- 22 hours ago
The childless marriage - Full Engsub
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Short filmTranscript
00:00My husband and I, both double income, know kids retire together.
00:03We were planning to travel the world together when he suddenly came clean.
00:06I've publicly claimed we were child-free for 30 years.
00:10Now it's time to bring my children back home where they belong.
00:13But I had seen this coming long ago and smiled meaningfully.
00:17He thought I had lost my mind and continued.
00:19A man passing on his line is only natural.
00:22You couldn't have kids, so I played along.
00:25But now, I owe my children an explanation.
00:29He proposed a divorce, wanting to take his pair of children and their mother on a family trip together.
00:34I agreed immediately, gracefully stepping aside and leaving.
00:37When news of the divorce spread, everyone sympathized with me.
00:43An elderly neighbor felt my pain.
00:46At her age, abandoned by her husband.
00:48What a miserable old age. So tragic.
00:51A college girl from the same apartment complex fumed on my behalf.
00:55That old bastard Charles is such a scumbag.
00:58Back then, he said they'd never have kids.
01:00Just enjoy their twin stem.
01:02Now look, his own son and daughter are old enough to make him a grandfather.
01:06Chatting with old friends. They couldn't help but sign.
01:08You were so glamorous in your youth.
01:10Successful career, living freely.
01:12But you insisted on being child-free, and now you're old and all alone.
01:16Even my parents advised me.
01:17As long as you don't divorce, his children become yours.
01:21They'll care for you in old age.
01:23When we pass on, we'll have peace mind.
01:27They all thought I was forced into divorce.
01:29That I was devastated.
01:31That I had no one to rely on in old age.
01:33That my whole life had become a joke.
01:35I didn't explain.
01:36Nor could I be bothered to refute them one by one.
01:39How things would turn out for the two of us.
01:41When the time came, they would know.
01:43Charles, on the other hand, was writing hi.
01:45He posted a family photo on social media with the caption,
01:48Starting today, I finally have a real family.
01:50In the photo, he stood in the center.
01:52A young man and woman on either side.
01:54Their faces radiating youthful pride.
01:56And the woman who could carry on his bloodline had her arm linked through his.
01:59Smiling warmly and gracefully.
02:01Someone commented.
02:03Look at that.
02:04Now that's a winner in life.
02:06Indeed, Charles had won big.
02:07In his youth, he enjoyed the twosome life with me.
02:10Living freely his whole life.
02:12Never suffering through midnight feedings and diaper changes.
02:15Yet, in his old age, he had both a son and a daughter to bring him joy.
02:19How could that not count as winning at life?
02:20Now that he was retired, his career and reputation would no longer be affected.
02:25And me, at my age, abandoned by my husband and left with nothing,
02:29naturally invited people's size.
02:31But little did they know, I had been prepared all along.
02:33In this marriage, he wasn't the only one acting.
02:42The divorce proceedings went quickly.
02:44So quickly I felt somewhat dazed.
02:46Charles personally drove me to the courthouse.
02:48When signing, his hand didn't tremble at all.
02:50Instead, it was as if he had finally shed some burden.
02:53Swift and decisive.
02:55He smiled at the clerk.
02:56What can you do?
02:57We're both old, and the love is gone.
02:59But at least, I still have my son and daughter with me.
03:03I can enjoy family happiness too.
03:05The clerk looked at me apologetically.
03:07Eyes full of sympathy and comfort.
03:08I smiled too, but said nothing.
03:10After the divorce, with a grand gesture,
03:12he hired people to clear out the bedroom I had lived in for over 30 years.
03:15Eagerly bringing Vivian and the children home.
03:17I didn't fight or argue.
03:19I didn't even bother hiring a lawyer.
03:21I just took my half of the savings and a few important items,
03:24and moved out cleanly and efficiently.
03:26The day Vivian moved in, I came back to pack up my last belongings.
03:29As soon as I opened the door,
03:31I saw brand new photos displayed in the living room.
03:34Our wedding photos had been replaced by their family portrait.
03:37The four of them.
03:39Charles sat in the center, Vivian holding his arm,
03:42with two similar-looking young adults in their 20s standing on either side,
03:46full of vigor.
03:47When I walked in, the lively atmosphere instantly turned cold,
03:50as if announcing my unwelcome presence.
03:52Vivian greeted me with a smile.
03:56Oh, Stella!
03:58Did you leave something behind?
04:01Let me help you look for it.
04:02Playing the hostess like she owned the place.
04:04Just a few last things.
04:05I'll take them all today.
04:06I said indifferently.
04:08Charles sat on the sofa without looking up,
04:10as if waiting for me to get the hint and leave.
04:17Charles sat on the sofa, not even lifting his head,
04:20casually flipping through the newspaper,
04:21as if waiting for me to get the hint and leave on my own.
04:24Chloe and Connor stood to the side,
04:26their eyes filled with undisguised distance and wariness,
04:28treating me like a stranger who had barged in.
04:30Mom, this place looks a bit dated,
04:32and the living room is kind of dark.
04:34How about a renovation with a new style?
04:35Chloe said casually.
04:37Yeah, the sofa needs replacing too.
04:38So old-fashioned.
04:40How did dad live in a place like this?
04:41Connor chimed in.
04:42I listened to the nitpick and watched Charles remain silent.
04:44I felt like laughing.
04:45This was the home Charles and I had shared for 30 years.
04:48Every piece of furniture carefully chosen.
04:49Now I was being dismissed as worthless.
04:51Vivian affectionately held Charles' arm.
04:52See how opinionated the children are?
04:54This house needs a complete makeover.
04:56We can't short charge ourselves.
