- 2 days ago
They Left Me, Then They Left Everything
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:00At 12, two boys swore to protect me.
00:00:03Alexander gave me a supercar.
00:00:05Julian proposed on a rooftop.
00:00:07But on my wedding day, both had used me.
00:00:10When Lily Evans walked in, they let her take everything.
00:00:13Later, I signed a death waiver.
00:00:17Stole my car.
00:00:18Crashed through a blizzard.
00:00:23Six months later, I returned on General Carl's arm.
00:00:31I saw the two drained faces.
00:00:36I said, you both deserve to die.
00:00:42Alexander Sterling, the billionaire heir to the Sterling Empire, planned to publicly dump me for a club girl.
00:00:49A club girl named Lily Evans.
00:00:53Furious, my father Robert Vance pulled strings to blacklist her.
00:00:57He intended to ship her overseas to fend for herself.
00:01:01Unexpectedly, Alexander did not intervene.
00:01:04He did not fly into a rage.
00:01:07He simply watched.
00:01:09My 18th birthday was approaching.
00:01:12The entire upper class of Kingston was preparing for my birthday banquet at the Vance estate.
00:01:20Alexander and I had been engaged since we were children.
00:01:25Everyone said we were the perfect match.
00:01:29The Sterlings and the Vances.
00:01:32Two empires united through marriage.
00:01:35But something felt wrong.
00:01:37Alexander had been distant lately.cold, even.
00:01:41When I asked him about it, he dismissed me with a single word.
00:01:45Busy.
00:01:47That was all I got.
00:01:48I stood before the full-length mirror in my room, adjusting the sapphire necklace Alexander had given me last week.
00:01:55The stone matched my eyes, he'd said.
00:01:58Now I wondered if he'd even remember giving it to me.
00:02:02Downstairs, the orchestra was already tuning their instruments.
00:02:06Downstairs, the orchestra was still in the middle of the room.
00:02:07Downstairs, the orchestra was still in the middle of the room.
00:02:11Guests in haute couture gowns and tailored suits streamed through the marble foyer.
00:02:16My father descended the grand staircase beside me.
00:02:20His hand firm on the small of my back.
00:02:23Eleanor, tonight, keep your smile on.
00:02:26No matter what happens.
00:02:28He said under his breath.
00:02:30I looked up at him.
00:02:32His jaw was tight.
00:02:33What do you know that I don't?
00:02:36He didn't answer.
00:02:38He just squeezed my shoulder once and walked ahead to greet the first arrivals.
00:02:44Something was coming.
00:02:47I could feel it in the air, heavy and suffocating, like a storm gathering behind closed doors.
00:02:57The banquet hall glittered with crystal chandeliers and whispered secrets.
00:03:03I circulated through the crowd, smiling until my cheeks ached.
00:03:09Alexander arrived fashionably late, as always, but he didn't come alone.
00:03:14Lily Evans hung from his arm like a silk scarf draped over furniture.
00:03:18She wore red.
00:03:20Not just any red.
00:03:22The exact shade of crimson that Alexander had once told me was.
00:03:27Too bold for anyone but you, Eleanor.
00:03:30My stomach dropped.
00:03:32Guests exchanged glances.
00:03:34Murmurs rippled through the room like wind through wheat.
00:03:40Robert's face went dark across the room.
00:03:43He started moving toward us.
00:03:45His stride sharp and purposeful.
00:03:50I caught his eye and shook my head frantically.
00:03:53Not here, not now.
00:03:54Not in front of everyone.
00:03:57He stopped.
00:03:59But the damage was already done.
00:04:04Lily leaned into Alexander and giggled at something he whispered in her ear.
00:04:11Her fingers traced the lapel of his tuxedo.
00:04:15Possessive.deliberate, a declaration written in body language.
00:04:21I turned away before anyone could see my expression crack.
00:04:25The balcony doors were just ahead.
00:04:27I needed air.
00:04:28I needed to breathe.
00:04:31Behind me, I heard Alexander's voice cut through the music.
00:04:35Everyone, may I have your attention.
00:04:40The room fell silent.
00:04:42Every head turned toward him.
00:04:44Toward us, toward Lily.
00:04:46Still clinging to his arm, toward me.
00:04:49Standing alone near the glass doors that led out into the cold night.
00:04:57Alexander said,
00:04:59I have an announcement.
00:05:01His voice rang clear and confident through the banquet hall.
00:05:07Lily pressed closer to him.
00:05:09Her painted lips curving into a smile that didn't reach her eyes.
00:05:16I felt every pair of eyes in the room burning into my back.
00:05:22This engagement,
00:05:23Alexander continued,
00:05:25was arranged by our families a long time ago.
00:05:28A pause, deliberate, calculated.
00:05:31But I've come to realize that neither Eleanor nor I are happy with this arrangement.
00:05:36Gasps, scattered, like broken glass across marble.
00:05:40So today,
00:05:42I am officially announcing the end of our engagement.
00:05:46The room erupted, phones came out.
00:05:49Whispers became shouts.
00:05:51Someone was already live streaming.
00:05:54I stood frozen,
00:05:56my hands still resting on the balcony door handle.
00:05:58This was how it ended,
00:06:00not in private.
00:06:01Not with decency.
00:06:02But in front of 300 people.
00:06:05Live streamed to the world.
00:06:08Thank you all for understanding.
00:06:10Lily stepped forward,
00:06:11wrapping both arms around Alexander's waist.
00:06:13She said,
00:06:14her voice dripping with false sweetness.
00:06:16Alexander and I are very much in love.
00:06:21Robert exploded across the room.
00:06:26You disgusting!
00:06:29Mr. Vance.
00:06:30One of them said evenly.
00:06:32We suggest you calm down.
00:06:34Alexander's bodyguards intercepted him before he could reach the stage.
00:06:37Calm down?
00:06:38You said you can't afford it yet?
00:06:42Robert's voice cracked.
00:06:47Alexander looked down at my father with something close to pity.
00:06:51Eleanor will find someone else.
