- 9 hours ago
When Starlight Breaks Through
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00My husband, who took my last name, had no idea I wanted to give him 15% of the company
00:04shares.
00:04On checkup day, I found out that our son is Type A.
00:07But my husband and I? Type O.
00:09I looked at the miniature version of my husband and didn't say a word.
00:12I just call me to two things.
00:13First, I secretly pulled a strand of my son's hair.
00:15Second, I tore up the share transfer agreement.
00:18After dropping Jamie off at school, I headed straight to the paternity test center.
00:21How so can I get the results if I pay for a fast track?
00:23Normally it's five working days.
00:25A fast track would be ready by 4pm and cost three times as much.
00:27Alright, my hand was shaking as I handed over the samples.
00:30After sampling my own cheek cells, I sat in the waiting area watching the clock counting each second.
00:35While I waited, I contacted a private investigator.
00:37I want to check out my husband, Roger Bennett, especially his previous whereabouts.
00:41At 3.40pm, my phone rang.
00:43The results had come out.
00:44I opened the report and scrolled straight to the end.
00:47The probability showed 0.0001%.
00:50The results do not support Julia Caldwell being Jamie Bennett's biological mother.
00:54Even though I was prepared for this, seeing it in writing still made me panic.
00:58I slid to the ground against the wall.
00:59Can't believe I've raised a child who wasn't mine for nine years, so where's my child?
01:03I immediately went to the hospital where I gave birth nine years ago and met the doctor back then, who's
01:08a department director now.
01:09I got straight to the point.
01:10Dr. Pierce, I want to see my delivery records from nine years ago.
01:14His smile faded for a second.
01:15It's been so long.
01:17The files might be archived already.
01:18After some effort, the records clerk finally brought out a folder.
01:21I opened it and saw that the records were extremely brief.
01:24There were only admission and discharge dates, delivery method and the newborn's wait.
01:27No detailed notes in the birth process, no nurse handoff records, no pediatrician's exam report.
01:31Is that all you have?
01:32He said apologetically.
01:33It's all that we have in the system.
01:35Paper records for obstetrician gynecologist cases are usually kept for 10 years.
01:38Yours is about to expire.
01:39What about the newborn's footprints, the blood test records?
01:41He shook his head.
01:43Those should be in the newborn records, but we couldn't find them.
01:46It couldn't be more obvious that something isn't right.
01:48An overly simple medical file, a missing newborn record,
01:51a boy who isn't my biological son but looks just like my husband.
01:54My phone rang.
01:54It was Roger.
01:55Where are you?
01:56I picked up Jamie.
01:57That's when I realized that Jamie had finished school.
01:59Good thing I told the teacher earlier.
02:00I'm out running errands.
02:01I'll be home soon.
02:02I hung up right after I said that.
02:04After dinner, I said I had a headache so I could get to bed early.
02:07Roger was in the living room helping Jamie with his homework.
02:09I could hear them talking.
02:11Dad?
02:11Is mom upset?
02:13She's just tired.
02:14Finish your homework and go to bed early.
02:15Once they were both asleep, I started quietly searching the whole house.
02:18Master bedroom, living room, and Jamie's room.
02:20I looked everywhere, but I didn't find anything.
02:23Finally, I looked at the computer and the study.
02:25I was sure the truth had to be in there.
02:26I heard footsteps outside, so I closed the documents.
02:29When Roger opened the door, I was just tidying up the desk.
02:31He glanced at the computer screen, which was displaying the desktop.
02:34It was a photo of us at the beach three years ago.
02:36Why are you still up?
02:37Just sorting through some old files.
02:38I answered while turning out the monitor.
02:40He just stood there for a moment as if he wanted to say something.
02:42But in the end, he just nodded.
02:44Get some rest.
02:45I sat in the dark, listening to his footsteps fade away.
02:47That night, I didn't turn the computer back on.
02:49I lay in bed a mess.
02:50The next morning, I asked Roger to take Jamie to school.
02:53He looked at me, grabbed his car keys, and said okay.
02:55As soon as they left, I went straight to the study.
02:57Turned on the computer and entered the password.
02:59Our wedding anniversary?
03:00Incorrect.
03:01His birthday?
03:02Incorrect.
03:02Our son's birthday?
03:03Still incorrect.
03:04I then tried the day we first met.
03:05His mother's birthday, the day the company was founded.
03:08All incorrect.
03:09System said, try again in 15 minutes.
03:11I sat there, staring at the screen.
03:12The computer that we bought together has now locked me out.
03:16That night, when Roger got home from work, he said,
03:18I have to go to the Harbor City tomorrow.
03:20Not sure how long I've begun.
03:21I walked out of the kitchen with the dinner.
03:23That's quite a rush.
03:24Who's going with you?
03:24He set his briefcase on the table and looked at me.
03:26It's a last minute thing, Julia.
03:28Can you stop this behavior?
03:29I looked at him quietly, not understanding why a simple question got such a big reaction.
03:33Why do you ask?
03:34Why are you suspicious of everyone?
03:35It's just a business trick.
03:36I turned around to serve the food, my hand trembling a little.
03:38It was just a question.
03:39He said nothing and went straight to the bedroom.
03:41No one spoke during dinner.
03:42Jamie seemed uneasy.
03:43He didn't even complain about the food.
03:45After Roger had a shower, he picked up his coat from the sofa to hang it up.
03:48A receipt fell out of the pocket, landing at my feet.
03:51After he left, I picked it up and looked.
03:53It was a perfume receipt.
03:55It was quite expensive.
03:56The purchase was yesterday.
03:57I didn't recognize the perfume name, but I knew it wasn't for me.
04:00Roger's never bought me a gift ever since we were married.
04:02I used to make excuses for him that he wasn't romantic, he was busy, he was practical.
04:06Looks like he can be romantic, but just not with me.
04:09I took note of the info in the receipt.
04:10Early the next morning, after Roger left for the airport, I called the store.
04:14I want to check on this receipt.
04:15Yes, yesterday afternoon.
04:17Let me check.
04:18It was purchased by Miss Kathy Miller.
04:19Kathy Miller?