04:58Charles finally looked up slowly and glanced at me.
05:00Stella, are you done packing?
05:02Take everything at once so you won't have to keep coming back.
05:05It's awkward for everyone.
05:05He meant for me to leave and never come back,
05:07so I wouldn't be an eyesore to their family of four.
05:09I looked away, picked up my bag, stood at the doorway,
05:12and glanced back one last time at what had once been my home.
05:14Vivian leaned weakly against Charles peeling an orange,
05:17while the two children sat side by side on the sofa watching TV,
05:20the three of them chatting and laughing,
05:21as if this home had always been like this,
05:24composed of their family of four, with no place for me.
05:26The way Charles looked at Vivian was with respect for the mother of his children,
05:29and guilt for having kept her as a secret lover all these years.
05:32As for me, I was just an old woman he had grown tired of,
05:35with no children by my side, deserving to fend for myself.
05:38A cold laugh echoed in my heart.
05:39Fine, since you want me gone, I'll leave cleanly,
05:42so you can enjoy this brief pretense of affection.
05:44After all, in a few days it will be you turning on each other.
05:48After the divorce, I moved into an apartment.
05:50It wasn't far from my former home, but it felt like a different world.
05:54I didn't feel any particular discomfort.
05:56Without Charles in the house, I actually enjoyed the peace and quiet,
06:00but outsiders didn't see it that way.
06:02No matter how capable and free-spirited you were in your youth,
06:05you still lost in the end.
06:07This was the shared opinion of relatives and friends.
06:09My mother couldn't hold back tears when she saw me.
06:11You're living alone now.
06:13With no one to take care of you, what if you get sick someday?
06:15You insisted on being child-free before.
06:18Look at you now.
06:19Wouldn't it be nice to have a child?
06:21At least you wouldn't end up like this.
06:22My father sighed, his face full of regret.
06:24We shouldn't have let you have your way back then.
06:26If we had persuaded you more, you wouldn't be in this situation now.
06:29Their words implicitly blamed me for insisting on being child-free,
06:32saying that's why I lost my husband's heart.
06:34The most ridiculous thing was that my friends also thought Charles hadn't done anything terribly wrong.
06:37A man needs to have children.
06:39Charles was willing to play along with you for so many years.
06:44That's already going above and beyond.
06:46You were too stubborn back then.
06:47All these years, I've never understood.
06:49What were you thinking?
06:50Honestly, you're both old now.
06:52Vivian would still have to call you Big Sister.
06:54Why not just make do and live together?
06:56I thought at most they'd advise me to accept Charles' children.
06:58I never imagined they'd suggest Vivian, and I share one husband.
07:01But they never considered that neither child shared a single drop of blood with me.
07:05Even if I stayed, how many good days could I possibly have?
07:07What they didn't know was that the infertile one had never been me.
07:13When I first insisted on being child-free, bearing the pressure from everyone,
07:17my declaration that I would never have children was denounced as selfish and unfilial.
07:21Charles' parents pressured him to divorce me, but he said he didn't mind,
07:25as long as we could live happily together.
07:27Moved by his words, I became even more resolute in my decision.
07:30For decades, I bore all the blame myself, protecting his reputation, even his confidence and dignity
07:36as a man, only to discover he had given me nothing but a complete and utter deception.
07:40He never pressured me to have children because I wasn't his only woman.
07:44If I didn't give birth, he could have other women bear his children, and he could maintain
07:47his reputation as a loving husband while gaining my parents' trust and support.
07:51Why wouldn't he play along?
07:52When I discovered the truth, I never imagined that my seemingly gentle husband was so deeply
07:57calculating.
07:58I was wrong, but my mistake was not having children.
08:01My mistake was taking it upon myself to protect his dignity as a man.
08:04For that, I was even willing to give up my right to be a mother.
08:07So I planned for years, waiting for the moment when his act fell apart,
08:11to deliver him a devastating blow.
08:14Soon, I received the wedding invitation for Charles and Vivian's wedding.
08:18The invitation was in Vivian's handwriting, saying that as Charles' ex-wife,
08:21I must want to see him happy too, and my presence would mean the world to them.
08:25I let out a derisive laugh.
08:26What beautiful words.
08:27So high-sounding they made me sick.
08:29Mean the world to them?
08:30Vivian had been Charles' secret lover for 30 years.
08:32Having finally made it to the altar, she naturally couldn't wait to gloat in front of me.
08:36I took the invitation and casually glanced at it.
08:38The ceremony was at the city's most luxurious five-star hotel.
08:41Quite an upscale venue.
08:42Charles must have wanted to compensate Vivian for 30 years of hidden suffering with the grand wedding.
08:47When my friends heard that Vivian had invited me to her wedding with Charles, they were all furious.
08:52What does he mean by this?
08:54He's obviously trying to humiliate you.
08:57Exactly.
08:57You just moved out, and he's already marrying his mistress in style.
09:01He's clearly trying to embarrass you.
09:03You absolutely shouldn't go.
09:05Going would just be asking for humiliation.
09:07I listened to their angry voices without feeling a single ripple in my heart.
09:10In fact, a smile cropped to my lips.
09:12Of course I'm going.
09:13Don't worry.
09:14I'm not going to make myself miserable.
09:16My friend looked at me in confusion.
09:18I'm just going to watch a comedy show, Stella.
09:23The show is about to begin.
09:49Why is she here?
09:50Someone whispered.
09:51She's not here to cause trouble, is it?
09:54Well, who can blame her?
09:56Being abandoned by Charles, anyone would feel upset.
10:00They all thought I had come to cry, to argue, to seek sympathy.