00:06:53She always was.
00:06:55Resilient.
00:06:58The way he said that word made my skin crawl resilient.
00:07:03Like I was a problem to be managed rather than a person to be loved.
00:07:07I pushed through the balcony doors and stepped out into the freezing night.
00:07:13The sound of the crowd faded behind me.
00:07:15Replaced by the lonely whistle of wind across the mansion's rooftop gardens.
00:07:22I gripped the railing until my knuckles turned white.
00:07:28I would not cry.
00:07:30Not here.
00:07:31Not ever in front of them again.
00:07:34I left the banquet through the garden exit, avoiding the main hall entirely.
00:07:39My white supercar waited in the circular driveway, gleaming under the decorative lights.
00:07:49One of the valets brought the keys to me.
00:07:53Ms. Vance, should I have the driver ready?
00:07:57No.
00:07:58I'm driving myself tonight.
00:08:00My voice came out steadier than I expected.
00:08:04I slid into the driver's seat.
00:08:09The leather still held the faint scent of the custom cologne Alexander had picked out for me on my birthday
00:08:14five years ago.
00:08:19Alexander had sat right where I was sitting now.
00:08:22He'd taken my hands in his and said,
00:08:26This car is yours, Eleanor.
00:08:28Only yours.
00:08:29No one else will ever sit in this seat.
00:08:31I started the engine.
00:08:32The roar vibrated through my chest.
00:08:35Familiar and comforting.
00:08:39I pulled out of the driveway and onto the main road.
00:08:44Kingston at night was beautiful.
00:08:47Skyscrapers glittered.
00:08:48Streetlights cast golden pools on wet pavement.
00:08:52I didn't know where I was going.
00:08:53I just drove.
00:08:5820 minutes later.
00:08:59The GPS signal flickered and died.
00:09:02The engine made a strange sound.
00:09:04A grinding cough that no sports car should ever make.
00:09:08Then the power steering failed.
00:09:10I wrestled with the wheel,
00:09:11managing to guide the dying car toward the side of the road.
00:09:14It rolled to a stop in front of a narrow alley between two brick buildings.
00:09:18The neighborhood was wrong.
00:09:19Neon signs flickered in languages I didn't recognize.
00:09:22Figures loomed in doorways, watching.
00:09:25I reached for my phone, dead.
00:09:29The car's emergency system, usually so reliable, stayed silent.
00:09:36I unlocked the door and stepped out.
00:09:39My heels clicking on the grimy pavement.
00:09:44Fast, princess.
00:09:49A voice from the shadows, then another.
00:09:52And another.
00:09:53Three men emerged from the alley's mouth.
00:09:56Forming a half circle around me.
00:09:58Their smiles held nothing human.
00:10:00I tried to run.
00:10:02My heel caught on a crack in the pavement and I went down hard.
00:10:06Palms scraping against rough concrete.
00:10:09Someone grabbed my hair.
00:10:11Another wrenched my arms behind my back.
00:10:13The third.
00:10:14I never saw his face clearly.
00:10:16Forced something between my teeth.
00:10:17A bottle.
00:10:19Liquid burned down my throat.
00:10:21Bitter and chemical.
00:10:22Making my vision swim.
00:10:25Look at her.
00:10:27All dressed up like a doll.
00:10:30She's worth a fortune, another said.
00:10:33Check her bag.
00:10:34Design her everything.
00:10:35One of them laughed.
00:10:40Another said.
00:10:41Phones came out.
00:10:43Flashes blinded me.
00:10:44They were recording everything.
00:10:45I wanted to scream.
00:10:47But my throat had clenched shut around the terror lodge there.
00:10:50My mind detached.
00:10:52It floated somewhere above my body.
00:10:55Watching the scene unfold like a bad movie I couldn't walk out of.
00:10:59This wasn't happening.
00:11:00This couldn't be happening.
00:11:01Not to me.
00:11:02Not to Eleanor Vance.
00:11:04Daughter of the Vance medical empire.
00:11:06Fiancé of Alexander Sterling.
00:11:08Time blurred.
00:11:12When I finally became aware of myself again.
00:11:15I was curled on the ground.
00:11:17My dress was torn.
00:11:18My body shook with cold or shock or both.
00:11:21The men were gone.
00:11:23Their laughter echoed somewhere in the distance.
00:11:26Fading into the city noise.
00:11:27I pushed myself upright.
00:11:30My phone was missing.
00:11:31My jewelry was gone.
00:11:33Even my shoes.
00:11:34One had fallen off during the struggle.
00:11:38I limped back to my car on bare feet.
00:11:50I slumped against the driver's side door and let the darkness swallow me whole.
00:11:55I don't know how long I lay there.
00:11:57An hour, maybe more.
00:11:59Headlights swept across the alley mouth.
00:12:01A black sedan slowed to a stop.
00:12:03Two men in dark suits stout.
00:12:07My father's security detail.
00:12:09They'd tracked my car's emergency beacon.
00:12:14Mrs. Vance?
00:12:15I couldn't speak.
00:12:19They helped me into the back seat.
00:12:21Wrapped me in a wool blanket.
00:12:23And drove me straight to Vance Manor.
00:12:27My father was waiting in the foyer.
00:12:30One look at me and his face crumpled.
00:12:32He didn't ask questions.
00:12:34He didn't demand answers.
00:12:37He simply carried me upstairs to my room.
00:12:40Laid me on my bed.
00:12:41And called the family doctor.
00:12:44The examination was quick.
00:12:48No permanent physical injury.
00:12:51The doctor said gently.
00:12:52But the psychological toll.
00:12:54He left that sentence unfinished.
00:12:57Morning came to fast.
00:12:59I refused to leave my room.
00:13:00But the world refused to let me hide by noon.
00:13:04The story was everywhere.
00:13:05Photos, videos, speculation.
00:13:08The Vance heiress found intoxicated in red light district.
00:13:12Sterling Ayers X.
00:13:14Fiancie caught in compromising position.
00:13:17Sources say Alexander Sterling ended the engagement hours before the incident.
