07:38Carter family heir, do you think being a Carter makes you royalty?
07:47Darling, I know you've been reading appraisal books lately,
07:49but that knowledge can't be learnt just from books.
07:52Evelyn let out a soft laugh and said no more.
07:54Ultimately, Saren Law bought the jade carving for $100 million.
07:57Evelyn smiled as Saren Law turned to pay.
07:59She couldn't wait to see how Ethan's grandmother would react to this gift.
08:08A sharp, familiar voice sounded behind her after she washed her hands.
08:11Evelyn Carter, I thought I made myself clear.
08:14Why are you still clinging on like a pathetic third party?
08:22Miss Brooks, let's get things straight.
08:24I've been with him for five years.
08:26If someone's a homewrecker, it's not me.
08:28The voice was cruel, nothing like Saren Law's usual grace.
08:31Five years, and he still hasn't married you.
08:33Ever wonder why?
08:34I'm the eldest daughter of the Brooks family.
08:36He's the heir to the night group.
08:38We're a perfect match.
08:39What about you?
08:40A gambler father, a sickly mother, a broken home.
08:43Nothing.
08:44What makes you think you deserve him?
08:46Evelyn stopped short.
08:47She invented the story,
08:48never expecting Ethan to tell Saren Law so easily.
08:51Her fabricated family background,
08:53Ethan had casually revealed to Saren Law.
08:55You're right, I don't deserve him.
08:57You two are truly a match made in heaven.
08:59I wish you a lifetime of happiness.
09:06She had walked a few steps when her mother called.
09:09Evelyn, come home quickly.
09:10We're all waiting for you.
09:12Your dad and I bought you an overseas castle.
09:14Your aunt bought you a diamond crown once worn by a queen.
09:17Your uncle filled your garage with luxury cars.
09:20Oh, I'm going back to take over the business.
09:22Not to squander the family fortune.
09:25She had just finished speaking,
09:26when a familiar voice sounded behind her.
09:29What?
09:32Evelyn hung up the phone and turned to meet Ethan's displeased gaze.
09:36An old colleague asked my plan after resigning,
09:39and I joked about inheriting the family business.
09:41Ethan felt something was off.
09:43She never made jokes like that.
09:45Aren't you leaving?
09:45There's still jewelry left to bid on.
09:47Ethan thought she wanted jewelry,
09:49so he followed her.
09:50Ethan bid on several jewels and gave them to Evelyn.
09:53She looked at the box in her hand.
09:55I don't really wear jewelry.
09:57You'll get used to it.
09:57Don't worry about money.
09:58I'll buy you diamonds forever.
09:59She opened her mouth but said nothing.
10:01She never wore jewelry worth tens of millions.
10:04The auction ended,
10:05and Ethan and Evelyn were about to leave.
10:07As soon as they got into the car,
10:08the passenger window was tapped.
10:10Ethan, my car broke down.
10:12Can you take me home?
10:13Your parents asked you to take care of me.
10:15You haven't forgotten, right?
10:17A dark expression flashed across Ethan's face,
10:19then he agreed.
10:21But I get carsick.
10:22What if I can't sit in the back?
10:28She calmly took a seat in the back.
10:30Ethan wanted to say it was just a seat,
10:32but she had already closed her eyes.
10:34Sir Enlore smiled triumphantly,
10:36thinking he would be hers eventually.
10:38Is Miss Carter tired?
10:39Let her rest well then.
10:41Ethan didn't say much and started the car.
10:43Unbeknownst to her,
10:44Evelyn had truly fallen asleep.
10:46When she woke up,
10:47the car was parked in the night's garage,
10:49and Sir Enlore was gone.
10:50You're awake?
10:51You slept so soundly,
10:53I didn't want to wake you.
10:54She nodded groggily,
10:55and walked straight into the house.
10:57Ethan caught up to her.
10:58Are you angry?
10:59Sir Enlore is only a friend's daughter.
11:02Don't mind.
11:03She's just a friend.
11:04I only love you, sweetheart.
11:06Ethan tried to kiss her,
11:07but was pushed away by Evelyn.
11:09I'm not feeling well due to my period.
11:11I need to rest.
11:11She locked the door,
11:13cutting off any possibility
11:14of Ethan following her in.
11:16The next morning,
11:17Evelyn and Ethan had breakfast
11:18in the dining room.
11:20Evelyn's phone suddenly reminded her.
11:22Ethan also saw the reminder on the phone.
11:24Just as Evelyn was wondering how to cancel,
11:26Ethan's phone rang too.
11:27It was Sir Enlore calling.
11:29Evelyn, something urgent came up.
11:31We can't go today.
11:31Can we see your parents another time?
11:33This betrayal completely...
11:37Ethan had expected her to argue,
11:39to plead,
11:40or even to lose control.
11:41It's all right.
11:42I have things to attend to today as well.
11:44Not long after Ethan left,
11:46Evelyn also went out.
11:47She first went shopping,
11:49picking out gifts for her friends
11:50she was about to meet.