10:03But they were wrong.
10:04If only one person could have the last laugh at this wedding, that person would definitely be me.
10:08I picked up a glass of champagne, walked slowly to Charles and Vivian, and smiled.
10:13Congratulations.
10:14Congratulations.
10:15You finally got what you wanted.
10:17A flicker of triumph flashed in Vivian's eyes.
10:19She leaned against Charles lightly, her tone gentle yet provocative.
10:22Thank you for coming.
10:23After all, back then, you pretended to be child-free because you couldn't conceive.
10:28Charles didn't want to hurt you, so he came up with this solution.
10:32The best of both worlds.
10:34Charles walked over with a drink and raised his glass to me.
10:36It's all in the past.
10:38I believe I stayed by your side and did my duty.
10:41Now I'm old and want to enjoy my later years surrounded by children.
10:47I hope you can understand.
10:49I lowered my head and chuckled softly, my gaze sweeping over Chloe and Connor behind them.
10:53Let them enjoy their moment of triumph for now.
10:55Because the storm is about to descend.
11:03The wedding proceeded as planned.
11:04On stage, Charles and Vivian were exchanging vows, holding hands and gazing at each other
11:09with tears in their eyes.
11:10Chloe and Connor went up to give them flowers.
11:12Charles looked at the two young adults in their prime, as if seeing his own youth reflected
11:16in them.
11:17He thought, perhaps this was the price of continuing one's bloodline.
11:20Stella would never understand this feeling, which is why he had resolutely abandoned her.
11:24Halfway through the wedding, Charles suddenly produced a property deed.
11:27I once thought I would die childless and alone in my old age.
11:31But heaven has been kind to me.
11:33My beloved Vivian has given me a son and a daughter, allowing me to live a complete life.
11:40Vivian looked at Charles, tears already glistening in her eyes.
11:42I have little to give them, so I've decided to transfer the property under my name to the
11:48two children to help them thrive.
11:51Cheers erupted from the audience.
11:53Chloe and Connor covered their mouths excitedly and looked at Vivian.
11:56The three of them were expressions of assured victory.
11:59But I stood up and shouted.
12:01I object!
12:02Vivian hadn't received the property deed yet.
12:04Interrupted by me, she was furious.
12:07Stella, today is a wonderful day for our family of four.
12:10What kind of trouble are you trying to cause?
12:12Charles looked at me with disgust.
12:14His eyes contemptuous yet resigned.
12:16Stella, I know you're upset about not being able to have children and jealous seeing my family.
12:31Chloe and Connor nodded continuously, even encouraging the guests to boo me.
12:35The MC also tried to persuade me.
12:37Mrs. Stella, as Mr. Charles' ex-wife, you must want him to have a harmonious family and someone to care
12:43for him in old age, right?
12:44I put down my glass and said indifferently.
12:48Of course.
12:50But I need to correct one thing.
12:52The one who can't have children isn't me.
12:56The hall fell into dead silence.
12:59Vivian was taken aback.
13:00And Charles frowned too.
13:01What do you mean by that?
13:02It means nothing special.
13:04I shook my head gently.
13:05A touch of pity in my eyes.
13:06My eggs are still frozen at the egg bank.
13:08Perfectly healthy.
13:10The doctor said, they can be retrieved for embryo cultivation anytime.
13:14Charles understood I had frozen my eggs for IVF.
13:17And he was completely enraged.
13:18Didn't you say you didn't want children with me?
13:20Now we're divorced?
13:22And you want IVF?
13:24Are you out of your mind?
13:25You really don't want to bear my child that badly?
13:28I slapped him hard across the face.
13:30Robbed the MC's microphone.
13:31And spoke loudly enough for everyone present to hear.
13:34Because the one who can't have children has never been me.
13:36It's you.
13:37Charles, you have severe aloxpermia.
13:40You have no fertility whatsoever.
13:42The hall fell into dead silence in an instant.
13:45Then came an uproar.
13:46Charles is infertile?
13:48Is that true?
13:49But Vivian already gave him two children, didn't she?
13:52Stella must have gone crazy.
13:54She couldn't have children herself.
13:55And now she's slandering Charles.
13:57The guests whispered among themselves.
13:59And many had already pulled out their phones to record.
14:01Charles' face turned dark with fury.
14:03Vivian stood frozen.
14:04Her face deathly pale.
14:05Her lips trembling slightly.
14:06What nonsense are you spouting?
14:08Charles stepped forward aggressively.
14:09His gaze so dark, it seemed he wanted to tear me apart.
14:12I let out a derisive laugh, reached into my bag, pulled out my phone, and played a recording.
14:16The clear voice instantly filled the entire wedding hall through the microphone.
14:19To Stella, after examination, your fertility is completely normal.
14:23And your ovarian function is excellent.
14:24But Mr. Charles' situation is not very optimist.
14:26What does that mean?
14:27His sperm motility is extremely low.
14:29Basically, there is virtually no chance of conception.
14:31His condition is quite severe.
14:32There is almost no possibility.
14:34Even with IVF, the success rate would be extremely low.
14:37I understand, Dr. Lewis.
14:38Please don't tell him about this yet.
14:40Don't tell anyone else either.
14:41Let this be between you, me, and God.
14:43Miss Stella, this kind of thing can't be hidden forever.
14:46When you can't conceive after marriage, it will naturally come to light.
14:49It's fine.
14:49I'll tell him and our parents that I don't want children, that I insist on being child-free.
14:56That way, no one will know the problem lies with Charles.
14:59The recording finished playing.
15:00A deathly silence fell.
15:02All eyes turned to Vivian and her two children.