04:20I recognized the name.
04:21She was Roger's secretary.
04:22She was a divorced woman in her 30s hired six months ago.
04:26On my way to the airport, I wasn't sure what I wanted to confirm.
04:28Maybe the perfume was for a client.
04:30Maybe I was overthinking it.
04:32I waited outside the international departures for half an hour before I finally saw Roger and her.
04:36Kathy is wearing a beige trench coat, pulling a small suitcase, and is walking with Roger.
04:40Roger had a smile on his face that I hadn't seen in a long time.
04:43Then in front of the security checkpoint, Kathy stopped.
04:46She naturally reached out and straightened Roger's collar.
04:48Roger didn't move.
04:49He leaned in and whispered something in her ear.
04:51Kathy laughed.
04:52Then on her tiptoes, she kissed his lips.
04:54Roger's hands rested on her waist for a while before he pulled them away, like he's done it before.
04:58The last bit of self-deception I was holding on to completely vanished.
05:02So all those late nights at the office, all those impatient looks he gave me had a reason.
05:05I look at them.
05:06They were very intimate.
05:07And suddenly a thought crept into my mind.
05:09Does the son that isn't mine have something to do with this woman?
05:12On the way home, I called the private investigator I hired a few days ago.
05:17I need you to look into someone for me.
05:18Kathy Miller, I need to know everything, especially if she has a child.
05:22The investigator worked fast.
05:24The next afternoon, I got the report.
05:26Kathy Miller, 32 years old.
05:28Divorced five years ago.
05:29She has a 10-year-old son named Felix.
05:30He goes to school on the west side of the city.
05:32One date suddenly stood out to me.
05:34Kathy's son is only a week younger than Jamie.
05:3610 years.
05:37I felt my blood boil.
05:39I sat there holding the report in my hands.
05:41And then a thought popped into my mind.
05:42I ran into the study.
05:44My fingers hovered over the keyboard.
05:45I typed in Kathy's birthday.
05:47I logged in.
05:48There was only one folder named Work Backup.
05:50I clicked it.
05:51Inside, there were rows of subfolders organized by year, starting from 11 years ago.
05:55In the earliest folder, there were scammed old photos.
05:57Roger and Kathy in their school uniform, standing under a locust tree.
06:0119-year-old Roger smiling, hand on Kathy's shoulder.
06:03Kathy with her hair in a ponytail, looking up at him.
06:06The next photo is from university.
06:07They were in a library.
06:09And after that, graduation.
06:10They were holding hands.
06:11That year, Roger told me the company was in trouble, so we canceled our anniversary trip.
06:15I closed the folder.
06:17I had butterflies in my stomach.
06:1810 years of lies.
06:19I stared at our wedding photo and got nauseous.
06:22At 3 p.m., I drove to the elementary school.
06:24It looked older than what the detective said.
06:26The school bell rang and kids poured out the gates.
06:28I sat in my car, gripping the steering wheel.
06:31He walked out alone.
06:32No one there to pick him up.
06:33He glanced around and walked slowly along the pavement.
06:35I held my breath.
06:36That boy, Felix, that's my son.
06:39The way he walks is kind of like me.
06:41Slightly inward feet.
06:42When he raised his hand to fix his hair, I noticed a birthmark on his wrist exactly the same as
06:46mine.
06:46I saw dust in his eyelashes, chapped lips.
06:49His shoes were worn down.
06:50And emptiness in his eyes that no 10-year-old should have.
06:53I covered my mouth to stop the sobs.
06:55He walked into the distance, disappearing around a corner.
06:57I slumped over and cried my eyes out.
06:59For that kid walking home alone.
07:01For the 10 years of a life lived out of place and for the fact that I, like a fool,
07:05lived in a script written by someone else.
07:07I wiped my tears away and started the car.
07:09At the law firm, I placed the flash drive in front of Mr. Lister.
07:11It had backups of all the photos.
07:13The paternity test results.
07:15The medical reports.
07:15The perfumer's seat.
07:16And the information about Kathy and Felix.
07:18I want a divorce.
07:19I want Roger Bennett out with nothing.
07:21I want custody of my child.
07:22I want him to pay for what he's done.
07:23As I walked out of the law firm, I remembered what Roger said when he proposed 10 years ago.
07:27Julie, I'll give you a lifetime of security.
07:29Turns out his lifetime was only 10 years.
07:31No, maybe not even 10 years.
07:33I took out my phone and called the company's second largest shareholder, my father's colleague.
07:37Mr. Richardson, about next week's board meeting, there are some things I want to talk to you about.
07:41Roger probably forgot this company belonged to the Caldwell family.
07:43He's only general manager because I asked my dad to give him a shot.
07:46I gave him that position and I can take it away.
07:48Two weeks after Roger left, I liquidated everything under my name.
07:51Every afternoon for the next few days, I'd go to Felix's school.
07:54One time, it rained and he didn't have an umbrella.
07:57He waited under an awning for half an hour.
07:59So he ran home in the rain.
08:00I sat in my car as the rain blurred the windows.
08:03Friday afternoon, I arrived outside the school early.
08:05When I saw Felix come out, I got out the car and acted as a passerby.
08:08The folder in my hand fell.
08:10He froze for a second before picking it up from me.
08:12Thank you, young man.
08:13Is your mom not here yet?
08:14He shook his head.
08:15Mom's working late today.
08:16How are you getting home then?
08:18I take the bus.
08:19I took out a brand new water bottle from my bag and handed it to him.
08:21Have some water.
08:22He hesitated before taking it and whispering thank you.
08:24I noticed when he talks, he presses his lips together just like me.
08:27His eyes are like mine too.
08:29Does your mom often work late?
08:30He nodded first, but then shook his head.
08:32Sometimes.
08:32What about your dad?
08:33He didn't answer.
08:34He looked down at his shoes.
08:35The size of those sneakers were already coming apart.
08:37Broken shoelaces.
08:38I didn't ask anymore.
08:39I took out 30 bucks from my purse and gave it to him.
08:41Go buy yourself a new pair of shoes.
08:42He stepped back.
08:43No, I can't accept this.
08:45See, it is me thanking you for picking up my folder.