00:13:22My phone blew up with messages.
00:13:24Most were from people I'd once called friends.
00:13:27Are you okay?
00:13:28What happened?
00:13:30Oh my god.
00:13:31Eleanor, I'm so sorry.
00:13:33And then the other kind of message.
00:13:34The ones that came from numbers I didn't recognize.
00:13:39Slut.
00:13:40Whore.
00:13:41She deserved it.
00:13:43Damaged goods.
00:13:45I deleted them all, every single one.
00:13:48But the words had already burrowed under my skin.
00:13:51Where they would fester for a long time to come.
00:13:55Julian Montgomery arrived that afternoon.
00:13:59We'd grown up together.
00:14:01Alexander.
00:14:02Julian.
00:14:03And I.
00:14:04The three of us had been inseparable since kindergarten.
00:14:09Julian was different from Alexander.
00:14:13Softer, more thoughtful.
00:14:19Where Alexander blazed, Julian warmed.
00:14:23He sat beside my bed, holding my hand with careful gentleness.
00:14:28Elinor.
00:14:30His voice was low, steady.
00:14:35I know you're going through hell right now.
00:14:37I said nothing.
00:14:38But I want you to know, none of this changes how I see you.
00:14:42I finally looked at him.
00:14:44His brown eyes held no judgment.
00:14:46No pity.
00:14:47Just something that might have been warmth.
00:14:50Marry me.
00:14:51He said.
00:14:53I blinked.
00:14:55What?
00:14:56Marry me, Elinor.
00:14:58Not because of what happened.
00:15:01Not because I feel sorry for you.
00:15:06He squeezed my hand tighter.
00:15:12Marry me.
00:15:16Because I've loved you since we were kids.
00:15:18And I was too cowardly to say it until now.
00:15:23Marry me.
00:15:24Because.
00:15:26I don't care about your reputation or what people are saying.
00:15:33The Montgomerys and the Vances have been allies for generations.
00:15:37Our families would celebrate this union.
00:15:39Their es in Braylis can be called Perseptin this year's.
00:15:43And most importantly.
00:15:46Marry me.
00:15:48Because I will spend the rest of my life making sure no one ever hurts you again.
00:15:55I stared at him.
00:15:57This was Julian.
00:15:58My childhood friend.
00:16:00The boy who once carried me three miles through a rainstorm because I'd twisted my ankle.
00:16:08Julian was offering me a lifeline.
00:16:12A way out of the wreckage Alexander had made of my life.
00:16:17I...
00:16:18I need time.
00:16:20My voice caught.
00:16:22Take all the time you need.
00:16:23He smiled.
00:16:24And for a moment, it almost looked genuine.
00:16:27I'm not going anywhere.
00:16:28He leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to my forehead.
00:16:33Rest now, Elinor.
00:16:35Everything is going to be okay.
00:16:36After he left, I lay in the dark staring at the ceiling.
00:16:39Everything was not going to be okay.
00:16:41I could feel it in my bones, the shape of the trap closing around me, invisible but unmistakable.
00:16:48Julian's proposal was too convenient.
00:16:50Too perfectly timed.
00:16:52And something in his eyes when he mentioned Alexander's name.
00:16:56Something that didn't match the words coming out of his mouth.
00:16:59The marriage registration was scheduled for the following Monday.
00:17:02I wore white.
00:17:04Not a wedding dress.
00:17:05I wasn't ready for that.
00:17:07But a pristine white haute couture ensemble, it felt like armor against what was coming.
00:17:12The civil registry office was a modest building compared to the cathedral weddings the upper class usually favored.
00:17:17But Julian had insisted on simplicity.
00:17:26For us, it's not about the spectacle.
00:17:29It's about the commitment.
00:17:31He'd said.
00:17:33I stood in the lounge area, waiting for our appointment number to be called.
00:17:37Julian had stepped away to take a call.
00:17:39Through the half-open door of the adjacent conference room, I heard voices.
00:17:45Two women.
00:17:47Secretaries, from the sound of it, their conversation drifted toward me like smoke.
00:17:51Did you hear about Mrs. Vance?
00:17:53I heard it's been a scent of like, wait on every go-to-wear.
00:17:56A poor thing.
00:17:57Her reputation is ruined in the upper class, and in the end, she has to rely on Mr. Montgomery with
00:18:03pieces.
00:18:04My blood went cold.
00:18:06What do you know?
00:18:07To marry that little influencer, Lily Evans.
00:18:10Mr. Sterling orchestrated the trap to ruin Miss Vance.
00:18:14My hand flew to my mouth.
00:18:18He even paid those thugs to disappear.
00:18:20No witnesses.
00:18:21No evidence.
00:18:23He destroyed her just to clear the way for Lily.
00:18:28The second secretary lowered her voice further.
00:18:31And Mr. Montgomery.
00:18:33He doesn't love Miss Vance either.
00:18:35My heart stopped.
00:18:37He's only marrying her because he's afraid she used the Vance's power to take revenge on Lily.
00:18:45He wants to keep her under his nose where he can watch her.
00:18:48Withstanding it's a mauve and imbersed it is on it rape and imbersed for us for Noxus, this pre's miskindits
00:18:52and ensied you the Grex.
00:18:57It turned out that both of thee were in love with Lily.
00:19:01Despair, like an invisible hand, strangled my throat.
00:19:04Both of them.
00:19:05Both of the men I trusted my entire life.
00:19:08They were both in love with the same woman.
00:19:10The woman who had taken everything from me.
00:19:12And Julian's proposal.
00:19:14It was never about saving me.
00:19:15It was about controlling me.
00:19:18I walked out of the registry office into the bright afternoon sun.
00:19:22My legs felt like they belonged to someone else.
00:19:26Julian was waiting by the fountain in the courtyard.
00:19:29Wearing that same gentle, warm smile that had comforted me for days.
00:19:35Now it made me want to scream.
00:19:38He saw my expression change and his smile faltered.
00:19:42Eleanor?