15:06Suddenly, everyone's eyes turned simultaneously toward Vivian and the two children behind her.
15:11Her face had turned completely white, and her fingertips were trembling.
15:15Chloe and Connor fidgeted restlessly, trying to flee the hall.
15:18Oh my god, so all these years, Stella insisted on being child-free?
15:22To protect Charles' dignity?
15:24Because he's the one who's infertile?
15:26Then Vivian's children-
15:26It's fake!
15:27Vivian's lips moved slightly, her voice trembling violently.
15:29You must have had someone forge it!
15:31I gave a cold laugh, opened a second file, and a video immediately began playing on the projection screen.
15:35The footage showed a dimly lit hotel room, with a man and woman entangled on the bed.
15:39The woman's face was flushed, panting softly, her voice seductive and triumphant.
15:43Honey, I'm pregnant.
15:45The man's voice followed, carrying a hint of panic and resistance.
15:48No way.
15:48This child can't be mine, can it?
15:50Vivian chuckled softly, her voice alluring and cunning.
15:52Of course it's yours.
15:55But don't worry.
15:56Neither I nor the child need you to take responsibility.
16:01What do you mean?
16:02Charles doesn't have children yet.
16:04His wife insists on being child-free, and he's desperate.
16:07He's been begging me to bear his children.
16:09I'll just say the child is his.
16:12He'll definitely treasure me like a gem.
16:13The man was silent for a moment, then laughed softly.
16:16You really are something else.
16:17Vivian hooked her arm around his neck, whispering softly.
16:19We'll seize all the property and inheritance.
16:24Then we can enjoy our golden years in peace.
16:27As soon as she finished speaking, the man got excited and lunged down to entangle with the woman beneath him
16:31again.
16:32The video ended abruptly there.
16:34Everyone was stunned.
16:35A silence like death.
16:37Vivian completely collapsed onto the floor, her hands clutching her wedding gown tightly, her eyes filled with terror and despair.
16:42Charles' face had reached its most terrible expression.
16:45He clenched his fists, his body trembling slightly, veins bulging at his temples.
16:49He was clearly at the peak of rage.
16:51Vivian!
16:52He roared through gritted teeth.
16:57Vivian!
16:58He roared through gritted teeth, wishing he could tear her limb from limb.
17:00Vivian's body shook, her eyes instantly reddening as she desperately tried to explain.
17:05It's not!
17:06Charles, please listen to me!
17:08Explain?
17:09What is there left to explain?
17:11Charles kicked the chair aside, grabbed a champagne glass from the table, and smashed it on the ground.
17:15The sound of shattering glass exploded in the quiet wedding venue, sharp and piercing.
17:19You bitch!
17:20How dare you deceive me!
17:22I was your secret lover for thirty years, and you dare to cuckler me!
17:28Charles' eyes turned red, as if he had lost all reason.
17:31He rushed forward, wrapped Vivian's shoulders, and slapped her heart across the face.
17:35The crisp sound of the slap echoed throughout the entire hall.
17:38Vivian staggered backward, clutching her cheek, tears streaming from her eyes.
17:43And you dare to cry?
17:44You deceived me for thirty years!
17:47Cuckled me!
17:48And I've spent so much money on these bastards!
17:51Charles!
17:51Charles!
17:52Calm down!
17:52Someone rushed up to restrain Charles, but he had already gone completely mad.
17:55He shoved everyone aside and, like an enraged feast, overturned the dining table.
17:59Plates, wine glasses, and flowers scattered everywhere.
18:01The scene was utter chaos.
18:03Chloe and Connor stood to the side, their faces ashen, their bodies trembling, completely at a loss.
18:07The guests erupted in an uproar, pulling out their phones to capture photos and videos.
18:11My god, how did this wedding turn into this?
18:14So Vivian's two children aren't even Charles's?
18:16This is incredible!
18:18It's the drama of the year!
18:19The entire wedding had completely spiraled out of control.
18:22Eventually, with security's intervention, Charles was forcibly pulled away.
18:26Vivian was dragged out of the hotel in disgrace, while Chloe and Connor fled in terror.
18:30The wedding had become a complete joke.
18:32I stood among the crowd, still holding half a glass of champagne, quietly savoring everything.
18:36The wedding had become a complete joke, and I had finally waited for this day.
18:43Wedding videos were uploaded online and quickly shot to the top of trending topics.
18:47Topics like paternity truth revealed at wedding, ex-wife's calm counterattack against cheaters,
18:52and child-free husband cuckolded for 30 years exploded across the internet.
18:57Charles had become a complete pariah.
18:59Wherever he went, there were pointing fingers and mocking jeers.
19:02He valued his face above all else.
19:04His reputation was the most important thing in his life.
19:07Now, his dignity had been completely shattered,
19:10turning him into a laughingstock known across the entire country.
19:13And I, on the contrary, had become the object of everyone's sympathy.
19:17Stella is so pitiful.
19:19To protect her husband's dignity, she took the blame herself, and then was treated like this.
19:24She's the truly good woman.
19:26She endured for 30 years.
19:28And still showed the scumbag some dignity.
19:30Vivian is the truly ruthless one.
19:32She tricked Charles into raising bastards for 30 years, and almost swallowed his entire fortune.
19:38Public opinion had completely turned around.
19:40But none of this mattered to me anymore.
19:42What mattered more was how this farce would end.
19:44After the wedding, Charles locked himself in his former home and hadn't stepped outside for three full days.
19:49He smashed everything in the house.
19:51Coffee table, TV, faces.
19:53The place was a complete mess.
19:54But after the destruction, he sat alone on the sofa, staring blankly at a family portrait hanging on the wall.
