- 17 hours ago
My Useless Hubby? He's Playing Them All
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Short filmTranscript
00:00:03my name is Chloe Bennett today is my wedding day but my groom Sebastian
00:00:08Sterling is a man lying unconscious in bed miss Bennett sign it if you're done
00:00:13reading mr. Sterling is waiting I was supposed to sabotage the procedure
00:00:21exactly the way Adrian planned Adrian pick up please but when I call him he won't pick
00:00:32up I have no choice but to sneak out and find him myself I look through the crack
00:00:36in the door and freeze the man wrapped around Vanessa is Adrian Adrian stay a
00:00:44little longer Chloe's too busy to come looking for you I'm worried she'll
00:00:49back out of the wedding I need to keep an eye on her she won't we still have her
00:00:55mother's keepsakes she wouldn't dare true with Victor dead she's got nothing left
00:01:03she has no choice if you hadn't tampered with her father's medicine none of this
00:01:09would have gone this smoothly
00:01:20it feels like lightning tears right through me the man I loved most killed my
00:01:27father I wipe my tears and walk back to sign the consent form
00:01:44you want the sterling fortune I won't let you have it I'll become the true mrs.
00:01:49sterling and I'll watch you both burn in hell
00:02:02after the wedding the housekeeper Martha leads me to Sebastian's room
00:02:13please I stand by the bed seeing my husband for the first time Adrian said he
00:02:21was hideous cruel and crippled but the man lying here is breathtakingly handsome even
00:02:26unconscious he exudes an air of nobility suddenly the door bursts open Adrian
00:02:34stumbles in drunk a bottle in his hand Chloe sorry I missed your call today was
00:02:41crazy I force myself to play along it's fine I don't blame you he locks the door and
00:02:49moves toward me I knew you'd understand you love me that much Adrian what are you
00:02:56doing a wedding night is precious let's not waste it he actually wants to force
00:03:01himself on me in my husband's room snap out of it don't forget our plan I've
00:03:07changed my mind if you carry my child I still get this the sterling inheritance
00:03:27just as I'm about to lose it Adrian freezes he stares at something behind me his voice trembling
00:03:36Sebastian
00:03:40Adrian bolts like he's seen a ghost
00:03:45I switch on the light and look back at the bed
00:03:50but Sebastian is still motionless
00:03:54hey Sebastian no one answers I gently tuck his hand back under the covers he doesn't stir
00:03:59was Adrian just panicking and seeing things I lock the door and sit by the bed keeping
00:04:07watch eventually exhaustion pulls me under the next morning the first thing I do is touch my neck
00:04:22in the mirror there's a clear red mark that bastard Adrian as soon as I come downstairs
00:04:31Adrian pulls me into a small room did the cripple wake up no
00:04:44good I must have been too drunk I thought I saw him open his eyes and glare at me
00:04:48he relaxes putting on his gentle facade again sorry about last night I had too much to drink
00:04:53I was out of line it's fine I swallow my hatred and keep playing along because I'm going to send
00:04:59them to hell myself
00:05:02after breakfast Richard Sterling takes me to the Sterling family hospital for the insemination procedure
00:05:08before the surgery Adrian gives me a look
00:05:11don't forget our plan
00:05:13I smile at him then turn and walk into the operating room with a cold face
00:05:18for revenge to reclaim what's mine I have to grit my teeth and move forward
00:05:30the procedure went smoothly but we'll need to wait a month to confirm if insemination was successful
00:05:36the procedure succeeds
00:05:41Adrian's face darkens on the spot
00:05:46back at the mansion he drags me straight into the garden
00:05:56we agreed you'd ruin their procedure
00:05:59why didn't you do anything
00:06:00I push his hand away and answer coldly
00:06:03shows him respect
00:06:04I'm your sister-in-law now
00:06:06sister-in-law?
00:06:08are you screwing with me?
00:06:09he's furious his grip tightening on my wrist
00:06:11you think latching on to Sebastian gets you out of this?
00:06:16so what?
00:06:17even if he dies
00:06:18I'll still be your sister-in-law
00:06:20the rightful Mrs. Sterling
00:06:22my words strike a nerve
00:06:24he raises his hand
00:06:25just then
00:06:26the servant rushes over
00:06:27Mr. Sebastian Sterling is awake
00:06:29he wants to see you!
00:06:33I hurry back to the villa with the servant
00:06:35my mind in chaos
00:06:36did he hear me and Adrian last night?
00:06:39if he did
00:06:39they say Sebastian is ruthless
00:06:41no one who crosses him ends well
00:06:45I step into the room
00:06:47Richard is there
00:06:48doctors crowd around Sebastian
00:06:51examining him
00:06:54he reclines against the headboard
00:06:57his expression cold and distant
00:07:00his handsome face frosty
00:07:02who is she?
00:07:05she's your wife
00:07:08I don't remember having a wife
00:07:10I arranged it
00:07:11it's already public
00:07:12Mr. Sterling has lost sensation in his legs
00:07:14he may never stand again
00:07:16understood
00:07:17you're dismissed
00:07:19after the doctors leave
00:07:21Richard turns to me
00:07:22Chloe
00:07:23you'll take care of Sebastian from now on
00:07:27this marriage means nothing
00:07:29I'll have my lawyer handle the divorce
00:07:31divorce is not an option
00:07:34Richard Sterling
00:07:35what gives you the right to decide for me?
00:07:39Chloe just underwent the procedure
00:07:40she may already be carrying your child
00:07:42after a long pause
00:07:44he chuckles a light
00:07:45dismissive sound
00:07:46Miss Bennett
00:07:46which do you prefer?
00:07:48surgical abortion or the pill?
00:07:50I finally realize this man is even more terrifying awake than he was unconscious
00:07:56I freeze
00:07:58stunned that he wants me to abort the child
00:08:01what kind of nonsense is that?
00:08:03that's a Sterling heir
00:08:05the Sterling family has plenty of heirs
00:08:07we don't need this one
00:08:10you ungrateful brat
00:08:14Richard swallows his rage and storms out
00:08:16I'm left alone with Sebastian
00:08:18I stand there nervously
00:08:20wondering what to say to break the ice
00:08:23Mr. Sterling
00:08:24my name is Chloe Bennett
00:08:26I'm your future roommate
00:08:29what exactly can you help me with?
00:08:33I can...
00:08:35push your wheelchair
00:08:35the moment the words leave my mouth
00:08:37I know I'm done for
00:08:42I can cook too!
00:08:44whatever you want
00:08:44I can make it!
