- 8 minutes ago
Hot🔥No More Mercy for My Ex 💔
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:00My name is John Morgan. On our 20th wedding anniversary, I found out the truth.
00:00:06My cold, conservative wife could be that wild in another man's bed.
00:00:1120 years ago, Eva suddenly fell seriously ill.
00:00:15She lay in that hospital bed, pale and trembling, begging me.
00:00:19John, find yourself a healthy woman. I'll only drag you down.
00:00:26I stayed by her side, through endless nights. Swore to love her in sickness and in health.
00:00:32Till death, what Eva never knew was, I was never some broke nobody.
00:00:37I was the billionaire CEO of Nexus. I hid it to protect her feelings.
00:00:42For 20 years, I took care of Eva and our two children.
00:00:46Every Christmas, I cooked a feast for them.
00:00:49I was basting the turkey, when my sister Mia called again, urging me to come back and be my billionaire.
00:00:55Go back?
00:00:56I looked at the family photo on the table, and smiled, taking care of Eva and the kids.
00:01:02That was the life I wanted.
00:01:04The company gala? Let Eva take that COO position, and have her start paving the way for my son Alex,
00:01:10too.
00:01:11I carried a fresh-baked apple pie toward the bedroom.
00:01:14Thought she's going to say my cooking got better.
00:01:16Like always, I started tidying up her room.
00:01:20Then a bag by the bed caught my eye.
00:01:22I opened it, a red lace nightgown.
00:01:25This has to be Eva's surprise for me.
00:01:28Ever since we had kids, we've slept apart.
00:01:31She's always been so reserved.
00:01:34I grinned to myself.
00:01:35Tonight, I'll show her, I've still got it.
00:01:38While I was thinking, the door opened.
00:01:41Eva's home.
00:01:42I took her bag, not like I always did.
00:01:44What have you got for me tonight?
00:01:46She shoved me off, looked at me like I'm filth.
00:01:49She tossed her hair back, and I caught the hickey on her neck.
00:01:53Don't touch me.
00:01:54Get your filthy hands off me.
00:01:56I froze.
00:01:57She changed and curled up on the couch, smiled at her phone in a way I haven't seen in years.
00:02:03I stood there, like an idiot.
00:02:06Go get me a blanket from the bedroom.
00:02:07I nodded without thinking.
00:02:09Taking care of her is just instinct now.
00:02:11Then, while I pulled a blanket from the closet, a box fell in front of me.
00:02:17A red nightgown, love letter, and a DB fell out from the box.
00:02:22I turned the DV on, and there she was, wearing that red nightgown, all over another man.
00:02:29The affection I never got from her is right there on the screen.
00:02:33It was thunderstruck.
00:02:35Every word in those letters played out right there on the video.
00:02:38So she wasn't cold.
00:02:40She just saved all that heat for someone else.
00:02:42I lost it.
00:02:43I grabbed the box and the DB, and stormed out.
00:02:47I slammed the box down at her feet, and shoved the DB screen in her face.
00:02:52Her laughter echoed through the room.
00:02:54I looked at her panic, and said, slowly,
00:02:57You better explain who the hell this is.
00:03:00I slammed the evidence down in front of her.
00:03:03Eva freezes for a second.
00:03:05The panic passes, then turns into anger.
00:03:07Are you some kind of creep, going through my stuff?
00:03:10Phil and I were discussing photography, that's all.
00:03:13Photography?
00:03:14Did she thought I'm an idiot?
00:03:15That's how you dress to discuss photography?
00:03:18For 20 years I backed your career, gave you everything,
00:03:22and this is how you repay me?
00:03:23Cheating on me?
00:03:24Who is he?
00:03:25Tell me!
00:03:26Who the hell is that bastard?
00:03:28I grip her wrist.
00:03:29Then the door opens.
00:03:31Alex and Amy stand in the doorway.
00:03:33My son and my daughter.
00:03:35I don't want this exploding in front of them.
00:03:38I let go of Eva, and step back.
00:03:41But she refuses to back down.
00:03:43Phil cares about me.
00:03:44He understands and supports me.
00:03:46He's my soulmate, my best friend.
00:03:49My finger pointed her, shaking.
00:03:52Soulmate?
00:03:53Best friend?
00:03:54Then what have I been for 20 years?
00:03:56Your unpaid servant?
00:03:57Amy and Alex rush over and grab my arms.
00:04:00What are you doing?
00:04:01I look at them, and for a moment, hope rises.
00:04:04They'll take my side.
00:04:05They have to.
00:04:06I'm their father.
00:04:08Eva, look at your children.
00:04:10Can you swear in front of them that you and Phil are just friends?
00:04:13Eva looks away, unable to meet my eyes.
00:04:16Amy and Alex look down at the love letter that scattered across the floor.
00:04:20There should have been shock, rage, something.
00:04:24But all I saw was guilt.
00:04:26Dad, you've got it wrong.
00:04:28Mom and Phil are friends.
00:04:29What, a woman can't have a guy best friend now?
00:04:31Yeah, Dad.
00:04:33Uncle Phil's just Mom's CFO.
00:04:35The truth is, he's the one who got me my job.
00:04:37I stare at their faces, like it was no big deal.
00:04:41They knew.
00:04:41They all knew.
00:04:43And they hid it from their father.
00:04:44I jabbed a finger into my chest.
00:04:46I'm your father!
00:04:47Why are you taking his side?
00:04:49No.
00:04:50Dad, that's not what I...
00:04:51Eva!
00:04:52Everyone turns.
00:04:54Phil stands in the entryway, holding three elegant gift bags.
00:04:58Eva!
00:04:58Wearing that perfect smile, like he belongs here.
00:05:01You left your clothes at my place.
00:05:03He lifts the bags casually, like he was mentioning nothing at all.
00:05:08That man, Phil, just walked into my home.
00:05:11His shoes click across the floor.
00:05:14I clean myself, wearing that perfect smile, like some honored guest.
00:05:18Eva sees him, and her eyes light up.
00:05:21She practically throws herself at him.
00:05:23Alex and Amy look up at the same time, faces lighting up.
00:05:28Uncle Phil!
00:05:29The three of them gather around him, and I'm standing in the middle of my own living, like
00:05:35I'm invisible.
00:05:37So you're the famous Phil.
00:05:40Uh, yeah.
00:05:41Nice to meet you.
00:05:42I'm Phil, finance manager at Nexus Capital, and Eva's best friend.
00:05:48Best friend?
00:05:49Eva betrayed me for this piece of trash.
00:05:52I lunge at him and grab his collar.
00:05:54Then I hear Eva scream.
00:05:56Stop!
00:05:57She rushes in between us, and shoves me to the floor.
00:06:01She turns, touches Phil's arm, looks up at him with worry all over her face.
00:06:07Then she looks at me, cold.
00:06:09Listen, I hid those things because I knew you'd lose your mind.
00:06:13I knew Phil before I even met you.
00:06:16And if something was going to happen between us, it would have happened long ago.
00:06:20Why wait till now?
00:06:21Dad, are you serious?
00:06:22You and Mom have been married for decades.
00:06:24Where's the basic trust?
00:06:26Dad, stop embarrassing yourself.
00:06:29Uncle Phil helped me get where I am.
00:06:31I'm so angry, I can barely breathe.
00:06:33My hand clamps over my chest.
00:06:35Even I really are just friends.
00:06:37I only wanted to make her happy.
00:06:39If any of this crossed the line, I'll stay out of your business.
00:06:42He looks at Eva and smiles, polite and elegant.
00:06:46Somehow, it made me look like a clown.
00:06:49Get out of my house!
00:06:50I swang my fist with everything I've got, at that fake, lying face.
00:06:55Then, a slap cracks across my left cheek.
00:06:58My head jerks sideways.
00:07:01My ears rang.
00:07:02The wife I spent 20 years caring for slapped me for another man.
00:07:08I stand there holding my face, looking into Eva's eyes.
00:07:12And at that moment, I finally understood.
00:07:15In this house, I matter less than a stranger.
00:07:18What gives you the right to tell Phil to leave?
00:07:21I clawed my way up on my own.
00:07:23I'm about to be COO, and I have Phil to thank for that.
00:07:26And you?
00:07:27Marrying you was the worst mistake I ever made, you useless piece of shit.
00:07:32Useless?
00:07:33If I hadn't been pulling strings behind the scenes,
00:07:35how would an ordinary sales manager ever make it to COO?
00:07:40Eva, 20 years ago, you were dying.
00:07:43I fed you medicine one spoon at a time.
00:07:46Stayed at your bedside day and night.
00:07:48Did you forget what we promised each other?
00:07:50I even missed my mother's funeral for you.
00:07:53Did I ask you to do it?
00:07:55But every one of those choices was yours.
00:07:57And let's be honest, I've supported you for years.
00:08:01We're even.
00:08:02I gave up my billion dollar fortune for her.
00:08:05Even missed my mom's last moments.
00:08:07And she actually dares to say we're even.
00:08:09Eva, I'm sorry.
00:08:11This is all my fault.
00:08:12I never meant to cause trouble in your marriage.
00:08:14These are Christmas gifts for your whole family.
00:08:17And if your husband doesn't want me here,
00:08:19I promise I'll never come around again.
00:08:21Alex opens his box.
00:08:23A brand new car key.
00:08:25His eyes light up as he looks at Phil in awe.