11:51When they opened the gift boxes
11:52at the restaurant,
11:53the atmosphere instantly became lively.
11:56Evelyn, where did you get
11:57these top-tier replicas?
11:59They look exactly like the real thing.
12:01They are real.
12:02Seeing their disbelief,
12:03she revealed the truth directly.
12:05Those background stories I told you?
12:07about a gambler father
12:08and a sick mother.
12:09Those were all made up.
12:11I am the only daughter
12:11of the Carter family.
12:13I'm leaving LA for home
12:14to run the family business.
12:15Silence fell the moment he spoke.
12:17Disbelief, shock, chaos.
12:20Are you kidding?
12:20Wait, are you serious?
12:21Oh my god.
12:22The heiress has been with us
12:24all this time.
12:25After the initial frenzy subsided,
12:27someone suddenly remembered Ethan.
12:28But if you're leaving,
12:30what about Ethan?
12:31Does he know your true identity?
12:33He's marrying someone else.
12:34What the hell?
12:35That guy is a piece of work.
12:37Three years ago,
12:37you mentioned the epiphyllum
12:38and he searched the globe for you.
12:40Two years ago,
12:42he gave up a $1.100M contract
12:44and rushed back for you.
12:46He took care of you
12:47for several days without rest.
12:49Don't forget that car accident last year.
12:51He deliberately crashed
12:52into a truck to save you.
12:54You were fine,
12:55but he was injured
12:56and comatose for three months.
12:59The doctor said
12:59he might not even wake up.
13:01After all that,
13:02he's getting married.
13:03The bride isn't you?
13:04That's impossible.
13:05Memories hit like heavy blows.
13:07He did love me.
13:08His family disliked my background
13:10and forced him
13:11into an arranged marriage.
13:12I haven't had a chance
13:13to tell him the truth.
13:14The invitations are already printed.
13:17He seems to intend
13:17to keep me by his side.
13:19Keep you by his side?
13:20As what?
13:21A mistress?
13:23Is the knife family insane?
13:24Making the world's richest
13:26here as a backup plan?
13:27Fine.
13:28Let's see him regret it.
13:30When he finds out
13:31you left without a word
13:32and his family learns your identity,
13:35they'll be furious.
13:36Just then,
13:37Ethan and Sarah-in-law
13:38walked in from outside.
13:40What true identity?
13:42A girl bristled to snap back,
13:44but Evelyn stopped her.
13:45She stared coldly at them.
13:47What are you doing here?
13:48The families are discussing
13:50a collaboration.
13:51We had a meeting scheduled.
13:53Even in childhood?
13:54She certainly knew
13:56about their collaboration.
13:57After all,
13:58it was an arranged marriage.
14:00They sat next to Evelyn,
14:02intimately,
14:03oblivious to their surroundings.
14:05He cut her steak
14:06into perfect bites.
14:07She fed him
14:08a taste of her dessert.
14:09He handed her a napkin gently.
14:11She dabbed his mouth,
14:12smiling shyly.
14:13She dabbed his mouth,
14:14smiling shyly.
14:15Back and forth,
14:17natural and intimate.
14:19Yet Evelyn remained still,
14:20her face serene,
14:22as if the couple five feet away
14:24were not tearing apart
14:26her last remaining heart,
14:27as if her heart had long
14:29been still distant.
14:33Dinner ends,
14:34Ethan offers Evelyn and Saren-Lore
14:36a ride home.
14:37Perhaps from last time,
14:38Ethan arranged a limo.
14:39No one needs the front seat,
14:41avoiding past awkwardness.
14:42The car glides towards
14:43Brooke's Manor,
14:44all seems calm,
14:45until the calm
14:47is shattered instantly.
14:48A runaway truck speeds
14:49from the opposite side.
14:50The driver swerved,
14:52then a deafening crash.
14:53Ethan instinctively shielded
14:55Saren-Lore upon impact.
14:56Evelyn was thrown,
14:57hitting her head on the window.
14:59He patted her back,
15:00whispering comfort
15:01as if only she existed.
15:03Fading,
15:03she recalled the crash
15:04from four years ago.
15:05Their fourth year,
15:06his love for her
15:07was most fervent.
15:08He almost died,
15:10asked if she was okay first.
15:11Another crash,
15:12his instinct now protects another.
15:14The Rolls Royce
15:15is beyond recognition.
15:16Ethan comforted Saren-Lore,
15:18then saw Evelyn alone.
15:19Fortunately,
15:20her injuries were minor,
15:21doctors confirmed.
15:23But due to head injury,
15:24observation for days.
15:25Evelyn,
15:26I'm so sorry.
15:27I just...
15:28You see,
15:29the partnership is urgent.
15:31Saren-Lore's face,
15:32you can hit me,
15:33curse me,
15:34but don't shut me out.
15:35Her expression was blank,
15:36unreadable.
15:37Ethan kept apologizing
15:38until he thought of something.
15:40Your birthday is coming?