00:08:48before I finish
00:08:49he yanks me straight into his lap
00:08:51my whole body goes rigid
00:08:53he leans in whispering in my ear
00:08:55his tone dangerously intimate
00:08:58you seem afraid of me
00:09:01no I'm not
00:09:03but then his hand slides to the red mark on my neck
00:09:05in that instant
00:09:06ice runs down my spine
00:09:10last night
00:09:11I should have strangled you right in front of Adrian
00:09:13his hand closes around my throat
00:09:15the air is ripped from my lungs
00:09:17I realize with horror
00:09:18Sebastian was awake last night
00:09:20he heard everything
00:09:22his hand tightens around my throat
00:09:24I struggle desperately
00:09:26as my vision starts going dark
00:09:28I finally shove him off and collapse to the floor
00:09:32you'd better pray you're not carrying my child
00:09:34and if you are I won't let it be born
00:09:36get out
00:09:37don't let me see you again
00:09:39I practically run from my life
00:09:41but the second I get out
00:09:43I slam into a man in a suit
00:09:46sorry
00:09:46I don't even look up
00:09:48I just run
00:09:53after the door shuts
00:09:54I hear the man's voice inside
00:09:56boss the doctor says your body's fine
00:09:59with rehab your legs can fully recover
00:10:01right now everyone believes you are crippled
00:10:03he's not crippled?
00:10:04watching prey walk into the trap and then sink into despair
00:10:09isn't that more interesting
00:10:12I stand outside that door
00:10:14my whole body going cold
00:10:16he's pretending to be disabled
00:10:18and waiting for everyone to destroy themselves
00:10:21my husband isn't weak
00:10:22he's a monster
00:10:25I hide in my room alone
00:10:27my mind a complete mess
00:10:28I thought marrying a dying vegetable would secure my place as Mrs. Sterling
00:10:32but now my husband is awake and he's a psychopath who could kill me at any moment
00:10:38while I'm spiraling
00:10:39news about an auction pops up on my phone
00:10:41and the ruby necklace in the photo
00:10:43I recognize it instantly
00:10:45it belonged to my mother
00:10:47you even planned to sell this
00:10:49the more I think about it
00:10:50the angrier I get
00:10:52I decide to go back to the Bennett house tomorrow
00:10:54and take back everything my mother left behind
00:10:57I can't get anything back on my own
00:10:59unless Sebastian goes with me
00:11:03early the next morning
00:11:04I stand outside his door
00:11:05and force myself to knock
00:11:09Sebastian I
00:11:10get lost
00:11:11Sebastian wouldn't see me
00:11:12so I head back to the Bennett house alone in the rain
00:11:18the first person I see when the door opens is Adrian
00:11:24Chloe?
00:11:25what are you doing here?
00:11:26before I can answer Gloria rushes over
00:11:28Chloe! you're back!
00:11:31it's pouring outside
00:11:32come in!
00:11:33the more affectionately they smiled
00:11:35the more nauseating it made me feel
00:11:37Chloe!
00:11:38what brings you here today?
00:11:41I'm here to retrieve my mother's belongings
00:11:46what belongings?
00:11:47didn't you take everything already?
00:11:49don't play dumb
00:11:50I saw my mother's necklace on an auction site
00:11:52you're selling it
00:11:53hand over the rest
00:11:54your father left debts before his passing
00:11:57I sold things to pay them off
00:11:58now that you're Mrs. Sterling
00:12:01shouldn't you help the Bennett family?
00:12:03I push past her and head for the stairs
00:12:04Gloria grabs me, refusing to let go
00:12:07they're gone, all of them
00:12:08looking won't change that
00:12:11all of them? those earrings in your ears were my mother's too!
00:12:14Gloria instinctively covers her ears
00:12:16then drops her hands in anger
00:12:17so what if I took them?
00:12:19I raised her daughter for years
00:12:20I deserve this
00:12:21shut up
00:12:23you're not fit to speak her name
00:12:25I seize the moment and rip the earring from Gloria's right ear
00:12:29how dare you!
00:12:35Vanessa rushes at me, ready to slap my face
00:12:38a deep, cold voice cuts through the chaos
00:12:46quite a commotion
00:12:48what are you doing to my wife?
00:12:56everyone freezes
00:12:57I look up and see Sebastian in his wheelchair
00:12:59looking like a king here to collect blood
00:13:03still mad at me?
00:13:04he actually smiles at me
00:13:06this man changes faces faster than anyone I've ever met
00:13:09it was just a tiny argument this morning
00:13:11you knew I couldn't move around easily
00:13:12yet you left me behind
00:13:13that was cruel
00:13:14he plays the loving husband
00:13:16while squeezing my hands so hard
00:13:18I can barely feel it
00:13:20Sebastian, it's all a misunderstanding
00:13:23Vanessa was just messing around with Chloe
00:13:25you don't get to explain for Vanessa
00:13:28Chloe's your sister-in-law
00:13:29show some respect
00:13:31sorry
00:13:33apology accepted
00:13:34since Chloe is my wife now
00:13:36her property is marital property too
00:13:38here are the asset division papers
00:13:40for Mrs. Chloe Sterling's mother's property
00:13:41and her father's remaining estate
00:13:43if you have no objections, please sign
00:13:46Gloria and Vanessa both pale staring at the document
00:13:48for the first time
00:13:51I feel like I've really latched onto the most dangerous man alive
00:13:56Mr. Sterling, you can't really love Chloe, can you?
00:13:59she dated Adrian for three years
00:14:01my heart clenches
00:14:02I glance at Sebastian instinctively
00:14:05his face darkens
00:14:06his lips press into a thin line
00:14:08she was obsessed with Adrian
00:14:10now that he's with me
00:14:11she married you out of spite
00:14:13don't let her fool you
00:14:14I know, so what?
00:14:17Chloe is my wife now
00:14:18the past is none of my concern
00:14:20I walk up to Vanessa and slap her across the face
00:14:23that's a warning
00:14:24Adrian is trash I threw away
00:14:27you can have him
00:14:28but if you come after me again Vanessa
00:14:30I won't let it slide
00:14:32Vanessa's eyes redden with fury
00:14:33she raises her hand to strike back
00:14:35enough
00:14:37you don't get to touch my wife
00:14:41on the way back
00:14:42I can't stop replaying that line
00:14:44enough, you don't get to touch my wife
00:14:47I hold back as long as I can
00:14:48then I ask
00:14:50why did you say that back there?
00:14:52which part?
00:14:53you want a divorce
00:14:53and?
00:14:54then why protect me?
00:14:56he turns toward me and suddenly smiles
00:14:58what do you think?
00:14:59maybe because I've started liking you
00:15:01my whole body goes still
00:15:02you
00:15:03don't flatter yourself
00:15:04I will never love you
00:15:06every trace of heat leaves my face
00:15:10good, because I'd never love you either
00:15:12not in this lifetime
00:15:14I watched the brilliant city lights outside the car
00:15:17yet the inside felt like an isolated island cut off from the world
00:15:22I lock myself in my room
00:15:24sliding down against the door
00:15:26once I calm down
00:15:27regret sets in
00:15:28I shouldn't have mouthed off to him
00:15:30that evening
00:15:31I decide to cook for Sebastian and Olive Branch
00:15:33but he's not in his bedroom
00:15:35so I head for the study
00:15:36the door is half open
00:15:37I assume he's not there
00:15:39the second I step in
00:15:41a cold voice cuts through the room
00:15:43who let you in?