00:08:29Amy opens hers.
00:08:30A designer handbag.
00:08:31She screams and hugs it to her chest.
00:08:34Eva opens the last gift.
00:08:36A Harry Winston necklace.
00:08:38She gasps, holding it like it's priceless.
00:08:41I stand there watching.
00:08:43Their eyes on the gifts.
00:08:45No one gives a damn about how I feel.
00:08:48Phil, this must have cost a fortune.
00:08:51I saw you looking at it in that shop window.
00:08:53Think of it as my congratulations for becoming COO.
00:08:57My wife lowers her head, blushing like a girl.
00:09:00Uncle Phil, you're still trying to win mom over, aren't you?
00:09:03Her first love just never quits, huh?
00:09:06Alex suddenly jabs Amy's arm hard.
00:09:08She stumbles, covers her mouth, and looks at me guilt.
00:09:12First love.
00:09:13I look at Amy panicking after letting it slip, and I realize they never saw me as one of them.
00:09:20Eva, I know I failed you once.
00:09:23As long as you're happy now, I'm willing to walk away.
00:09:26He turns for the door, and I watch my own children beg the man destroying my family to stay.
00:09:32Wait!
00:09:33He's not the one who should leave.
00:09:35He is.
00:09:36Dad, you can't give mom happiness.
00:09:38Uncle Phil can.
00:09:39Just leave.
00:09:41I gave up everything for them.
00:09:44And now, for what Phil can give them, they're ready to kick me to the curb.
00:09:48You brought this on yourself.
00:09:50Uncle Phil already got me into Nexus Capital.
00:09:53What could you ever give me?
00:09:56Uncle Phil hands me 50 grand for pocket money like it's nothing.
00:09:59Aren't you embarrassed?
00:10:00If you really love mom, let her go.
00:10:03I look at these two children, standing before me like strangers.
00:10:07Are these really the same kids who once said,
00:10:11Dad, I'll take care of you.
00:10:13Six years ago, in the summer, I was wearing that faded blue apron, flower still on my hands.
00:10:19Alex and Amy ran in waving their Harvard acceptance letters, and throw themselves into my arms.
00:10:26I'm so proud of you.
00:10:27I looked down at those letters.
00:10:29Tears of joy were in my eyes.
00:10:31I guessed they forgot those words a long time ago.
00:10:34I sacrificed everything for you.
00:10:37And this is how you treat me?
00:10:38Fine.
00:10:39I'll go.
00:10:40I was ready to walk away for good.
00:10:42But Phil wasn't done with me.
00:10:44No, John.
00:10:45I'm the one who should leave.
00:10:46He grabbed my arm, then suddenly threw himself backward like I shoved him.
00:10:51His body slammed into the entry cabinet with a thud.
00:10:55Then he slid down to the floor, grimacing.
00:10:57John!
00:10:58What are you doing?
00:10:59What pathetic acting.
00:11:01And my wife and children by every second of it.
00:11:04Eva got up and slapped me hard.
00:11:06I fell backward into the coffee table.
00:11:09A picture frame crashed to the floor.
00:11:11My palm drove into the broken glass, and blood seeped from the base of my palm onto the photo.
00:11:18Our family portrait lay in the wreckage.
00:11:21A crack in the glass cut right between me and Eva, splitting our smiles in two.
00:11:27John, what the hell are you doing?
00:11:29Today you hit Uncle Phil.
00:11:31Tomorrow, you'll hit Mom.
00:11:33Mom, divorce him!
00:11:35Now!
00:11:39I didn't touch him.
00:11:40Shut up!
00:11:41John, you're going to kill us all!
00:11:43Throw him out!
00:11:44The door opens.
00:11:46The three of them grab me and throw me out.
00:11:48Get out of our house!
00:11:49You don't belong here!
00:11:50You're not my father anymore.
00:11:52Not ever again.
00:11:53I'm divorcing you.
00:11:55Then I see Phil, standing behind the three of them, smiling, satisfied.
00:12:00The door starts to close.
00:12:02The warm light disappears.
00:12:04And on my face, I can't tell if it's melted snow or my tears.
00:12:09Fireworks suddenly burst overhead.
00:12:11All over the street.
00:12:13People laughing and wishing each other Merry Christmas.
00:12:16Every family was celebrating Christmas.
00:12:19And on Christmas, I lost my family.
00:12:23After they threw me out, I had nowhere to go.
00:12:26So I went to my sister Mia's.
00:12:28She looks at me.
00:12:29Blood all over.
00:12:30And she knew everything.
00:12:32Her hand slams down on the table.
00:12:34Eva has what she has because of you?
00:12:36Alex got his job because of you!
00:12:38You gave them everything and this is what you get back?
00:12:42A bunch of ungrateful leeches!
00:12:44Mia's right.
00:12:45Eva became sales manager because I had a headhunter recruit her.
00:12:50Alex got his interview because I made it happen.
00:12:53I gave them everything and got this in return.
00:12:56Mia's eyes reddens.
00:12:58She hands me an old pocket watch.
00:13:01My hands shake as I open it.
00:13:04Mom left this for you.
00:13:05If she were alive, she'd never want to see you treated like this.
00:13:08Eva doesn't deserve you.
00:13:10It's me and my mother in that photo.
00:13:12And I remembered the hospital.
00:13:14It was when I missed seeing my mother one last time because I stayed with Eva.
00:13:19The biggest regret of my life.
00:13:21My mother was dying and I didn't even know it.
00:13:24When she called me, I was tending to Eva.
00:13:27Mom was already fading.
00:13:28Her voice was weak and I was too blind to hear it.
00:13:31Mom.
00:13:32John.
00:13:33What's wrong?
00:13:34Nothing, baby.
00:13:35Just wanted to hear your voice.
00:13:37Then Eva coughed a few times.
00:13:40And I rushed my mother off the phone.
00:13:42Mom, something's come up here.
00:13:43I'll call you later.
00:13:44The call ended.
00:13:45I hurried to Eva's bedside, asking if she was hurting, if she needed a doctor.
00:13:50Later I learned that was the last time I ever spoke to my mother.
00:13:53I stare at the watch, tears falling.
00:13:56Mom.
00:13:57I failed you.
00:13:58But not anymore.
00:14:00Never again.
00:14:01I'm divorcing Eva.
00:14:02And I'm taking back everything that's mine.
00:14:05Mia.
00:14:05I need a favor.
00:14:07Mia looks at me.
00:14:08Eyes still red.
00:14:10And gives one hard nod.
00:14:12And just as I make up my mind to take everything back, something else is happening in that house.
00:14:18The kitchen sink is clogged.
00:14:20Phil has been wrestling with it forever.
00:14:22Clearly, he's not handy.
00:14:25It's Christmas.
00:14:26There's no plumber coming today.
00:14:28Dad used to fix stuff like this.
00:14:31I'll give John this.
00:14:32He was always better at fixing things than I am.
00:14:34Fixing pipes is about all he was good for.
00:14:37Don't compare that loser to you.
00:14:39Then the pipe burst.
00:14:40All four of them scream at once in chaos.
00:14:44Water went everywhere.
00:14:45Then Phil's phone rings.
00:14:47He gets word that I met with Mia.
00:14:49And his face changes.
00:14:51My uncle's high up at Nexus.
00:14:53He said he saw John with the COO.
00:14:55What if John told her everything?
00:14:56If the COO believes his lies, all the years I put into this, go up in smoke!
00:15:02While those idiots were panicking, Mia and I were sitting in a coffee shop, drinking coffee like nothing was wrong.
00:15:09John, you sure you want to do this at the company gala?
00:15:12Mia asks if I'm sure.
00:15:14I was the one who put her where she is.
00:15:17Now I'm only taking back what I once gave.
00:15:19Mia's phone suddenly buzzes.
00:15:21Caller ID Phil.
00:15:23We look at each other and smirk.
00:15:24She puts him on the speaker.
00:15:26Hello Director Morgan, this is Phil.
00:15:28I just wanted to remind you about Eva's promotion to COO.
00:15:31Please don't let rumors affect your judgment.
00:15:34Eva is extremely capable.
00:15:36She's fully qualified for the job.
00:15:37That self-important idiot thinks being finance manager gives him enough pull to put in a good word for ABBA.
00:15:44He has no idea.
00:15:45The COO he's trying to flatter is the blood sister of the loser he looks down on.
00:15:52Enough.
00:15:52How I make my decisions is none of your concern.
00:15:56Tell Eva to be ready for the gala.
00:15:58I've got quite a surprise for her.
00:16:00The second she hands up, I can picture Eva and Phil already acting like they've made it.
00:16:05Still dreaming they're about to hit the big time.
00:16:07The night of the gala, the four of them showed up in fancy clothes.
00:16:12Eva is ready for what she thinks will be the proudest moment of her life.
00:16:16Co-workers crowd around her with congratulations.
00:16:19Eva, heard they're announcing your promotion to COO tonight.
00:16:23Congratulations.
00:16:24Eva, looks like you're about to be our boss.
00:16:28Don't forget us when you make it to the top.
00:16:31Of course.
00:16:32Uncle Phil and my mom are basically a match made in heaven.
00:16:36No kidding.
00:16:37That loser my mom used to be married to, he wouldn't make it through the front door here.
00:16:42They're right.