15:41What gift do you want?
15:42Then buy me a plane ticket?
15:44To New York,
15:45in three days.
15:46New York?
15:47You want to travel?
15:48She didn't explain,
15:49just nodded.
15:50Ethan bought the ticket
15:51right in front of her.
15:53I'm busy.
15:54Can't join you.
15:55Enjoy New York.
15:55The ticket is too small.
15:57I'll get you a bigger one.
15:58Not small at all.
15:59Because this ticket
16:00isn't for vacation.
16:01It's her way home.
16:03Ethan Knight,
16:04thank you for your gift.
16:05You personally sent me
16:06back to my place.
16:07Wait,
16:08you'll see what you've
16:08truly lost.
16:09Three days later,
16:11Evelyn stood on
16:11the New York runway.
16:12The Queen awakens.
16:14The Feast of...
16:17For two days,
16:18Ethan was gentle
16:19and caring,
16:20as if they were back
16:21to when they first met.
16:22But this illusion
16:23quickly faded the moment
16:24she was discharged.
16:25Sir-in-Lore messaged,
16:26provocatively telling her
16:28Ethan was going home
16:28for dinner.
16:29Evelyn didn't reply,
16:30just calmly went home
16:31and started packing.
16:33She knew,
16:33this time she left,
16:34she wouldn't come back.
16:36Seven hours before departure,
16:37she dragged her luggage
16:38out the door,
16:39only to run into Ethan,
16:41who had just returned home.
16:42He saw the piled luggage
16:43by the door,
16:44his face instantly tightened.
16:46What is going on here?
16:48Didn't I tell you
16:49I was going to New York?
16:50You bought the ticket,
16:51have you forgotten?
16:52Just a few days.
16:53Why so much luggage?
16:55I'm a girl,
16:56I want to bring more clothes
16:57and take more photos.
16:58It's been easy,
16:59he almost reached out
17:00to check the luggage,
17:01but his phone suddenly rang.
17:03It was Sir-in-Lore.
17:04Evelyn,
17:04don't play too long,
17:05send me flight info,
17:06I'll pick you up.
17:07She didn't answer
17:07because she knew
17:08she wouldn't return.
17:09Five hours before departure,
17:11she changed the door
17:12locked password.
17:12She changed her birthday
17:14to Sir-in-Lore's birthday.
17:15She left a note
17:17sarcastically proclaiming everything.
17:19Four hours before departure,
17:20she threw all photos
17:21with Ethan into the fire,
17:23one by one.
17:24Past vows,
17:24now only ashes remain.
17:26Five years of relationship
17:27completely ended.
17:29Three hours before departure,
17:30Sir-in-Lore sent a video.
17:31In the video,
17:32Ethan and Sir-in-Lore
17:33passionately kissed
17:34at the engagement party,
17:36surrounded by laughter
17:36from both families,
17:38urging them to kiss.
17:39Evelyn didn't respond,
17:40just silently printed
17:41all of Sir-in-Lore's
17:42provocative messages,
17:44page after page,
17:45piling up on the coffee table.
17:46Two hours before departure,
17:48she wrote the last sentence
17:49on the paper.
17:50Happy wedding,
17:51Ethan Knight.
17:52We're done.
17:53She dragged her luggage
17:54out of the villa,
17:55called a taxi,
17:56speeding towards the airport.
17:57From now on,
17:58she will return
17:59as the Carter family heiress.
18:00As for Ethan,
18:01to her,
18:02he will cease to exist.
18:03She completely shed
18:04her humble shell,
18:05returning to the pinnacle
18:06of power.
18:07And Ethan,
18:08unaware,
18:08is about to face
18:12a dead-
18:13New York airport,
18:13Evelyn stepped out.
18:14A luxury Bugatti waited.
18:16She appeared.
18:17The man by the car
18:18opened the door
18:19without hesitation.
18:20Welcome home,
18:21Miss Carter.
18:22After the luggage was loaded,
18:23she slid into the back seat.
18:25Peter,
18:25why are you picking me up?
18:26Where's the family driver?
18:28You've been away for years.
18:29Hearing your back,
18:30I volunteered.
18:31You missed me,
18:32it seems.
18:32How are my parents
18:33these years?
18:34Indeed,
18:34I missed you.
18:35Sir and Madam
18:36are in good health,
18:37only missing you
18:38by their side.
18:38They talked
18:39throughout the ride.
18:40Reaching Carter Manor,
18:42Evelyn saw all she had lost.
18:43She went outside
18:44and entered directly.
18:45The door opened
18:46and the servants
18:47stood silent
18:47then spoke together.
18:49Welcome home,
18:50Miss Carter.
18:50Evelyn held her forehead,
18:52amused yet powerless.
18:53Peter took her suitcase
18:54upstairs
18:55and smiled at her look.
18:56They are waiting for you
18:57in the living room.
18:58The room was crowded
18:59with family.
19:00She greeted everyone
19:01and sat by her parents.