00:19:45What's wrong?
00:19:47What's wrong?
00:19:49You look pale.
00:19:50I pulled the marriage registration papers from my bag.
00:19:53I looked at them for a long moment.
00:19:55All those carefully printed words.
00:19:56All those official stamps and signatures waiting to be added.
00:20:00All of it built on a foundation of lies.
00:20:02I ripped the papers in half.
00:20:04Then in quarters.
00:20:06Then I kept tearing until there was nothing left but white confetti scattered around my feet.
00:20:13I'm not marrying you, Julian.
00:20:15Julian, Julian's expression changed instantly.
00:20:18The warmth drained away, replaced by something sharp and calculating.
00:20:22He stepped forward, gripping my wrists tightly.
00:20:26Eleanor.
00:20:28Have you lost your mind?
00:20:30Right now, in all of Kingston.
00:20:31I'm the only one who doesn't mind your past.
00:20:34His voice was a low hiss, meant only for me.
00:20:38By breaking off the engagement, do you plan on being pointed at and judged for the rest of your life?
00:20:46I know you're still obsessed with Alexander.
00:20:50But if you really love him, shouldn't you just let him be happy with Lily?
00:20:55My nose stung.
00:20:56I looked up, forcing back the tears, and asked him with a cold sneer.
00:21:01So you love Lily too?
00:21:03You're sacrificing yourself to marry me just to let her and Alexander be together?
00:21:09To stop me from hating her out of jealousy and causing trouble for Lily.
00:21:16You're marrying me as a decoration to keep me under surveillance, right?
00:21:22A trace of panic flashed across his face.
00:21:25But he kept denying it.
00:21:27His eyes rimmed with red.
00:21:30Eleanor, how can you think of me like that?
00:21:32We grew up together.
00:21:33You know I'm not that kind of person.
00:21:38Around us, guests and passersby had stopped to watch.
00:21:42The whispers started immediately.
00:21:45Mr. Montgomery is only marrying her for old time's sake.
00:21:48Yet she's throwing mud at him in public.
00:21:50What an ungrateful bitch.
00:21:52Since she doesn't appreciate his kindness, he should just cancel.
00:21:55I don't think anyone else would dare take her except him.
00:21:57Robert appeared at my side.
00:21:59His face dark with rage.
00:22:01He was about to open his mouth to defend me.
00:22:04To tell everyone the truth about that night.
00:22:07I hurriedly grabbed his hand.
00:22:09Shook my head at him.
00:22:11Leaned close and whispered in his ear.
00:22:14Dad, don't say it.
00:22:16If the Sterlins and the Montgomerys join forces, we can't win.
00:22:23Alexander just secured those major projects.
00:22:26He's untouchable right now.
00:22:29Alexander has everyone in his pocket now.
00:22:33He destroyed me for Lily.
00:22:35And he'd do it again.
00:22:40If we fight him, he'll bury us under his lies.
00:22:47No one will believe us now.
00:22:52They'll just think we're fishing for sympathy and slanting the two great families.
00:22:56Robert's chest heaved with violent anger.
00:22:59His fists clenched at his sides.
00:23:05Robert could only storm back into the building in frustration.
00:23:09Leaving me to face it alone.
00:23:12Julian took my hand again.
00:23:14Looking at me with deep affection that I now knew was an act.
00:23:18Eleanor.
00:23:19If you're in a bad mood today, I can wait.
00:23:22This engagement.
00:23:26Stands forever.
00:23:30As long as you promise me not to harass Alexander and Lily anymore.
00:23:36I shook off his hand.
00:23:38My eyes were cold as ice.
00:23:42I won't marry you.
00:23:44Nor will I go look for Alexander again.
00:23:52Not in this lifetime.
00:23:58Because I'm about to.
00:24:00Just as I was about to reveal my plan.
00:24:02My real plan.
00:24:03A familiar engine roar cut through the air.
00:24:05A white supercar screeched to a curb nearby.
00:24:09Lily Evans stepped out.
00:24:10Dressed in haute couture Chanel.
00:24:13Swaying her hips like she owned the sidewalk.
00:24:15Her eyes found mine.
00:24:16And when she looked at Julian.
00:24:18There was a trace of subtle.
00:24:20Lingering affection in her gaze.
00:24:23A fragmented light instantly lit up in Julian's eyes.
00:24:26But he suppressed it just as quickly.
00:24:29Lily walked up to me.
00:24:31Tears flowing on command.
00:24:33Crocodile tears bathed in artificial sunlight.
00:24:38Eleanor.
00:24:39Why did you still wear these clothes to go see Alexander today?
00:24:43I'd never been to the Sterling Manor today.
00:24:45She was lying.
00:24:50Why are you still clinging to him so tightly when you're about to get married?
00:24:53The surrounding whispers became even more piercing.
00:24:56Just now.
00:24:57She was swearing she wouldn't stalk Mr. Sterling.
00:24:59But the moment she turns around, the official girlfriend shows up.
00:25:03She really has no shame.
00:25:05Mr. Montgomery even spent a forge wing that pink diamond necklace for her.
00:25:09What a waste of genuine affection on a dog.
00:25:11This kind of woman should be blacklisted.
00:25:12Hearing that I had gone to see Alexander today, Julian's eyes turned cold.
00:25:16He instinctively shielded Lily, his tone full of reproach.
00:25:20Eleanor, I know you look down on Lily.
00:25:22You think she comes from a club.
00:25:24You think she isn't clean.
00:25:27That she isn't good enough for Alexander?
00:25:29But she only worked as a receptionist at the club.
00:25:31She never sold her body.
00:25:33She is still pure.
00:25:34Look at yourself, Eleanor.
00:25:36After what happened in that red light district, your damaged goods.
00:25:40I took a deep breath.
00:25:42The winter wind sliced my face like a knife, stabbing straight into my heart.
00:25:50Yes, to whitewash Lily's background.
00:25:53To make her worthy of the Sterling's family prestige.
00:25:57Alexander had forced several media outlets to change their stories overnight.