00:16:43A loser couldn't get in here because the man walking through those doors tonight is the true owner of this
00:16:50empire.
00:16:51Dozens of men in black stand beside the cars with Mia, waiting for me.
00:16:56My brother will be out any second.
00:16:58Everyone, be ready.
00:17:00Yes, ma'am.
00:17:01I step out the front door, one step at a time.
00:17:05Under security escort, I slid into the backseat of a Maybach.
00:17:09The motorcade starts moving, rolling into the city.
00:17:1220 years.
00:17:14I gave up everything for that ridiculous thing called love.
00:17:18I made myself their servant, and all my sacrifice bought me was contempt.
00:17:24Now, the game is over.
00:17:27In the ballroom, Eva is still soaking up the praise.
00:17:31Heard the CEO is back, and he's personally handing out the promotion letters to everyone getting promoted.
00:17:37Wow, that's the highest honor there is.
00:17:40He's not just our chairman, he's the richest man in the country.
00:17:44If I were the CEO's son, I'd never have to work a day in my life.
00:17:48If I could get the CEO to be my wedding witness, I'd brag about it forever.
00:17:52What they don't know, the CEO they're talking about, is me.
00:17:58Eva, when the CEO hands you that promotion, make sure you mention my name.
00:18:04Don't worry, I will.
00:18:07A bodyguard opens my car door.
00:18:09Mia stands beside me.
00:18:11Hundreds of executives and staff line up on both sides of the entrance, bowing at me.
00:18:17Good evening, Mr. Morgan.
00:18:19Mr. Morgan, a title of power and wealth.
00:18:23I haven't heard it in 20 years.
00:18:25Eva, are you ready for the biggest surprise of your life?
00:18:29John's never seen anything like this.
00:18:30You should have brought that loser to open his eyes.
00:18:33A guy like him wouldn't know what to do with opportunity if it hit him in the face.
00:18:37He deserves nothing.
00:18:39Exactly.
00:18:40Not everyone can get in here.
00:18:41That old loser doesn't belong anywhere near the spotlight.
00:18:45The CEO is here!
00:18:48The doors swing open.
00:18:49A spotlight hits me.
00:18:51And I look at those four clowns.
00:18:53The same people trashing me one second ago.
00:18:55Now frozen where they stand.
00:18:57I am John Morgan, CEO of Nexus Capital.
00:19:01And I'm back.
00:19:02Their judgment is over.
00:19:04Mine has just begun.
00:19:06I stride into the ballroom.
00:19:09First time in 20 years.
00:19:10I'm out in public, wearing a custom suit.
00:19:14Look at that suit.
00:19:16That's Qtour.
00:19:17You can't just buy that.
00:19:18And those cufflinks?
00:19:19Wait.
00:19:20No way.
00:19:21That's the billionaire CEO everyone's been talking about?
00:19:24I hear the whispers.
00:19:26Eva's in the crowd, just staring at me, frozen.
00:19:29My dad?
00:19:30Is that billionaire CEO?
00:19:32Oh please.
00:19:34No way.
00:19:35John's a broke nobody living off me.
00:19:37I was married to him for years.
00:19:39I know exactly what he is.
00:19:40She dregs Alex and Amy with her and storms over.
00:19:44John, who the hell let you in?
00:19:47You think dressing up fancy is gonna make me believe you?
00:19:51In your dreams.
00:19:52Who said I came for you?
00:19:54I'm here for the gala.
00:19:55They laugh in my face.
00:19:57Not a second of doubt to them.
00:19:59I'm still just trash.
00:20:01You think a suit makes you CEO?
00:20:03Get real.
00:20:04This isn't your world.
00:20:06You don't belong here.
00:20:08Stop embarrassing yourself.
00:20:10Out of pity for whatever family we have left?
00:20:14Here's a tip.
00:20:16Ten minutes.
00:20:17The COO and CEO are about to present the appointment certificate to my mom.
00:20:22I let out a cold laugh.
00:20:24We'll see who's presenting the certificate to who.
00:20:27Eva pulls out a stack of papers and slams them against my chest.
00:20:31Divorce papers.
00:20:33Sign them, then get the hell out.
00:20:36Once I'm COO, you're nothing to me.
00:20:39You're not even fit to shine my shoes.
00:20:41I flip through it, line by line.
00:20:44Even the asset splits done.
00:20:46I walk away with nothing.
00:20:48She cheated first, and she makes it look like somehow she's the victim.
00:20:53You haven't made a dime all these years.
00:20:55You've been living off me.
00:20:56They still don't get it.
00:20:58Everything they have, I gave them.
00:21:01Without me, they're nothing.
00:21:03I look at them and smile, my heart embittered.
00:21:06Fine.
00:21:06If that's what they want.
00:21:08I pull a pen from my suit, about to sign, when Alex suddenly stops me.
00:21:13Wait!
00:21:15Alex suddenly cuts in.
00:21:17For a second, I thought he had finally come to his senses.
00:21:20But I'm wrong.
00:21:21He frowns, looking at me like I'm garbage.
00:21:23Then shoves another document right into my face.
00:21:26Go ahead.
00:21:27Sign this too.
00:21:29I'm done with you.
00:21:30My sister and I don't a loser like you for a dad.
00:21:33Sign it, and we're done.
00:21:34I take it, and look down.
00:21:37Agreement to end father-son relationship.
00:21:40My fingers start to shake.
00:21:42Alex Morgan.
00:21:43John Morgan.
00:21:44My own son, cutting me off.
00:21:46From now on, we take Phil's name.
00:21:48I'm Alex Fry.
00:21:49My sister's Amy Fry.
00:21:52Sign it.
00:21:53Now.
00:21:55From today on, I'm Amy Fry.
00:21:57Sounds way better than Amy Morgan.
00:22:00Eva stands there, arms crossed, smirking.
00:22:03The three of them together, like a real family.
00:22:07I stare at the paper, eyes stinging.
00:22:1020 years.
00:22:11Everything I gave them, and this is what I get.
00:22:14Alex, Amy, that's a bit much.
00:22:18You really are gonna humiliate your own father like this?
00:22:21John, you've been a pretty lousy father.
00:22:24Just look, your own kids don't even want you.
00:22:26Everything I gave, all these years.
00:22:29This is what it comes down to?
00:22:30I raise them myself, and turn them into monsters.
00:22:34Eva watches coldly.
00:22:35Arms folded.
00:22:36Waiting for me to sign, so she can toss me out like trash.
00:22:39My pen hits the paper.
00:22:42Stroke by stroke, I sign my name.
00:22:45I fleeing the signed papers at Alex.
00:22:47They scatter across the floor as he scrambles to pick them up.
00:22:51Eva, Amy, Alex, you just killed whatever love I had left for you.
00:22:57My mom's about to be COO.
00:23:00Without her, you won't even be able to feed yourself.
00:23:03Congrats, mom.
00:23:04Looks like you and Uncle Phil are finally getting their happy ending.
00:23:07Mom, once you're COO, I basically run this place.
00:23:11I wipe the tears from my eyes and look up at them.
00:23:14Their faces are full of hope for the future.
00:23:17How nice.
00:23:18Too bad.
00:23:19It's about to end.
00:23:19And what makes you think that's a promotion, and not a termination?
00:23:24I look at Eva, still so full of herself.
00:23:28She really thinks she's won.
00:23:29She really thinks that COO's seat is hers.
00:23:37And what makes you think that's a promotion, and not a termination?
00:23:43I hold Eva's promotion letter, and tell Mia I'm pulling her promotion.
00:23:47Eva and Alex are out, and I'll make sure no one in this industry ever hires them again.
00:23:53I put her there.
00:23:55I can drag her down myself.
00:23:57I flick my lighter open.
00:23:58The flame catches the edge of the paper.
00:24:01I watch it burn to ash.
00:24:03The ashes drift beside my coffee.
00:24:05My face stays cold.
00:24:0720 years.
00:24:08It ends now.
00:24:09I look at them, ice cold.
00:24:11A bunch of clowns, and they have no idea what's coming.
00:24:16Fired?
00:24:17Do you even know what this event is?
00:24:20It's to celebrate my mom's promotion.
00:24:22Fired.
00:24:23Yeah, right.
00:24:26John, after the divorce, I hope you can at least take care of yourself.
00:24:30Living off others?
00:24:32That's just pathetic.
00:24:34Living off others?
00:24:35Pathetic.
00:24:36And she says that with a straight face.
00:24:38Every meal she's eaten.
00:24:39Every outfit she's worn.
00:24:41Every promotion she's had.
00:24:43None of it happened without me.
00:24:44I shove past Phil and Eva and walk forward, steady.
00:24:51Jesus!
00:24:52John's gone crazy!
00:24:54Hey!
00:24:55That's the CEO's chair!
00:24:57I stop in front of the chair and stare everyone down.
00:25:00That chair was mine 20 years ago.
00:25:02I'm just taking my seat back.
00:25:04Eva, he's your ex-husband.
00:25:05If he pulls something and pisses off the higher-ups, your promotion's done.
00:25:10He's trying to ruin you!
00:25:12I don't hesitate.
00:25:13I sit in the CEO's chair.
00:25:15Eva rushes up and shoves me down.
00:25:17The chair crashes to the floor with a dull thud.
00:25:22John, what the hell are you doing?
00:25:24I told you.
00:25:26I'm here for the gala.