19:02Her composure broke
19:03at the worry
19:04in her parents' eyes.
19:05Leaning on her mother,
19:06Evelyn felt bitter
19:07resentment rise.
19:09What's past
19:10is past.
19:11Our family
19:12is not afraid
19:14of making mistakes.
19:15Fall down
19:16and get back up.
19:17We can afford it.
19:19Her attention
19:19eased at their words.
19:20They changed the subject
19:21and gave her gifts.
19:22She realized
19:23her mother had said nothing.
19:25Papers,
19:25keys,
19:26a crown.
19:27You just broke up?
19:29Perfect.
19:30My friend's son
19:30just returned
19:31from studying abroad.
19:32No girlfriend.
19:36In New York,
19:37Evelyn is preparing
19:38for a new life
19:39arranged by her elders.
19:40Her aunt enthusiastically
19:42introduced a young talent
19:43to her.
19:44Unexpectedly,
19:45she found he was already
19:46on her contact list.
19:47She calmly locked the screen.
19:49The answer would reveal itself.
19:50While Evelyn calmly prepared
19:52for her new life,
19:53Ethan returned home.
19:54He habitually entered
19:55the password,
19:56but the door remained shut.
19:58He looked up
19:58and saw a note on the door.
20:00This will be Miss Brooke's home.
20:02Sarah-in-law,
20:02his heart tightened.
20:04With hesitation,
20:05the door opened.
20:05The lights came on.
20:07The villa was empty.
20:08Evelyn?
20:09Echoes.
20:09Then he remembered
20:10Evelyn had gone to New York.
20:12Unease grew within him.
20:13Was she serious this time?
20:14No, impossible.
20:15She loves him.
20:16She'll be back.
20:17Before dialing,
20:18a stack of documents
20:19caught his eye.
20:20Her things?
20:21He smiled.
20:22She hadn't left him.
20:23Ethan Knight,
20:24happy wedding to your lives.
20:25We are done.
20:26His smile froze,
20:27ears ringing.
20:28He stared at the words.
20:29She doesn't want him?
20:31No, this must be a joke.
20:32He tremblingly tore it off
20:33and the second page appeared.
20:35Printed chat logs,
20:36Sir-in-law Brooks.
20:37Are you Ethan's mistress?
20:38I'm his fiance.
20:40Be smart.
20:40Leave.
20:41Don't wait to be kicked out.
20:42One word from me
20:43and he rushes over.
20:44What are you after marriage?
20:46An unmentionable mistress.
20:47He kissed me.
20:48Is sleeping together far off.
20:50Photos,
20:51videos,
20:51wedding dresses,
20:52diamonds,
20:52and kiss photos.
20:53That was the scene
20:54and sir-in-law most wanted her to see.
20:59He rushed upstairs,
21:01legs trembling.
21:03He could barely stand.
21:04Halfway up,
21:05his foot slipped.
21:06Bang!
21:07He tumbled down,
21:07hitting the floor.
21:08The pain instantly sobered him.
21:10He gripped the rail,
21:12limped back up.
21:13He slowed.
21:14Entering the bedroom,
21:15his blood ran cold.
21:16Everything that belonged to her
21:17was gone.
21:18Only empty frames remained
21:19of their photos.
21:20They mocked him,
21:21piercing his eyes.
21:22He ripped open the closet,
21:24then the drawers.
21:25His things were there,
21:26hers were gone.
21:27Her toiletries,
21:28her books,
21:29her clothes.
21:29Even the photos were gone.
21:31He searched the entire villa,
21:33every corner.
21:33Nothing.
21:34She left nothing behind.
21:36He finally understood
21:37she wasn't tidying.
21:38Five years of love
21:39erased so completely,
21:40he couldn't accept any of it.
21:42He didn't even remember
21:44getting to the living room.
21:45The phone rang,
21:46echoing in the empty house.
21:48It rang for ages.
21:48Finally,
21:49someone answered.
21:50It was late.
21:51She sounded like
21:52she'd just woken up.
21:53Hello?
21:54Who is it?
21:54Evelyn,
21:55it's me.
21:55Where are you?
21:56I need to see you.
21:58Our photos?
21:59Hearing his voice,
22:00Evelyn instantly sobered.
22:02When she saw his name,
22:03she sighed deeply.
22:04She miscalculated...
22:07Mr. Knight,
22:08you are about to get married.
22:10Adults should know
22:10their boundaries.
22:11As for the photos,
22:12I've burned them.
22:13There's no need to meet.
22:14You're about to marry?
22:15Why meet an ex?
22:17Evelyn,
22:17I never agreed to break up.
22:20Saren and I
22:20are not what you think.
22:21I only loved you.
22:23How could you abandon me like this?
22:25She hung up?
22:26Can't get through?
22:27Did she block me?
22:28All contact methods
22:29completely blocked by her.
22:31Grief and anger intertwined?
22:32He completely lost control.
22:34Scattered on the floor,
22:36Saren's provocations.
22:37He loves you?