00:15:45I freeze on the spot
00:15:50I just came to bring you food
00:15:52I didn't know this room was off limits
00:15:54I don't want an explanation
00:15:55he grabs the tray and hurls it across the room
00:15:59soup spills everywhere
00:16:02get out
00:16:03do it again and you'll be out of this house
00:16:05the door slams shut in my face
00:16:07I stand outside the door
00:16:09and for the first time
00:16:10I really think
00:16:11I can't survive by relying on him
00:16:13I need a job
00:16:18I used to think I had time
00:16:21not anymore
00:16:22I don't have my diploma
00:16:26I don't have income
00:16:29and I definitely don't have a choice
00:16:33that night
00:16:33I reopen the job sites
00:16:37I've sent out countless resumes
00:16:39and my inbox is still dead
00:16:41right when I'm about to give up
00:16:43I see a listing from BRD
00:16:44overseas degree
00:16:46multilingual
00:16:47management background
00:16:48I fit nearly every requirement
00:16:51BRD
00:16:53it's a top tier company
00:16:55if I get in I can finally stand on my own
00:16:58I submit my resume with zero expectations
00:17:06the next afternoon I get an email
00:17:10an interview invert?
00:17:12I read it three times before I believe it
00:17:14since marrying into the Sterling family
00:17:16this is the first real way out I've seen
00:17:20on interview day I dress as sharply as I can
00:17:23in a place like this first impressions decide everything
00:17:26BRD tower
00:17:27I stand at the base looking up at the tallest building in the city
00:17:32as I'm searching for the interview room
00:17:34I hear a familiar wheelchair rolling sound
00:17:37I look up and see a silhouette
00:17:40it looks way too much like Sebastian
00:17:42no way
00:17:44I can't help following
00:17:46ma'am this area is restricted
00:17:48who just went in there?
00:17:49our CEO
00:17:50I try to keep asking but he cuts in with a smile
00:17:54you're on the wrong floor
00:17:55your interview is on the 66th floor
00:17:59by the time I reach 66th
00:18:02the interview has already started
00:18:07and then it gets even worse
00:18:12the same man from 99 is there
00:18:15he's seated in the center the lead interviewer
00:18:19the interview begins
00:18:21he asks sharp questions
00:18:26no diploma?
00:18:28then your education is incomplete
00:18:31but you studied at a top overseas university
00:18:34speaks multiple languages
00:18:35have a good resume
00:18:38I see you're married
00:18:40married so young?
00:18:42yes
00:18:43may I ask what your husband does?
00:18:46he's currently employed
00:18:48I guess you could call him a freeloader
00:18:50I can't reveal Sebastian's identity
00:18:53the man bursts out laughing
00:18:58my face falls
00:18:59his laughter feels like an insult
00:19:02is that funny to you?
00:19:07my apologies
00:19:08I didn't mean to offend
00:19:10it's just that a woman as capable as you
00:19:13marrying an unemployed man seems like such a pity
00:19:15that's my private business
00:19:17if we're done I'm leaving
00:19:20I get up and leave
00:19:21then he actually follows me out
00:19:24sorry
00:19:25I was out of line
00:19:26I actually admire you
00:19:29if you ever need help
00:19:30come to me
00:19:31he presses a business card into my hand and leaves
00:19:33I look down
00:19:34Ryan Parker? Vice President of BRD?
00:19:38my mind goes blank
00:19:39a vice president personally interviewing for an assistant role
00:19:43and then chasing me down to hand him his card?
00:19:46the thought sends a chill across my scalp
00:19:48meanwhile
00:19:49on the 99th floor
00:19:50inside the CEO's office
00:19:52well look at that
00:19:54the unemployed husband
00:20:02I search Ryan Parker online
00:20:04elite vice president
00:20:05perfect resume
00:20:06then I keep scrolling and find the current BRD CEO
00:20:11there are almost no clear photos of him online
00:20:13just one blurry side profile
00:20:16but the longer I stare at it
00:20:18the more familiar it feels
00:20:19what are you looking at?
00:20:21I nearly throw my phone across the room
00:20:23do you ever make noise when you walk?
00:20:25only people doing something shaby get startled that easily
00:20:30what was that?
00:20:32nothing
00:20:33just an ad
00:20:35you went out today?
00:20:37yeah
00:20:38just wandered around
00:20:39I felt uneasy under his gaze
00:20:41but I gritted my teeth
00:20:42and maintained a calm exterior
00:20:47that night I get BRD's email
00:20:50I open it
00:20:51rejected
00:20:52I spent all day worrying about hidden intentions
00:20:55and in the end they didn't hire me at all
00:21:00the next morning at breakfast
00:21:02everyone shows up
00:21:03Adrian is there
00:21:05Evelyn is there too
00:21:06the moment I sit down
00:21:07I know something's coming
00:21:12Sebastian's health isn't good
00:21:13he can't manage the company right now
00:21:15I want Adrian to join the company and help carry the load
00:21:18what a beautiful lie
00:21:19what he really means is
00:21:21Sebastian looks useless
00:21:22so now's the perfect time to strip him of power
00:21:24if you want to sideline me just say it
00:21:27is that how you talk to your father?
00:21:30everything I'm doing is for your own good
00:21:32how noble of you
00:21:34and your condition is?
00:21:36I'm trying my best to stay invisible
00:21:37when Sebastian suddenly speaks again
00:21:39fine
00:21:40I'll agree
00:21:41but on one condition
00:21:43and your condition is?
00:21:45Chloe goes into the company too
00:21:47I nearly choke on my drink
00:21:54absurd!
00:21:55if you don't want me in the company, fine
00:21:57but you can't throw someone like Chloe in there
00:22:01my wife studied at a top overseas university
00:22:04speaks multiple languages
00:22:06and has a far better resume than you do
00:22:08I freeze, he actually knows my background that clearly
00:22:13so what?
00:22:14she doesn't even have her diploma
00:22:16she can't even land a job
00:22:19then let's bet
00:22:21Chloe and Adrian will both join SJ Entertainment
00:22:24and start as managers
00:22:26whoever brings in 5 million dollars first
00:22:28gets the director position
00:22:30I accept, but Chloe goes in without using her status
00:22:33and no matter what happens
00:22:35you don't help her
00:22:37I almost laugh from disbelief
00:22:39fine
00:22:41from this moment on
00:22:42I'm not just Mrs. Sterling anymore
00:22:45I'm now the opponent Adrian has to beat
00:22:49and I have no intention of losing
00:22:54the next day
00:22:55I officially join SJ Entertainment
00:23:00I thought I'd start as a talent manager
00:23:02instead
00:23:03the second I walk in
00:23:05Lauren Pierce hits me with a power move
00:23:07you're Chloe Bennett?
00:23:10yes
00:23:11come with me
00:23:14I follow her
00:23:15further and further in
00:23:17and something feels off
00:23:22then she takes me straight into the storage room
00:23:28this is... my workspation?
00:23:31what else would it be?
00:23:32newbies start with grunt work
00:23:33but I was hired as a manager
00:23:36you?
00:23:42how am I supposed to
00:23:45let an experienced rookie manage talent?