00:25:27Oh, please.
00:25:29Still lying?
00:25:30Some nobody sneaks in without an invite just to make a scene?
00:25:34Get out!
00:25:35Now!
00:25:36She raises her hand to hit me.
00:25:39The same hand that slapped me twice before.
00:25:42Not this time.
00:25:43I catch her wrist.
00:25:44Eva!
00:25:44The moment the door bursts open, me lying in a pool of blood, her eyes turn red instantly.
00:25:51We were married.
00:25:53I put up with you because I loved you.
00:25:55That's over now.
00:25:56We're divorced now.
00:25:59You touch me again?
00:26:02Try it.
00:26:03I shove her hand off.
00:26:05Eva stumbles back and Phil catches her without thinking.
00:26:08Nice teamwork.
00:26:11John!
00:26:12Do you even know what that chair is?
00:26:14That's the CEO's seat.
00:26:15You're going to get us all screwed.
00:26:20That seat is always mine.
00:26:22I pick up the chair, Eva knocked over, and set it back in place.
00:26:26What's the problem with me sitting here?
00:26:27This was my seat to begin with.
00:26:29I sit down in the CEO's chair.
00:26:3120 years.
00:26:32And it finally has its owner back.
00:26:36John!
00:26:38John, you've lost your mind!
00:26:41You've completely lost it!
00:26:43Eva tries to rush me, but Phil holds her back.
00:26:46What's he afraid of?
00:26:47Her getting hit again, or things getting out of hand?
00:26:50Listen, the billionaire CEO and the CO are about to show up.
00:26:54You want to die?
00:26:55Don't drag us down with you!
00:26:56Alex shoves me, but I don't move an inch.
00:26:58I just sit there while they keep screaming.
00:27:01John, you're going to cost Eva everything!
00:27:05Mom, if he keeps this up, I'm screwed!
00:27:11Get up!
00:27:13If you ruin my promotion, I swear I won't let this go!
00:27:18I don't bother responding.
00:27:19Then, the ballroom doors burst open, as security steps aside as a man in his 50s storms in,
00:27:26full of authority.
00:27:27I know him.
00:27:28Gilbert Newman.
00:27:29Phil's uncle.
00:27:30One of the top guys at Nexus.
00:27:32Everyone turns.
00:27:34Phil's eyes light up.
00:27:35Relief washes over his face.
00:27:37He thinks his savior just walked in.
00:27:39His grin stretches ear to ear as he rushes over.
00:27:42What's all this noise?
00:27:44The CEO and COO will be here any minute!
00:27:47Uncle, Gilbert.
00:27:48Perfect timing.
00:27:49That idiot's sitting in the CEO's chair.
00:27:51He's basically challenging the CEO.
00:27:53You've got to teach him a lesson.
00:28:01What?
00:28:03Challenging the CEO?
00:28:05Where'd this clown come from?
00:28:07I'll make him pay for this!
00:28:12Gilbert stops right in front of me, eyes wide.
00:28:15I just sit there, smirking.
00:28:16I thought one look at me would make him panic and start apologizing.
00:28:21Instead, he doesn't even recognize me.
00:28:23You've got some nerve sitting in the CEO's chair.
00:28:26Get the hell up right now while I'm being nice.
00:28:28Unless you want trouble.
00:28:30John, cut the act.
00:28:31Mr. Newman's a company veteran.
00:28:33I almost forgot this.
00:28:34Nobody joined after I left the company.
00:28:38He's been with the company longer than I have.
00:28:40Who the hell are you?
00:28:42You really think Mr. Newman would even look twice at you?
00:28:46You pathetic old loser.
00:28:48Stop running your mouth.
00:28:49You're only making yourself look worse.
00:28:51Just get out!
00:28:52Mr. Newman, that's my useless father.
00:28:54He lives in his own fantasy and actually thinks he's the CEO who vanished 20 years ago.
00:29:00Mr. Newman, if I were you, I'd think very carefully before making your next move.
00:29:05Gilbert meets my eyes.
00:29:06For a second, I see hesitation.
00:29:08A nobody like him has never met the real CEO.
00:29:12He doesn't know what to make of me.
00:29:14Uncle Gilbert, don't let him bluff you.
00:29:17He's just Eva's deadbeat ex-husband.
00:29:19He came here to sabotage her promotion.
00:29:21Dodd Phil grins.
00:29:23Fawning like a dog begging for scraps.
00:29:26Mr. Newman, please get him out of here.
00:29:28Don't let my family mess ruin the gala.
00:29:29Got it.
00:29:30Leave it to me.
00:29:31Drag this old fool out!
00:29:33The security guards close in, smirking.
00:29:36I frown, not out of fear, out of rage, dot 20 years.
00:29:40And now even some nobody who came in after me thinks he can walk all over me.
00:29:44The guards circle around me, but I don't back down.
00:29:47My calm is starting to rattle them.
00:29:49Want to know if I'm really the CEO?
00:29:51Call your CON, Mia Morgan.
00:29:52She can clear it up right now.
00:29:54Who the hell are you to order me to call the COO?
00:29:56She already said tonight is the CEO's homecoming party.
00:30:01You better get out now, or I'll beat your ass first and throw you out myself.
00:30:07John, stop clinging to my mom like some parasite.
00:30:11You're after her money and you just won't go away.
00:30:13We signed the divorce papers.
00:30:15Let's just end this and move on.
00:30:17Stop bothering me, okay?
00:30:18Bothering her, I let out a cold laugh.
00:30:20Just looking at her makes me sick.
00:30:22This company is mine.
00:30:24They're the ones who should be thrown out.
00:30:26Security!
00:30:26Get them out of here!
00:30:27The guards rush me and drag me out of the chair.
00:30:30I fight back, but there are too many of them in this struggle.
00:30:34A pocket watch slips from my suit and hits the floor.
00:30:37My mother's pocket watch.
00:30:39The last thing she left me.
00:30:41I lunge for it, but Eva gets there first.
00:30:43I yell at her to give it back, but Eva looks at the watch and lets out a mocking laugh.
00:30:49So this is the watch your old hag of a mother left you?
00:30:52Disgusting!
00:30:53She crouches and dangles it in front of me, like teasing a dog dot.
00:30:57Two guards pin my arms down while I struggle to reach it,
00:31:01but Eva pulls it back, laughing like a maniac.
00:31:04I'm shaking with rage.
00:31:05I didn't even make it to see my mother before she died,
00:31:08and now the last thing she left me is being ruined by this woman.
00:31:12Where'd all that backbone go?
00:31:13Want it back?
00:31:14Fine.
00:31:15Neil, slap yourself a hundred times, admit you were wrong, and maybe I'll give it back.
00:31:21She sneers.
00:31:22There's nothing in her eyes but cruelty.
00:31:25Neil, slap myself.
00:31:26What does she think I am?
00:31:28But the watch keeps swinging in her hand.
00:31:30It's the last thing my mother left me.
00:31:32She swings the pocket watch in front of me,
00:31:35leaning in, daring me with her eyes.
00:31:37She loves having me under her heel.
00:31:40What?
00:31:40You won't do it?
00:31:42Then I'll throw it away.
00:31:43Every time I see that old hag, she makes my blood boil.
00:31:47She raises her arm to throw the watch.
00:31:50The last thing my mother left me.
00:31:52I was young then.
00:31:53My mother was still alive.
00:31:54I stood close beside her, posing for the camera.
00:31:57The shutter caught our smiles.
00:31:59I opened the old watch.
00:32:01Inside is the photo we just took.
00:32:03When I'm not with you, keep this watch close to your heart.
00:32:07Think of it as your mother, staying beside you.
00:32:10Mom, I'm sorry.
00:32:11I couldn't protect what you left me.
00:32:13Fine.
00:32:15I'll kneel.
00:32:17Phil smirks.
00:32:18Alex stands with his hands in his pockets.
00:32:20Amy throws me a look of contempt.
00:32:22No one says a word for me.
00:32:24They're all enjoying the show slowly.
00:32:26I sink to my knees.
00:32:28Both knees slam against the marble floor.
00:32:31Pain shoots through me.
00:32:33John, after all these years, you haven't changed a bit.
00:32:36Still so quick to kneel.
00:32:37Pathetic.
00:32:39Like some dog begging for scraps.
00:32:41I'd beg her to give me the watch back.
00:32:44She has no intention of letting me have it.
00:32:46She throws the watch.
00:32:48I scream in despair.
00:32:49It spins through the air like a Medeer and shatters in two.
00:32:53I threw myself toward the broken pocket watch.
00:32:55My shaking hands clutch the two halves.
00:32:58One side the photo, one side the dial.
00:33:00I try like a madman to piece it back together.
00:33:03It won't go back together.
00:33:04Broken like my heart.
00:33:05Phil picks up a bottle and walks toward me.
00:33:08The bottle explodes over my head.
00:33:10Glass flies.
00:33:11Blood pours down my face.
00:33:13A ringing fills my ears like a funeral bell.
00:33:16Before blacking out, I see Phil grinning.
00:33:18Ava, Alex, Amy just standing there, cold.
00:33:21Like they're watching someone else's tragedy.
00:33:24I close my eyes.
00:33:25Mom, I'm coming to find you.
00:33:26The doors slam open.
00:33:28Mia storms in, furious.