22:38So what?
22:39He's already kissed me.
22:40How long do you think it'll be
22:41until we sleep together?
22:43If not for Saren,
22:44Evelyn wouldn't have left
22:45so resolutely.
22:46A cold and crazy smile
22:47spread through the study.
22:48Saren Brooks,
22:49who gave you such audacity?
22:51Since you desire marriage so much,
22:52I'll give you a grand gift.
22:54A wedding gift enough
22:55to destroy your life?
23:03Evelyn calmly blacklisted Ethan.
23:05She blocked all possible ways
23:07he could contact her.
23:08Afterwards,
23:09she put down her phone
23:09and fell into a deep sleep.
23:11That night,
23:12she slept more soundly
23:13than ever before
23:14because the next day
23:15was her first day
23:16at Cater's Group.
23:17As the new CEO,
23:18she woke up early.
23:19She believed she could handle it,
23:20but the first day
23:21had to be perfect.
23:22Cater's Group was the flagship
23:24of the Carter family's
23:25century-old legacy.
23:26Its business covered
23:27almost all high-end sectors.
23:29The group was powerful,
23:30dominating multiple industries.
23:32Evelyn was directly appointed CEO
23:34and the news spread quickly.
23:36Meanwhile,
23:36Ethan was drowning
23:37his sorrows in Los Angeles.
23:38She's just mad
23:39you found someone new.
23:40Dixie just resigned recently.
23:42No one took Evelyn's
23:43departure seriously.
23:44Once she runs out of money,
23:45she'll crawl back.
23:47Who will support her gambler father
23:48and sick mother?
23:49The taunts came
23:50one after another.
23:51I've seen too many women like her.
23:53She just wanted to climb up
23:54your ladder from the start.
23:55Ethan drank glass after glass
23:57saying nothing.
23:58Even he couldn't take it anymore.
24:00Crash!
24:00The crisp sound of shattering
24:02pierced the silence.
24:03The room instantly fell silent.
24:05Are you done talking?
24:06No one understood
24:07why he suddenly got angry?
24:09What's wrong, Ethan?
24:10Still mad?
24:10We know you care about her more.
24:12As soon as Robert
24:13finished speaking,
24:14Ethan looked up.
24:15Apologize.
24:16Robert blinked confused.
24:17Apologize to her.
24:19Only then did Robert realize
24:20Ethan was truly angry.
24:21Ethan, why are you so agitated?
24:23She's just a poor girl
24:24who climbed up for money.
24:26You never objected
24:26when we talk.
24:29Ethan realized his silence
24:31wasn't protection,
24:32but silent bullying.
24:33He desperately searched his memory.
24:35Robert was right.
24:36His support was just a performance
24:38when Evelyn was around.
24:45Extreme guilt, yet a twisted hope.
24:47Carter Group has a new CEO,
24:49the only daughter of the Carter family.
24:51Ethan was oblivious to the huge news
24:53about Carter Group.
24:54He fantasized Evelyn would return to him
24:56out of options.
24:57Late at night,
24:57Robert reluctantly called Seren.
24:59Seren Ethan is drunk.
25:01Can you pick him up?
25:02Ethan is your responsibility.
25:04Make sure he gets home safely.
25:05Robert handed drunk Ethan to Seren
25:07with a knowing look.
25:08Seren didn't take him home
25:09but to her own residence.
25:11She carefully tended to him,
25:12waiting for this moment.
25:13Ethan, we're getting married anyway.
25:15A little early won't hurt.
25:17Evelyn.
25:18That whisper shattered Seren's facade.
25:20Evelyn must disappear from the-
25:24The next morning,
25:25Ethan woke up with a splitting headache.
25:27He lifted a hand to rub his temples,
25:29then froze,
25:30suddenly aware that there was
25:31someone in his arms.
25:32Evelyn?
25:33Evelyn was in New York,
25:34and she never permed her hair.
25:36A strong sense of unease
25:38surged within him.
25:39Seren Lore fell heavily to the floor,
25:41fully awake.
25:41What are you doing here?
25:43Her eyes reddened,
25:44looking pitiful.
25:45He had already seen
25:46through her true colors.
25:47You were drunk last night
25:48and refused to go back to the villa.
25:50I had no choice but to bring you here.
25:52Only then did Ethan notice
25:53this wasn't his bedroom.
25:55Then why were you in my bed?
25:56I had intended to settle you
25:58and then go to the guest room.
25:59But you kept holding on to me and then-
26:01Seren Lore hesitated.
26:03Ethan's gaze grew darker.
26:04Seren Lore,
26:05stop with your little tricks.
26:07I married you
26:08simply because you were obedient.
26:09If there's a next time,
26:10I won't hesitate to replace you.
26:12Seren Lore's face turned pale,
26:14gritting her teeth in hatred.
26:16Ethan left coldly,
26:17leaving her alone.
26:18Evelyn saw another unfamiliar number.
26:20Ethan's harassment was like chewing gum.