20:00It was a photo of him, Vivian, Chloe, and Connor, the four of them.
20:04In the photo, he was smiling happily, as if he owned the whole world.
20:08Now looking at it again, he only felt the irony.
20:13He picked up the frame and smashed it onto the ground.
20:16Glass shattered.
20:17The photos splintered into pieces.
20:19Fake.
20:19It's all fake.
20:21He held his head, curled up on the floor, like a helpless child.
20:24He had lost everything, while I was just beginning my new life.
20:30After the wedding, my life returned to peace.
20:32No, it was calmer and freer than before.
20:34I started doing things I truly enjoyed.
20:36I went to several art exhibitions, attended concerts, and enrolled in a pottery class.
20:41My friends laughed at me.
20:44You're living more freely than young people now.
20:47I smiled without saying a word.
20:49Actually, they had forgotten that I should have been living this way when I was young.
20:53It's just that back then, I had poured all my energy into Charles and the family.
20:56Now I finally had the chance to live for myself.
20:58One day, my mother called, her voice carrying a hint of relief.
21:03Stella, you seem different lately.
21:05Different?
21:06Yes, more energetic than before.
21:09As if you've let go of something.
21:11I smiled softly.
21:12Yes, I had let go.
21:13I had let go of the self that endured grievances to protect a man's dignity.
21:16I had let go of the foolish notion that endurance would bring happiness.
21:19I had let go of the man named Charles.
21:20Mom, I've made up my mind.
21:22About what?
21:24I want to donate my eggs.
21:26There was a long silence on the other end of the line.
21:28Have you thought this through?
21:30I have.
21:31My voice was firm.
21:32Since the eggs are still there, rather than keeping them frozen forever, I might as well help people who want
21:38children but can't have them.
21:41You, always thinking of others.
21:43I smiled without denying it.
21:44Letting go of the past.
21:45Donating eggs to help others.
21:47My life is starting anew.
21:49Meanwhile, Charles' days grew more unbearable by the day.
21:52Vivian had been thrown out of the house, and Chloe and Connor no longer acknowledged him as their father.
21:57After all, everything in the video was crystal clear.
21:59They weren't Charles' children, but Vivian's illegitimate children with another man.
22:03They left with Vivian, not even glancing back at Charles.
22:06Let's go.
22:07He's not our father.
22:08Chloe said coldly.
22:10Charles sat alone in the empty house, suddenly feeling a loneliness unlike anything he'd ever experienced.
22:15He had once believed that having Vivian and two children meant he had a real family.
22:19But now he realized this family had never belonged to him.
22:22He himself had been deceived by Vivian for a full 30 years.
22:26He opened his phone and saw news about me.
22:28The headline Stella decides to donate eggs to help infertile families jumped out at him.
22:32He stared at the screen, his fingers trembling slightly.
22:35The woman who had borne his shame for 30 years to protect his dignity was now doing something even more
22:40meaningful.
22:40And what about him?
22:41He had nothing left.
22:43No family, no children, no dignity.
22:45He had lost everything.
22:46Charles put down his phone, leaned back on the sofa, and closed his eyes.
22:50Images from 30 years ago flooded his mind.
22:52Back then, we were still young, building our careers together, planning our future.
22:56Stella when we're old, let's travel the world, just the two of us, he had once said with a smile.
23:01Sure, it's a promise.
23:02I had agreed without hesitation, but he had broken that promise.
23:05It wasn't that I wasn't willing to grow old with him.
23:07It was that he chose betrayal first.
23:09A tear slid from the corner of Charles' eye.
23:11He regretted it, but there's no medicine for regret in this world.
23:17After hesitating for a long time, Charles finally dialed my number.
23:21The phone rang for a long time before I answered.
23:23Hello?
23:25Stella, it's me.
23:26I was silent for a few seconds, then spoke calmly.
23:29Is something the matter?
23:30I...
23:31I want to see you.
23:33I chuckled.
23:34Charles, do you think there's anything left to say between us?
23:37I know I was wrong.
23:39His voice was hoarse.
23:40Stella, I truly know I was wrong.
23:42I said nothing.
23:43I know you're doing well now, and I know you don't want to see me.
23:46But I still want to tell you I'm sorry, face to face.
23:50I repeat it, my tone indifferent.
23:52Charles, it's been 30 years.
23:54You're telling me sorry now?
23:56Don't you think it's a little too late?
23:58I know it's late, but...
23:59I cut him off.
24:00Charles, you chose betrayal, so you bear the consequences.
24:04That was your choice.
24:05There was a long silence on the other end.
24:07Stella, if we hadn't divorced, would you have forgiven me?
24:11I didn't answer, because I didn't know the answer myself.
24:14Or rather, this question no longer needed an answer.
24:17Charles, live your life well.
24:19Those were my final words before hanging up.
24:24Live your life well.
24:25This was the last thing I could give him.
24:30The egg donation process was more complicated than I had imagined.
24:33It required a series of physical examinations, psychological evaluations, and legal procedures.
24:38But I walked through each step with steadiness.
24:40The doctor told me my egg quality was excellent.
24:42Even after being frozen for so many years, their viability remained very high.
24:46Mrs. Stella, your eggs are extremely valuable.
24:49They can help many families realize their dreams.
24:52I smiled.
24:53Valuable.
24:54I had once thought these eggs were the fruit of my love with Charles.
24:57The hope for our future children.
24:58But now, they had become a gift to help strangers.
25:02Perhaps this was better.
25:03At least they would no longer be bound by Charles' name.
25:06After news of my egg donation spread, many people started paying attention to me.