00:26:02He'd even had a university professor recognize her as his influential sponsor to rewrite her past.
00:26:08Overnight, I became the slut spurned by everyone in the upper class.
00:26:13She became the inspirational, innocent goddess, the apple of Mr. Sterling's eye.
00:26:18Lily suddenly pointed at the ruby necklace around my neck and screamed emotionally.
00:26:22You thief!
00:26:24You stole the necklace Alexander gave me!
00:26:27How could you put your filthy hands on my engagement gift?
00:26:30I froze.
00:26:32I looked at Julian with bloodshot eyes.
00:26:34Didn't you send this necklace to me last night?
00:26:39Julian's eyes flickered.
00:26:40He avoided my gaze.
00:26:42Yet his tone was unusually firm.
00:26:44I never gave you anything, Eleanor.
00:26:47I nemeth you, Ajan Alorsina.
00:26:48Don't lie just to cover up your own crimes.
00:26:51You're making yourself look pathetic.
00:26:52My ears filled with voices calling me a thief.
00:26:55Those vicious words smashed into me like stones, leaving me breathless.
00:27:01Enduring the tearing pain in my heart, I yanked the necklace off with trembling hands.
00:27:05I smashed it viciously onto the ground.
00:27:10The gem shattered.
00:27:12Shards grazed Lily's calf.
00:27:14I said, my voice flat.
00:27:18I've never been to the Sterling Manor, so how could I possibly steal this necklace?
00:27:23Lily clutched her leg.
00:27:24A flash of triumphant malice crossed her eyes.
00:27:27She wailed to the crowd.
00:27:29We missed the servants at the Sterling Manor!
00:27:32And all saw her come by today!
00:27:34If you don't believe me, go ask them!
00:27:38A cold, deep male voice suddenly came from outside the crowd.
00:27:45Lily, it's just a necklace.
00:27:47If she wants to steal it, let her steal it.
00:27:55I'll win a better one for you at auction.
00:27:58After all, Eleanor and I grew up together.
00:28:02Let's not make things too ugly on her big day.
00:28:06Alexander parted the crowd and strode over.
00:28:09He unceremoniously shoved Julian aside.
00:28:13He wrapped an arm around Lily's shoulder,
00:28:16his eyes burning with undisguised possessiveness.
00:28:24Thank you, Mr. Montgomery, for looking out for Lily.
00:28:28You two carry on with your business.
00:28:31Lily and I are heading back.
00:28:35I called out to him.
00:28:38Alexander, you know perfectly well I never went to your house today.
00:28:44Why didn't you defend me?
00:28:48He stopped, turned his head.
00:28:55Alexander's eyes were cold as ice.
00:28:57He leaned in close to my ear, whispering so only I could hear.
00:29:02I'm doing this so you'll finally get the message.
00:29:05I don't care how much you cry.
00:29:08You disgust me, Eleanor.
00:29:10Stay on disgust to you, Eleanor.
00:29:12Mitra Amasher, stay away from us,
00:29:14or I'll make sure you lose everything else.
00:29:17My eyes stung terribly,
00:29:19yet it felt as if my tears had already run dry.
00:29:24My memory drifted back to our childhood.
00:29:28Back then, no matter who wronged me,
00:29:31Alexander would be the first to step up and take them down.
00:29:35He used to say I was his little princess.
00:29:37No one was allowed to bully me.
00:29:40Yet now, to force me away,
00:29:43he allowed the woman he loved to frame me in front of everyone.
00:29:46He didn't know that even if I wanted to cling to him,
00:29:49I wouldn't have the chance anymore.
00:29:51After tomorrow, Eleanor would no longer exist in Kingston.
00:29:56After they left, Julian dispersed the onlookers.
00:30:00Seeing my face drained of color,
00:30:02he grabbed my hand.
00:30:04His tone laced with a trace of barely perceptible guilt.
00:30:09I'm sorry, Eleanor.
00:30:11I didn't actually buy that necklace.
00:30:13Lily just tossed it to me.
00:30:14I saw it looked expensive enough,
00:30:16and since you don't have much jewelry,
00:30:17I thought I'd use it to help you keep up appearances.
00:30:22I pulled my hand back expressionlessly.
00:30:25You didn't say that just now.
00:30:27What good does saying it now do?
00:30:28Alexander defended himself with self-righteous logic.
00:30:32If I had taken your side,
00:30:33Lily would have looked like a monster.
00:30:34Sir, you sidrives.
00:30:35You don't out-ripper.
00:30:36So what's the thing if you know level one to my son?
00:30:38Lily was only trying to help.
00:30:40She's fighting so hard to fit in.
00:30:41Did you really want to destroy her life?
00:30:44She's the apple of Alexander's eye right now.
00:30:46She struggled so hard to gain a foothold in the upper class.
00:30:48Did you want to ruin her?
00:30:52Anyway, I know the truth.
00:30:54Knowing you are innocent is enough.
00:30:58We're the ones living our lives together in the future.
00:31:00You don't need to care about how others look at you.
00:31:05He was wrong.
00:31:06I no longer cared about anyone's opinion.
00:31:09I just felt a bone-deep chill of heartbreak toward both of them.
00:31:13It was a fact that Lily had framed me.
00:31:15Yet to shield that woman,
00:31:17he had personally branded me a thief.
00:31:20And then he had the nerve to blame me for being unreasonable.
00:31:24I couldn't bear to think about why the boy who once carried me for miles through a rainstorm had turned
00:31:29into this.
00:31:30I turned and walked into the villa.
00:31:33Returned to my room,
00:31:34Julian followed me.
00:31:35He watched as I frantically threw all those designer bags and clothes onto the floor like a mad woman.
00:31:44I curled up on the bed,
00:31:46hugging my knees,
00:31:48sobbing uncontrollably.
00:31:51Eleanor,
00:31:52stop crying.
00:31:53I was wrong about this.
00:31:55I'll make it up to you double in the future, okay?
00:31:57I grabbed a crystal ornament within reach.