08:47I slipped the money into the side of his backpack and walked away.
08:50I turned around and glanced at him.
08:51He looked a little lost.
08:52That night, I stood at the door of Jamie's room.
08:55He was playing with the new Legos at Roger Bottom.
08:57It was a limited edition.
08:59The space shuttle was quite expensive.
09:00Mom, what's wrong?
09:01I walked in and ran my fingers through his hair.
09:04Did you finish your homework?
09:05I finished it ages ago.
09:06He showed off the model in his hands.
09:08Dad said, if I make it to the top 10 in the midterm exams, he'll take me to the theme
09:11park.
09:11I smiled and said, that's great.
09:13But the second I turned around, my smile disappeared.
09:15The way Roger treated the two kids felt like a dagger to my heart.
09:19My own son wears worn out shoes, takes the bus alone, while this child gets everything.
09:24Roger, who had been away for two weeks, finally came back home.
09:26And the first thing he said was,
09:28Where's Jamie?
09:29Why is it so quiet?
09:30I signed him up for a tutoring class two hours every day.
09:32Why'd you suddenly sign him up?
09:33He's only in fourth grade.
09:35I didn't answer.
09:36I could smell that perfume on him.
09:37He walked over, trying to hug me.
09:39I turned away.
09:40Why is there the smell of perfume on you?
09:42He froze, clearly annoyed.
09:43Julie, you're being paranoid again.
09:45The perfume is from a client.
09:46Can you not do this?
09:47I suddenly found it hilarious just how bad his acting was.
09:50I took out an envelope from the coffee drawer, pulled out the photos, and laid them bare.
09:55Roger's face was dark.
09:56He picked up a photo, then threw it back onto the table.
09:58You followed me.
09:59Doesn't matter.
10:00I smiled helplessly.
10:01What matters is these photos.
10:02If they show up at the board meeting, or get sent to your clients,
10:05what do you think will happen?
10:06He slumped into the couch across from me and covered his face with his hands.
10:09What do you want?
10:09I stared at him.
10:10My voice was indifferent.
10:11First, fire Kathy Miller and promise you won't see her again.
10:14Second, tell me what really happened at that hospital ten years ago.
10:17He stood up angrily.
10:18You crazy?
10:19Just because of a few photos?
10:20My voice was cold.
10:21Don't forget, Roger.
10:22This company belongs to the Caldwell family.
10:24You are what you are because of me.
10:25I get to make the calls.
10:26I almost felt sorry for him, but then I thought of Felix's worn out shoes,
10:30and how he waited alone for the rain to stop.
10:32For the sake of the ten years he spent together and for our child,
10:34if you do as I say, I won't get a divorce.
10:36I turned and went into the bedroom, pulled out a file, and handed it to him.
10:39It was a prenatal report showing I was five weeks pregnant.
10:42Roger looked at the report, stunned, then looked up at me.
10:45You're pregnant?
10:45I nodded.
10:46My hand rested on my stomach.
10:47Five weeks now, the doctor said it's stable.
10:49His expression shifted.
10:51He swallowed.
10:52His eyes moved back and forth between me and the report.
10:54I continued speaking.
10:55So as long as you cut ties with Kathy Miller and get her to stay away from the company and
10:59our lives,
11:00I can let what happened in the past go.
11:02We still have Jamie, and now this baby.
11:04Roger's gaze landed on my stomach.
11:06There was an obvious struggle in his eyes.
11:08I need to think about it.
11:09His voice was a little hoarse.
11:10He turned and went to the bedroom.
11:11That night, the light in his room stayed on until late.
11:13The next morning, I was drinking coffee when I saw Roger walk out with dark circles around his eyes.
11:17I slid a glass of water over to him.
11:19He took it, but didn't look at me.
11:20I made up my mind, Julia.
11:21We...
11:22No need to say more.
11:22I interrupted him, pulled the divorce papers out of the folder, and placed them on the table.
11:26He was infuriated.
11:27What's the meaning of this?
11:28Aren't we having another baby?
11:29I said coldly,
11:30I told you I was pregnant,
11:31and then you needed the whole night to decide whether to break up with her.
11:34Roger stood up.
11:36We're having a baby.
11:37What about the baby?
11:38Or what about Jamie?
11:39The baby?
11:40I suddenly laughed.
11:41You mean the kid I've raised for 10 years who turns out to be yours and Kathy's?
11:44Is that it?
11:45Roger's face paled in an instant.
11:47He backed into the table.
11:48How did you know?
11:49When did you find out?
11:50I held up my phone to his face.
11:52On the screen was a photo of the paternity test report.
11:54Still, I should thank you.
11:55The password to the file on your computer is Kathy's birthday.
11:58You've been using that for 10 years, right?
12:00His breathing became rapid.
12:01He was panicking.
12:02Let me explain.
12:03My voice was calm with a hint of mockery.
12:05Explain how you switched the babies when I gave birth.
12:07Explain how you got Kathy into the company.
12:08Or explain how you and her have been laughing behind my back for 10 years.
12:12I stepped closer.
12:13The funniest part is, when you look at that kid, sometimes you show a little guilt.
12:17Is it guilt for lying to me?
12:18Or guilt for not treating your own son better?
12:20Felix.
12:21Roger suddenly remembered something and said in a low voice.
12:24Where is Felix?
12:25Too late.
12:25I turned around and opened the door.
12:27Your son, I mean our son, is at somewhere you can't find now.
12:30You and Kathy's son are still upstairs sleeping.
12:32He has no idea his dad is facing a huge decision.
12:34Roger rushed over, grabbed my arm and yelled,
12:36Julia, you can't do this.
12:37That's my child.
12:38I shook him off.
12:39Ever since the day you switched the kids, you don't serve to be a father anymore.
12:42Now please leave my house.
12:44After I closed the door, I heard him pounding on it.
12:46Then I heard the sound of his car driving away.
12:47I knew exactly where he was headed.
12:49He was going to find Kathy and look for the son he lost 10 years ago.
12:51Three days ago, when the private investigator gave me Kathy's file,
12:54I saw that child again.
12:56I told him the truth.