00:23:48take it or leave it
00:23:50she walks off in her heels
00:23:52I stand alone in that chaotic storage room
00:23:55and almost laugh from disbelief
00:23:58this isn't onboarding
00:23:59it's humiliation
00:24:02but I have no intention of swallowing it
00:24:06I spend the entire day stuck in storage
00:24:08carrying boxes, sorting props, organizing old posters
00:24:11none of this is a manager's job
00:24:13they're freezing me out on purpose
00:24:14new girl, did you piss Lauren off?
00:24:17it was my first day
00:24:19how would I even do that?
00:24:20then it's not about her
00:24:22someone else doesn't want you getting comfortable
00:24:24my stomach sinks
00:24:25I don't even need to guess who
00:24:27it has to be Adrian
00:24:29that night
00:24:30I get back to the mansion
00:24:32step out of the shower
00:24:33and find someone in my room
00:24:38Sebastian?
00:24:40what are you doing in my room?
00:24:43your room?
00:24:47everything in this house belongs to me
00:24:50he says it like it's obvious
00:24:54so tell me
00:24:56how was your first day?
00:24:57he clearly already knows
00:24:58he just wants to hear me say it
00:25:01this man didn't come to my room at night
00:25:03out of concern
00:25:05he came to watch me squirm
00:25:10the way he acts like he knows nothing
00:25:12makes me furious
00:25:15like you don't already know?
00:25:17need help?
00:25:19none of your business
00:25:21I can handle it myself
00:25:22I say it and reach for the coffee in his hand
00:25:25I just want him out of my room
00:25:30get out
00:25:30I'm going to bed
00:25:32but my hand slips
00:25:33I lose my foot
00:25:34and my whole body pitches forward
00:25:37just before I hit the floor
00:25:38a hand catches me
00:25:39I fall straight into Sebastian's lap
00:25:42let me go
00:25:45weren't you the one who threw yourself at me?
00:25:47heat rushes straight to my ears
00:25:49don't be ridiculous
00:25:53Chloe
00:25:55are you trying to seduce me?
00:25:58I nearly explode on the spot
00:26:00I swear at that moment
00:26:02all I want to do is strangle him
00:26:08I wrench myself out of his lap
00:26:10my face still burning
00:26:13what is wrong with you?
00:26:15then why are you blushing?
00:26:17because it's hot
00:26:19oh
00:26:22I thought maybe you'd finally started to like me
00:26:24that line almost kills me
00:26:27keep dreaming
00:26:27but he doesn't get angry at all
00:26:29if anything
00:26:30he seems amused
00:26:31Adrian had you thrown into storage today
00:26:35and you're just going to take it?
00:26:38I said
00:26:40I'll handle it myself
00:26:41good
00:26:45then I'll be waiting to see that
00:26:46he sets down the cup and rolls away
00:26:49at the door he turns back for one last look
00:26:51don't disappoint me
00:26:54the second the door closes
00:26:55I grit my teeth so hard it hurts
00:26:59he's not here to help me
00:27:00he's pushing me to hit back harder
00:27:03the very next day
00:27:04I catch Adrian opening a back door Vanessa
00:27:18the next day at lunch
00:27:19I'm in the storage room with a boxed meal
00:27:22then one sentence from a co-worker stops me cold
00:27:28you don't know?
00:27:37Vanessa Bennett is the company's newest signing
00:27:40and Adrian is managing her himself
00:27:43my hands freeze in mid-air
00:27:46she hasn't even debuted yet
00:27:47and she's already booked a campaign
00:27:49we're both newcomers
00:27:50Adrian is handing Vanessa premium resources
00:27:53and I'm moving boxes in storage
00:27:55fair competition?
00:27:56I let out a cold laugh
00:27:58toss down my lunch and stand up
00:27:59I want to see exactly how far he's gone for Vanessa
00:28:03I follow the crowd all the way to the studio
00:28:07the studio is packed
00:28:10Vanessa is nearly an hour late and still acting spoiled
00:28:13didn't I tell you not to be late?
00:28:17it's just a small ad
00:28:20what's the big deal?
00:28:21the brand she's mocking flew a designer in from Milan for this
00:28:24I stand in the back and almost laugh
00:28:27she's being handed resources and still acting insulted
00:28:30worse
00:28:30Adrian is still cleaning up after her
00:28:33the designs are so simple
00:28:36they don't even look impressive
00:28:38the second she says that
00:28:40the foreign designer looks up at her
00:28:41his eyes turn cold instantly
00:28:43Vanessa doesn't notice a thing
00:28:45in the next second
00:28:47the designer starts walking toward me
00:28:53the designer stops in front of me and says something in Italian with a smile
00:28:57I pause for a second then answer him in Italian
00:28:59grazie signore
00:29:00e un piagere lavorare
00:29:01actually I understood every word
00:29:05I understand instantly
00:29:07everything Vanessa said about the brand being cheap
00:29:10he heard all of it
00:29:13keep it to yourself
00:29:15don't let them know
00:29:17understood
00:29:17we exchange a smile
00:29:19then he suddenly studies me for a moment
00:29:20would you like to be the face of my campaign instead?
00:29:23I go completely blank
00:29:26sorry
00:29:27I'm a manager not an artist
00:29:29what a shame
00:29:31you suit my work better than she does
00:29:33across the set
00:29:34Vanessa is already looking our way
00:29:37and she's clearly getting the wrong idea
00:29:48Vanessa storms over in her heels
00:29:52what are you doing?
00:29:54who said you could talk to my brand partner?
00:29:56the second she raises her voice
00:29:57everyone turns to look
00:29:59I was having a normal conversation
00:30:03a warehouse girl like you doesn't get to do that
00:30:06I start to answer
00:30:07but Ivan beats me to it
00:30:08I was the one who approached her
00:30:12and she understands my work better than you do
00:30:14the whole set falls silent
00:30:16Vanessa's face goes pale on the spot
00:30:22Vanessa's just nervous
00:30:23Adrian rushes in to smooth things over
00:30:25but Ivan doesn't give him an inch
00:30:27if you don't respect the work
00:30:29I may reconsider this collaboration
00:30:31that one sentence hits Adrian
00:30:33exactly where it hurts
00:30:37the studio falls into total chaos
00:30:40Adrian looks furious
00:30:42and Lauren still tries to dump the mess on me
00:30:44this was all a misunderstanding
00:30:45Nathan suddenly appears and steps right in front of me
00:30:48a misunderstanding?
00:30:49you're a department head
00:30:50you don't get to make reckless calls without finding out the truth
00:30:54that's negligence
00:30:55Mr. Cole, I...
00:30:56you'll take a disciplinary mark
00:30:57and lose your bonus
00:30:59and you'll apologize to Miss Bennett
00:31:01Lauren's face freezes
00:31:02I'm sorry...
00:31:04her apology is barely louder than a whisper
00:31:07keep the fake apology
00:31:09I just wanna know if you've been freezing me out because of your own choice
00:31:13or because someone told you to
00:31:15when I say that, I look straight at Adrian
00:31:17his face darkens instantly
00:31:20I know he gets the message
00:31:21this is only the beginning
00:31:25after Lauren Pierce is forced to apologize
00:31:27her face turns livid
00:31:31I think she'll at least back off a little
00:31:34instead
00:31:35she dumps a brand new disaster on me the very next second
00:31:40since you've been complaining about not getting real work
00:31:43perfect
00:31:51we've got an artist who needs a manager
00:31:54who?
