- 15 hours ago
Full Episode of The Birthday Funeral: My Hero Dad Left Me to Die
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:04My dad used to be my superhero.
00:06He was a firefighter, rushing into burning buildings, saving lives.
00:11Until that day, my hero killed me with his hands.
00:14The downtown building collapsed.
00:15It was pitch black, like I was trapped in an iron barrel.
00:18The air was thick, dust and blood everywhere.
00:20A huge concrete slab was crushing my chest.
00:22It hurt so much.
00:23Every breath felt like swallowing broken glass.
00:25Mom shielded me with her body.
00:26Her arms were torn open by rebar, but she kept digging through the rubble.
00:29Just when I thought I couldn't hold on any longer, a blinding light cut through the darkness.
00:32It was Dad.
00:33He was wearing that firefighter uniform I admired so much, charging like a superhero.
00:37I thought I was saved.
00:38Dad, it hurts.
00:39Please help me.
00:40I weakly reached out to him.
00:42Liam, save Mia!
00:43She is bleeding!
00:44But Dad only paused for a second.
00:45He followed another crying voice, turned without hesitation, and walked towards the corner.
00:49There she was, Aria, the daughter of his first love, Serena.
00:51She only had a few scratches, but hugging her knees and pretending to cry loudly.
00:55Chloe, listen to me.
00:56Serena and her daughter are in an extremely critical situation.
00:59I have to go to them now.
01:01What are you saying?
01:02What about our daughter?
01:03Can't you save your own daughter first?
01:04Dad frowned.
01:05He forcefully pried open Mom's blood-soaked fingers.
01:08Chloe, don't be difficult right now.
01:10My duty is to prioritize the people in the most danger.
01:12Mia, hang in there.
01:14Daddy will get them out first.
01:15Then I will come right back for you.
01:16I watch him walk against the light, holding someone else's daughter tightly in his arms,
01:21striding out of the rubble.
01:22I don't cry, because Dad is a hero.
01:23Heroes always save the weakest first, right?
01:26Dad taught me to be strong.
01:27Mom, don't cry.
01:28It doesn't hurt anymore.
01:29The concrete slab crushed my chest completely.
01:35Mom's screams tore through my ears, but I couldn't hear them clearly anymore.
01:39My body grew lighter.
01:41I floated up into the air and turned into a transparent ghost.
01:44I look down at my own crushed, unrecognizable body.
01:47Then I look at Dad walking away.
01:49I watch him walking against the light, hold someone else's daughter against his chest.
01:52He walked so fast, too fast to hear Mom's cries for help.
01:57Dad, the girl in your arms is smiling so happily.
02:02But you don't know, your own daughter, the one who waited for you every night to come home
02:06and tell her bedtime stories, died forever today.
02:14After becoming a ghost, I follow Mom, who looks like a walking corpse, all the way to the hospital.
02:18Under the harsh fluorescent lights, two metal paddles keep shocking my body.
02:21It must hurt, because Mom kept crying, but I couldn't feel the pain anymore
02:24until the cold machine screamed into a flat line.
02:27The doctor shook his head helplessly.
02:28He draped a white sheet over my dust-covered face.
02:30Mom collapsed onto the cold tiles of the emergency room.
02:33She cried so hard that she couldn't make a sound.
02:34But where was Dad?
02:35Dad, I float through the long hospital corridors, searching for him, through the half-open morgue.
02:41Finally, I found him, in the most luxurious VIP room at the end of the hallway.
02:44I see Aria lying on a soft hospital bed.
02:46Then, next to her was a giant pink gift box, the limited-edition Barbie doll I had dreamed of.
02:50I begged Dad for an entire month.
02:52You know what he said?
02:53Too expensive.
02:54Little kids shouldn't be so vain.
02:57But now, he buys it for someone else's daughter, even without looking at the price tag.
03:01Liam, the VIP room is too expensive.
03:03If Chloe finds out you used her card, she'll be angry.
03:06Dad gently strokes her hair.
03:07His voice was softer than I had ever heard.
03:08It is fine.
03:09A good environment will help Aria recover.
03:11Chloe has lots of money, and she will not mind.
03:13Float up to the ceiling, I shouted in protest.
03:15That is Mom's money!
03:16But he couldn't hear me.
03:17His phone screen lit up.
03:18Dad glances it, then turns it off.
03:20Right at moment, Mom is standing outside the slightly open door, like a wandering ghost.
03:25The once-pure white dress is now stained dark red.
03:28With my blood, her body is covered in dirt and wounds.
03:30She just stares at the scene inside the room.
03:32Liam and Serena's family are like a real happy family.
03:35They are laughing and enjoying themselves.
03:36The cold wind in the roadway blew through Mom's hair.
03:39She is holding her phone, which is still ringing.
03:42The last glim of light in her eyes goes out completely.
03:46Mom pushes open the hospital room door.
03:49Covered in dust and blood, she looks like something dragged back from hell, shattering the warmth of the room.
03:53Dad sees Mom.
03:54He pulls away from Serena like he'd been electrocuted.
03:57Chloe?
03:58Why do you look like this?
03:59What are you doing here?
03:59So this is what you have been so busy doing, can't even answer the phone?
04:02I could see her injured leg was still limping.
04:05I wanted to float over to Dad, tell him Mom was in pain, tell him I was already dead.
04:09But instead, Dad instinctively stepped in front of Serena's bed, as if Mom was some crazy woman who might hurt
04:15them.
04:15Chloe, can you be reasonable for once?
04:16Serena's a single mother.
04:17She almost fainted from stride earlier.
04:18I'm just here helping to comfort area.
04:20Helping?
04:20Helping?
04:21Liam, when you were saving them, did you think of Mia for even one second?
04:24Do you know whose blood this is?
04:26Chloe, enough.
04:26My job is to save the people in the most danger.
04:28You and Mia are fine now, aren't you?
04:30What's the big deal about a few minor injuries?
04:32You have to make it in the hospital?
04:33Fine?
04:33I float in midair, tears dripping down.
04:36Daddy, can't you see the blood on Mommy's clothes?
04:38That is my blood.
04:39Your own daughter is already covered with a white sheet.
04:42Liam, don't blame Chloe.
04:43It's all my fault.
04:44It's okay.
04:45This isn't your fault.
04:46Don't worry.
04:47I'll handle it.
04:47When Dad looks back at Mom, his eyes had turned ice cold.
04:50Go back to Mia.
04:50Take care of her.
04:51I will be home late.
04:51Mom looks at Dad's shameless face.
04:53Suddenly, she stops trembling, her eyes shifting from disappointment to calm.
04:56You'll never see Mia again.
04:59Mom walks away in disappointment.
05:00Dad shouts ridiculous a few times behind her back, but he doesn't chase after her at
05:03all, because Aria on the hospital bed calls out weekly.
05:05Uncle Liam, don't go.
05:07I'm scared.
05:08He immediately turns around, hurried back to her hospital bedside looking utterly anxious,
05:12and gently took her hand.
05:13No.
05:13I'm not leaving.
05:14Sleep peacefully.
05:15I don't follow Mom.
05:16I stay in the hospital room, floating quietly beside Dad.
05:18Late at night, the VIP room is so quiet you could only hear the humidizer.