00:32:00I smashed it violently toward him.
00:32:03The impact left a bloody gash on his forehead.
00:32:06I told you!
00:32:07I'm not marrying you!
00:32:09Get the hell out!
00:32:11His temper ignited instantly.
00:32:14His eyes snapped.
00:32:15He grabbed me by the throat.
00:32:17He slammed me against the wall so hard the pictures rattled on their nails.
00:32:23If you don't marry me,
00:32:24who else would want you?
00:32:27Do you want to go be a mistress for some low-class thug?
00:32:30Or do you want to be scorned and gossiped about for the rest of your life?
00:32:34I only agreed to marry you out of respect for our family's long-standing ties.
00:32:37Yet today,
00:32:38you tore up the marriage papers in public
00:32:39and completely humiliated the Montgomerys!
00:32:42I desperately clawed at his hand.
00:32:45I couldn't breathe.
00:32:46My face turned crimson.
00:32:48He released me abruptly.
00:32:50I coughed violently,
00:32:52gasping for air.
00:32:56Tears streamed down my face.
00:32:58I forced a smile that looked more painful than weeping.
00:33:03Why?
00:33:04Why have you all changed like this?
00:33:06Julian watched my breakdown with cold eyes as if looking at an insignificant stranger.
00:33:10I kicked him out.
00:33:11I sat alone in the room until darkness fell.
00:33:14That night,
00:33:15I packed my few documents and personal belongings.
00:33:18I intended to bid this city a final farewell.
00:33:22Passing the high-end jewelry store we used to frequent.
00:33:25I spotted Alexander and Lily walking out.
00:33:28I froze.
00:33:30I watched Alexander plant a kiss on Lily's forehead.
00:33:33Then,
00:33:34with eyes full of adoration,
00:33:36he slipped a pink diamond ring onto her ring finger.
00:33:39He said,
00:33:40It's beautiful.
00:33:41It suits you perfectly.
00:33:43Lily seemed to spot me standing in the shadows.
00:33:46She lifted her chin in a provocative gesture,
00:33:49turning back.
00:33:50She cooed at Alexander.
00:33:52It's gorgeous.
00:33:53But,
00:33:54didn't you fly all the way to the Middle East,
00:33:56just to find this diamond for Eleanor?
00:33:58Are you sure I should have it?
00:34:00Alexander gently stroked her long hair.
00:34:02He whispered soothingly,
00:34:03I'll give you whatever you want.
00:34:04I'd even let you play with the Sterling group if you asked.
00:34:10As for Eleanor,
00:34:12who is she?
00:34:14She doesn't even deserve to be compared to you.
00:34:17Lily cast a triumphant smile in my direction.
00:34:20She took Alexander's arm.
00:34:22The two of them walked intimately into the private club nearby.
00:34:26In December's Kingston,
00:34:28heavy snow suddenly began to fall.
00:34:31My heart turned completely cold.
00:34:33I didn't want to wait until tomorrow.
00:34:36I returned to the villa.
00:34:38I left a letter for my father on his desk.
00:34:41Then I put my white coat back on.
00:34:43It felt like putting on armor.
00:34:46The coat I'd worn to my volunteer medical shifts
00:34:49before everything fell apart.
00:34:51I took a taxi to Alexander's private garage.
00:34:57While the security guard wasn't looking,
00:34:59I slipped inside.
00:35:02My supercar.
00:35:03The white supercar sat in its usual spot.
00:35:06The one Alexander had given me on my 18th birthday.
00:35:10The one he'd just stolen back to give to Lily.
00:35:13I started the engine.
00:35:14The roar vibrated through my chest.
00:35:17Fierce and alive.
00:35:19I slammed on the gas.
00:35:21Clashed through the barrier.
00:35:22Sped away into the night.
00:35:24The guard couldn't stop me.
00:35:26He could only watch my taillights vanish into the darkness.
00:35:29I rolled down the window.
00:35:34Tell Alexander that I, Eleanor, am leaving for the Middle East right now!
00:35:39This car has been with me for five years.
00:35:42Let it take me on my final journey.
00:35:48I sped wildly.
00:35:50Tears burst forth.
00:35:51They were instantly scattered by the biting wind.
00:35:53Alexander.
00:35:54Julian.
00:35:56Our entanglement of over a decade ends today.
00:35:58Severed once and for all,
00:36:00the flustered security guard relayed the message to Alexander,
00:36:03who was drinking at the club.
00:36:04Hearing this, a sneer appeared on his face.
00:36:08Please.
00:36:09We all know it's an old doctor on that mission.
00:36:11Eleanor is just faking a suicide mission to get my attention.
00:36:13It's pathetic.
00:36:14But Lil likes that car.
00:36:15I can't let her drive it away.
00:36:17He threw on his coat,
00:36:18grabbed the keys to another sports car,
00:36:22and chased after me.
00:36:23So, so, so.
00:36:25Chased me all the way to the gate of the Vance's mansion.
00:36:27He honked the poor nabble.
00:36:30Eleanor, leave the car here!
00:36:32Where the hell you go is your own business!
00:36:34After a long while, the butler opened the gate.
00:36:36His eyes were red.
00:36:38His voice choked with emotion.
00:36:42He parked his car directly across the entrance of our mansion.
00:36:46This is what I learned later happened after I'd left Kingston.
00:36:51Vivian!
00:36:53Mr. Sterling.
00:36:55Ms. Vance has already gone to the airport.
00:36:58She really is going to the Middle East.
00:37:00That was what his assistant apparently told him.
00:37:03Alexander refused to believe any of it.
00:37:06Eleanor, get the hell out here!
00:37:08Don't think making up some story about going to die in the Middle East will make me change my mind.
00:37:12Everyone knows you're a spoiled princess, Eleanor.
00:37:15Used to cry for hours over a scratched knee.
00:37:18My father walked out when he heard the commotion.
00:37:21I was told he gazed at the drifting snow.
00:37:24His eyes must have been terrifyingly hollow that day.
00:37:27Alexander, just leave.