26:22She hung up and blocked it,
26:23and the world finally quieted.
26:25This was the first major project she took on.
26:27She discovered Ethan was a competitor.
26:29He wants to use a business war to harass her,
26:32preparing for a wedding
26:33while still entangled.
26:34She would crush him completely.
26:38On the eve of the bidding gala,
26:40Evelyn's aunt handed her an invitation.
26:43Aunt, is there anything else
26:44I don't know about this?
26:45Have you forgotten
26:46what we discussed before?
26:48About meeting my friend's son?
26:50A blind date at a bidding gala?
26:52We are competitors.
26:53He's never been in love,
26:54but he has a moonlight crush.
26:57You're exactly his type.
26:59A sense of resistance rose within her.
27:01Was she merely a substitute?
27:03On the day of the bidding,
27:04a luxury car was already waiting outside Carter Mansion.
27:07A gentleman in a tailored suit opened the car door for her.
27:10I don't believe I caught your name.
27:12I am Oliver Graham.
27:13She didn't press further
27:14and simply got into the car.
27:16The atmosphere in the car was subtle
27:18and they traveled in silence.
27:19The name Oliver Graham
27:20evoked an inexplicable sense of familiarity within her.
27:23He drove steadily
27:24without uttering a word.
27:26She tried to speak several times,
27:28but ultimately chose silence.
27:30The car weaved through
27:31the neon-lit streets of Manhattan.
27:33Soon, the car arrived at the gala entrance.
27:35They both exited the car,
27:36one after another.
27:38Evelyn walked straight to the entrance,
27:39but he remained in place.
27:41What's wrong?
27:42Everyone is entering with their partners.
27:44The smoke of business warfare
27:45was replaced by...
27:49Evelyn noticed the despondency in Oliver's eyes
27:51and suspicion arose in her heart.
27:54Have we met before?
27:55She really didn't remember him at all.
27:57We were classmates in high school.
27:58I was the one who always sat in the corner.
28:01In high school, he was quiet and reserved,
28:04the easiest boy to overlook.
28:05And Evelyn was the only light in his dim youth.
28:07No matter who she asked,
28:09she would always earnestly ask about him.
28:12He was used to being ignored by his parents,
28:14living in his own world.
28:15To be worthy of her,
28:16he underwent a complete transformation.
28:18When he learned she had broken up,
28:20he returned.
28:21Time truly is the best plastic surgeon.
28:23You've become so handsome.
28:25Oliver's ears instantly turned red.
28:32The banquet hall buzzed with voices.
28:34The two became the center of attention.
28:41Evelyn instinctively looked back at the entrance.
28:44Evelyn?
28:44Evelyn?
28:45Evelyn frowned slightly,
28:46unwilling to get entangled.
28:48She held Oliver tightly,
28:49leaving her old...
28:53Ethan had not yet recovered
28:54from Evelyn's sudden appearance.
28:56She walked past him,
28:57arm in arm with another man.
28:59Rage instantly surged to his head.
29:01Serene rushed over,
29:02witnessing the scene unfold.
29:03Evelyn, who is he?
29:05Why are you with him?
29:06Serene didn't interrupt,
29:07merely watched coldly.
29:09What else could it be?
29:10She dumped you
29:11and immediately latched onto someone else.
29:13Otherwise, with her background,
29:14how could she enter such a bidding gala?
29:16She spoke with absolute certainty.
29:18She didn't notice Ethan's face instantly darken,
29:21nor did she notice the strange glances
29:23from the surrounding guests.
29:24The Carter family is New York's wealthiest.
29:27Evelyn Carter is their only daughter.
29:29Did she need to rely on someone else
29:31to enter the gala?
29:32If even the Carter heir had to depend on others,
29:34then who truly belonged?
29:36But no one corrected them.
29:37Watching fools make a spectacle
29:39was more entertaining.
29:40As Evelyn frowned,
29:41Oliver had already moved.
29:43His hand firmly gripped Ethan's wrist.
29:45The next second,
29:46a sharp pain struck.
29:47Let go.
29:48The coldness in his tone
29:49made Ethan shiver involuntarily.
29:51Do you know who we are?
29:53How dare you touch us?
29:54I believe it or not,
29:56one call from me could ruin you.
29:57Ethan said nothing,
29:58but the malice in his eyes revealed his stance.
30:01Evelyn let out a soft chuckle.
30:03She gently patted Oliver's hand,
30:05signaling him to release his grip.
30:07Oliver hesitated,
30:08looking at her reluctantly.
30:09Only after her slight nod
30:10did he release his grip.
30:12With the pressure eased,
30:13Ethan's expression relaxed.
30:15Saran mistakenly thought it was fear.
30:17Ethan straightened up,
30:18putting on a gentle facade.
30:20Evelyn calmly removed her brooch.
30:22She aimed it straight at him.
30:23Evelyn,
30:24I know.
30:24Intense pain erupted instantly.
30:26The brooch pierced deeply.