05:21Aunt Serena and Aria are both asleep.
05:22Dad sits in the companion chair, rubbing his reddened eyes.
05:24He looks so, so tired.
05:25Daddy's just too busy.
05:26He's a big hero.
05:28Heroes never have time for their own families.
05:30I am still secretly making excuses for him in my heart.
05:32He didn't not love me.
05:33He just didn't hear my cries for help.
05:35Once he was done with his work, he would definitely come home and tell me a bedtime story,
05:38right?
05:38I float down and walk in front of him.
05:40Daddy, I'm not angry at you anymore.
05:41It was so dark and cold under the rubble.
05:43Hold me, please.
05:44I stand on my tiptoes, reach out my transparent little hand.
05:48I want to touch his fore-rowed brow, just like when he used to tuck me in.
05:53However, my fingertips pass through his body, like a wisp of wind, without any resistance.
05:58I froze.
05:59Unwilling to give up, I try again.
06:01My entire arm went through his chest.
06:03I couldn't touch him anymore.
06:05Just then, Dad leans down.
06:08He gently tucks Aria's blanket,
06:09and plants a tender goodnight kiss on her forehead.
06:12Watching that kiss, my transparent body felt as if it has been crushed all over again.
06:15So this is it, the dead cannot hug the living.
06:17And I finally understood, in this world, I am already a ghost with no place to belong.
06:22The next day, the sun is shining brightly.
06:24Dad goes for a walk in the park across to the hospital with Serena and Aria.
06:27The three of chicks each other on the lawn.
06:29Their laughter echoes through the air, just like a real family.
06:32Once upon a time, my parents and I were that happy too.
06:35The harsh sunlight pierces through my soul.
06:38I feel inexplicably cold.
06:39Not far away, I see Mom sitting on a park bench.
06:43My baby Mia!
06:45Aunt Chloe!
06:46Aria waves brightly at Mom.
06:50Chloe?
06:50What's wrong with you?
06:52Where's Mia?
06:53Why didn't you bring her to the park?
06:55She's not coming.
06:57You didn't forget you promised to spend her birthday with her tomorrow, did you?
07:00Of course I didn't.
07:01I've already got her gift.
07:02I'll be there, on time.
07:03You'd better remember.
07:05I see Mom cry again.
07:08Aria!
07:12I'm totally fine, actually.
07:16It was all an act.
07:18I just didn't want Uncle Liam going to save Mia.
07:20So I clung to his leg and wouldn't let go.
07:33She's dead for sure by now, right?
07:36I float in mid-air and cover my mouth in horror.
07:39Uncle Liam!
07:40Hey, kiddo.
07:41I just gave Aunt Kama a lollipop.
07:43I hope she won't be angry anymore.
07:44Dad smiles proudly and pat Aria's head.
07:46He praises her for such a kind, haute of a haissa.
07:48Tomorrow morning, 10 o'clock.
07:51The downtown church.
07:52Don't be late.
07:53Sewing this, Mama turns around and sewed away.
07:56Okay.
07:56He has no idea at all.
07:59Tomorrow's party wouldn't have a birthday cake.
08:02Or birthday candles.
08:04Only a cold coffin.
08:05My coffin.
08:08The party is held as scheduled.
08:10No colorful balloons.
08:11No sweet strawberry cake.
08:12Only a cold, solemn church.
08:14In the center of the church, a small, white, wooden box.
08:17That is my new bed.
08:18My body lies quietly inside,
08:20wearing the most beautiful princess dress Mom had ever bought for me,
08:22surrounded by white flowers.
08:24Mom walks up to the coffin, hands trembling.
08:26She places my favorite fairy tale book beside me.
08:28Mia, I am sorry.
08:30I never got to finish those stories for you.
08:33Didn't you say you wanted to see the ocean?
08:35I just wanted to watch you grow up safe and happy.
08:38She leans against the edge of the coffin.
08:40Tears fell heavily onto my face.
08:42Mom, don't cry.
08:43I float beside her, desperately trying to wipe away her tears.
08:46But my hands only pass through her cheeks.
08:50It is already 9.50.
08:52Her father still is not here?
08:53I heard that man is at the hospital with his mistress' child.
08:56He won't even come to his own daughter's funeral.
09:00Chloe, maybe Liam is just stuck in traffic.
09:03Give him a call.
09:06Traffic jam?
09:07He completely forgot.
09:08I should have realized sooner.
09:09He never loved me.
09:11And he never loved Mia.
09:13Don't act impulsively.
09:14Liam is still Mia's father.
09:17I will give him one last chance.
09:18At Uncle Mason's pleading, Mom still dialed the number.
09:21The dialing screen shows calling for a long time.
09:24I pray devoutly.
09:25Dad, please, this is your last chance to see me.
09:29The call connects.
09:30I excitedly lean closer.
09:31I float in the air, hearing the chaotic background noise of a hospital from the phone.
09:34Chloe, I might be a little late.
09:35Dad's voice sounds so matter-of-fact, even with a hint of aneriation at being interrupted.
09:39I told you, be here sharp at 10.
09:41Is Mia throwing a tantrum again?
09:43Calm her down first.
09:44Aria had some issues during her examination.
09:46I need to stay and handle it.
09:49Me, throwing a tantrum, again?
09:51I'm already a corpse, Daddy.
09:52How can I throw a tantrum?
09:54I instinctively look at Mom in for help.
09:56I see her close her eyes in utter disappointment and hang up the phone directly.
09:59The funeral will start on time.
10:01I won't wait for him anymore.
10:02I couldn't accept it.
10:04I want to see Dad.
10:05I want Dad to touch my cheek one last time.
10:08Driven by a strong desire, my soul followed the phone signal and traveled to Dad's side.
10:15Inside the VIP room, Aria is smugly winking at Aunt Serena.
10:18Then suddenly, she burst into loud sobs, grabbing Dad's shirt tightly.
10:21I don't want Uncle Liam to go!
10:23I've never had a birthday!
10:24Mommy is always busy!
10:26No one stays with-
10:27Liam, you can go to celebrate Mia's birthday.
10:30Don't worry about us.
10:32A widow and her child.
10:33Liam holds Aria's hand, comforting her gently.
10:36No, no.
10:37I won't abandon you.
10:38It's fine.
10:39I'll stay a little longer, leaving until Aria falls asleep.
10:43Serena smiles with relief.
10:44How piercing that smile was.
10:46Just as Dad is holding Aria's hand, smiling with such affection, his phone on the nightband lights up.
10:50A breaking news alert from a local news outlet.
10:52Dad glances at it casually and was about to swipe it away.
10:54This is the moment it touched the screen, as if electrocuted.
10:56Headline read, downtown collapse, latest victim list confirmed, includes five-year-old girl.
11:00The photo attached to the news showed a bloodstained dress, hanging from the edge of a white sheet.
11:04The dress he bought for me just last week.
11:06Liam's eyes locked onto that familiar hem.
11:08His throat bow bobs painly, and his face turns deathly pale in an instant.
11:13Uncle Liam?
11:15What's wrong with you?
11:18Mia!
11:25Uncle Liam?
11:26What's wrong?
11:27Aria shakes his hand.
11:28Dad's body begins to tremble violently.
11:29He stares at the photo.