00:33:30The moment the door bursts open,
00:33:32Mia sees me lying in a pool of blood.
00:33:34Her eyes turn red instantly.
00:33:36A crowd gathers around, whispering among themselves.
00:33:39Dot Mia helps me up.
00:33:40Her fingers trembling violently.
00:33:42You're my only brother.
00:33:45I will never let anyone hurt you.
00:33:47What?
00:33:48Her brother.
00:33:49Brother?
00:33:50Since when did she have a brother?
00:33:51Mia gently brushes my forehead.
00:33:53Her eyes fill with pain.
00:33:55Are you alright?
00:33:56Someone call a doctor.
00:33:57Doctor now!
00:33:58Help him!
00:34:00The doctors rush over and help me into a nearby chair.
00:34:04Mia clench her fists, stands up, and stares fiercely at everyone in the room.
00:34:09Who did this?
00:34:10Miss Morgan.
00:34:11We were wrong to hit him, but he started it.
00:34:14He impersonated the CEO, crashed the annual gala, and sat in the CEO's chair.
00:34:18We were defending the CEO's dignity.
00:34:20Mia said nothing.
00:34:21She raises her hand and slaps Phil hard across the face.
00:34:25The slap echoed through the entire hall.
00:34:28Eva catches the staggering Phil.
00:34:30What the hell are you talking about?
00:34:32My fault.
00:34:33Miss Morgan.
00:34:34Security was far too lax.
00:34:36He managed to slip in.
00:34:38I'll deal with this immediately.
00:34:40I'll sort everything out.
00:34:41The CEO will never find out.
00:34:43Mia turns and slaps Gilbert again across the face.
00:34:47Gilbert's head snapped to the side.
00:34:49He covers his cheek and doesn't dare to make a sound.
00:34:52You idiot.
00:34:53Do you have any idea who he is?
00:34:55Isn't he just a piece of trash?
00:34:57For God's sake.
00:34:59Mia hears him muttering.
00:35:01She turns and slaps him again.
00:35:03Watch your mouth.
00:35:04Why?
00:35:07You hit me again?
00:35:08Miss Morgan.
00:35:09That man is nothing but a parasite.
00:35:12What else am I supposed to call him?
00:35:14Quite right, Miss Morgan.
00:35:16Mia's fury erupts completely.
00:35:19Her eyes blaze as if spitting fire.
00:35:20You venomous woman and you two ungrateful little beasts.
00:35:25You're lower than dirt.
00:35:28You've bullied him for 20 years.
00:35:30Today I'm going to make you pay for every bit of it.
00:35:33Guards, surround them.
00:35:34Five guards step forward and surrounds Eva and the others.
00:35:38Eva's expression finally changes.
00:35:40What is all of this?
00:35:43Mia, stop.
00:35:44I regain consciousness and stride toward them.
00:35:47Blood still streams down my forehead, but I had never been so clear-headed in my life.
00:35:53Eva stares at me in shock.
00:35:54She probably never imagined that the worthless trash she has trampled underfoot would ever be called
00:36:00brother by the CO.
00:36:02Mia, stop.
00:36:04Brother, are you all right?
00:36:07It's all my fault.
00:36:09My only brother hurt on my own turf.
00:36:14I pad Mia's shoulder reassuringly.
00:36:16Her eyes turns red, just like when she was a little girl who had been wronged.
00:36:20Except this time, it was me.
00:36:22Mia reaches out and examines the wound on my forehead with concern.
00:36:26Her actions made others jump to all sorts of malicious conclusions about the relationship between her and me.
00:36:31Why is dad so close to Miss Morgan?
00:36:34I'm wondering too.
00:36:36Why did Miss Morgan hit Uncle Phil for that loser?
00:36:38What's really between them?
00:36:40If Miss Morgan values him this much, maybe he really is someone important we shouldn't mess with?
00:36:47Shit.
00:36:48I messed with the wrong person.
00:36:51Looks like John and the COO have something special going on.
00:36:55Miss Morgan, what exactly is your relationship with my good-for-nothing ex-husband?
00:37:04That's none of your damn business.
00:37:06I swear, today, every single one of you who hurt him is going to pay.
00:37:12Phil, Gilgret, and Eva's expressions grew complicated.
00:37:16Fear began to creep across their faces.
00:37:19Phil, you tell me right now.
00:37:20Who the hell did you just beat up?
00:37:22He's just Eva's pathetic ex-husband.
00:37:24Who else would he be?
00:37:25Gilbert slaps Phil across the face.
00:37:28This lap is even harder than Mia's.
00:37:31A pathetic ex-husband?
00:37:33Then why the hell is the COO getting involved?
00:37:36And how did this so-called nobody even get into the gala in the first place?
00:37:41Phil clutches his face.
00:37:43Stunned, he finally realizes something was terribly wrong.
00:37:47Mia hands the broken pocket watch back to me.
00:37:49Brother, this watch is over ten years old.
00:37:52I'm afraid it can never be put back together.
00:37:55I gaze at the photo inside the watch of my mother and me.
00:37:58Mom, are you watching from above?
00:38:00Watching your son get bullied by these scumbags?
00:38:03What do you want to do with them?
00:38:05I lift my head and glare at Eva furiously.
00:38:08She shook with terror.
00:38:10Phil, Alex, and Amy try to stand calm and firm.
00:38:14But their gazes shift restlessly.
00:38:17They were finally afraid.
00:38:19Too late.
00:38:19I clenched the broken pocket watch.
00:38:21This shattered watch was the last thing my mother left me.
00:38:24She shouldn't have touched it.
00:38:26Eva, there's one thing you never should have done.
00:38:30Smash my mother's last keepsake to me.
00:38:33It's just a piece of junk.
00:38:35What, you want to hit my mom or something?
00:38:37You've given them everything and this is how they pay you?
00:38:40Do you think they even deserve all of this?
00:38:42Suddenly, Phil points at me and Mia like he'd just discovered a new world.
00:38:46I get it now.
00:38:48Mia's been protecting you this whole time.
00:38:50No wonder you got into the gala so easily.
00:38:54You and Mia.
00:38:57You two have been having an affair this whole time, haven't you?
00:39:03Nice one, John.
00:39:04You accuse me of cheating?
00:39:05You're the one who's been cheating this whole time.
00:39:09You old bastard.
00:39:11I thought you were decent.
00:39:14You betrayed my mom!
00:39:16My face turns even colder.
00:39:18They're such experts at twisting the truth.
00:39:20When you divorced mom, you acted like the victim.
00:39:24Turns out you'd already been sleeping with this woman.
00:39:27How disgusting.
00:39:28Do you really think there is something going on between Mia and that man?
00:39:33Hard to say.
00:39:34Otherwise, why would Mia stand up for him?
00:39:37Buoyed by the voices agreeing with her, Eva grew increasingly arrogant.
00:39:42She approaches Mia, speaking in a bitterly sarcastic tone.
00:39:46Mia, so you like picking up the trash I've already played with?
00:39:49This is the kind of man you go for?
00:39:51No wonder you're still single in your 30s.
00:39:53Who knows how many younger men you're keeping on the side?
00:39:56You really think no one knows about all the dirty little secrets you've got going on behind the scenes?
00:40:00She doesn't get to finish her sentence.
00:40:03I give her a sharp, brutal slap.
00:40:06That single blow held all the resentment I'd bottled up for 20 years.
00:40:10Amy and Alex are utterly dumbfounded, their mouths hanging agape.
00:40:15Phil hurries to steady the staggering Eva.
00:40:18I stand before them, cold and unyielding, motionless, like a stone statue.
00:40:23Eva covers her cheek, staring at me in utter disbelief.
00:40:27She had never once thought the docile, submissive nobody would dare to lay a hand on her.
00:40:33This slap was not for me.
00:40:35It was for my mother and for Mia.
00:40:37Eva covers her face, utterly dumbfounded.
00:40:40She never thought she would ever take a slap from me.
00:40:43Never.
00:40:44But I've wanted to slap her for way too long.
00:40:48John, how dare you hit me just because of your little mistress?
00:40:53Shut your mouth up!
00:40:55He's my sister.
00:40:56I won't you slander her like that.
00:40:59I've known you for over 20 years, and I've never heard a single word about you having a sister.
00:41:04And you call me a cheater.
00:41:06Turns out you hooked yourself a rich woman, huh?
00:41:09The divorce worked out perfectly for you, didn't it?
00:41:14Mom, you were blind to even fall for him.
00:41:17This is absolutely ridiculous.
00:41:20Guards, throw them out!
00:41:22Six bodyguards in black suits storms in, looking fierce and ready for action.
00:41:27But Eva doesn't panic.
00:41:28Instead, she holds her head high.
00:41:31Don't you dare.
00:41:32The CEO is giving me my well-deserved promotion at the annual gala.
00:41:36If you throw me out and he can't reach me, do you think you can handle the consequences?
00:41:43That's right.
00:41:45Mom becoming COO was the CEO's decision.
00:41:49Once she gets this position, you'll all be screwed.
00:41:54I'm glad you reminded me.
00:41:55I almost forgot about this.
00:41:58Mia and I exchange look.
00:42:00We both knew Eva wasn't getting any promotion letter today at all.
00:42:04Mia holds out her hand.
00:42:05An assistant promptly hands her a red leather folder.
00:42:09The CEO does indeed have something he needs me to hand to you personally.