12:57He was unusually calm.
12:58Those eyes, just like mine, held a wisdom beyond his ears.
13:01I held his hand and promised I'd take him away, that we start over.
13:03He remained silent for a long time, but gently nodded.
13:05He went abroad with my assistant yesterday afternoon.
13:08There was a good school there, a house and new friends.
13:10Once I finish everything here, I can finally reunite with my son.
13:13The divorce papers just sat there for three days when Roger finally showed up.
13:16He stood outside the door, dark circles under his eyes.
13:19It had been a while since I had seen him like this.
13:21Julia, let's just talk this out.
13:22I was in my pajamas, leaning against the doorway.
13:24I didn't let him in.
13:25The agreement was very clear there's nothing to talk about.
13:27He said helplessly.
13:28I can't go through with this.
13:29For the 10 years of marriage, and for the child.
13:31Which child?
13:31I interrupted him and sneered.
13:33The one in the video?
13:34We're the one upstairs.
13:35Roger's face paled instantly.
13:37A week ago, Kathy sent over a bunch of files.
13:39There were so many of them.
13:40In the footage, Felix was crying, getting beaten, and locked in a dark room.
13:43There was only one line in the email.
13:44Thank you for raising my son all these years.
13:46I watched all night long and threw up three times by sunrise.
13:49He tried to explain.
13:50Those videos were because Kathy lost control sometimes.
13:53I sneered.
13:54That's your son.
13:55You see her every week.
13:56You only notice her new perfume, her new nail varnish, but never saw the bruises on your own son.
14:00He was speechless.
14:00I said indifferently.
14:02I've already hired a lawyer.
14:03If you don't sign, I'll see you in court.
14:04The evidence of the child swap, the photos of your affair, it's all in your case file.
14:08He said in a low voice.
14:08You're out of your mind.
14:10The company's about to go public at a time like this.
14:11I said before closing the door.
14:13So I just signed the agreement while I'm still giving you a way out.
14:15The door closed.
14:16He stood outside for a while before finally leaving.
14:18Three days later, Roger signed the agreement.
14:20On the fourth day after the divorce, I saw Roger and Kathy's wedding photos online.
14:23Kathy was in a white wedding dress.
14:25Roger had his arm around her, but his expression looked stiff.
14:27The title was finally together after 10 years.
14:30I took a screenshot, then turned off my phone.
14:32That afternoon, Mr. Lister called.
14:33Julia, all the documents are ready.
14:35The bank records of the child swap.
14:36The messages between him and Kathy.
14:38Plus the abuse videos and medical records.
14:39It's enough to follow the case.
14:40Thank you for everything.
14:41You're welcome.
14:42He paused for a moment.
14:43You don't really want to see him one last time?
14:45He came by the firm yesterday and wanted me to tell you he's sorry.
14:48It's too late.
14:49The next morning, the plane took off.
14:51My assistant picked me up at the airport.
14:52She said to me,
14:53Felix has been better this week.
14:54He's talking again.
14:55He even asked when you'd be here.
14:56My heart skipped a beat.
14:57The car stopped in front of a white house.
14:59In the garden, a small skinny kid was crouched on the ground watching ants.
15:02Felix, he looked a little bit better than in the photos, but he was still too thin.
15:05There wasn't much fat on him.
15:06I walked over and crouched in front of him.
15:08I'm your mom.
15:09He stared at me for a long time, then he nodded gently.
15:11I pulled him in for a hug.
15:12He didn't pull away.
15:13I'm sorry for being late.
15:14He trembled a little in my arms.
15:16For the next two weeks, I didn't work.
15:17I just stayed with him.
15:18I took him to the park.
15:19The first time he rode the carousel, he held on really tight.
15:22I took him to the library and found out he loved books about stars.
15:25That night, when he's asleep, I'd stroke his hair.
15:27He still didn't talk much, but sometimes he'd smile at me.
15:29At three in the morning, the bedroom door creaked open from the wind.
15:32A soft, muffled sobbing reached my ears like needles, stabbing them.
15:35I jolted awake.
15:36I knew instantly it was Felix.
15:37I pushed open his bedroom door.
15:39Moonlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting molted shadows across the floor,
15:43outlining his tiny figure curled up on the bed.
15:45His hands were shaking.
15:46His forehead covered in cold sweat.
15:47He kept mumbling over and over.
15:49Mom, please don't lock me in the dark room.
15:51They're rats.
15:52I hurried over, sat on the edge of the bed, and pulled him into my arms.
15:55His shoulders were icy cold.
15:57His body tensed for a moment.
15:58Then, like a startled puppy, he threw himself into my embrace.
16:01His crying was muffled and desperate.
16:03And in an instant, my pajamas were soaked with his tears.
16:05Mom, I'm scared.
16:06That storage room was so dark.
16:08My heart felt like it was being sliced with a dull knife, aching in a thousand little ways.
16:12I kept patting his back.
16:13I tried to keep my trembling voice stable.
16:15Felix, it's okay.
16:16Mom's here.
16:17No one can lock you up anymore.
16:18I'll protect you.
16:19Silent tears fell into his hair.
16:21I remembered in the video Kathy sent.
16:23The child shivering in the darkness.
16:24And all those scars, old and new, crisscrossing his body.
16:27I wish I could tear apart everyone who ever hurt him.
16:30That night, I held him on the couch.
16:31We sat there until sunrise.
16:33I told him how I was afraid of lightning.
16:34And my dad would hold me in his arms.
16:36We'd count the stars and he'd sing lullabies.
16:38I told him when I first took over the company, things were difficult for me.
16:40I secretly cried in the stairwell and then wiped my tears before going back.
16:43I told him about the intern who spilled coffee all over an important contract and looked pale as a ghost.
16:47He listened quietly.
16:48Sometimes, he would look up with those eyes that looked just like mine, staring at me.
16:52Then he would ask,
16:53Weren't you afraid?
16:54Of course I was.
16:55I stroked his hair.
16:56But I knew if I could just get through that, things would get better.
17:00And now I have you.
17:01I can't afford to be afraid anymore.
17:03He seemed to vaguely understand.