25:10The media wanted to interview me, asking why I was doing this.
25:14I simply answered indifferently.
25:16Because I have the ability to help others.
25:19It's that simple.
25:20And what about you and Mr. Charles?
25:22Do you hate him?
25:23The reporter pressed.
25:24I thought for a moment and said,
25:25I don't hate him.
25:26But I don't love him either.
25:29He was part of my life, but that's in the past.
25:32The reporter seemed somewhat disappointed by my answer, but I didn't care.
25:35I didn't need others to define my emotions.
25:37After the egg donation, I decided to travel.
25:39The round-the-world trip I had planned with Charles, although I couldn't complete it with him,
25:43I could do it alone.
25:44My first stop was Paris.
25:46Standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, watching the sunset slowly descend.
25:49I felt a peace unlike anything I had ever experienced.
25:52This city had once been a dream destination for Charles and me.
25:55Now, I had come alone, but I didn't feel lonely.
25:57Instead, I felt that this was truly my own moment.
26:00Without Charles, without the constraints of that marriage, I could finally be my true self.
26:05During my days in Paris, I visited the Louvre,
26:07walked along the Seine, and tasted authentic French pastries.
26:10Every day was fulfilling and joyful.
26:12Traveling alone, freedom alone, I have finally become myself again.
26:16During my travels, I occasionally received news from back home.
26:19I heard that after being thrown out of the Chan household,
26:22Vivian's life hadn't been easy.
26:23She had once relied on Charles' money to live.
26:26Now, without a source of income, she could only make ends meet by doing odd jobs.
26:30Chloe and Connor no longer had anything to do with her either.
26:33After all, once the video was exposed, everyone knew the truth.
26:36They weren't Charles' children, but Vivian's illegitimate children with another man.
26:41This news was undoubtedly a devastating blow to Chloe and Connor.
26:44They had always believed they were of the Chan bloodline.
26:47Proud of it all these years.
26:48Only to discover they had no connection to the Chan family whatsoever.
26:53Chloe confronted Vivian.
26:54Mom, what exactly is going on?
26:57Don't believe those videos!
26:58They're all fake!
26:59Vivian was still trying to deny it.
27:00Mom, the video is crystal clear.
27:03You told someone else we were Charles' children and said you were going to swind his property!
27:07I was just...
27:09Enough!
27:10Chloe cut her off.
27:10I never want to hear your lies again.
27:12Chloe and Connor moved out of Vivian's house, found jobs, and started new lives.
27:16And Vivian curled up alone in a dilapidated rental apartment, crying day after day.
27:20Her former elegance and nobility had long since vanished.
27:23Mom, do you think Stella is feeling pretty pleased with herself right now?
27:27Chloe had once asked Vivian.
27:28Vivian didn't answer, because she knew I was no longer an enemy they needed to worry about.
27:35I was living too well, so well that they didn't even have the right to be jealous.
27:42After leaving Paris, I flew to Kyoto.
27:45This ancient city had a completely different charm from Paris.
27:48I strolled along the bamboo grove path in Arashima,
27:51listening to the rustling of bamboo leaves in the wind, feeling exceptionally peaceful.
27:55Here, there was no Charles, no Vivian, none of those troubling memories from the past.
28:01Only myself.
28:02I stayed at a traditional Japanese inn, rising early each morning to soak in the hot springs
28:06and savor exquisite kaiseki cuisine.
28:09The innkeeper was a kind middle-aged woman.
28:11Seeing me alone, she couldn't help asking,
28:13Ma'am, are you traveling alone?
28:16Yes.
28:18I answered with a smile.
28:20Doesn't traveling alone feel lonely?
28:22I thought for a moment and said.
28:25Sometimes, but more often it's a kind of freedom.
28:28The innkeeper nodded, showing an understanding smile.
28:31You're right.
28:32Freedom is more precious than anything.
28:34During my days in Kyoto, I also visited Kaya Mizudara and drew a fortune slip.
28:38The fortune read,
28:39Withered trees meet spring.
28:40Old matters become empty.
28:41The road ahead is bright.
28:43Freedom lies within the heart.
28:44I looked at the fortune and couldn't help but smile.
28:46Withered trees meet spring.
28:47Wasn't this exactly my current state?
28:49After 30 years of winter, I had finally welcomed my own spring.
28:52I carefully put away the fortune slip into my wallet.
28:55Old matters become empty.
28:56The road ahead is bright.
28:58These words, I would always keep in my heart.
29:00On the last night before leaving Kyoto,
29:02I sat in the inn's courtyard, gazing at the star-filled sky.
29:06My phone rang.
29:07It was an unfamiliar number.
29:08I hesitated for a moment but answered anyway.
29:10Hello?
29:11Stella, it's me.
29:13It was Charles' voice.
29:14He had come looking for me again.
29:21Charles, how did you get this number?
29:23I found.
29:23I asked your friend.
29:24His voice was hoarse.
29:25Stella, I want to see you.
29:27See me?
29:27I gave a cold laugh.
29:29Charles, what is there left for us to see?
29:31I know I was wrong.
29:32And I know you don't forgive me.
29:34But I really want to talk to you face to face.
29:36I was silent for a moment.
29:38Then finally sighed.
29:40Fine.
29:41I'm in Kyoto.
29:42Leaving tomorrow.
29:44I know, I'm already here.
29:45I was stunned.
29:46He was already here?
29:48Where are you?
29:48I asked.
29:49Downstairs at your inn.
29:50I walked to the window, pulled back the curtain,
29:51and sure enough, saw a familiar figure standing below.
29:54Charles was wearing a dark overcoat, carrying a suitcase.