00:42:13Mom, this is wonderful!
00:42:15Congratulations!
00:42:17After all these years, your dream has finally come true.
00:42:21Eva tries hard to suppress the smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
00:42:25She thinks she is winning.
00:42:27Mom, I'm struggling at home for mission.
00:42:30Once you become COO, don't forget the house you promised me.
00:42:35Mia hands the red folder to Eva, like handing over a knife.
00:42:39Quick, Eva, open it!
00:42:41Open it now!
00:42:42Smiling, Eva opens the red folder.
00:42:44I smirk.
00:42:45Alex and Amy lean in, faces full of anticipation.
00:42:49Then, their smiles froze.
00:42:51How is this possible?
00:42:55The termination notice!
00:42:58Eva stands there, holding the termination notice.
00:43:01Frozen stiff, as if struck by lightning.
00:43:04No way!
00:43:05This can't be true!
00:43:09John!
00:43:10You're behind all of this!
00:43:12Miss Morgan, let's be fair here.
00:43:14Eva has worked her ass off for over a decade.
00:43:18What possible reason does the CEO have to fire her?
00:43:21John, are you doing this just to get back at my mom?
00:43:23I sneer.
00:43:24Revenge?
00:43:25She did this to herself.
00:43:26Suddenly, Eva bursts out laughing, like she'd lost her mind.
00:43:30The laughter echoes through the ballroom, sending chills down everyone's spine.
00:43:34She throws the termination notice to the ground, seething with rage, and strides toward me.
00:43:39This can't be true!
00:43:41The CEO was supposed to promote me!
00:43:43Where is the CEO?
00:43:44I need to see him!
00:43:45He doesn't want to see you.
00:43:47Phil's eyes shift slyly, putting on yet another pitiful performance.
00:43:52He won't see us?
00:43:54This is all you're doing!
00:43:55I get it now, Miss Morgan.
00:43:57You were afraid Eva becoming COO would threaten your position, so you spread rumors!
00:44:03You and John doctored the letter together!
00:44:08I'm going to report this to the CEO!
00:44:11I'll make every single one of them pay!
00:44:13Mia looks at them coldly, like she was watching a bunch of clowns.
00:44:17Eva, Phil, Gilbert, you assaulted a guest.
00:44:22That's it.
00:44:23You're all fired.
00:44:25Gilbert's jaw drops in utter disbelief.
00:44:28How dare you!
00:44:29I want to see the CEO!
00:44:30I'm reporting you for abuse of power!
00:44:33Enough.
00:44:34Throw them out.
00:44:36The guards swam forward, dragging them out.
00:44:38Eva struggles and screams, her voice echoing sharply throughout the ballroom.
00:44:43Even as she was being escorted out, she kept howling like a pathetic stray cur.
00:44:48I want to see the CEO!
00:44:50You can't shut me up!
00:44:54Mia and I stand in the center of the ballroom, watching them being driven out.
00:44:59The moment the doors close, the world finally falls quiet.
00:45:03Brother, do you think they're gonna let this go?
00:45:05I look at the closed doors, a cold smile curling at the corner of my lips.
00:45:10I shake my head, let them do whatever they want.
00:45:12They're just a bunch of clowns.
00:45:1420 years of bond between us has ended completely.
00:45:18From this day forth, we are strangers.
00:45:21I was concentrating on my wood carving.
00:45:24Wood shavings curled off beneath my fingers.
00:45:27These hands had cooked for Eva for 20 years.
00:45:30Now they finally get to do something for me.
00:45:33Mia enters the room, holding an invitation.
00:45:37John, now that you're back as CEO, you really should attend the meeting three days from now.
00:45:43I nod and tell her I got it.
00:45:46Mia didn't leave.
00:45:47She stands quietly behind me, hesitant to speak her mind.
00:45:51John, you've thrown yourself headfirst into work.
00:45:55You don't go to any of the events I set up for you?
00:45:57Are you still hung up on Eva?
00:46:00She grabs my arm, her eyes full of concern.
00:46:04John, I've scheduled a dinner with that investor.
00:46:08She's stunning.
00:46:09Go meet her.
00:46:11Maybe she can help you forget about Eva.
00:46:13I put down my carving out and sigh.
00:46:16Mia, I don't need that.
00:46:17She's coming to discuss business.
00:46:19A private meeting like that would look bad.
00:46:22I'd rather not go.
00:46:23You've got it wrong.
00:46:24She asked me to invite you.
00:46:26And you know her too.
00:46:28If you don't go, you'll regret it.
00:46:31I look up at Mia's mysterious smile.
00:46:33And nod dot.
00:46:34I trust Mia.
00:46:35She never lied to me.
00:46:38Three days later, I push open the door of the coffee shop.
00:46:41Sunlight streams through the floor to ceiling windows.
00:46:45Falling upon a woman sitting alone, I slow my steps, staring at her back.
00:46:50It was a silhouette I know all too well.
00:46:52She turns and stands up, smiling.
00:46:55Though she's 40 now.
00:46:56But when she smiles, she looks 20 again.
00:47:00John.
00:47:01Annie.
00:47:02It's you.
00:47:09Annie.
00:47:10My old friend.
00:47:1220 years had gone by.
00:47:14Yet she seemed unchanged.
00:47:16No.
00:47:16She has changed.
00:47:17She's even better.
00:47:20I sit across from Annie.
00:47:22Warm sunlight falls across her face.
00:47:24Two decades feel like nothing but a fleeting dream.
00:47:28What's wrong?
00:47:29Surprised to see me?
00:47:31Annie?
00:47:32I can't believe it.
00:47:34It's been like 20 years since we last saw each other.
00:47:38That year, we were both still young.
00:47:41She was wearing her school uniform.
00:47:43So was I.
00:47:44She came to return a book to me, just like always.
00:47:48John.
00:47:48I'm leaving for business school in Europe.
00:47:51I won't get to borrow your books anymore.
00:47:53Here.
00:47:54This belongs back to you.
00:47:56I took the book.
00:47:58It felt like a piece of my heart was missing.
00:48:01She handed me a small box of cookies.
00:48:04I wanted to give you something I made myself, so I bake these cookies.
00:48:11Think of it as a little goodbye gift.
00:48:18You're really going abroad to study?
00:48:20Yes.
00:48:21You're already the youngest billionaire in the city.
00:48:24I need to work hard to catch up.
00:48:27Only then maybe I could finally...
00:48:31She never finished her sentence.
00:48:33Those words stayed unspoken for 20 years.
00:48:37Before she departed, she held me in a tight embrace.
00:48:40That hug was far warmer than any affection Eva had given me over 20 years.
00:48:47I watched her leave.
00:48:50Her silhouette fading farther and farther away.
00:48:54When I opened the book, a bookmark slipped out.
00:48:58Written on it was a simple confession.
00:49:01I like you.
00:49:03I smile wistfully.
00:49:0520 years had passed.
00:49:06I still kept that precious bookmark.
00:49:09I never imagined that little girl who came to borrow books from me every day would grow into such an
00:49:14extraordinary woman.
00:49:16Annie blushes and smiles bashfully.
00:49:19At 40, she still smiles like the girl I remember.
00:49:24The real reason I went overseas all those years ago was to be someone worthy of you.
00:49:36Annie looks at me.
00:49:38There was hope in her eyes and 20 years of waiting.
00:49:41Back then, you were the golden boy.
00:49:43So I went abroad trying to catch up to you to become someone worthy of standing by your side.
00:49:48But when I finally came back, you no longer belonged to me.
00:49:53I was deeply moved.
00:49:54Those words hit me right in the chest.
00:49:57I had given everything in the first half of my life to Eva and the children.
00:50:02But I never knew that someone had been quietly caring for me all these years.
00:50:07John, now that you're free, maybe you could give us a chance?
00:50:11Annie gazes at me with deep affection.
00:50:15Her eyes were soft, but certain.
00:50:17So, what's your answer?
00:50:19I lower my head and fall silent for a few seconds.
00:50:23Annie, I don't want to hold you back.
00:50:25I just got divorced, and I'm not ready to start a new relationship yet.
00:50:29That's okay.
00:50:31I've waited this long, haven't I?
00:50:33I can wait a little longer until you've really let go of the past.
00:50:38I don't love Eva anymore.
00:50:40But I just got divorced, and the investment meeting is right around the corner.
00:50:45If I said yes to you now, it would feel like I'm using you.
00:50:48That wouldn't be fair to you at all.
00:50:50After the meeting is over, I'll give you a real answer.
00:50:53All right.
00:50:54Our company was already leaning toward your product anyway, so don't worry.
00:50:59I won't mix business with personal stuff.
00:51:02Since you've made a promise, I'll wait for your answer.
00:51:06All right. I promise.
00:51:07We stand up to leave.
00:51:10Suddenly, Annie stumbles slightly as her high-heel twists.
00:51:14She almost fell.
00:51:15I reach out quickly to steady her, catching her gently into my arms.
00:51:19Our eyes meet, and the air between us instantly fills with tension.
00:51:23And then, a sharp, nasty voice cut through the moment like a cold knife, shattering the warmth.
00:51:32Annie and I pull apart quickly.
00:51:34Flirting with another woman in broad daylight?
00:51:37Eva walks over with Alex and Amy, a familiar sneer on her face that I knew all too well.
00:51:42Pathetic. A leopard never changes its spots.