11:30Eyes instantly turn red.
11:32Then, his lips jiver as he tries to click on the link.
11:34I float down, hovering above his finger.
11:35Click it, Dad, if you just click it, you'll see my name.
11:37Then you could know I've already turned into a cold, lifeless body.
11:40But just as his fingertip is about to touch the screen, Serena glances at the headline from the corner of
11:44her eye.
11:44Her expression shifts slightly.
11:45Then she suddenly waves her hand.
11:46A cup of boiling hot water is deliberately knocked over, all over Dad's pant leg.
11:50Oops!
11:50I'm so sorry, Liam!
11:51My hand slipped!
11:52Dad jumps up from the burn, and the phone fell onto the hospital bed.
11:55Serena reacts swiftly, snatching the phone and pressing the lock button at once.
11:58The screen become black instantly.
11:59Liam shoves Serena away in terror, his voice trembling.
12:03Wait, Serena.
12:04That news just now.
12:05That dress.
12:06Mia was wearing that same dress when she left today.
12:14Liam, you're too tired and overthinking things.
12:17That kind of fast fashion floral dress is sold everywhere.
12:20Thousands of little girls wear them.
12:21Liam shakes his head, panic filling his eyes.
12:23But what if-
12:24There's no what if.
12:24Serena stares into his eyes.
12:26Think about it.
12:26If something really had happened to Mia, would Chloe be so calm calling you?
12:29Would she tell you to show up at 10 o'clock for Mia's birthday party?
12:31The bloodshot red in his eyes, gradually fading.
12:34Liam gasps for breath.
12:36You're right.
12:37You're right.
12:38Chloe said she was throwing a tantrum.
12:40Dead people don't throw tantrums.
12:41The hospital room is warm, but I feel so cold.
12:44Maybe because I am too far from Mom.
12:45I watch Dad carefully tuck Aria's blanket, promising to stay with her for another 10 minutes.
12:49Suddenly, I don't want to wait for him anymore.
12:51I pass through the pure white walls of the ward.
12:53I'm going back.
12:56I return to Mom's side.
12:57The ceremony is coming to an end, with the church bells rang.
12:59Sad hymns echo through the empty hall.
13:01Two staff members in black suits exchange grave glances, and walk toward my body.
13:04They lift the pure white coffin lid, one on each side.
13:06They are about to seal me away in the darkness forever.
13:08Watching that slowly descending wooden bird, I suddenly feel so afraid.
13:10I still remember the night of my fifth birthday.
13:12The power went out, and the room was as dark as a monster's gaping mouth.
13:14I hid in the closet, crying in fear.
13:16It was Dad, holding a flashlight, who rushed in like a knight and pulled me tightly into his arms.
13:20At that time, he stroked my head, gently promised her.
13:22Don't be afraid, Mia. Whenever you're in trouble, Dad will appear like a superhero to protect you.
13:26Dad, it's so dark and cold here.
13:28Where is your superhero cape? Did you forget about me?
13:31No! Please, don't!
13:33Mom rushes forward, and holds onto the edge of the coffin desperately.
13:36I'm not ready to say goodbye to her yet! Please don't do this!
13:38Mom wails in despair. Her cries make everyone in the room tear up.
13:40The staff members look troubled, trying to pull her away, but she fights them off wildly.
13:44Stop! No! My Mia's afraid of the dark!
13:46Uncle Mason steps forward in tears, holding the struggling Chloe tightly from behind.
13:49Chloe, let go, and give her peace.
13:50Mom collapses lightly into Uncle Mason's arms, in tears.
13:53I float above the coffin, watching the lid closed inch by inch in despair.
13:56Dad, if you don't come soon, I'll really be locked away forever in this dark box!
14:03Just as the longest nail is about to be hammered in,
14:06sunlight mixed with cold wind pouring in.
14:08The crying in the hall stops abruptly.
14:09Everyone turns to look at the entrance.
14:11I float in mid-air, feeling as if my dead heart could beat again.
14:13The figure standing against the light at the door?
14:15Could it be... Dad?
14:18The gate swings fully open, revealing nothing but emptiness inside.
14:21Just a strong gust of wind.
14:23My coffin is sealed shut for good.
14:24In the hospital room, Dad, who is watching Aria fall asleep so gently,
14:27suddenly clutches his chest in agony.
14:28A sharp, intense pain makes it almost impossible for him to sit still.
14:31Cold sweat pours down his forehead.
14:32Liam, are you okay?
14:33I don't know, but it hurts so much here.
14:36Dad, it hurts, doesn't it?
14:38That's the same pain I felt when you left me under the rubble.
14:40Dad finally panics, and forces himself to stand up.
14:43I have to go.
14:45Mia's birthday is today.
14:46I'll come back to see you tomorrow.
14:47He grabs the pink Barbie doll gift box and stumbles out of the hospital room.
14:51Back at the church, the staff member raises the cold hammer.
14:53Mom clings to the edge of my coffin, crying hysterically.
14:55Meanwhile, on the sunlit street, Dad slams the gas pedal to the floor.
14:58He looks at the pink gift box on the passenger seat.
15:00Guilting his eyes slowly turns into anticipation.
15:02Mia, Daddy is almost there.
15:03Are you ready?
15:04But Dad, that Barbie doll in your hand is never bought for me.
15:06In the church, the first long nail is mercilessly hammered into the wood.
15:09Dad hums softly as he turns the steering wheel.
15:11A look of anticipation on his face.
15:12The second heavy blow, the second nail fell.
15:14Mom lies across my coffin, crying in despair, calling my name over and over again.
15:17Outside the church doors, Dad runs up the steps, out of breath, holding the pink gift box.
15:20The third blow, my coffin is sealed shut for good.
15:22Mom has completely lost her strength.
15:24She collapses on the ground, letting my coffin be carried away.
15:26Outside the church doors, Dad takes a deep breath.
15:27Wearing a smile, he pushes open the heavy wooden doors with both hands.
15:30Mia, Daddy's here.
15:39Mia!
15:44No colorful balloons, no happy birthday song.
15:46The church is filled with guests in black, white candles flicker gently.
15:50A scene of solemn peace.
15:51In the center of the church, my black and white portrait is surrounded by pure white lilies.
15:56Dad pleases in place.
15:58His pupils dilate violently.
16:00No!
16:00This isn't possible, it can't be!
16:02He starts frantically weaving through the church pews, searching and rummaging.
16:06Not behind the curtains.
16:07Not under the tables.
16:10Not in the crowd.
16:12Mia!
16:13Mia, come out!
16:14Stop hiding from Daddy!
16:15Daddy bought you that doll you wanted so much!
16:18No one answers.
16:19Mom stands on the platform, calmly watching this absurd scene.
16:22The guests leave with sighs.
16:23As they go, they mutter with indignation.
16:26What a pathetic excuse for a father.
16:27Dad shoves aside the heavy pools roughly.
16:29He stumbles rushily to my portrait.
16:32His hands tremble as he reaches out to touch my bright, smiling face in the photo.
16:35His eyes are bloodshot, staring at Mom like a mad beast.
16:37What the hell is going on?
16:38What did you do to Mia?
16:39Mom slowly raises her head.
16:40All that is left in her eyes is the calm of dead ash.