00:37:29Eleanor is truly gone.
00:37:30What she went to process yesterday were her exit papers.
00:37:34She will never be a stain on your sight to you again.
00:37:37I heard that Alexander felt a chill under my father's gaze.
00:37:40But he forced a smile anyway.
00:37:43Mr. Vance, is it fun helping your daughter put on an act?
00:37:46You adore your daughter so much.
00:37:48How could you possibly bear to let her go to a place like that?
00:37:54Alexander's expression darkened.
00:37:56His tone turned vicious.
00:37:57Even if she lost her verju in the red light district, you wouldn't necessarily send her off to die, would
00:38:03you?
00:38:04My father gave a cold snert.
00:38:05The sound seemed squeezed through clenched teeth.
00:38:08You animals pushed her to the edge!
00:38:10Maybe a war zone is the only place left where she can finally find some peace!
00:38:14Away from you!
00:38:21Alexander stared at my father's face.
00:38:24He tried to find even the slightest crack in that calm.
00:38:28But all he found was despair and dead silence.
00:38:33A sudden panic seized him.
00:38:37He kicked open the door to my room.
00:38:39The room was empty.
00:38:41Save for the mess scattered on the floor.
00:38:43In that heavy snow driving a sports car.
00:38:46Where else could I have gone?
00:38:49Alexander walks out of the bedroom angrily and heads to the mansion gate.
00:38:53No sooner had the words fallen than two figures appeared at the entrance of the mansion.
00:38:58Lily and Julian.
00:39:00Alexander, don't worry.
00:39:02She drove into some random direction.
00:39:08I don't care about that junk car anymore.
00:39:11Since Eleanor likes it so much, let her keep it as a breakup fee.
00:39:15His fists cracked as he crunched them.
00:39:20I never thought that just to get back at me, she would actually sink this low.
00:39:25Mr. Vance, you really raised your daughter well.
00:39:27As a big shot businessman to think you'd help her spin such a massive lie.
00:39:33He wrapped his arm around Lily and walked out.
00:39:36He patted Julian on the shoulder as he passed.
00:39:40I truly feel for you, Julian, having to pick up trash like her.
00:39:45Once she's done with her little drama and crawls back,
00:39:47I'll throw you a massive wedding gift for taking her off my hands.
00:39:52Julian forced the corners of his mouth up into a smile that looked worse than crying.
00:39:58Just take good care of Lily for me.
00:40:00After seeing the two of them off, Julian turned on my father.
00:40:06Just now, the Sterling family bodyguards said Eleanor went to the Middle East.
00:40:11Is that actually true?
00:40:15Julian knew Lily had been lying just now, but he hadn't exposed her.
00:40:20After all, Lily had shown him a report.
00:40:22She'd said she was already carrying his child.
00:40:25So no matter what she said or did, he indulged her unconditionally.
00:40:30My father let out a long sigh.
00:40:32He shook his head.
00:40:34He seemed to age ten years in an instant.
00:40:37Mr. Montgomery, please go back as well.
00:40:40If you want to find Eleanor, go look in the Middle East.
00:40:43There is no longer anyone named Eleanor in Kingston.
00:40:45With a final icy look, my father had the butler throw Julian out.
00:40:52Julian stood alone in the biting wind and snow.
00:40:56I imagine a cold, empty ache must have opened in his chest, like freezing wind tearing right through his ribs.
00:41:03My words outside the registry office must have flashed through his mind then.
00:41:08I won't marry you.
00:41:10Because I'm about to.
00:41:12Could it be?
00:41:12No.
00:41:13He refused to believe it.
00:41:15He drove like a madman to the International Aid Office.
00:41:18He didn't care about the cameras.
00:41:20He didn't care about the law.
00:41:22He shoved past the security guards and tried to block his path.
00:41:25He slammed his weight against the director's door and barged inside.
00:41:30Upon learning the truth, Julian collapsed entirely into the chair.
00:41:35How could you let her go?
00:41:37She is just an ordinary surgeon.
00:41:39That kind of place.
00:41:41The director looked at him coldly.
00:41:44Mr. Montgomery, this was Dr. Vance's own decision.
00:41:48She said she had no attachments left in Kingston.
00:41:51Here is her flight information.
00:41:54And a copy of the signed Death We Vale.
00:41:56Julian took the paper with trembling hands.
00:41:58My signature.
00:41:59Written with such force it nearly pierced through the page.
00:42:03Now that I was gone, he shouldn't have worried about me hurting Lily anymore.
00:42:09Nor should he be torn between sides.
00:42:12Yet why did his chest feel crushed by a heavy stone?
00:42:16Clutching that photocopy, he stumbled to the Sterling Manor.
00:42:20To his surprise, the family doctor was there as well.
00:42:24Congratulations, Mr. Sterling.
00:42:26Mrs. Evans is pregnant.
00:42:28It's been two months already.
00:42:29Alexander picked up Lily and spun her around.
00:42:33He thrilled like a child.
00:42:41Seeing Julian enter, the smile on Alexander's face hadn't faded yet.
00:42:46Julian!
00:42:47What are you doing here so late?
00:42:48Perfect timing.
00:42:50I have good news for you.
00:42:51Julian guiltily avoided Alexander's gaze.
00:42:54He handed over the photocopy.
00:42:56This is Eleanor's exit record.
00:42:59And the Death Favor.
00:43:01She really went to the Middle East.
00:43:03The smile froze on Alexander's face.
00:43:05He took the paper, glanced at it, tossed it aside with disdain.
00:43:09Anyone can fake a piece of paper.
00:43:10This is just another one of her desperate games to get me back.
00:43:13Julian's eyes were red.
00:43:14His voice trembled.
00:43:16It's real this time.
00:43:17I went to the office to verify it.
00:43:19The plane has already taken off.
00:43:21And she applied for the most dangerous combat zone.
00:43:24The mortality rate is extremely hot.
00:43:26Alexander frowned.
00:43:27An inexplicable irritation rose in him.
00:43:30Only a lunatic would go to a place like that.