29:56He looked much thinner and older than before.
29:58I hesitated, but eventually went downstairs to meet him.
30:01In the inn's tea room, we sat facing each other.
30:03Charles looked at me, his eyes complicated.
30:05Stella, you've changed.
30:07Have I?
30:08I picked up my teacup and took a sip.
30:10People always change.
30:11You would never have treated me like this before.
30:14His voice carried bitterness.
30:16The old you was always gentle and considerate, never willing to embarrass me.
30:20The old me was a fool.
30:22I put down my teacup, my tone calm.
30:24Charles, you betrayed me for 30 years, and now you come to me with this?
30:28Don't you find it ridiculous?
30:29Charles lowered his head, his hands tightly clasped.
30:32I know I don't deserve to ask for your forgiveness, but I truly regret it.
30:38I scoffed.
30:39Regret?
30:40Do you regret losing Vivian and the two children?
30:43Or do you regret being laughed at by the whole world?
30:47Charles' face turned pale.
30:49He opened his mouth but couldn't speak.
30:52Charles, you don't need to answer me.
30:53I stood up, looking down at him.
30:55Because your answer no longer matters to me.
30:59I turned to leave, but Charles suddenly stood up and grabbed my wrist.
31:02Stella, give me a chance.
31:05Let's start over, please.
31:07His voice was fleeting, his eyes full of desperation.
31:10I stopped and turned to look at him.
31:12This man I had once deeply loved now only felt like a stranger to me.
31:15Charles.
31:16I gently freed my hand from his, my tone calm yet firm.
31:20Some roads, once traveled, can never be retraced.
31:24We can!
31:25He said urgently.
31:26I know you hate me, but I can change.
31:27I can make it up to you.
31:28I can-
31:29You can't.
31:30I cut him off.
31:32Charles, you can't make it up.
31:3330 years of betrayal cannot be erased by a single sorry.
31:37His eyes reddened, his voice trembling.
31:39Stella, do you really not love me anymore?
31:41I looked at him, not a single ripple in my heart.
31:44Love?
31:44I shook my head gently.
31:45Charles, I loved the you from 30 years ago, not the you of today.
31:49That you is already dead.
31:51Charles' body swayed as if he had been struck hard.
31:53He released my hand, stepped back, looking as if he had aged 10 years in an instant.
31:58I understand.
31:59His voice was hoarse and low.
32:00Stella, I wish you happiness.
32:03I didn't answer, just nodded faintly, then turned and left.
32:06The moment I walked out of the tea room, I let out a long breath.
32:1030 years of entanglement had finally come to a close.
32:12I didn't look back, because I knew there were even more beautiful sights ahead waiting for me.
32:16I returned to my room, packed my luggage, and prepared for my next destination.
32:20My phone rang with a message from a friend.
32:23Stella, Charles came looking for you again.
32:26Don't pay him any attention.
32:27He's just a scumbag.
32:28I smiled and replied.
32:30Don't worry.
32:31I've already let go.
32:33Letting go is not forgiving, but no longer being bound by the past.
32:36I dragged my suitcase, walked out of the inn, and strode forward into the morning sunlight.
32:41A new journey had begun.
32:43My brand new life.
32:48After leaving Kyoto, I went to many more places.
32:51Rome, Barcelona, Sydney, New York.
32:54Every city left its mark with my footsteps.
32:56I learned to eat alone, watch movies alone, go shopping alone.
33:00Things I once thought required two people to do.
33:03It turned out I could do perfectly well alone.
33:05One afternoon in Paris, I sat at a cafe by the Seine, watching the passing crowds.
33:10Suddenly, a little girl ran over, looking at me with big wide eyes.
33:16Ma'am, you're so pretty.
33:18She said in her childish voice.
33:19I was taken aback, then smiled.
33:23Thank you, little one.
33:24Her mother walked over and apologized with a smile.
33:27I'm sorry.
33:28My daughter is too playfee.
33:29It's fine.
33:30She's adorable.
33:31The little girl held her mother's hand, looked back at me, and suddenly shouted,
33:34Mommy, that lady has stars in her eyes!
33:37I was stunned.
33:39Stars?
33:40I subconsciously touched my own face.
33:42Perhaps I really had changed.
33:44No longer the woman who endured grievances to protect her husband's dignity.
33:48No longer the fool who took the blame for someone else's betrayal.
33:51The current me had light in my eyes and dreams in my heart.
33:54This was probably what people called rebirth.
33:57Light in my eyes, dreams in my heart.
33:59This is my rebirth.
34:01After the trip, I returned home.
34:03There was new progress on the egg donation.
34:05The hospital told me my eggs had successfully helped three infertile couples conceive.
34:08Mrs. Stella, you are truly remarkable.
34:11The doctor said gratefully.
34:13I smiled.
34:14It's nothing remarkable.
34:15Just doing what I should.
34:17Actually, donating eggs wasn't just about helping others.
34:21It was also about making peace with my own regrets.
34:23Although I never had my own children, my eggs could help others realize their dream of becoming
34:28parents.
34:29This was probably the best possible ending.
34:31One day, I received a letter.
34:32It was from a mother who had received my eggs.
34:35Dear Ms. Stella, I don't know what words to use to express my gratitude.
34:39My husband and I have been married for 15 years and have never had children.
34:44We tried every method without success.
34:46Just when we were about to give up, we received news from the hospital that someone was willing
34:51to donate eggs.
34:53That person was you.
34:54Now, I am pregnant and the doctor says the baby is very healthy.
34:58I don't know how to thank you.
35:00I just want to tell you that you have given our family new hope.