00:51:46This woman just won't leave me alone.
00:51:48She can't even let me have a cup of coffee in peace.
00:51:51I didn't hesitate.
00:51:54Eva, what the hell do you want?
00:51:56What do I want?
00:51:57Look at you.
00:51:59One woman is not enough for you.
00:52:01You just cannot wait to jump into someone else's bed.
00:52:04Watch your mouth.
00:52:06Pathetic.
00:52:07At least your taste is consistent.
00:52:09You have latched on to another rich woman.
00:52:14Hey, beautiful.
00:52:15Why waste your time on this old guy?
00:52:18I am younger than him, stronger, and better than him in every single way.
00:52:28I slap Alex across the face hard.
00:52:32Eva catches him, stunned.
00:52:35You bastard.
00:52:37Apologize.
00:52:38Now.
00:52:39How dare you hit my son?
00:52:41You filthy bastard.
00:52:43You cheating bastard.
00:52:45You shameless moocher.
00:52:47I let out a mocking laugh.
00:52:49How ridiculous.
00:52:51I could throw every single one of those insults right back at her.
00:52:54I grab Annie's arm and try to leave.
00:52:57But Eva blocks our way like an unhinked maniac.
00:53:00She stares at Annie with nothing but venom in her eyes.
00:53:03You have no idea what kind of man you got involved with.
00:53:06This piece of trash.
00:53:08He lived off me for years.
00:53:11Then he sucked up to the company's COO, and now he's clinging to you for your money.
00:53:18If John were willing to let me support him, it's an honor for me.
00:53:23Eva freezes.
00:53:25Her face was full of disbelief.
00:53:26They probably never imagined anyone would ever say something like that.
00:53:32Eva, I am warning you for the last time.
00:53:35I destroyed your career once, and I can do it again.
00:53:39Push me any further, and I will make you disappear from this city completely.
00:53:51Go ahead and enjoy your little moment, John.
00:53:54Three days from now, at the investor meeting, I will drag you down to hell.
00:53:58You will never get back up.
00:54:01I don't even bother looking back.
00:54:03Three days from now, we'll see who drags who to hell.
00:54:07The banquet hall packs with guests, who mingle with wine glasses and hand laughter, and the clink of glasses fills
00:54:15the air.
00:54:15Eva stands at the center of the crowd, chatting confidently as if she had never been fired.
00:54:21The main door swings open.
00:54:24I walk in with one hand in my pocket, surrounded by bodyguards.
00:54:29Twenty years have passed, but I've never lost this presence.
00:54:33Eva cucked his sight of me, her smile freezing on her face as if she'd been choked.
00:54:38She grabs Amy's arm, pointing in my direction, and strides over toward me.
00:54:42Well, well, look who is all alone.
00:54:44Where is your old fling and that wealthy lady who runs the coffee shop?
00:54:48How funny, not a single one of them is here.
00:54:51Maybe they both found out you've been playing both sides and dumped you?
00:54:55I sip my drink, waiting for the meeting to start.
00:54:58Not wanting to waste my time on a bunch of clowns.
00:55:04Ladies and gentlemen, good evening.
00:55:07First, let me introduce tonight's representative of the Capitol side, Mr. Charles.
00:55:13The host gestures toward Charles, a man in his 40s.
00:55:17Annie's subordinate.
00:55:21Charles raises his glass politely.
00:55:24Thank you all for coming.
00:55:26Now, I officially declare the investment conference open.
00:55:31Wait, I have something to say!
00:55:34Charles pauses and sets down his glass.
00:55:38The entire hall falls silent.
00:55:40Her voice was sharp and piercing, like nails on a chalkboard.
00:55:45What was she going to say?
00:55:47Nothing more than her usual self-righteous slander and lies.
00:55:50Did she really think that would bring me down?
00:55:53Very well, ma'am.
00:55:55Please go ahead.
00:55:57What is it you'd like to say?
00:55:59Ladies and gentlemen, our purpose here today is simple.
00:56:03The major investor wants to enter the tech sector and find suitable partners.
00:56:07This is not just about capital or capability.
00:56:11The most important thing is character.
00:56:14It's not that obvious.
00:56:16Everyone here has both capability and integrity, do not they?
00:56:20What is this woman trying to say?
00:56:22Everyone here belongs in this room, except one man.
00:56:29And that person is you!
00:56:32My ex-husband, John!
00:56:36The guests and Charles all turn to look at me.
00:56:39Suddenly, two photos flashes up on the big screen.
00:56:42One of a young John with Mia, and another of John with Annie.
00:56:46Mr. Charles, John's a leech.
00:56:49His private life is a mess.
00:56:51He's been messing around with two women at the same time.
00:56:53He doesn't deserve to partner with you.
00:56:55He doesn't even deserve to stand here!
00:56:58The crowd gasps and buzzes with chatter.
00:57:01That woman looks familiar.
00:57:03Isn't that Mia Morgan, the COO of Nexus Capital Group?
00:57:07This guy's good at it.
00:57:09He actually hooked Mia Morgan?
00:57:12Who's the other woman?
00:57:13She's pretty hot, too.
00:57:16I stand rooting to the spot, listening to those whispers.
00:57:20My face darkening with anger.
00:57:22Eva, if you're asking for it, I'll give you what you want.
00:57:26Eva sashays towards Charles.
00:57:29A warm smile plastered on her face.
00:57:31Mr. Charles, as the investor's representative, I'm sure you will make the right judgment.
00:57:36Charles adjusts his suit jacket, a hint of helplessness on his face.
00:57:40He had probably never seen a woman so reckless with her own fate.
00:57:44He doesn't belong here.
00:57:45I used to be a sales director at Nexus Capital, 10 years of experience.
00:57:50And I've prepared a perfect promotional plan for your company.
00:57:55Charles takes Eva's proposal and flips through it quickly.
00:57:59His frown deepens with every page.
00:58:01If you take my advice, you'll find the most suitable partner.
00:58:05You'll dominate the market and become the industry leader.
00:58:08Charles snaps the proposal shut.
00:58:11Then, without a word, he slaps Eva hard across the face.
00:58:16She shrieks, her scream piercing through the entire conference hall.
00:58:21The guests exchange stunning glances.
00:58:23Alex and Amy rushes to support Eva.
00:58:26How dare you slander our investor!
00:58:29Charles hurls the proposal at Eva.
00:58:31Papers scatter across the floor.
00:58:33I didn't!
00:58:35When did I slander the investor?
00:58:37I only talked about that worthless piece of trash!
00:58:40John!
00:58:41Charles follows her pointing finger and looks at me.
00:58:44I stand calmly, arms crossing, like I was watching a circus.
00:58:49Alex turned to me furiously, his eyes blazing with rage.
00:58:53But I don't even flinch.
00:58:55You old bastard!
00:58:56What trick are you pulling now?
00:58:58A trick?
00:58:59Against you?
00:59:00You're not even worth the effort.
00:59:05The investor has arrived.
00:59:07The doors swing open.
00:59:09Two bodyguards stand on either side.
00:59:12Annie strides in.
00:59:13Her gaze sweeps over Eva.
00:59:15Then Alex, and finally lands on me.
00:59:18She smiles.
00:59:19Just slightly.
00:59:21Everyone watches as Annie walks in.
00:59:28I smile.
00:59:30My eyes fix on her.
00:59:31Eva stands frozen.
00:59:32Her eye is wide open, as if she'd something unbelievable.
00:59:36Isn't she the other woman from the photo?
00:59:39How did this guy manage to win up two beautiful women?
00:59:47There's nothing going on between John and me.
00:59:49Go ahead, say another word, see what happens.
00:59:52Nothing?
00:59:53You were holding each other so closely, that's nothing?
00:59:56Eva mimicked the embrace from the photo on the screen.
00:59:58Her gestures growing more exaggerated, as if she were putting on a comedy show.
01:00:03I watch her, expressionless.
01:00:05She can't even throw a tantrum without looking cheap.
01:00:08I bet this old bastard has completely fooled you, hasn't he?
01:00:11Hmm?
01:00:16My name sounds filthy just coming out of your mouth.
01:00:20So what if John and I are together?
01:00:22It's none of your business.
01:00:24Slandering my relationship with John?
01:00:26Is this how you treat guests?
01:00:27Hey, this whole mess is that stupid woman's fault.
01:00:30What does it have to do with us?
01:00:31John, you're tight with the investor.
01:00:33Put in a good word for us, buddy.
01:00:34I remain silent, listening.
01:00:37These people, just moments ago, they were laughing at me.
01:00:41Now they are begging.
01:00:42Throw this stupid woman out!
01:00:44Alex and Amy look around anxiously, at a complete loss.
01:00:47They finally realize they are in trouble, and panicked.
01:00:50Get out!
01:00:52Get out!
01:00:52All of you, shut up!
01:00:55I haven't slandered anyone!
01:00:59Eva stares at me and walks toward me.
01:01:01Every step was filled with hatred.
01:01:03John, are you telling me you and your COO don't have something going on?
01:01:07The doors swing open once again.
01:01:10Mia strides in, with an imposing presence.
01:01:12Of course I dare.
01:01:14John is my brother.
01:01:16There is absolutely no improper relationship between us, and there never will be.
01:01:20Mia walks over, and links her arm with mine.
01:01:29Let me introduce you.