16:42You are late, Liam.
16:45You are playing a prank on me with Mia, are you not?
16:47Fine.
16:48I give up.
16:48Just tell me where Mia is!
16:50Mom yanks its dad his hand mercilessly.
16:52She speaks word by word, in the coldest voice, delivering the final verdict.
16:56You will never see her again.
17:02My soul floats in mid-air, watching Dad fall into complete despair.
17:05That superhero, who once stood tall like a mountain, now kneels before my coffin, sobbing
17:10like a pile of mud.
17:11I reach out to wipe his tears.
17:14But suddenly I realize, I don't feel sorry for him anymore.
17:19After my funeral, Dad becomes like an empty shell drained of his soul.
17:22He locks himself inside the house that once belonged to our little family, drinks himself
17:26into a stupor every day.
17:27I have never seen Dad so broken.
17:29I used to think heroes were invincible.
17:32But the bloody truth tells me.
17:34Heroes make mistakes too.
17:35They choose the wrong people too.
17:38I almost forgive Dad.
17:40But I soon regret my generosity.
17:42Because Aunt Serena moves in, with Arya, brazenly and openly.
17:46Liam, that earthquake destroyed everything.
17:48We are homeless now.
17:49If you don't take us in, Arya will die.
17:52Serena's eyes glister with tears, clings to Dad's arm.
17:54Dad looks at her.
17:56Then at Arya, who puts on her pitiful act.
17:59But he even gives in.
18:01He gives the door code to the woman who indirectly caused my death.
18:04I float on the chandelier in the living room, watching Serena and her daughter make themselves
18:09at home.
18:09The moment Dad turns and walks into the kitchen, Serena's fragile mask tears apart instantly.
18:13She looks at my photo on the wall, and her eyes are full of disgust.
18:16Get rid of all this dead person's stuff.
18:18It's bad luck just looking at it.
18:19She orders Arya around.
18:20My photo frames, my paintbrushes, and even my favorite stuffed brunny.
18:24All swept into black garbage bags.
18:29I cry and try to stop them, but it is useless.
18:32My transparent hands pass through the disfarted items, over and over again.
18:37Little hands wave in the air desperately.
18:39Maybe God hears my crying.
18:40A gust of wind blows, and a flower pot on the window shell crashes to the floor.
18:43Dad hears the noise and comes out.
18:46Serena, what are you doing?
18:48Serena, what are you doing?
18:50Serena's face instantly puts a wounded expression.
18:54Liam, I just don't want you to feel sad.
18:57Every time you see these things...
18:58Arya chimes in too.
19:00Uncle Liam, Mom is just trying to help you move on.
19:02You're not mad at her, are you?
19:04Dad looks at Arya and opens his mouth.
19:06However, he can't even get a single word of blame out.
19:08Sorry, it's my fault.
19:10I shouldn't take this out on you, you're innocent.
19:12Arya smiles brightly.
19:13Uncle Liam, can I be your daughter too?
19:15I've always dreamed of having a hero dad like you.
19:17Thank you, Arya.
19:18You're so thoughtful.
19:18I float in the air, and keep screaming.
19:20No, Dad only has one daughter, me!
19:23But they can't hear my heart breaking.
19:24I watch Dad hug Serena and Arya.
19:26In that moment, my heart dies completely.
19:28That afternoon, Mom comes back to this house.
19:30With her back is Uncle Ryan, the bodyguard.
19:32Die red light flashes.
19:33Wrong password.
19:34Mom freezes in place.
19:35This place used to be my warmest home, but now it won't even let her through the front door.
19:38Uncle Ryan kicks the door open.
19:40Mom rushes into the living room, but her footsteps freeze the moment she sees the house.
19:45Empty.
19:46Completely empty.
19:47The shelves that once held my photos, bare.
19:49The drawings I made on the walls, cruelly covered up by landscape paintings.
19:53Where are Mia's photos?
19:54Where did they all go?
19:55Mom's voice is angry and trembling.
20:00I don't know.
20:01Maybe the cleaners packed them away.
20:03Her eyes are full, venomous provocation.
20:06I know where they went!
20:07Mom says keeping dead people's things brings bad luck, so we threw all the dead person's
20:11stuff into the trash!
20:14The room falls into dead silence.
20:16I float in mid-air, seeing Mom's body tremble like a leaf in the wind.
20:19She slowly turns her head.
20:20Her eyes are bloodshot, as if they might drip blood.
20:22You threw away the last traces of Mia in this world?
20:29Mom lunges at Serena like a mad lioness.
20:32She grabs the woman's red hair and slams her onto the hard wooden floor.
20:38Serena screams and tries to fight back, but Mom scrattles her and delivers a loud sharp
20:42slap.
20:42The crisp sound echoes through the living room.
20:44What a beautiful sound.
20:46I float up to the ceiling, and I can't help but giggle.
20:48Just then, Dad comes home.
20:50He pushes the door open.
20:51Seeing the scene, Dad rushes over in panic, trying to pull Mom away.
20:54Chloe, have you lost your mind?
20:56Stop it!
20:57Don't hurt innocent people!
20:58Innocent?
21:00Hearing those words, the hatred in Mom's eyes burns like fire.
21:03Before Dad can get close, Uncle Ryan blocks him like a mountain.
21:06His large hand grips Baz's shoulder tightly.
21:08Sir, Serena is currently trespassing, and Chloe is simply defending herself.
21:12Dad is completely restrained, but he can generally hout.
21:15This is my house!
21:17Seize my guest!
21:18Mom stands up, looking down at Serena, who is sprawled on the floor like trash.
21:20Then she glances coldly at Dad.
21:21Your house?
21:22Liam Howard, have you forgotten?
21:23I'm the one paying the mortgage.
21:24Either you get me as things back, or you and these two bitches get the hell out.
21:26Dad's face cycles through shades of pale and red.
21:28He lowers his head, too humiliated to look up.
21:31The sun blazes overhead, and green flies buzz around the community trash bins.
21:35The air reeks of rotting garbage.
21:37My hero Dad is kneeling in the pile of waste, surrounded by leaking acidic liquid.
21:41Sweat pours down his face, and his hands are covered in black slud.
21:44He searches bag by bag for my belongings.
21:45My soul floats nearby, watching them reap what they sow.
21:49Liam, this smell is unbearable.
21:50Can't we just buy her new things?
21:51Why do we have to dig through this dump?
21:52Dad ignores her.
21:53He carefully pulls a dirty, cracked photo frame from the trash.
21:55My baby picture.
21:56One month old.
21:57He wipes the frame, with his hands shaking.
21:59None of these things.
22:00I never gave her a single one.
22:04I'm a complete failure of a father.
22:08I remember, every time I asked Dad for a gift, he always had an excuse.
22:12Not practical, too expensive.
22:13You already have too many toys.
22:14He never understood.
22:16I didn't just want the toy.
22:17I wanted proof that he loved me.
22:18Just then, Mom walks over.
22:20Behind her are several servants, carrying huge black garbage bags.
22:24Bang!
22:24Bang!
22:24Bang!
22:25The bags slam onto the ground at their feet.
22:27The contents spill out.
22:28Silk dresses, designer handbags, high-end cosmetics, and the giant stuffed bear Dad bought for ARA.