30:28Evelyn pulled back,
30:29dodged Saran's lunge,
30:30and backhanded her.
30:31The sound was crisp and cruel.
30:33Evelyn,
30:34you.
30:34Unlike Saran's hysteria,
30:36Evelyn remained exceptionally calm.
30:38She handed Oliver a tissue,
30:40then leisurely wiped her own wrist.
30:42When she looked at Saran again,
30:43her eyes were icy.
30:45You,
30:45are you important?
30:46The mockery in her tone stung Ethan.
30:49Two idiots coming to a bidding gala
30:51without knowing who your opponent is.
30:53Opponent,
30:53Ethan and Saran froze.
30:55They instinctively recalled the briefing,
30:57then looked again at the man beside Evelyn.
30:59Suddenly,
31:00they understood.
31:01Oliver Graham,
31:02the second son of the Graham family,
31:04a powerful family in New York,
31:06second only to the Carters.
31:07The Knight and Brooks families are nothing here.
31:10Until now,
31:11Oliver had remained silent.
31:12Instead of asking if I know you,
31:14ask the person next to me.
31:18Are you surprised we're here to bid?
31:20Miss Carter?
31:21How could she be?
31:22The sole heiress of New York's wealthiest family.
31:25They finally realized they were the laughing stock.
31:27His dignity lost,
31:28he fled in shame.
31:29In her eyes,
31:30hatred surged.
31:41Evelyn ignored Saren's hostility.
31:44Those petty tricks were beneath her notice.
31:46Now,
31:46it was time to attend to business.
31:48The farce ended,
31:49the bidding began.
31:50Evelyn's gaze was sharp,
31:52determined to win.
31:53Bids rose and fell.
31:54The battle intensified.
31:55Ultimately,
31:56the project went to Evelyn.
31:57The business landscape was reshaped.
32:05Do you still like him?
32:06Why would you think that?
32:07I thought you were dating to provoke him.
32:09My aunt suggested it,
32:10that's all.
32:11I'm loyal to love,
32:12and I have boundaries.
32:13I understand.
32:19Goodbye,
32:19Oliver.
32:25Miss Carter?
32:26Anything else?
32:27She vanished.
32:28Oliver smiled faintly.
32:29Just call me Evelyn.
32:30I don't want a new relationship right now.
32:33Let's just be friends for now.
32:34Drive safely.
32:35She vanished.
32:36Oliver has waited for years.
32:41A few more moments won't hurt.
32:42She said being friends was enough,
32:44a step towards the future.
32:46Both she and Oliver slept soundly.
32:48Half asleep,
32:49she saw her social media blown up.
32:51The messages were vicious insults.
32:53A LA call came.
32:54It was her old friend,
32:55urgent.
32:56Evelyn,
32:56have you seen the news online?
32:57People are echoing each other,
32:59calling you a homewrecker.
33:00This is insane.
33:02You have to speak up.
33:03I will handle it.
33:04Don't forget,
33:05I am a Carter.
33:06The legal team isn't just for show.
33:08Seeing the escalating malicious comments,
33:10her anger grew.
33:16Her face hardened.
33:17She screenshot the slander as proof.
33:20The phone rang again,
33:21unknown number.
33:22She hesitated,
33:23then answered.
33:24Evelyn,
33:24Are you okay?
33:26Saren,
33:26unable to bear the humiliation,
33:28twisted the truth.
33:30She released evidence
33:31claiming Ethan and Evelyn
33:32once lived together.
33:34Don't let online comments affect you.
33:36I know you didn't do those things.
33:37No need to be angry.
33:38If you need help,
33:42it's fine.
33:43I'm not that fragile.
33:44Just rumors,
33:45I can handle it.
33:46Oliver,
33:46thank you.
33:47All right.
33:53A scumbag,
33:54a bitch.
33:55Who do they think they are?
33:56Daring to slander my daughter.
33:58Brave?
33:59You say they're animals.
34:00All right,
34:01mom and dad,
34:02don't worry.
34:02Your daughter won't be bullied for nothing.
34:04Since they dared to spread rumors,
34:06they'll pay the price.
34:07Didn't I tell you to rein it in?
34:08How dare you contact Robert and them
34:11to slander Evelyn?
34:12Ethan,
34:12that woman lied to you for five years.
34:14She's a billionaire heiress,
34:16yet she pretended to be poor.
34:18Why don't we strike first?
34:19Let's destroy the Carter family together.
34:26Then work harder.
34:28Drag her down from her billionaire...
34:32You still have the nerve
34:34to talk about marrying, Ethan.
34:36As soon as he came back,
34:37he canceled the engagement.
34:39You can't even keep a man.
34:41What good are you?
34:42That moment,
34:43Seren realized she had been abandoned by everyone.
34:46Because of Evelyn,
34:47she was abandoned by her family
34:48and scorned by her lover.
34:50She poured all her hatred onto Evelyn,
34:52dragging Robert and Ethan
34:53into one last act of madness.