17:04His little hand quietly wrapped around my finger.
17:06A few days later, I took Felix to the observatory on the edge of town.
17:09We took a bus that drove past endless wheat fields.
17:12The smell of wheat filled the air.
17:13Felix leaned against the window, his eyes filled with amusement.
17:16As night fell, the observatory dome opened slowly.
17:19A sky full of stars sparkled like diamonds, spreading across the deep blue sky.
17:23The view was really amazing.
17:24The guide pointed at Orion, telling the legend of the hunter.
17:27Felix's eyes shined as bright as the stars and his lips curved into a gentle smile.
17:30On the way home, the bus rocked from side to side.
17:33He leaned against my shoulder and said quietly,
17:35Mom, the stars are so far away, but seeing them makes me feel safe.
17:38I squeezed his hand.
17:40Feeling the warmth in my palm, my heart softened.
17:42I knew the wounds buried deep in his heart wouldn't disappear completely just because of a trip to the observatory.
17:47Old scars, no matter how carefully tended, would always leave a faint mark.
17:50But as long as I was by his side, warming him with love and patience,
17:54light will shun the dark and light the path for him.
17:56One afternoon, we were making cookies in the kitchen.
17:59The doorbell rang.
17:59Megan went to answer it.
18:00I heard her say,
18:01Mr. Bennett?
18:02The sifter in my hand slipped.
18:03Through the glass door, I saw Roger standing at the entrance.
18:06His hair was a mess, his eyes sunken.
18:08He was dragging an old suitcase.
18:10Julia, I've been looking for you for two weeks.
18:11I wiped my hands and walked out of the kitchen, closing the door behind me.
18:15Now you know where I am, you may leave.
18:16He looked into the kitchen at that small figure and said,
18:19I want to see the kid, our kid.
18:20I've been dreaming about when he was little lately.
18:22Dreaming about Kathy beating him.
18:23I never knew.
18:24I interrupted him.
18:25He should have known.
18:25He just chose not to.
18:27He looked at my stomach and asked,
18:28Do you still carry the baby?
18:29I laughed.
18:30For the first time in days, I actually felt quite relieved.
18:33Of course I do.
18:34I put my hand on my belly.
18:35The doctor said everything's fine.
18:36He's due next spring.
18:38His face darkened and suddenly he got really worked up.
18:40He glanced toward me.
18:41I stepped aside.
18:42He stumbled and crashed into the entry cabinet, shouting angrily.
18:44Julia Colwell, I want to see my son.
18:46You can't do this.
18:47I looked at him and then sneered.
18:49Roger Bennett, what you should be worried about right now isn't where my son is,
18:52but whether your son can come to this world safely.
18:54If you want your son to be born safely, you better deal with Kathy Muller first.
18:57Sort out the mess between yourselves.
18:59After I said that, I kicked him out.
19:01Even now, just looking at him made me feel absolutely disgusted.
19:04As I closed the door, I saw Roger slumped to the ground, running his hands through his
19:08hair, looking completely defeated.
19:09A while later, Mr. Lisser called.
19:11Thanks, good ugly, Ms. Caldwell.
19:12The situation isn't exactly in our favor.
19:14Turns out, Roger and Kathy had already divorced and they took it to court.
19:17Kathy was practically screaming in court, exposing how Roger used his position to transfer
19:21money to her over the years and how he promised to marry her.
19:24I correct my phone tightly while listening, but my expression stayed calm.
19:27But Roger pinned all the blame on Kathy, claiming she forced him to switch to kids.
19:32In the end, Kathy was found guilty of child abduction, forgery, commercial fraud, and
19:36got three years imprisonment.
19:38Roger, however, managed to clear his name, crying in court, claiming he was a victim too,
19:42that Kathy had manipulated him for ten years.
19:44Honestly, that sounds pretty ridiculous, but the judge believed it.
19:47Or maybe the lawyer Roger hired was just that good.
19:49Before hanging up, Mr. Lister said softly,
19:51I'm sorry, Ms. Caldwell.
19:53This outcome is far from ideal.
19:54If you want, we can discuss what to do next.
19:57I cut him off.
19:58That's enough.
19:58At least my child is back with me.
20:00Felix was doing his homework.
20:01I walked over and asked him.
20:02Felix, I make sure the bad guys are punished, but maybe not enough.
20:05Will you be upset with me?
20:06He looked up.
20:07Mom, I know exactly who treat me well and who doesn't.
20:11I covered my mouth, tears streaming down my face.
20:13He lowered his head and kept writing, then mumbled.
20:16You look really ugly when you cry.
20:17I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
20:19Recently, I tried my best to make up for the mother-lou love he had missed over the years.
20:23I transferred my shares to his name.
20:24Even though he's still young, I knew what this kind of security meant.
20:27The school he went to had the best international program in the city.
20:29When the principal saw his previous grades, his brows furrowed.
20:32For the past 10 years, Kathy never cared about his education.
20:35She just let him fend for himself.
20:36I hired tutors for English, Bath & Science.
20:38Felix really stepped up.
20:40He would study until late every night.
20:41One night, I brought him some milk around midnight and saw him sleep at his desk with
20:44his pen in his hand.
20:45I didn't wake him up.
20:46I just placed a blanket over him.
20:48On Friday afternoon, I went to pick Felix up from school.
20:50The school gate was packed with parents.
20:52Felix came running out with his new backpack.
20:54His cheeks flushed from running around.
20:56Mom, I passed my math quiz today.
20:58I was about to take the quiz paper when I spotted a figure in the cafe across the street
21:01out of the corner of my eye.
21:02Roger was sitting there.
21:03There was dark stubble on his chin.
21:05He looked completely worn out.
21:06Nothing like how he used to be.
21:07All confident and in control.
21:09Felix followed my gaze at the same way.
21:10I squeezed his hand and said,
21:11Let's go home.
21:12As we turned to leave, hurried footsteps sounded from behind us.
21:15Roger had already crossed the street, blocking our way.
21:18Julia, can we talk?
21:19I motioned for Felix to get in the car first.
21:21I looked at Roger and said,
21:22There's nothing left for us to talk about.