22:32Dirty water splashes all over Serena, but right now, she doesn't even care about the filth.
22:36My limited edition bags!
22:37My couture presses!
22:38She desperately tries to pick up her luxury items, now soaked in stinking sewage.
22:43Mom crosses her arms, looking down at her.
22:45Does it hurt?
22:47Does it break your heart?
22:48Mom's sharp high heel presses mercilessly onto the designer bag.
22:53It doesn't feel good, does it?
22:56Watching the things you precious get trampled like garbage?
22:58Liam!
22:59Look at her!
22:59I already brought everything back!
23:00What more does she want?
23:01Liam looks at Chloe and frowns.
23:02You think just bringing it back is enough?
23:04You're gonna clean every single item until it shines.
23:06Then you'll crawl to my daughter's grave, kneel down, and apologize to her.
23:10Dusk at the cemetery, the wind is bone-killingly cold.
23:12Bright sunflowers surround my tombstone.
23:14Dad and Serena kneel side-by-side on the cold stone slab.
23:15Mom strokes my name on the grave.
23:16Her voice is so gentle it breaks the heart.
23:18Mia, Mommy brought her here to atone for her sins.
23:20Mom's eyes turn razor-sharp.
23:21She reaches out suddenly and grabs the back of Serena's head, forcing her face down against the stone steps.
23:25For Siduyan, the married man, and destroying my family!
23:27Let me go!
23:27Serena struggles pathetically.
23:29Her delicate makeup smears with dirt.
23:30Mom slams her head against the tombstone again.
23:31And this one, for my daughter who died so horribly!
23:33Blood seeps from Serena's forehead.
23:35She lets out a pig-like squeal.
23:36You are more responsible than anyone else!
23:37Take it out on me!
23:38Dad can't bear it anymore.
23:39He struggles to plead for her.
23:40She's fragile.
23:40Something bad will happen.
23:41Mom stops.
23:42She slowly turns her head, looking at Dad like he's already dead.
23:45Then let her die.
23:46A life for a life.
23:47Isn't that fair?
23:48Dad stares at Mom in disbelief.
23:50I sit on my tombstone, swinging my transparent legs.
23:52Watching this scene, my heart feels nothing but pure satisfaction.
23:54But it's not the end.
23:55Mom stands up, taking out her phone.
23:56She points the camera at herself and presses the global livestream button on Instagram.
23:58Hell is only now opening its gates for them.
24:01The wind at the cemetery dries the tears on Mom's face.
24:03She stands tall, like a queen on her throne.
24:05She raises her phone, now broadcasting live to the world.
24:07The viewer count jumps wildly.
24:081,000, 10,000, 100,000.
24:10Dense comments scroll like falling snow.
24:11Mom turns the camera to Serena, who kneels on the ground, face covered in blood.
24:14And next to her, Dad, filthy and humiliated.
24:16Hello, everyone.
24:17My name is Chloe.
24:18Today, I want the whole world to see the true face of my husband, Liam Howard.
24:20The man they call a firefighting hero.
24:21Dad's face turns deathly pale.
24:23The rubble of the downtown collapse, this man abandoned our five-year-old daughter.
24:26He saved his first love's child instead.
24:27And while my daughter took her last breath, he was using our joint assets to buy that mistress a $100
24:30,000 apartment.
24:31The pain on Mom's face is raw and infectious.
24:33Chloe, you're insane.
24:34Turn it off.
24:35You'll ruin my career.
24:36Uncle Ryan kicks Dad hard in the back of his knee.
24:38Dad cries out in pain and falls to his knees again, right in front of my tombstone.
24:41My soul looks down at him from above.
24:43I don't feel sorry for him anymore.
24:44The wind picks up around them.
24:46It blows Serena's hair into disarray.
24:47She looks utterly pathetic.
24:48Don't film me.
24:49This is invasion of privacy.
24:50I'll sue you.
24:50Her screams are deranged.
24:51I float in mid-air and watch the flood of hate comments on the screen.
24:55I lean close to Dad's ear.
24:57Blow a cold breath.
24:59Dad?
25:00Do you regret it now?
25:02I see Dad shiver.
25:04Strange.
25:05Why does it feel like cold air is blowing on my ear?
25:07Serena grabs Dad's arm, whimpers pitifully.
25:10Liam, please.
25:11Take me away from here.
25:12In the end, Dad still chooses Serena and shields her as they flee the scene.
25:17But they underestimate the power of the internet.
25:19Within two hours, the video spreads across the entire city.
25:23Serena and Aria flee back to the apartment Mom paid for.
25:26They barely sit down when an angry mob of neighbors smashes through the front door.
25:30Bam!
25:31The door slams against the wall.
25:33A dozen furious people storm into the living room like a hurricane.
25:36The red-haired woman leading them points at Serena's face with disgust.
25:39Our community doesn't welcome home-wrecking murderers.
25:42Get out!
25:43A fruit bowl is overturned.
25:44Bright fruits roll across the floor, crushed under stomping feet.
25:46That giant pink teddy bear Dad spent a fortune on for Aria.
25:49A furious man grabs it.
25:50The seams burst.
25:51White sheet cotton fluff flies through the air like snow.
25:53No!
25:53That's my bear!
25:54Aria shrinks into the corner of the sofa and lets out a desperate scream.
25:57Serena tries desperately to shield her.
25:59Her designer closed hair and her face gets slapped multiple times.
26:01She doesn't even know who did it.
26:03I float in the swirling cotton fleur, watching this chaotic scene.
26:08Aria.
26:09You only lost a teddy bear.
26:11I lost my life.
26:13The mob trashes everything.
26:14They grab Serena and her daughter and throw them out onto the cold street like garbage.
26:22The door locks shut behind them.
26:24Merciless.
26:26Serena holds trembling Aria in her arms, her gaze slowly shifting from pity to a viper-like
26:31madness.
26:34I'm genuinely curious to see what Serena will pull now that she's homeless.
26:37So, my spirit quietly follows her.
26:41Serena takes Aria to a cheap, run-deck motel.
26:44In the bathroom, the shower is running.
26:45I phase through the wall and hover over the tub.
26:47What I see next leaves me surprised.
26:49Aria is wearing nothing but a thin sundress.
26:51Serena is pinning her down in the bathtub.
26:52And the poor girl is shaking uncontrollably from the cold.
26:54Mommy?
26:55What are you doing?
26:56I'm so cold.
26:57Serena has this crazy look in her eyes.
27:00She grabs a full bucket of ice.
27:01And Splash dumps dumps the whole thing into the tub without a second thought.
27:04No!
27:05Stop it!
27:05Please!
27:06Aria screams as the ice hits her.
27:07Serena holds her struggling shoulders down.
27:09Her face twisting with the effort.
27:10Shut up!
27:11If we don't do this, we won't even be able to eat!
27:13We need Liam's sympathy!
27:14But Mommy, I can't breathe.
27:17My heart hurts.
27:18Aria's face turns deathly pale in seconds.
27:20Her lips turn blue.
27:21And she thrashles in the icy water like a fish gosping for air.
27:24I watch from the ceiling, completely detached.
27:28The way Aria is crying and begging for her life.
27:31It's exactly how I looked under those ruins.