00:31:56she throws a file straight into my arms
00:32:00Lana Hart
00:32:01I open the file and the first thing I see is a wall of scandal headlines
00:32:07adultery
00:32:08publicly exposed by her ex
00:32:10public image collapse
00:32:12the whole internet is tearing her apart
00:32:19what? scared to take it?
00:32:29you did this on purpose
00:32:32aren't you supposed to be so capable?
00:32:35then let's see if you can drag this train wreck back up
00:32:42I stare at her
00:32:44and suddenly smile
00:32:48fine
00:32:52I'll take it
00:32:53she wants me stuck with a losing hand
00:32:57too bad
00:33:01I plan to turn it into a royal flush
00:33:08I take Lana's file and go meet her in person
00:33:19the moment I open the door
00:33:21the first thing I smell is alcohol
00:33:25Lana is sitting on the couch
00:33:27bare faced, exhausted, and hollow eyed
00:33:31sigh
00:33:36you're new?
00:33:39I'm your new manager, Chloe Bennett
00:33:41huh
00:33:42I'm surprised the company even bothered sending anyone
00:33:45I'm not here to tell you to give up
00:33:47then what are you here for?
00:33:50to ask you one question
00:33:53did you cheat?
00:33:56or not?
00:33:58she stares at me for two seconds
00:34:02then she smashes her glass
00:34:08no!
00:34:10I didn't do it!
00:34:13that reaction doesn't look fake
00:34:17it looks like she's pushed too far for too long
00:34:28sigh
00:34:30sigh
00:34:31sigh
00:34:32sigh
00:34:33sigh
00:34:33sigh
00:34:33the whole world thinks I'm filthy
00:34:36but why should I admit to something I never did?
00:34:38I don't answer
00:34:39I just hold her gaze
00:34:41and suddenly, I think
00:34:43she might actually be innocent
00:34:50after shouting that she didn't do it
00:34:52Lana is trembling all over
00:35:05then what about the leaked video?
00:35:10that night someone spiked my drink
00:35:13when I woke up
00:35:15Evan was beside me
00:35:19what about Derek?
00:35:21sigh
00:35:21he just happened to storm in with witnesses
00:35:25and the video leaked right after that
00:35:28too convenient
00:35:30convenient enough to scream setup
00:35:33so you think Derek and Evan set you up together
00:35:37not think
00:35:39I know they did
00:35:42when she says that
00:35:44her eyes are burning with hatred
00:35:48Derek wants to ruin me
00:35:49Evan traded me for opportunities
00:35:52I close the file
00:35:53in my mind the picture is already forming
00:35:55this isn't just a celebrity scandal
00:35:57it's a calculated hunt
00:35:59and if it's a setup
00:36:00then somewhere in it
00:36:01there's a crack
00:36:05I look at Lana and finally ask the only question that matters
00:36:08do you still want your comeback?
00:36:10she pauses
00:36:11like she didn't expect that question at all
00:36:13do you think I still have a chance?
00:36:16yes
00:36:20the whole internet hates me
00:36:23then we'll make them shut up
00:36:24my own company is giving up on me?
00:36:26then we'll make them regret it
00:36:28she looks at me
00:36:29and for the first time something flickers back to life in her eyes
00:36:32why are you so confident?
00:36:34because I know something better than you do
00:36:38being dragged into the mud
00:36:39doesn't mean
00:36:40you stay there forever
00:36:42she doesn't answer
00:36:45but the desperate look in her eyes is gone
00:36:48I know it now
00:36:50she wants to fight
00:36:53early the next morning
00:36:55Lana texts me first
00:36:56I want my comeback
00:36:57the moment I read those four words
00:36:59I'm wide awake
00:37:00she's finally done giving up
00:37:02but before I can be happy for long
00:37:04the trending list explodes again
00:37:06Evan Ross posts a public apology
00:37:08at first glance it looks like a confession
00:37:10in reality it dumps every last drop of blame on Lana
00:37:14I made a mistake
00:37:15but if Lana hadn't approached me first
00:37:17I never would have crossed the line
00:37:19the second I read that I laugh
00:37:21not because it's funny
00:37:23because it's disgusting
00:37:24see that? he's using me to scrub himself clean
00:37:29how is that good?
00:37:30the more desperate he is to speak out
00:37:32the more guilty he is
00:37:33Lana pauses
00:37:34I'm already building the timeline in my head
00:37:37Evan stepping in isn't the end of the attack
00:37:39it's him handing us a weakness
00:37:44after Evan's post
00:37:45Lana's comment section goes nuclear
00:37:49everyone's calling her cheap
00:37:51desperate
00:37:52and asking for her downfall
00:37:55but the more I read
00:37:56the calmer I get
00:38:02that post wasn't an apology
00:38:05obviously not
00:38:07he was covering his own escape route
00:38:10what do you mean?
00:38:11if you were really the one who seduced him
00:38:13then he wouldn't need to come and apologize at all
00:38:17he rushed to speak because he was afraid you'd talk first
00:38:21Lana goes silent for two seconds
00:38:25so they're not done yet
00:38:28exactly
00:38:29because they're terrified you'll survive this
00:38:31the second I say that
00:38:33something hardens in Lana's eyes
00:38:35no more hurt
00:38:36just fury
00:38:37then let them try
00:38:39from this moment on we're not just trying to survive
00:38:42we're going on offense
00:38:46Lana and I pull two straight all-nighters
00:38:49we map out the leaked video
00:38:51the timing of the posts
00:38:52and every wave of coordinated online attacks
00:38:56the more we look
00:38:57the uglier it comes
00:39:00I've seen these gossip accounts before
00:39:04Derek has used them before
00:39:07so this time it's him too
00:39:11not just him
00:39:14Evan too
00:39:15I slide my phone over to her
00:39:18on the screen is proof that both sides use the same PR network
00:39:23those
00:39:25bastards
00:39:27cursing won't help
00:39:28we need to drag this setup into the light
00:39:30how?
00:39:31before I answer my phone rings
00:39:33it's the production team
00:39:34Mrs. Hart
00:39:35we're confirming next week's recording
00:39:37I look up and meet Lana's eyes
00:39:40here's our opening
00:39:42this show isn't just your comeback stage
00:39:45it's our first weapon
00:39:46a new war is about to begin
00:39:51we arrive at the recording set
00:39:54before we even settle in
00:39:55the hostility hits us first
00:40:02well look at that
00:40:03Lana you actually show up
00:40:06why wouldn't I?
00:40:09your recent headlines have been
00:40:11entertaining
00:40:12she says it with a smile
00:40:14then lets her eyes slide over to me
00:40:16and this must be your new manager?
00:40:20doesn't look like much
00:40:22thanks
00:40:22for what?