21:24Kathy's already in prison.
21:25He blurted out, like he was desperate to prove something.
21:27I've taken care of everything.
21:29It's completely over between me and her.
21:30I couldn't help but laugh.
21:31I was the one who hired a lawyer to put her behind bars, Roger.
21:34What does that have to do with you?
21:36Weren't you the one crying your eyes out in court and playing the victim?
21:38His face darkened.
21:40I know I messed up, Julia, for the sake of the kid.
21:42Please, can you forgive me this once?
21:43The kid?
21:44His gaze landed on my stomach.
21:45That's right, our kid.
21:46Oh, that.
21:47I slowly smoothed the wrinkles on my jacket and said,
21:50It was a lie.
21:51Roger was dumbfounded.
21:52His eyes widened in shock.
21:53I met his gaze.
21:54I said calmly that.
21:55I forged the prenatal report.
21:57I just wanted to see what choice you'd make.
21:59I stepped forward so he can get a better look at my flat stomach.
22:02It's been months.
22:03If I were really pregnant, wouldn't I be showing by now?
22:05His eyes stayed on my stomach for a long time.
22:07It's okay.
22:08It's all right if you're not pregnant.
22:09We still have Felix, and we had been married for 10 years.
22:12I cut him off.
22:13Stop dreaming, Roger.
22:14Wake up.
22:15He acted like he didn't hear me.
22:17Then suddenly, as if remembering something,
22:18he pulled out a velvet box from his briefcase.
22:20Look, this is the gift I bought for your 30th birthday.
22:23That year, the company was struggling, so I never gave it.
22:25Then there was a second, a third.
22:26He lined up all the boxes on the floor.
22:28This one's for our 7th anniversary.
22:30This one's for the year we first moved into our house.
22:32And this one.
22:32The tiny velvet boxes made a roll on the floor.
22:34It was quite funny.
22:35I bought one every year.
22:36I just never gave them to you.
22:37He looked up, eyes red.
22:39Now I'm giving them all to you, all right?
22:40Please give me another chance.
22:41I crouched down and opened the nearest box.
22:44Inside is a diamond necklace.
22:45The pendant was shaped like an iris.
22:47It was my favorite flower.
22:48Back in the days, I would have been over the moon to get a gift like this.
22:51I would wear it and wrap my arms around his at every banquet just to show off how happy I
22:55was.
22:55Now it just made me sick.
22:56I feel like I could throw up.
22:58I stood up, placed the necklace back into the box and said,
23:00Roger, Ben, when I loved you the most was when I'd lose sleep at night because you didn't reply to
23:04my texts.
23:05It was when I'd make supper for you when you were working overtime.
23:08It was when I felt everything was worth it.
23:10When you thanked me for my heartwork, I set the box down at his feet.
23:13That time when I loved you the most was long gone.
23:16All this to me now is no different from trash.
23:19He looked like he wanted to say something, but no word came out.
23:21His shoulder slumped quickly like someone just pulled the spine out of him.
23:25I didn't look at him again.
23:26I turned and walked toward my car.
23:28As far as I was concerned, none of this mattered anymore.
23:31Three years later, late autumn.
23:32Felix had gotten taller.
23:33He was at my shoulder height now.
23:35Mom, can you come to the parents' meeting next week?
23:37I placed a hand on his shoulder.
23:39Of course, I'll be at the parents' meeting no matter what.
23:42He turned and smiled at me.
23:44Felix had been so mature during the past three years.
23:46When he had to work overtime, he would make dinner by himself.
23:49His grades also improved a lot.
23:50His foreign language was better than some of the local kids.
23:52The teacher said he was resilient.
23:53The neighbor said he was well-behaved.
23:55But only I knew what was behind all that maturity.
23:57On a weekend, we made dumplings together.
23:59Felix's dumplings were always way too perfect.
24:01Every fold was exactly the same.
24:02Felix, you don't have to be so well-behaved in front of me.
24:05His hands paused mid-fold.
24:07I crouched down to look him in the eyes.
24:08You're allowed to get mad or sulk.
24:10You can say no just like the other kids do.
24:12I love you not because you're well-behaved, but because you're who you are.
24:15He blinked his eyes.
24:17But if I do something wrong, will you stop loving me?
24:20I pulled him into my arms.
24:21No, never.
24:22The best thing I've ever done in my life was finding you.
24:25He remained silent for a while.
24:26Finally, he nodded gently.
24:28Felix's school was holding an open house event.
24:30I wrapped up a meeting at the office early and drove straight to the school.
24:33The autumn sunshine was shining through the leaves, warming the playground.
24:37Felix was running in the relay race.
24:38He was the anchor, the last runner.
24:40His little figure dashed like the wind, giving it everything he's got.
24:43The moment he crossed the finish line, I couldn't help but stand up, clapping and cheering for him.
24:47He happened to glance back, and when he saw me, he gave me a bright smile.
24:50His smile was clean and cheerful.
24:52It made all my efforts worth it.
24:53As the event ended, parents left in small groups.
24:55I was holding Felix's hand, planning to go to the dessert shop nearby to keep my promise of buying him
24:59ice cream for finishing the race.
25:01A woman in a faded cheap trench coat suddenly rushed over.
25:04She blocked our path.
25:05It was Kathy Miller.
25:06She was just released.
25:07Her hair was yellowed and brittle, messily tied at the back of her head.
25:10She glared at me fiercely.
25:11Julia Caldwell, what gives you the right to take my son from me?
25:14Her voice was shrill and piercing, like nails scraping across glass.
25:16It attracted the attention of several parents nearby.
25:19Some of them stopped walking and looked at us curiously.
25:21I instinctively pulled Felix behind me, shielding him.
25:24I looked coldly at Kathy.
25:25Felix was never your son.
25:26All you ever gave him were abuse and neglect.
25:28You don't have a shred of maternal love for him.
25:30You don't deserve to be his mother.
25:32I carried him for 40 weeks.
25:33It's my blood in his veins.
25:35Kathy became agitated, trying to lunge at me.
25:37Luckily, the school security guard arrived just in time to hold her back.