27:34The only difference is, I was killed by Dad's neglect.
27:42She's being drowned by her mother's greed.
27:45Dad, if you knew you sacrificed your own daughter just to save people this twisted.
27:52Would you finally feel a shred of regret?
27:54Serena watches her daughter's breathing fade until Aria finally blacks out.
28:01Only then does she frantically dial Dad's number.
28:04Liam, help!
28:06Aria had a heart attack!
28:08Chloe sent people to scare her and she collapsed!
28:11Outside the ER, the red light glares harshly.
28:14Dad comes charging in, drenched in sweat.
28:16The second Serena sees him, she collapses into his arms, sobbing.
28:19Liam, if Aria doesn't make it, I don't want to live anymore!
28:22What a total hypocrite!
28:23I sit on the bench, watching Serena...
28:25It is all Chloe's fault!
28:26If she had not stirred up all that trouble online, those thugs never would have come after Aria!
28:30Dad holds her tight, staring at the ER doors with the veins in his forehead bolsting.
28:33The doctor says she needs surgery immediately.
28:35Liam, what am I going to do?
28:37Hearing Serena pin everything on Mom makes me so mad I start stomping my feet in mid-air.
28:40Dad, she's a liar!
28:41Don't fall for it!
28:42I scream into his ear, but he doesn't hear a thing.
28:44He just squeezes Serena's shoulders.
28:45Don't worry, I'll handle the medical bills.
28:47Dad grits his teeth, giving every ounce of his sympathy to that snake.
28:50Serena, he doesn't even bother to double cheery check why Aria is actually sick.
28:53If he'd bothered to ask a single doctor, he'd know.
28:56Aria's heart stopped because of severe hypothermia.
28:58Being scared doesn't do that to a person.
29:00He stands up abruptly and storms out of the hospital in a blind rage.
29:03Watching him go, I feel a wave of pure nausea.
29:07Dad, you're not just blind.
29:08You're a complete and utter moron.
29:10Since you're so hell-dent on unpicking a fight with Mom...
29:15Go ahead.
29:17Go see exactly what kind of hell she has waiting for you.
29:21Dad kicks the front door of the villa open with a violent bang.
29:23Chloe, why can't you just leave Serena alone? They're innocent!
29:25He storms into the dining room, roaring at the top of his links.
29:27Aria is lying in a hospital bed unconscious right now. Is this what you wanted?
29:29My spirit drifts in right behind him.
29:31But instead of finding a guilty, sobbing wife,
29:33cars met with the aroma of premium coffee and two faces full of cold mockery.
29:37Mom is sitting by the sun-dreamt kitchen island, elegantly flipping through some documents.
29:41And standing right next to her is a tall, handsome man.
29:43It's uncle.
29:44Ryan leans in close, thoughtfully tucking a stray lock of hair behind Chloe's ear.
29:48Seeing Dad standing there all disheveled and fuming, Mom doesn't even bother to look up.
29:51What exactly am I supposed to be satisfied with, Liam?
29:52I simply sent a few people over to take back a house that belongs to me.
29:54Chloe sets her documents down and fixes her gaze on Liam.
29:56A cold plays on Mom's lips. She looks at Dad like he's a piece of trash.
29:58If that little brat drops dead just because she got a little spooked, that's hardly my problem.
30:00Dad's eyes widen like he's seeing a stranger.
30:02How can you be so vicious?
30:03Aren't you afraid of having blood on your hands?
30:05Vicious?
30:06Mom stands up abruptly, her powerful aura forcing Liam to take a half-step back.
30:09You think I'm vicious?
30:10This is nothing compared to what my daughter went through.
30:12If it means making you suffer for the rest of your lives, I'll go to hell for it!
30:15Dad is left speechless, his face flushing with frustration.
30:17He turns and points a finger on Ryan, who is watching the scene with a faint, amused smile.
30:20And who the hell is he? You're bringing other men into our home?
30:22Instead of making excuses, Chloe links her arm through Ryan's and gives him a radiant, stunning smile.
30:25This is my house. He'll bring whoever I want back here.
30:27I perch myself on Ryan's shoulder, watching Dad's face twist with a mix of jealousy and helplessness.
30:31I'm so happy I do a little flip in the air.
30:33Dad is raging, glaring daggers at Ryan.
30:35He originally came here to demand justice for Aria.
30:37She developed heart disease because of ice water.
30:39But now, with a nothing but pure unadulterated jealousy...
30:41Chloe, you cannot do this to me! We are not even divorced yet!
30:43Dad tries to reclaim his territory using his status as a husband.
30:46So what if we are not?
30:47We are just friends, exactly like you and Serena.
30:50Surely you understand that kind of relationship better than anyone, right?
30:53Dad's face instantly turns a deep bruised purple.
30:56He stands there in total humiliation, his steps heavy, unable to move.
30:59I cannot help but cheer for...
30:59Without her money, Dad can't even afford Aria's hospital bills.
31:02Knowing that Serena's little scheme is about to crash and burn makes me want to run laps around the living
31:05room.
31:06Since her son was determined to stay, go to the kitchen and fix us some dinner.
31:08Lemia's hands clenched into fists, the knuckles white with repressed rage.
31:11And remember, take good care of my guests.
31:12The warning in her smile was unmistakable.
31:13He turned and walked away, his shoulders slumped in defeat.
31:15Ten minutes later, the big hero who used to wear a crisp firefighting uniform and rescue people from ruins?
31:19Now, he has got a ridiculous pink floral apron seashed around his waist, standing by the sink like a lowerly
31:23servant.
31:23He is scrubbing a cucumber so hard that water splashes all over his face.
31:26Meanwhile, just a wall away in the dining room, Mom and Ryan are having a blast.
31:28Their laughter drifts into the kitchen.
31:30I hover in the air, watching Dad's face turn a sickly shade of green.
31:32He grits his teeth, slamming the clear onto the cutting.
31:33You like a pathetic, stray dog right now.
31:36Dinner is finally served.
31:42Chloe, this stuff looks...
31:46Barely edible.
31:47It is burnt to a crisp.
31:49Dad's breathing turns heavy in an instant.
31:51His fists clench deep in his apron pockets, knuckles cracking under the strain.
31:53Just as he is about to blow over a fuse, Mom casually stabs a slice of apple with her fork
31:56and holds it up to Ryan's...
31:57Then don't eat his garbage.
31:58Here, try this apple.
32:00Is it sweet?
32:04If it is from you, it is always sweet.
32:07Watching them flirt so shamelessly right in front of him, Dad's eyes turn a bloodshot vengeful red.
32:11He is losing his mind with jealousy.
32:12I hover above the dining table, watching Dad look so utterly pathetic and repressed.
32:15I can't resist adding a little fuel to the fire.
32:17Ugh, Liam, what is that smell?
32:19That is disgusting.
32:19Mom instantly covered her nose.
32:21Her face twisted in pure revulsion.
32:22Dad scrambles with a rag, trying to wipe himself down.
32:24But he only makes a bigger mess.
32:25He looks like a total clown.
32:26Perched on the chandelier.
32:27I can't help but gigger.
32:32Dinner ends in a suffocating, awkward silence.
32:36This is for you.
32:37I think the scent really suits you.