00:40:24for letting me know you're stupid
00:40:25the second you opened your mouth
00:40:28her smile freezes instantly
00:40:31Lana looks down
00:40:32barely stopping herself from laughing
00:40:36enough
00:40:37get ready to roll
00:40:39the second Marcus steps in
00:40:41the atmosphere gets worse
00:40:42I can tell
00:40:43he doesn't want Lana to make it through this clean
00:40:47we barely step onto set
00:40:48and I can already smell the trap
00:40:52recording starts
00:40:53and the host's very first question
00:40:55goes straight for Lana's wounds
00:40:57this isn't an interview
00:40:59it's bait
00:41:01Lana, you've been away for years
00:41:04was it because your marriage fell apart?
00:41:06my face goes cold instantly
00:41:09this is a show interview
00:41:11that question is out of line
00:41:16back off
00:41:17don't expect to dodge personal questions
00:41:19if you're in this industry
00:41:20don't expect to dodge personal questions
00:41:22he shuts me down on the spot
00:41:24but Lana doesn't panic
00:41:26marriage is in the past
00:41:28the stage is what matters now
00:41:30today, I just want people to hear my voice
00:41:35her answer is flawless
00:41:45Marcus looks even more annoyed
00:41:47because their first strike didn't land
00:41:50I know they won't stop there
00:41:55the interview ends
00:41:57and I don't even get a second to breathe
00:42:00Marcus suddenly turns towards me
00:42:05the interview ends
00:42:07the interview that you submitted is corrupted
00:42:09what?
00:42:09either switch songs
00:42:11or drop out and let the next act go up
00:42:20my head rings
00:42:22out of everyone here
00:42:23only Lana's track is broken
00:42:25this isn't an accident
00:42:26this is aimed straight at us
00:42:31what do we do, Chloe?
00:42:33I take one deep breath
00:42:35and look straight at Lana
00:42:42the backing track is gone
00:42:43how is this happening now?
00:42:46I suggest sing without it
00:42:48it is too hard
00:42:50it could go horribly wrong
00:42:52this song is your heart
00:42:55and it's your last step out of the abyss
00:42:58you have to go up there
00:43:01Lana stares straight at me
00:43:03and finally
00:43:04she nods
00:43:10in the next second
00:43:11Lana walks onto a stage
00:43:13with no backing track at all
00:43:20no backing track
00:43:23no safety net
00:43:24the whole room is waiting for Lana to fall apart
00:43:28but the second she steps on stage
00:43:32she does only one thing
00:43:35she closes her eyes
00:43:38and sings
00:43:39the first note hits
00:43:40and a chill shoots down my spine
00:43:42steady, precise, and full of the determination fury
00:43:45she's been choking down for far too long
00:43:57I can't say a word
00:43:59because I know she's already won
00:44:05everyone waiting for a meltdown
00:44:07goes dead silent
00:44:09even Marcus is stunned
00:44:16Lana isn't crashing
00:44:18she's taking the stage back in front of everyone
00:44:21Lana isn't crashing
00:44:24Lana gets more stable and stronger with every line
00:44:28every bit of tension hanging over the room disappears
00:44:35she's not gambling anymore
00:44:38she's taking command of the stage
00:44:42one by one
00:44:43people in the audience look up at her
00:44:44the same faces that were waiting to laugh
00:44:46now look completely different
00:44:49but I will rise
00:44:53but I will rise
00:44:54but I will rise
00:44:56again
00:44:58you're incredible
00:45:01I'm the first to clap
00:45:03a second later
00:45:04applause erupts through the room
00:45:11I turn and look at Adrian
00:45:13his face is starved as a strong clap
00:45:17I turn and look at Adrian
00:45:18useless idiots
00:45:19I gave you one simple job
00:45:20and you still blew it?
00:45:24he's not yelling at us
00:45:25he's yelling at his own people
00:45:27because this round
00:45:29he lost
00:45:30but before I can celebrate
00:45:32a new problem charges straight at us
00:45:39the second Lana gets off stage
00:45:41Sophie comes running over in tears
00:45:48Chloe! Chloe they smashed the laptop!
00:45:51I understand immediately
00:45:52the backup didn't disappear by accident
00:45:54it was destroyed on purpose
00:45:58who did it?
00:46:00I didn't see clearly
00:46:01by the time I got back it was already ruined
00:46:04I look down at the broken laptop
00:46:06and my blood runs colder and colder
00:46:10sabotaging the track
00:46:11destroying the backup
00:46:13they weren't trying to embarrass Lana
00:46:15they were trying to ruin her comeback completely
00:46:19it's fine
00:46:21how is this fine?
00:46:25did you hear the applause just now?
00:46:27that was our answer
00:46:30Sophie freezes
00:46:34but the cold in my eyes doesn't fade
00:46:38I'm keeping score now
00:46:45after recording raps
00:46:47Marcus still tries to act like nothing happened
00:46:49you got lucky today
00:46:53lucky?
00:46:54the track was ruined
00:46:56and so was the backup
00:46:58Mr. Hale
00:46:59are you sure this is just bad luck?
00:47:02Miss Bennett
00:47:03watch what you imply unless you have proof
00:47:05I will
00:47:07and you'd better pray it doesn't lead back to you
00:47:11his face darkens instantly
00:47:13off to the side
00:47:14the rival artist tries to sneak in another mocking line
00:47:17wow touchy much?
00:47:20shut up
00:47:25if you're involved too I won't spare you either
00:47:27her smile freezes instantly
00:47:29Lana stands behind me without saying a word
00:47:32but I know she sees all of it
00:47:34after this battle
00:47:36she doesn't see me as just another manager anymore
00:47:41on the ride back
00:47:43Lana doesn't say a word
00:47:45only when we're almost there does she finally speak
00:47:51thank you
00:47:52for today
00:47:55why are you thanking me?
00:47:59if it weren't for you they might actually have forced me off that stage
00:48:02you stayed standing because of you
00:48:06because you're strong enough when it counts
00:48:11you know how to flatter me
00:48:13I'm not flattering you, I'm telling the truth
00:48:19the car falls quiet
00:48:21the car falls quiet
00:48:22she turns and looks at me
00:48:25Chloe
00:48:27starting today you're not just my manager
00:48:31you're on my side
00:48:33something in my chest shifts
00:48:34that line means more than any thank you
00:48:42but before I can enjoy that moment
00:48:44someone locks on Lana
00:48:47when the car stops
00:48:48I get out first
00:48:49and walk around to open Lana's door
00:48:58that's enough, you don't have to walk me in
00:49:00not a chance
00:49:02but the moment Lana steps out
00:49:04I catch a figure from the corner of my eye
00:49:07tall
00:49:08thin
00:49:09mask on
00:49:13what is it?
00:49:16don't turn around
00:49:18someone behind me?
00:49:19yeah
00:49:20someone who has no business watching you like this
00:49:23when I look again the man is already turning away
00:49:26walking fast
00:49:28forget it
00:49:33I almost go after him
00:49:35but I can't leave Lana alone
00:49:37starting tomorrow
00:49:38you're getting bodyguards
00:49:40is it that serious?
00:49:42yes
00:49:44in that moment
00:49:45I know the next danger isn't online
00:49:48it's already watching Lana herself
00:49:54the next morning I barely arrive at the office before Lana storms in
00:49:59Chloe he showed up again
00:50:02who?