01:01:31The CEO of Nexus Capital Group, my older brother, John Morgan.
01:01:37Eva was dumbfounded.
01:01:40Wait, the CEO of Nexus Capital Group?
01:01:45That legendary billionaire?
01:01:47Charles nods, smiling calmly.
01:01:50Alex and Amy look at the crowd, their faces turning pale.
01:01:53This can't be.
01:01:55Eva Collins, you have no idea what you've lost, and every bit of it is your own damn fault.
01:02:02Eva freezes for a second.
01:02:04Then, she suddenly bursts into laughter.
01:02:07It was hysterical, like she had lost her mind.
01:02:12I get it, Mia!
01:02:14You're just covering for the gigola you're keeping!
01:02:18Eva, still can't face reality?
01:02:21Go online and search for who the CEO of Nexus Capital is.
01:02:24I've warned you many times.
01:02:26Too lazy to check?
01:02:27No!
01:02:28No way!
01:02:30Alex pulls out his phone, his fingers trembling.
01:02:36He's just a loser who stayed at home for decades!
01:02:40But Eva kept running her mouth.
01:02:43CEO?
01:02:44Billionaire?
01:02:45You are kidding me!
01:02:48Mom, look.
01:02:51The CEO of Nexus Capital Group really is dad.
01:02:56Eva snatches the phone, her eyes wide, staring at the screen.
01:03:00Then, she shut a glance at me.
01:03:03It must be a coincidence.
01:03:05The same name?
01:03:08Suddenly, she loses it, and slams the phone hard to the ground.
01:03:12The screen shatters instantly, just like the broken promotion dream.
01:03:16Eva Collins!
01:03:17Do you really think everything you have was earned by yourself?
01:03:20It was my brother who gave it to you.
01:03:21But now, you've destroyed it all with your own hands!
01:03:25I listen to it all in silence, watching Eva stand frozen in shock, her lips trembling.
01:03:31Not a single word comes out of her.
01:03:33She finally knows the truth.
01:03:36Mia keeps laying into Eva.
01:03:38Every word is like a knife, cutting straight into her heart.
01:03:42You never even finished high school.
01:03:44Someone who is incompetent at everything.
01:03:46What made you think you could hold your own at Nexus Capital?
01:03:49And yet, you clawed your way up to manager, even COO.
01:03:52Eva shakes her head in despair, looking completely broken.
01:03:56Alex and Amy frown tidy, looking utterly confused.
01:04:01They had clearly never once thought about that question.
01:04:03Back in 2001, it was only because of your deal with Golden Fox Group that you became the company's top
01:04:10salesperson.
01:04:11When the company needed a sales director and a position happened to open up, you stepped in.
01:04:16Don't kid yourself, your success today isn't all down to you.
01:04:19Alex was stunned.
01:04:20He lowers his head in disbelief.
01:04:23He finally begins to understand where his so-called talent had really come from.
01:04:28I listened quietly to Mia's words.
01:04:31Every date, every event, every step of the way, I had paved the road for her.
01:04:36Without my brother's help, you are nothing.
01:04:40Eva shakes her head repeatedly, backing away.
01:04:43Her high heels clatter against the floor in a chaotic mess.
01:04:47No! That was my hard work! I did it myself! You're lying! You're all lying to me!
01:04:53Suddenly, Alex and Amy rush forward and drop to their knees in front of me.
01:04:57Desperately grabbing my hands.
01:05:01Dad! I was wrong!
01:05:03Please give me another chance, I beg you!
01:05:06I look down at them.
01:05:07These faces, the same ones that had called me a useless old man not long ago,
01:05:12are now plastering with fawning desperation and fear.
01:05:16I rip my hands away.
01:05:18They fall to the floor.
01:05:20Then they scramble right back up and crawl toward me again.
01:05:24They grab my hands once more, pleading pitifully.
01:05:28Guards, drag them out!
01:05:30Two bodyguards rush over, grab them and Eva, and haul them toward the door.
01:05:35They struggle furiously, shouting, their voices echoing through the hall.
01:05:39I stand where I was, my resolve unshaken.
01:05:43The moment they threw me out of that house, they were not my family anymore.
01:05:47A belated confession is nothing but a pale excuse.
01:05:54In the winter park, sunlight filters through the bare branches, casting dappling shadows on the ground.
01:06:02Annie and I walk side by side, just like 20 years ago.
01:06:06Annie points at a tree not far away.
01:06:09Look, that's where we first met.
01:06:11Do you remember?
01:06:12She looks at me, with light in her eyes.
01:06:15I smile and point to the same spot.
01:06:18Of course.
01:06:19There was a tree.
01:06:20I was sitting under it, reading a book.
01:06:23Then you ran over and asked me what I was reading.
01:06:25You scared the hell out of me.
01:06:26We walk in silence, smiles on our faces.
01:06:29Those memories, buried by time, have come back to life,
01:06:33like spring grass pushing through the dirt.
01:06:36Annie, it's cold.
01:06:37You're not wearing enough.
01:06:39Be careful not to catch a cold.
01:06:41I take off my scarf and wrap it around Annie's neck.
01:06:44The scarf had warmth from my body heat.
01:06:47I smile and gently put my hand on her shoulder.
01:06:56Annie, do you remember I promised you an answer after the meeting?
01:07:00I remember.
01:07:04I stop walking and take a deep breath.
01:07:07Then, I go down on one knee.
01:07:09I take out a ring box from my pocket and open it, eyes sincere.
01:07:14Annie, will you marry me?
01:07:16Will you stand by my side and spend the rest of our lives together?
01:07:19Annie, stunned for a moment, she covers her mouth with both hands,
01:07:23her eyes glistening with tears, filling with joy and emotion.
01:07:27Yes!
01:07:28With all my heart, I'll be with you forever!
01:07:32I stand up and gently slip the ring onto her finger.
01:07:35The ring sparkles brightly in the sunlight, casting tiny, warm glints.
01:07:47Do you know how long I've waited for this moment?
01:07:49I won't make you wait any longer.
01:07:52Annie holds me tight, tears in her eyes, and nods firmly.
01:07:56I gently pat her back.
01:07:58Then, a sharp voice shatters the peace.
01:08:00John!
01:08:01I turn around.
01:08:03Ava and Amy stand not far away, their eyes fixing on me.
01:08:08Instinctively, I step in front of Annie to protect her.
01:08:11What are you doing here?
01:08:13Eva and Amy walk toward me.
01:08:16I stand in front of Annie, refusing to let that woman disturb my life any further.
01:08:22We need to talk.
01:08:24Should I step aside?
01:08:25No.
01:08:26Just say what you have to say.
01:08:28We still have things to do.
01:08:29I stare at her coldly.
01:08:31Amy stands right beside her, with the same heartbroken look.
01:08:34Since when did people like them have hearts that would hurt?
01:08:44John, I'm sorry.
01:08:46I was wrong.
01:08:47Please.
01:08:49Come home with me.
01:08:51She reaches for my hand.
01:08:53The same hand that slapped me.
01:08:55The same hand that threw away my mother's pocket watch.
01:08:58I yank my hand away from hers.
01:09:01Eva looks stunned, as if she were the one who had been wronged.
01:09:05Eva, we're already divorced.
01:09:07We're done.
01:09:11Please.
01:09:13Please.
01:09:13I'm begging you.
01:09:14I regret it.
01:09:16I never wanted a divorce.
01:09:18Please.
01:09:20Let's remarry now.
01:09:22Annie looks at me nervously.
01:09:24My heart was churning, but my face showed nothing.
01:09:27I don't care why you changed your mind.
01:09:29You chose the divorce.
01:09:31You broke your vows.
01:09:33There's nothing left between us.
01:09:35I turn my head slowly and look at Annie.
01:09:38In her eyes, I could see unease, hope, and trust.
01:09:43I call her softly and gently pull her into my arms, embracing her with all my tenderness.
01:09:49Now, I only care about Annie.
01:09:52As for you, I'm completely done.
01:09:55Don't ever come near us again.
01:09:59I walk straight past Eva with Annie in my arms, never looking back.
01:10:05Not even once.
01:10:06Each step fills with unwavering resolve.
01:10:10Annie glances at her softly.
01:10:11There was no smugness in that look, only pity.
01:10:15From behind us, Eva's cries drift over, clear and heavy.
01:10:19No, no, no.
01:10:21John!
01:10:23The next day, I am working in my office when a noisy commotion drifts up from downstairs.
01:10:32I stand by the window and pull back the curtain.
01:10:35Eva is kneeling on the street, holding up a sign that reads,
01:10:39John, I was wrong.
01:10:41Beside her, stand another sign.
01:10:43I just want us to remarry.
01:10:45Please forgive me.
01:10:45Annie, I'll wait for you right here, for the sake of our children.
01:10:49A crowd of passersby had gathered around her, pointing, whispering, and taking photos.
01:10:55Some feeling sympathy for her, others mocking her.
01:10:59I stand by the window, expressionless, and pull the curtain shut.
01:11:07Moments later, the office door creaks open.
01:11:10Annie walks in, holding a warm lunchbox.
01:11:13I hurry over to greet her.
01:11:15We sit down together, to enjoy our lunch.
01:11:19In this world, some people will throw you away like trash,
01:11:23while others will treasure you like gold.
01:11:25Don't waste your heart on the wrong person.
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