32:38Ryan looks flattered, casting a sidelight glance at Dad, who's scrubbing dishes in the kitchen.
32:44Isn't this a little awkward?
32:45Awkward?
32:46Why would it be?
32:47Liam is famous for being generous.
32:48He's so busy playing the good Samanerton.
32:50I'm sure he's thrilled I finally have someone to keep me company.
32:52Isn't that right, Liam?
32:53The loud bray crack of a shattering plate echoes from the kitchen.
32:57Dad's completely heartbroken.
32:58It's getting late, Ryan.
33:00Don't you think it's time to head out?
33:02Mom grind by his tie, pulling him close.
33:04Why leave so late?
33:06I can go to your room and give you a full body massage.
33:10You are a woman, and he is a grown man!
33:14Do you honestly think it's appropriate to go into his room dressed like that?
33:18Mom dunked back back down.
33:20She steps closer, patting Dap's rigid cheek with her long, slender fingers.
33:24Don't be so jealous, Liam.
33:25Drop the pathetic act of possessiveness.
33:28She brushes past Dad, who stands frozen in place, and links arms with Ryan as they walk
33:32toward the guest room at the end of the hall.
33:35Dad stands in the dark corridor alone.
33:37The doors locked tight, Dad's entire world has collapsed.
33:43Early the next morning, Dad, who had spent the entire night being eaten live by jealousy
33:46and humiliation, receives a barrage of frantic calls from Serena.
33:48Watching I was sobbing with claiming Zion with dark area had suffered a heartache attack
33:51and needed media under his surgeries and a martyr-like expression.
33:52I know exactly what was coming.
33:54He is ready to play the savior again.
33:56Chloe, we need to talk.
33:58He took a deep breath, his tone dripping with self-righteousness.
34:01Back then, every time he started a sentence like that, it meant I was about to get a lecture.
34:05I know you are mad at me.
34:06I can take the humiliation you put me through last night.
34:08I can live with it.
34:10But Area's heart condition has flared up.
34:12She is in the ER right now.
34:13She is just a little girl, the same age as Mia.
34:15His voice is almost pleading, yet he still manages to sound so condescending.
34:19You are a good person.
34:20You have always been.
34:21Are you really going to let your hatred for me get in the way and let an innocent child die?
34:25An innocent child?
34:26Hovering in midair, I feel myself shaking with pure rage at those words.
34:30Dad, I am also innocent.
34:32Why did you abandon me?
34:33Did you ever give a single thought to me?
34:35Right then, I feel a strange surge of power.
34:38I look down and see my transparent fingertips.
34:41Frosting over with a layer of bone-chilling white ice, fueled by my absolute fury.
34:45So my hatred actually has the power to touch this world.
34:48I lash out with my hands.
34:50A crystal goblet sitting right next to mom shatters instantly.
34:55Red gash across dad's hypocritical face.
34:58Dad clutches his bleeding cheek in terror, stumbling back with his eyes wide, looking like he had just seen a
35:02ghost.
35:04After dad's self-rightness take the high road speech, mom looks absolutely disgusted.
35:07She stands up, looking at him like he's a cockroach she just found in her soup.
35:09Kindness?
35:10Liam, how dare you say that?
35:12You want my money to save the one who killed my daughter?
35:13And I'm supposed to be reasonable?
35:14Chloe, how did you get this cold-blooded?
35:16Arya is innocent.
35:17If Mia were looking down on us, she would never want to see her mother turn into a heartless murderer.
35:22Hearing him use my name to guilt-trap mom, my blood boil.
35:24I channel every bit of my energy and slam a gust of freezing wind right into him.
35:27The firefighting hero award hanging on the wall, his pride and love, flies off and shatters right at his feet.
35:31Shut up! You don't get to say Mia's name!
35:32If you're so worried about your soulmate, then go save her yourself!
35:34Mom grabs the divorce papers she'd already prepared and hurls them straight at his face.
35:37Sign them and get the hell out of my house!
35:39I'm not giving you or them a single cent!
35:41Fine! Fine! Consider it signed! I don't want your dirty dunny anyway!
35:44He scribbles his name in a rage and storms out, slamming the door behind him.
35:47I drift down next to mom, watching his back as he walks away, and I can't help but smile.
35:51Go ahead, dad. Go save your precious Serena and her kid. I'm just getting started with them.
35:55The VIP hospital room is dead silent in the middle of the night.
35:57I drift inside. My transparent toe is hovering just above Serena's bedside.
36:00She's curled up on the cat, probably having some beautiful dream.
36:01As I stare down at the two of them, who had nested in a life that wasn't theirs, I slowly
36:04raise my hand.
36:05I don't need to get back as a little trip down memory lane would be more than enough.
36:07The smell of disinfectant in the air begins to shift, turning into the suffocating scent of concrete dust mixed with
36:11the metallic tang of dried blood.
36:12Serena at brow and frows at the stench, and she tosses and turns uncomfortably.
36:15Who? Who's under there?
36:17No answer. Her hand shakes as she reaches for the light switch, but her eyes accidentally catch the wall.
36:20At some point, a streak of blood appears on the white paint.
36:22Lean closer to her ear and let out a soft, icy breath.
36:24Anti-Serena, the rocks are so heavy, it hurts.
36:27No! Get away! Don't come after me! I didn't kill you! That's on your father!
36:30Yeah, I kept Leon from going to the ruins to save you, but I didn't have a choice! I lost
36:33my husband!
36:33I had nothing! I had to hold on to him like he was all I had! He is the one
36:35who chose to play the hero and pick us!
36:37Listening to her speak without a shred of remorse, my gaze turned ice cold.
36:40She's still denying it!
36:44Fine, then let's show you what happens next.
36:47Ah! Let me go! Please! Let me go! I'll tell you everything!
36:50It was me! I hurt Aria just to keep Liam! I'm a terrible mother! I don't deserve her!
36:54I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! Please! Just let me go!
36:57The late night snacks hit the floor with a heavy thud, hot soup splashing everywhere.
37:00What did you just say?
37:00Every single word Sarah just spit out has pierced Dad's ears.
37:02He uses a sense of heroism to saving a poor struggling of my death,
37:04telling himself it was the right thing to do with some of blaming Zarina.
37:05But now, the brutal truth is like a rusty saw, hacking straight through his delusion.
37:08Liam! No! Let me explain! I was just having a nightmare!
37:13I was just having a nightmare!
37:15Get off me!
37:17Dad's massive hands wrap around Serena's neck, squeezing tight.
37:21It was you! You're the reason my Mia is dead!
37:24You've been lying to me this whole time, you poisonous bitch!
37:27Let go! Liam! I can't breathe!
37:29Her eyes roll back as she claws frantically at his arms,
37:31leaving behind rows of bloody scratches.
37:32I hover in the air, watching with cold and dents as this perfect couple tears each other apart.
37:35Dad, what's the point of choking her now?
37:36Even if you rip her to shreds, I'm never coming back.
37:38Just as Serena is one second away from taking her last breath.
37:41Bam!
37:41The hospital door is slammed open once again.
37:44I told you I'd make you both pay.
37:49Pull them apart!
37:52Several burly officers rush in,
37:55forcibly dragging a frenzied dad off Serena
37:57and penning his arms behind his back against the wall.