25:39She struggled, her hair coming loose, making her look a bit deranged.
25:42You took everything from me.
25:44Roger left me, and I lost my job.
25:46You won't even let me see my own son.
25:47Why do you get to have such a good life?
25:49Felix peeked out from behind me.
25:50His little face showed not a trace of fear.
25:52He looked straight at Kathy.
25:53His eyes were too calm for a child his age.
25:55I don't have a mom like you.
25:57His voice was calm and steady.
25:59You hit me and locked me in a dark room.
26:01You never once made me a meal.
26:02You never even picked me up from school.
26:04Julia is my real mom.
26:06Kathy froze.
26:06It was as if she'd never expected the child she carried for 40 weeks would say something
26:10like that to her.
26:11She just stared at Felix, and after a few seconds, she burst into tears.
26:14Her cries were sharp and desperate.
26:15I had no choice back then.
26:17Roger only cared about your money.
26:18He never once looked out for us.
26:19I was on my own.
26:20Do you have any idea how much pressure I was under?
26:22I hit him because I had no other choice.
26:24Being stressed isn't an excuse to abuse your child.
26:26I took out my phone, opened up a folder I had saved ahead of time.
26:29Inside were Felix's medical records, photos of the scars on his body, and backup videos
26:33of Kathy hurting him.
26:34All of these are proof.
26:35If you keep coming after us, I'll have my lawyer file a lawsuit right away.
26:39At that moment, a familiar figure rushed over.
26:41It was Roger.
26:42He looked even more worn out than three years ago.
26:44When he saw Kathy, his brows instantly furrowed.
26:46His voice was impatient.
26:48What are you doing?
26:48Didn't I tell you not to look for them?
26:50Look at your son, Roger!
26:51Kathy pointed at Felix for voice force.
26:53Look at how well he's off right now!
26:55He has new clothes, gets good food, and a loving mom!
26:58And what about us?
26:58Roger's eyes landed on Felix.
27:00His expression was incredibly complicated.
27:02There was guilt and reluctance.
27:03But in the end, he just turned to me.
27:04He said softly,
27:05I'm sorry, Julia.
27:06I'll take her away.
27:07We won't bother your lives again.
27:09I didn't say anything.
27:10I just looked at him with gold eyes.
27:11Let's go, mom.
27:12I don't want to see them.
27:14Okay.
27:14I crouched down, smoothed the hair on his forehead that had been puzzled by the wind,
27:17and said gently,
27:18Let's go get some ice cream.
27:19I took Felix's hand and turned to leave.
27:21I didn't look back at Kathy or Roger behind me.
27:23Behind us came Kathy's crying and shouting,
27:25Roger's attempt to persuade her,
27:27and the murmurs of other parents.
27:28But none of that mattered to us anymore.
27:30Felix held my hand tightly as he walked confidently forward.
27:33On one afternoon, I took Felix out for his favorite chocolate ice cream.
27:36He got it all over his face like a little kitten.
27:38I pulled out a napkin and gently wiped the ice cream from his lips.
27:41He looked at me and said with a smile,
27:43Mom, the ice cream is so sweet.
27:45You can have some every day from now on.
27:47Looking into his bright eyes, I felt completely calm.
27:50All those shadows of the past might return someday,
27:52but as long as Felix and I were together, supporting each other,
27:55I knew we would have a brighter and better future.
27:57The people who hurt us before would be left behind at the dust,
28:00and wouldn't affect us ever again.
28:02The late autumn rain came out of nowhere.
28:03By the time school finished, the rain was already really heavy.
28:06The school gate was crowded with the parents waiting to pick up their kids.
28:08I stood under my umbrella waiting by our usual spot under the locust tree.
28:11From a distance, I saw Felix with his backpack walking with his classmates.
28:14There was a smile on his face.
28:15It was the first time he had ever chosen to leave school with friends.
28:19At that moment, a woman in a red raincoat suddenly rushed over and grabbed Felix's arm.
28:23Felix, come with me.
28:24How can you be living well when your mom's suffering?
28:27It was Kathy's younger sister, Jenny Miller.
28:29The investigator's report mentioned her before.
28:30She was quite close to Kathy, always helped her handle all kinds of little things.
28:33She was also one of the people who knew about the child swap.
28:35Who are you? I don't know you.
28:38I'm your aunt.
28:39Jenny grabbed his arm so tightly that her nails were almost digging into Felix's skin.
28:42Julia is a liar.
28:44She took you away from your real mom.
28:45How can you be so naive?
28:47Come with me. I'll take you to see your mom.
28:49The other parents nearby all turned to look.
28:51A few concerned people tried to step in, but Jenny's vicious glare made them back off.
28:54Felix's classmates were so scared, they just froze, not knowing what to do.
28:57And so, I rushed over.
28:59I pried Jenny's hand off, shielding Felix behind me.
29:01My voice was cold-sized.
29:02Let him go. You've no right to touch my child.
29:05Jenny staggered back.
29:06Once steady, she sized me up and down.
29:08Her eyes were full of jealousy and venom.
29:10Julia, you thief.
29:11You stole my sister's man, her assets, and now you want her child too.
29:15Do you even have a conscience?
29:17Conscience?
29:18I sneered, pulled out my phone from my bag, opened the recordings and files I had prepared long ago.
29:22The video of your sister abusing Felix years ago, the transfer records of her and Roger swapping the kids,
29:27and proof that you knew everything, plus the kickbacks you got from Roger.
29:29I've got it all right here. If you really want to ask this to the police, whose conscience do you
29:33think will be questioned?
29:34Jenny's face changed instantly, her eyes darting.
29:36You're lying! They're all fake!
29:39They're fake?
29:40I stepped forward. My voice sounded clear and firm.
29:42All the evidence is on record with the court.
29:44You came here today to make a scene because you wanted some money from me, right?
29:47The crowd around us was buzzing louder and louder.
29:49Some parents even started recording on their phones.
29:51Others were quietly reaching out to school security.
29:53Jenny's face flushed red, then turned pale.
29:55She looked at the crowd gathered around.
29:56There was panic in her eyes.
29:57I don't want your money!
29:58She refused to admit her intentions, but she instinctively took a step back.