00:50:04I realized that something was seriously wrong
00:50:08the man who was watching me downstairs last night
00:50:13my stomach drops
00:50:16when I came downstairs this morning
00:50:18I saw him again
00:50:19he was standing across the street
00:50:21just staring at me
00:50:24then what?
00:50:25the second I turned toward him
00:50:26he turned and walked away
00:50:31but I saw him get into a black car
00:50:33the plate number?
00:50:36I only caught the last few digits
00:50:39I immediately push a pen and paper towards her
00:50:45write them down
00:50:47you really think he's not some crazy fan?
00:50:51not necessarily
00:50:52but if he's already showing up outside your building
00:50:55again and again
00:50:56then this isn't random anymore
00:51:00her face goes pale instantly
00:51:03pull out my phone and make a call immediately
00:51:09Nathan, I need a favor
00:51:12this time
00:51:13I'm done fighting alone
00:51:21the second Nathan picks up
00:51:23he listens quietly while I explain everything
00:51:30what do you need?
00:51:34I need you to trace a car
00:51:36and I need two reliable bodyguards for Lana
00:51:40is this Mr. Sterling's order?
00:51:42that question catches me off guard
00:51:45no
00:51:47it's my call
00:51:49the other end goes quiet for two seconds
00:51:52understood
00:51:52I'll have the bodyguards and the information sorted out by tonight
00:52:00I hang up and realize my palms are dreshed
00:52:04Lana has been staring at me the whole time
00:52:06you can even boss Nathan around
00:52:09I'm just using borrowing some leverage
00:52:13Chloe
00:52:17how much about you do I still not know?
00:52:19I don't answer that
00:52:21because lately I'm not even sure I understand myself
00:52:27but the thing that really unnerves me isn't Lana's question
00:52:30it's the fact that Sebastian is going to find out I crossed the line
00:52:37that night I walk into the mansion and to find Sebastian already in the living room
00:52:43like he's been waiting for me
00:52:45you're late
00:52:48I was working overtime
00:52:50working overtime?
00:52:52or overstepping?
00:52:54my heart skips
00:52:55he knows
00:52:57I don't know what you're talking about
00:53:01Nathan arranged people and cars for you today
00:53:05you really don't act like an outsider anymore
00:53:08I can't tell if he's angry or amused
00:53:10and that makes me even more nervous
00:53:14Lana's being watched
00:53:17I couldn't pretend I didn't see it
00:53:19he stares at me for a few long seconds
00:53:22you're really something now
00:53:23what's that supposed to mean?
00:53:25it means
00:53:26you're finally not acting like a helpless fool anymore
00:53:30I almost laugh from sheer irritation
00:53:32even when this man praises me
00:53:34he still sounds unbearable
00:53:38I stare at Sebastian and try to hold back
00:53:40but I fail
00:53:42can't you speak nicely for once?
00:53:46no
00:53:46he answers so fast which catches me off guard
00:53:51forget it
00:53:52I'm too tired to fight with you
00:53:56I turn to leave
00:53:58and he suddenly stops me
00:53:59Chloe
00:54:01I turn back
00:54:02now that you've decided to get involved in Lana's problem
00:54:07don't stop halfway
00:54:08was that support?
00:54:10you're imagining things
00:54:11I just hate losers
00:54:13but for some reason this time I don't get as angry
00:54:16because this time I understand him
00:54:18if you're gonna fight
00:54:19then finish it properly
00:54:20I'm about to answer when my phone suddenly rings
00:54:23I answer
00:54:25and all I hear at first is ragged breathing
00:54:30Chloe?
00:54:33there's someone outside my door
00:54:39Chloe?
00:54:40there's someone outside my door
00:54:43don't hang up
00:54:44lock everything
00:54:45close the curtains and stay quiet
00:54:48I'll be right there
00:54:49I grab my coat and bolt for the door
00:54:51but the second I hit the entrance
00:54:53a hand catches my wrist
00:54:56where are you going?
00:54:58something's wrong with Lana
00:54:59I have to get there now
00:55:00alone?
00:55:02what choice do I have?
00:55:04idiot
00:55:05he says it
00:55:06then immediately makes a call
00:55:08Nathan
00:55:09bring people
00:55:10Lana Hart's place
00:55:11now
00:55:13I freeze for a second
00:55:16this man has the sharpest mouth
00:55:18but he's always the first to act
00:55:22this time
00:55:23I'm not facing the danger alone
00:55:29by the time I reach Lana's apartment
00:55:31my heart is still pounding
00:55:34Chloe
00:55:35thank god you're here
00:55:38don't open it too wide
00:55:39who was knocking?
00:55:40I don't know
00:55:41I asked several times
00:55:43they never answered
00:55:44Nathan
00:55:45got it
00:55:49watching Nathan's people search through the hallway helps me calm down
00:55:53no one here
00:55:54he's gone?
00:55:56no
00:55:56if he only wanted to scare you
00:55:58he would have left something behind
00:56:00found something
00:56:01I look down
00:56:02there's a gift box in the corner by the door
00:56:05I didn't order anything
00:56:06don't touch it
00:56:09open it
00:56:10the moment the box opens
00:56:11a chill runs down my back
00:56:14candid photos
00:56:15this
00:56:18and a note
00:56:22it says
00:56:23you can't hide
00:56:24I finally know this isn't a prank
00:56:26this is aimed straight at Lana
00:56:30my fingers turn cold as I spread the photos out one by one
00:56:34downstairs
00:56:35by the building entrance
00:56:36across the street
00:56:38this wasn't spontaneous
00:56:40he's been watching you for a long time
00:56:41who would do this?
00:56:42check the surveillance first
00:56:44already on it
00:56:45what if it's some
00:56:46deranged fan?
00:56:48I don't think so
00:56:49a fan like that is impulsive
00:56:50this feels planned
00:56:51like someone wants to break you
00:56:53I haven't provoked anyone recently
00:56:55you being alive
00:56:56fighting back
00:56:57standing on stage again
00:56:58is enough to make a lot of people uncomfortable
00:57:00Lana's face turns even paler
00:57:02Nathan pulls up the surveillance footage
00:57:04we only got half his face from last night's building camera
00:57:09I look down
00:57:11and a chill runs down my back
00:57:12it's him
00:57:14you recognize him?
00:57:17this is the same face that was watching you downstairs this morning
00:57:19Lana's hands slowly curl into fists
00:57:22and now I know for sure
00:57:24last night wasn't paranoia
00:57:27this morning wasn't a coincidence either
00:57:30someone is really watching Lana
00:57:35Lana
00:57:35I don't expect Lana's face to change that badly
00:57:38when she sees that side profile
00:57:40no way
00:57:42you know him?
00:57:45he used to be my assistant
00:57:49former assistant?
00:57:52yes
00:57:54he quit right after the leak scandal
00:57:57so that means
00:58:02he never really left your life after that
00:58:07but he was never this bold before
00:58:09first
00:58:11we catch him
00:58:12no
00:58:13what?
00:58:15if we catch him now his crime is only stalking
00:58:18I want the one behind him
00:58:21go on
00:58:21if he dared to send those photos to her door
00:58:25then he wants to be seen
00:58:28and he wants to see
00:58:29Lana scared
00:58:31so what do we do?