35:03Thank you, Ms. Stella.
35:04You are the great benefactor of our entire family.
35:08After reading the letter, my eyes welled up with tears.
35:11It turned out that helping others truly could bring happiness to oneself.
35:14I carefully put the letter away in a drawer.
35:17This touching moment, I would forever treasure in my heart.
35:20Helping others is also healing oneself.
35:25After returning home, I started reconnecting with old friends.
35:28Because of the whole situation with Charles, I had grown distant from many people.
35:32Now, I wanted to pick up those relationships again.
35:35The first person I reached out to was my best friend, Linda.
35:37When she saw me, she was so excited she almost cried.
35:41Stella!
35:42You're finally back!
35:44I thought you'd never speak to me again!
35:47How could that be?
35:48I laughed and hugged her.
35:50I just went traveling for a while to clear my head.
35:54So how are you now?
35:56Has Charles caused you any more trouble?
35:59No, it's completely over between us.
36:01Linda breathed a sigh of relief.
36:04That's good.
36:05Stella, you deserve someone better.
36:07Someone better?
36:08I smiled.
36:10Linda, I don't need anyone else to define my worth right now.
36:14I am enough.
36:15Linda looked at me, surprise flashing in her eyes.
36:18Then relief.
36:19Stella, you really have changed.
36:21Become better, stronger.
36:22Have I?
36:23Maybe.
36:24I picked up my coffee.
36:24After going through so much, you've got to learn something.
36:27So what are your plans next?
36:28Keep living, of course.
36:29I smiled.
36:30Work, travel, do what I love.
36:32What about love?
36:33Linda winked.
36:34Not considering finding someone new?
36:37I shook my head.
36:38Not for now.
36:40At this point in my life, I just want to love myself well.
36:44Linda laughed.
36:46Well said.
36:47Cheers to our new era.
36:49We clinked cups, the aroma of coffee filling the air.
36:52In this moment, I felt warmth.
36:54Not because of romance, but because of friendship.
36:57Not because of dependence, but because of independence.
37:00I finally understood that true happiness doesn't come from others, but from oneself.
37:05After returning home, I didn't stay idle.
37:08I started replanning my career.
37:10In my youth, I had given up many opportunities for Charles.
37:13Now, I would pick them up one by one.
37:15I open a small floral design studio.
37:17This was a dream I had in my youth that I never got to realize.
37:20Now, I finally had the chance to make it a reality.
37:23The studio wasn't big, but it was decorated warmly.
37:25Every morning, I would go to the flower market to select the freshest blooms.
37:29Then, back at the studio, I would trim stems, match colors, and create beautiful bouquets.
37:35When customers came, I would recommend the most suitable flowers based on their needs.
37:39Your mom will definitely love this bouquet.
37:42These roses for your girlfriend?
37:44Guaranteed to make her feel your love.
37:45Watching the satisfied smiles of my customers, my heart filled with a sense of accomplishment.
37:50One day, a special customer walked into the studio.
37:53Come on in.
37:53A young woman.
37:54Holding a baby in her arms.
37:55Hello.
37:56She said with a smile.
37:57I'd like to order a bouquet.
37:58Certainly.
37:59Who is it for?
38:02For myself.
38:04Her eyes sparkled.
38:05I just had a baby and want to treat myself.
38:08I was taken aback, then smiled.
38:11Congratulations.
38:11That's the best gift of all.
38:13I carefully arranged a bouquet of pink carnations and white baby's breath for her.
38:17She held the flowers, held her baby, smiling so happily.
38:21In that moment, I suddenly felt that my choice had been the right one.
38:24Although I didn't have a child of my own, I could bring happiness to others in other
38:29ways.
38:29This was probably the meaning of life.
38:31Bringing happiness to others is also the meaning of life.
38:34Time flies.
38:35In the blink of an eye, three years had passed.
38:38My floral studio had grown bigger and bigger, now with three branch locations.
38:42My name had also started to gain recognition in the industry.
38:45Many people didn't know what storms this elegant and composed florist had once weathered.
38:49And I no longer spoke of them, because all of that was in the past.
38:53The present me only wanted to look forward.
38:55One day, I received a postcard from Alaska.
38:59No signature, just one sentence.
39:01May the rest of your life be happy.
39:02I knew who sent it, but I didn't write back.
39:05Some goodbyes don't need a response.
39:07I slipped the postcard into that fortune slip.
39:10Withered trees meet spring.
39:12Old matters become empty.
39:13The road ahead is bright.
39:15Freedom lies within the heart.
39:16These words, I had always kept in my heart.
39:20Charles, Vivian, Chloe, Connor, they had all become passers-by in my life.
39:24And I had finally become the protagonist of my own story.
39:27The sun was setting.
39:28I sat by the studio window, watching the passing crowds outside.
39:32Holding a cup of hot tea, my heart felt a peace unlike anything before.
39:36My phone rang.
39:37It was a message from the hospital.
39:39Miss Stella, your donated eggs have successfully helped a fifth couple welcome their baby.
39:44Thank you for your great love.
39:45I smiled.
39:46My eyes were a bit moist, but my heart was full of happiness.
39:50Perhaps this was the best possible ending.
39:52I didn't have children, but I had helped many people realize their dreams.
39:55I didn't have romance, but I had true freedom.
39:58I didn't have a family, but I had created a world of my own.
40:01In this world, there were flowers, sunshine, laughter, and hope.
40:05That was enough.
40:06I raised my teacup and took a gentle sip.
40:08Outside the window, the afterglow of the sunset spilled across my face, warm and gentle.
40:13My life has only just begun.
40:14My life has only just begun.
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