34:55They believed Evelyn
34:56couldn't prove their five-year secret relationship.
34:59They never expected her
35:00to release a fatal surveillance video.
35:02Evelyn released two surveillance videos
35:04and Seren's chat logs.
35:05The first surveillance video
35:07exposed Ethan's hypocrisy.
35:08He wanted to demote Evelyn
35:10to a secret mistress.
35:11The second surveillance video
35:12captured Seren's hysteria.
35:14She didn't deny Evelyn's legitimate status.
35:17With irrefutable evidence,
35:18public opinion instantly reversed.
35:20The past slanders all rebounded
35:22onto the betrayers.
35:23Evelyn refused to engage
35:24in a war of words.
35:25She directly mobilized
35:26the Carter group's top legal team,
35:28suing Ethan, Seren,
35:29and all slanderers.
35:31In this swift purge,
35:32Evelyn used the law as her sword.
35:34Before the law,
35:35everyone is equal.
35:36Rumors cease with the wands.
35:37I will forever defend my dignity.
35:42The legal judgment finally arrived,
35:44punishing those who thought
35:45they were above the law.
35:47Evelyn trusted Carter group's legal team.
35:49Once they took over,
35:50no one could escape.
35:51When Seren was formally charged,
35:53no one came forward to defend her.
35:55Robert and his accomplices
35:56were also embroiled for defamation.
35:58They refused to repent
35:59and Evelyn refused to settle.
36:01The judge sentenced them all
36:02to two years in prison.
36:04Former socialites became prisoners.
36:06This farce finally came to an end.
36:08After Evelyn learned of the verdict,
36:10she no longer paid attention
36:11to the matter.
36:12Ethan, the central figure of this farce,
36:14managed to get away unscathed.
36:16Night group quickly collapsed
36:18under Oliver's precise attack.
36:19But Evelyn didn't expect Ethan
36:21to come to her again.
36:22In just a few months,
36:23Ethan was gaunt and unrecognizable.
36:25He knew he had no leverage
36:27left with Evelyn.
36:28That afternoon,
36:28Evelyn was in her office
36:30discussing dinner with Oliver.
36:31The front desk called,
36:33Miss Carter,
36:34a Mr. Knight is here for you.
36:35She wondered,
36:36with everything in ruins,
36:37what could Ethan still do?
36:39Let him in.
36:40Her surprise lasted only a second.
36:42Then she regained her composure.
36:44Evelyn, I know I was wrong,
36:45but I never deceived you.
36:47I only loved you.
36:49Please,
36:50for the sake of what we had
36:51spare night group.
36:52Evelyn was unmoved.
36:53She coldly refused him.
36:54Evelyn pointed to Oliver,
36:56declaring Ethan officially out.
36:58The reckoning entered
36:59its final chapter.
37:00Evelyn and Oliver
37:01embarked on a new chapter.
37:05Evelyn,
37:05I know I was wrong.
37:07I'll apologize.
37:08But if this continues,
37:10night group really won't last.
37:11It wasn't me who brought down night group.
37:13Why don't you go beg him?
37:15Besides,
37:15Ethan wasn't the little affection
37:17we had long exhausted?
37:18You secretly got engaged then
37:20and still planned to keep me
37:21as a mistress.
37:22Your friend insulted me in French
37:24and you never thought to stop her.
37:26When Soren slandered me,
37:27you chose silence,
37:28hiding behind neutrality.
37:30Now you come to me
37:31talking about the past?
37:32Where was your so-called love
37:34back then?
37:34Evelyn,
37:35I was truly wrong.
37:36If this continues,
37:38night group will truly be finished.
37:39What does that have to do with me?
37:42Ethan,
37:42everyone pays the price
37:43for their actions.
37:44Do you think a flimsy apology
37:45will make you an exception?
37:47But I never did those things.
37:48No, you didn't.
37:49You just stood by, Ethan.
37:51It's bystanders like you
37:52that infuriate me the most.
37:54Because you stood by,
37:55your friend dared to insult me.
37:56Because you stood by,
37:58Soren dared to hurt me repeatedly.
38:00Now you tell me,
38:01you did nothing?
38:02Fine.
38:02Since you say you did nothing,
38:04then I haven't suppressed
38:05night group either.
38:06Can't help you.
38:07Linda, show him out.
38:08This way, Mr. Knight.
38:10So what are we eating?
38:11Western or home-cooked?
38:13It's been a while
38:13since I had home-cooked food.
38:15Home-cooked it is.
38:16Whatever you like.
38:17Why do you always listen to me?
38:24Because,
38:25Evelyn,
38:25I love you.
38:26But...
38:27I know.
38:28You said you weren't ready
38:29for a new relationship yet.
38:30Then, when you are ready,
38:32can I be first in line?
38:33Since you're so sincere,
38:34I'll reluctantly agree.
38:38I'll reluctantly agree.
38:39You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
38:40You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
38:40You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
38:41You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
38:41You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
38:41You said you weren't ready for a new relationship yet.
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