30:01I just want the child to return to his family!
30:03My family?
30:04Suddenly, Felix stepped out from behind me.
30:06His small figure stood tall and straight.
30:08He looked at her steadily.
30:09I don't have a knelt like you.
30:10I don't have a mom like Kathy either.
30:12Julia is my mom.
30:13She never heats me or locks me up.
30:14She eats with me, takes me to school.
30:16She keeps me safe.
30:17Go away! I don't want to see you again!
30:19Jenny was stunned.
30:20She was speechless.
30:22Miss Richardson rushed over.
30:23She saw what was happening.
30:24She immediately stepped in front of us.
30:26Ma'am, I need you to leave right now.
30:28Otherwise, we'll have to call the police.
30:30Jenny noticed more and more people gathering around.
30:33She realized this wasn't going anywhere, so she shot me a glare and muttered,
30:36Just you wait!
30:37She turned and disappeared into the rain.
30:39She soon disappeared around the corner.
30:40It was still raining.
30:41Felix's hair was wet from a splashing rain.
30:43Strand stuck to his forehead.
30:44I quickly tilted the umbrella toward him, pulled out some tissue and gently wiped his face.
30:48Did she scare you?
30:49He shook his head, then wrapped his arms around my waist.
30:51His voice was shaky but determined.
30:52I'm not scared, Mom, because I knew you'd be there for me.
30:56I was immediately touched.
30:57I hugged him back.
30:59I'll always be there for you, silly.
31:01I'll never let anyone hurt you, no matter what happens.
31:05Miss Caldwell, I didn't expect this to happen.
31:08Felix is really shaken up today.
31:09Would you like to bring him to my office for a hot drink?
31:11Thank you, Miss Richardson.
31:12I nodded, held Felix's hand, and walked into the school building.
31:16Inside the office, the warmth from the cup spread to Felix's thoughts.
31:18Felix held the cup and whispered, Mom, was that Aunt Jenny said true?
31:23Am I really Kathy's child?
31:24I squatted down to look him in the eyes and said seriously, you're my son, Felix.
31:28I want you to know that nothing's going to change that.
31:30You are my precious son, the one I love to protect more than anyone else in the world.
31:34He blinked.
31:35His eyes were a little red, but he nodded confidently.
31:37I get it, Mom.
31:38You're always my mom.
31:40That night, it was the first time for Felix to talk about Kathy with me.
31:44Sometimes, she would bring Jenny to their house.
31:46Aunt Jenny always called me stupid, said I wasn't as good as Jamie, and she would steal
31:50my things.
31:50He curled up next to me, his voice soft.
31:52Back then, I used to wish I could have a mom who truly loved me.
31:56I pulled him into my arms, gently patting his back.
31:59From now on, that won't happen again.
32:00The rain outside gradually stopped.
32:02Moonlight streamed through with clouds, sliding up a corner of the roof.
32:04I looked down to Felix.
32:05He was slowly falling asleep in my arms.
32:07At that moment, I made up my mind.
32:09I was determined to give this child a safe and loving future, and that determination gave me
32:13the courage to open my heart to a new relationship.
32:15I not only wanted to give Felix a complete family, but also give myself another shot
32:19at happiness.
32:20I met Stephen Barton at a community book club.
32:22I was taking Felix to bars and books when I heard a discussion in the room's memoirs.
32:25Stephen was the host.
32:26His voice was gentle, but filled with conviction.
32:27Afterwards, he stopped me at the door and said,
32:29Your perspective was really interesting.
32:31Can I treat you to a coffee?
32:32That was how our conversation began.
32:33Stephen's hometown was in Riverside.
32:35He was divorced.
32:36His daughter lived with her mom.
32:37He was a high school history teacher and volunteered at the community center.
32:39For our first real day, we went to the science museum.
32:42Of course, Felix came along too.
32:43Stephen never tried to win over the kid.
32:45At the space exhibit, he started talking about the Apollo mission.
32:48Do you know why astronauts brought knives into space?
32:50Felix shook his head.
32:51To fix equipment.
32:52The most dangerous thing in space is a loose bolt.
32:55Felix's laughter sounded and relaxed.
32:57Another spring went by.
32:58Stephen came over for dinner.
33:00After dinner, Felix did his homework.
33:01Stephen and I drank tea on the balcony.
33:03The night was chilly.
33:03He draped his jacket over my shoulders.
33:05Felix made some new friends lately.
33:06He was playing basketball with classmates.
33:08I was a little surprised.
33:09He used to always be alone.
33:10Stephen paused for a moment.
33:11Kids need time.
33:12And so do you.
33:13That night, I finally talked about everything.
33:15Stephen listened quietly and waited until I finished before gently holding my hand.
33:18You must have gone through a lot.
33:20Going through this alone must have been tough.
33:22Those words brought tears to my eyes.
33:23Turns out what I needed was someone to see the way behind my strength.
33:26Mom, if you like Uncle Stephen, you can be with him.
33:29When Felix said that, he was building a model airplane.
33:31I was stunned and asked him,
33:32What made you say that?
33:33Because you smile when you look at him.
33:35A real smile.
33:36Not the kind you fake.
33:37I sat down next to him.
33:39So, what are your thoughts?
33:40I hope someone loves you the way you love me.
33:43You deserve that.
33:44I hugged him.
33:45He had grown up before I even realized.
33:47Dating Stephen was not like when I was 20.
33:49There was no wild passion or anxiety.
33:50Just a steady, comforting close-ups.
33:52After dinner, we would go on walks together,
33:54talking about little things at work or how Felix did in school,
33:56even the supermarket's weekly special offers.
33:58He took my hand and said,
33:59Life is made up of all these small matters,
34:01and I like being part of your life.
34:03Felix gradually got used to this rhythm.
34:04When Stephen helped him with history,
34:06they would sometimes argue about historical events,
34:08then end up laughing together.
34:09One day, I came home late from work
34:11and saw them playing chess in the living room
34:12with soups simmering in the kitchen.
34:13The whole house filled with its room.
34:15At that moment, I realized the happiness I yearned for
34:17was already right here.
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