37:59Serena Ellitz, we have received critical audio evidence provided by Mrs. Chloe Howard.
38:02You are under arrest for suspicion of murder,
38:04felsiny child abuse, and large-scale fraud.
38:06The cold handcuff snapshot locking tight around Serena wrists.
38:08The fear finally sets in.
38:09Please, let me go! I can't go to prison!
38:12Aria needs her mother!
38:13Mom looks down at her, her eyes cold without sympathy.
38:15Take her away. Prison should give her plenty of time to think.
38:18On the hospital bed, Aria weakly opens her eyes,
38:20her face still deathly pale.
38:21Two stone-faced officers step forward and pick her up by force.
38:23Aria does not understand what is happening yet, but she starts struggling.
38:25I want mommy! I want uncle Liam! Let me go!
38:27This little brat, who used to brag in front of my mom
38:29and maliciously curse me to death, is now crying like a pathetic beggar.
38:32I drift down to the hospital window and, from the other side of the glass,
38:34make a huge mocking face at her.
38:36Aria, did you not love stealing other people's dads?
38:37Well, now you do not have one anymore, not even your mom.
38:41And trust me, those hard beds in the orphanage?
38:44Nothing like your comfy VIP room.
38:49I watch as Serena is roughly dragged away by the police,
38:52her blood-catting screams echoing through the entire hallway.
38:54Meanwhile, Dad, the once-proud firefighting hero,
38:57is slumped on the floor tiles.
38:59He stares at the mess around him,
39:02his eyes as hollow as a completely broken puppet.
39:04Mom turns around, leaving without giving him a single glance.
39:13Mom, we won.
39:15The morning sun outside the courthouse feels cold and sterile.
39:20I've always hated the vibe of this place,
39:22so I just sit on the front steps and wait.
39:25Finally, Mom strides out those massive doors,
39:28her heels clicking against the stone with total confidence.
39:31She's holding the official divorce reread,
39:33looking like she's finally shed a heavy skin.
39:35Dad comes stumbling out after her, looking like a total wreck.
39:38Chloe, wait!
39:41Can we please just talk for a second?
39:42His eyes are bloodshot, and his voice is thick with desperation.
39:47Mom stops and turns around.
39:48She looks down at him with the kind of icy stare you'd give a complete stranger.
39:52Tears stream down Liam's face, disappearing into his messy stubble.
39:56I know I've put you through hell,
39:57and I want to apologize for everything.
40:01I quit the fire department.
40:03I've signed up to be a volunteer teacher in the slums.
40:05I'm leaving tomorrow.
40:06Dad's voice breaks, trying that same old self-exhaustion act,
40:09hoping to wring one last bit of pity out of Mom.
40:11In his mind, if he looks miserable enough,
40:12she'll soften like she always used to.
40:14Maybe even give him a hug.
40:16Is that it?
40:17Dad looks stunned.
40:18He definitely didn't expect her to be this indifferent.
40:23All right then.
40:24Safe travels.
40:25Goodbye.
40:26Without a hint of hesitation, Mom turns her back on him.
40:29She walks straight over to Ryan, who's been waiting by the curb,
40:32and slides into the back of his black Bentley.
40:35I hover in the air,
40:37watching Dad collapse onto the rough stone pavement of the courthouse,
40:40sobbing his heart out.
40:45Too little, too late, Dad.
40:52Your apology isn't worth a damn thing now.
40:56Mom drives off in the black Bentley with Ryan.
40:59I hover in midair,
41:00looking down at Dad kneeling on the rough pavement.
41:02Suddenly, I'm curious.
41:04I want to see what a hero who has lost everything does next.
41:07Dad stays on his knees for a long time before finally swaying to his feet.
41:09He wanders onto the street like a zombie,
41:10his soul completely hollowed out.
41:12I follow him,
41:13watching him walk from dawn until dusk.
41:14He doesn't eat a single bite or drink a drop of water.
41:17People on the street point and stare,
41:18but he is deaf to it all.
41:19He just keeps moving.
41:20It is late at night when he finally stops.
41:21He has reached the center of the city,
41:22standing at the very site of the collapse.
41:23Yellow police tape still surrounds the area.
41:25This is where I died.
41:26This is where it all began.
41:28I watch him pull that pink Barbie doll,
41:29the one he never got to give me,
41:30out from inside his jacket.
41:31Mia, Daddy's here now.
41:33I'm taking you home.
41:34Suddenly pulls out a large canister from somewhere
41:36and starts drenching himself,
41:37pouring it from his head down to his toes.
41:38Click.
41:38The crisp sound of metal breaks the dead silence.
41:40A tiny blue flame flickers on his lighter,
41:41and without a second thought,
41:42Liam lets it go.
41:43A massive wall of fire erupts instantly,
41:45swallowing Liam home.
41:45The roaring flames melt the firefighting uniform
41:46he was once so proud of.
41:47The fire chars the very arms he used
41:48to hold everyone but me.
41:49I drift just outside the heat of the blaze,
41:51quietly watching him struggle in the fire,
41:52until he finally collapses,
41:53turning into a blackened heap.
41:54Those eyes that used to look at me with warmth
41:56are now nothing but ash.
41:56Dad, I don't hate you anymore,
41:58because honestly,
41:58you're not even worth the effort.
42:00By the time the fire burns out,
42:01dawn has broken.
42:03I guess it is time for me to go, too.
42:05I turn into a golden breeze,
42:06drifting through the city streets
42:08and floating to Mom's side one last time.
42:10Mom is leaning back in Uncle Ryan's arms,
42:11quietly watching the world outside the window.
42:13I lean in and leave a cold,
42:14weightless kiss on her cheek.
42:15Goodbye, Mom.
42:15I wish you every happiness.
42:16I don't say another word.
42:17I just brush past her hair
42:18and graze her cheek,
42:19like a shadow of a hug.
42:20The moment the breeze touches her,
42:21Mom's calm expression freezes.
42:22It is like she feels something.
42:24She intentionally reaches up,
42:25her fingertips brushing the exact spot
42:26where my phantom kiss landed.
42:27I see her eyes well up with tears.
42:28Chloe, what's wrong?
42:29Are you cold?
42:30Mom doesn't say anything.
42:31She just stares at the windowsill.
42:33Even though there is no wind,
42:35the potted sunflower suddenly tilts
42:36and sways just a little.
42:40Mom rests her head on Ryan's shoulder.
42:42As she watches a ray of sunlight
42:43pierce through the clouds,
42:44a smile spreads across her face.
42:48Mom, you felt that, didn't you?
42:50I close my eyes and let go,
42:52flying towards the warmest light,
42:53finally at peace.
42:57Time.
42:58It has its own kind of gentle magic.
43:00They named me Mia.
43:03My mom.
43:05My dad.
43:07They loved me so much.
43:14Through the haze,
43:15I hear a nursery rhyme,
43:16the one I loved most when I was five.
43:18Wait,
43:19is this heaven?
43:20No,
43:21my sweet girl.
43:22This is where I will always wait for you.
43:43Welcome back,
43:44my little angel.
43:44Surrounded by the warmth of a steady heartbeat,
43:46I start to smile,
43:48too.
43:49This time,
43:50I know for sure,
43:51I have finally been born into a world of real love.
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