00:58:34we make him think
00:58:36he succeeded
00:58:38Lana freezes
00:58:42and I finally decide to set the trap myself
00:58:48you want to use me as bait?
00:58:50I know this move is risky
00:58:51not just you
00:58:54I'll be with you
00:58:56Chloe
00:58:57Chloe you're insane
00:59:00if I weren't
00:59:01how would I have gotten you this far?
00:59:04the plan can work
00:59:07but?
00:59:08but
00:59:09we do it by my rules
00:59:11say it
00:59:12Lana goes out as usual
00:59:14you stay with her
00:59:21Nathan's people
00:59:22Nathan's people watch from the shadows
00:59:23the second he closes in
00:59:25take him down
00:59:26what if he doesn't show?
00:59:29he will
00:59:30the gift box wasn't the end
00:59:32it was meant to make you hide
00:59:34and instead you go out like nothing happened
00:59:37he won't be able to resist
00:59:39at last
00:59:40you're not just waiting for someone to help you
00:59:43Sebastian looks at me
00:59:44then suddenly smiles
00:59:45I don't answer him
00:59:48because I know
00:59:50this trap has to work
00:59:56the next afternoon I go out with Lana like it's any normal day
01:00:00you really think he'll follow?
01:00:03he will
01:00:06the calmer you look
01:00:08the less he'll be able to stay calm
01:00:10we walk around the mall for 20 minutes
01:00:12and nothing happens
01:00:16what if you were wrong?
01:00:18I wasn't
01:00:19the second I say that
01:00:21my phone vibrates
01:00:23he's here
01:00:24behind you
01:00:25to the right
01:00:25black cap
01:00:32I don't turn around
01:00:33I don't turn around
01:00:35keep walking
01:00:38I'm starting to panic
01:00:44don't stop
01:00:45when we turn into the underground garage
01:00:48the footsteps become unmistakable
01:00:53he's getting closer
01:00:56I know
01:00:56my palms are drenched
01:00:58but I can't look back
01:01:00Lana!
01:01:01the moment he lunges
01:01:02two dark figures rush in from his side
01:01:04don't move!
01:01:05in the next second he's slammed to the ground
01:01:10the second I turn around
01:01:12Lana goes completely stiff
01:01:13how is it you?
01:01:14the man pinned to the floor freezes too
01:01:16so it really is you
01:01:18why were you following me?
01:01:19I wasn't trying to hurt you
01:01:21then what about the box?
01:01:23the photos?
01:01:24the notes?
01:01:25he suddenly has no answer
01:01:26get him up
01:01:27understood
01:01:28it wasn't me
01:01:29I followed you yes
01:01:31but I didn't send that box
01:01:33then who did?
01:01:34he grits his teeth and refuses to answer
01:01:36say it!
01:01:37the person you should really fear
01:01:39isn't me
01:01:40Lana's face turns completely white
01:01:42and my stomach drops hard
01:01:43we caught one person
01:01:44but the real one is still out there
01:01:49after we take him back
01:01:51neither Lana nor I says much
01:01:54who was he closest to back then?
01:01:57he knew a lot of Derek's people
01:01:59what about Evan?
01:02:02he'd met him too
01:02:03the net in my mind keeps tightening
01:02:06the leaked video
01:02:07the candid photos
01:02:09the former assistant
01:02:10the stalking
01:02:11the box
01:02:13none of it feels impulsive
01:02:19it feels like someone's been waiting for the exact right time to finish Lana off
01:02:27there's something else
01:02:28say it
01:02:31the show's teaser drops tomorrow
01:02:33I look up sharply
01:02:37Marcus has been moving a lot behind the scenes
01:02:40got it
01:02:45what is it?
01:02:47they can't get to you in person now
01:02:50so they'll go after your name first
01:02:52Lana understands instantly
01:02:54this crisis isn't over yet
01:02:56it's just moving to a different battlefield
01:02:58the next battle will be online
01:03:03the next morning
01:03:04Sophie and I are already in front of the computer
01:03:12Chloe! it's up!
01:03:14three minutes into the teaser
01:03:15my face goes cold
01:03:16Lana barely does anything
01:03:18but after the malicious cuts
01:03:20she comes off arrogant, difficult and washed up
01:03:23they've gone too far
01:03:24they're not editing a show
01:03:25they're destroying Lana
01:03:26I check the comments
01:03:28as expected
01:03:29it's all hate
01:03:31she's unbearably arrogant
01:03:33washed up and still acting like a queen
01:03:35please
01:03:35I knew this would happen
01:03:37her voice is quiet
01:03:38but I can hear it
01:03:41she's starting to sink
01:03:42no, this isn't the end
01:03:46from the corner of my eye
01:03:48I catch one of Sophie's old meme edits on her screen
01:03:57in the next second
01:03:58in the next second
01:03:58I suddenly know exactly what to do
01:04:03I stare at Sophie's old meme edits
01:04:05and everything clicks into place
01:04:08if they can use editing to ruin Lana
01:04:11why can't we use memes to help her?
01:04:13you mean, take Lana's eye rolls, deadcast looks
01:04:15and savage expressions
01:04:17and turn them into memes
01:04:18don't let them think she's arrogant
01:04:19make them think she's funny
01:04:21I can do that
01:04:21I can start right now
01:04:22I sit down beside her
01:04:24picking clips
01:04:25writing titles
01:04:26shaping the pace myself
01:04:28this isn't PR
01:04:30it's a fight for narrative control
01:04:36that night
01:04:37the video goes up
01:04:40half an hour later
01:04:41it starts climbing the trending list
01:04:47Chloe, it's blowing up!
01:04:48I stare at the rising trend
01:04:50and finally breathe a sigh of relief
01:04:52they didn't destroy Lana
01:04:54I dragged her back out of the hate storm by force
01:05:00I think, for one night at least
01:05:02I might finally be able to rest
01:05:05but somewhere else
01:05:07Adrian is already exploding
01:05:10I wanted her destroyed!
01:05:14not turned into a trend!
01:05:19cut Lana's footage from the full episode
01:05:21understood
01:05:22and as I watch Lana trending online
01:05:25I slowly smile
01:05:29Chloe, did we win?
01:05:33we won one round
01:05:36but they won't stop
01:05:38then neither do we
01:05:39I look up at her
01:05:40the helpless despair
01:05:41is finally gone from her eyes
01:05:42what's there now
01:05:44is the determination
01:05:44to strike back
01:05:45at last
01:05:48you're starting to look the part
01:05:49can't you compliment someone like a normal man?
01:05:52I almost laugh despite myself
01:05:53but in that moment
01:05:54I finally understand something completely
01:05:56I'm not the old Chloe anymore
01:05:58the one waiting to be saved
01:05:59from today on
01:06:00I set the traps
01:06:01I make the moves
01:06:02and I drag them down myself
01:06:05I win the first true round of this war
01:06:08and from this moment on
01:06:10the real Chloe Bennett is finally awake
01:06:13the the
01:06:15Amor
01:06:15the
01:06:15is a
01:06:16all
01:06:16the
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