00:43:32She must be hiding in some resort abroad, waiting for me to beg her to come back.
00:43:37Julian, don't be fooled by her.
00:43:38If she actually dared to go, I'll eat my hat.
00:43:41Julian was about to explain further when Lily suddenly clutched her belly.
00:43:47Lily collapsed onto the sofa, groaning in pain.
00:43:53Alexander, my stomach hurts so much.
00:43:55Is something wrong with the baby?
00:43:57Alexander panicked instantly.
00:43:59He scooped Lily up and rushed upstairs.
00:44:02Julian, we'll talk about later.
00:44:04Nothing is more important than Lily and the baby.
00:44:05Julian watched Alexander's retreating figure.
00:44:08He opened his mouth, but swallowed the words on the tip of his tongue.
00:44:12An hour later, Alexander came downstairs, covered in sweat.
00:44:18Julian, what did you want to say just now?
00:44:20Julian took a deep breath.
00:44:22He repeated what he had said earlier.
00:44:25Eleanor really left.
00:44:27And I heard a new virus has broken out over there.
00:44:30Many doctors have been infected.
00:44:34Julian, why are you going crazy along with her?
00:44:37Aren't we's brothers?
00:44:38If Elanone actually had that kind of dents, she wouldn't have called me crying then just
00:44:42because she was afraid of the dark.
00:44:46Julian raised his right hand.
00:44:48He pointed at the ceiling to swear an oath.
00:44:51Alexander, I'm not lying to you.
00:44:53You know me.
00:44:54I never joke about things like this.
00:44:57Hurry up and contact people over there to search for her.
00:44:59Or it really will be too late.
00:45:01The smile on Alexander's face finally faded.
00:45:03It was replaced by a panic he'd never felt before.
00:45:07He grabbed his car keys.
00:45:09He rushed into the wind and snow.
00:45:13He drove straight to our mansion.
00:45:15Arriving at the gate, he ignored the butler.
00:45:18He shouted,
00:45:19Eleanor!
00:45:20Get out here!
00:45:21Stop playing games!
00:45:22As long as you come out, I can let you go back to work at the Sterling Hospital!
00:45:26I can give you the best resources!
00:45:28My father looked down from the balcony.
00:45:30His voice was as cold as ice.
00:45:33You're too late.
00:45:35She reached the Middle East days ago.
00:45:37The news just broke.
00:45:39Her camp was hit by an airstruck.
00:45:41Alexander's whole body shuddered.
00:45:42His legs went weak.
00:45:47Alexander earmeally knelt on the ground.
00:45:49Without another word, he prepared to rush to the airport.
00:45:54Just as he got into the car, Lily ran out in thin pajamas.
00:45:58Alexander, you can't go!
00:46:01Lily, move!
00:46:02I have to go and confirm it!
00:46:04Julian also arrived, looking at the scene with a complicated expression.
00:46:08After a long while, he spoke slowly.
00:46:11Alexander, if you really want to go, I'll go with you.
00:46:14But as for Lily, she's pregnant.
00:46:16She can't handle the stress.
00:46:18Alexander looked at Lily.
00:46:21She was weeping like a pear blossom in rain.
00:46:24Then he checked the news notification on his phone.
00:46:26Medical camp in Country R, Middle East attacked.
00:46:30Casualties unknown.
00:46:31He gritted his teeth.
00:46:32He threw a plane ticket to Julian.
00:46:34You go!
00:46:34No matter how, what it costs, you must bring her back to me.
00:46:37And ask her, why on earth did she leave so firmly?
00:46:39If she's doing this out of spite, I'll apologize to her personally.
00:46:43Alice, we grew together.
00:46:44I can't just watch her die.
00:46:49Alexander carried Lily back inside.
00:46:52Julian took the ticket and flew overnight to that war-torn nation.
00:46:55Lily had told him that he absolutely could not let Alexander go.
00:46:58Only if Julian left.
00:46:59When could the matter be handled properly?
00:47:00As for how to handle it, that was a secret between them.
00:47:03After more than 20 hours of travel,
00:47:05Julian finally arrived at the temporary camp on the border of Country R dot sky-filling.
00:47:10Yellow sand and the pungent smell of disinfectant greeted him.
00:47:14Two mercenaries in camouflage blocked his way.
00:47:18Who are you looking for?
00:47:20I'm looking for Dr. Eleanor Vance.
00:47:22The mercenaries exchanged a glance.
00:47:25A meaningful smile spread across their faces.
00:47:28So you're looking for that female doctor from Asia?
00:47:32Our boss is spending some quality time with her right now.
00:47:37Julian's heart skipped a beat.
00:47:39He asked anxiously.
00:47:41Where is she?
00:47:43One of the mercenaries pointed to a tent in the distance.
00:47:48Over there.
00:47:52Honestly, I doubt she'll walk out of that tent in one piece.
00:47:59Julian burst into the tent like a madman.
00:48:03Julian ripped the curtain aside, but he froze in his tracks at the scene before him.
00:48:08I was still in my white doctor's coat.
00:48:10My hands were steady as I worked on a man covered in blood.
00:48:15I didn't even look up.
00:48:16The man had piercing eyes, as sharp as a hawk's.
00:48:19The kind of eyes that looked like they had seen a thousand battles.
00:48:21But right now, he was looking at me with a strange gentleness.
00:48:26Eleanor.
00:48:28Let the nurses handle the small stuff.
00:48:31I don't want you to overwork yourself.
00:48:33Julian stared.
00:48:34His mouth hung open.
00:48:36He knew exactly who this man was.
00:48:38Carl Anderson, the general known as the Desert Eagle in this part of North Africa.
00:48:44He was the man who really ran everything.
00:48:46I didn't even blink.
00:48:47My hands remained rock steady as I continued closing the gash in his side.
00:48:51My voice was low, professional, and utterly calm.
00:48:56Carl, as long as you're on my table, you're the patient and I'm the doctor.
00:49:00Stop moving.
00:49:01Carl let out a low, rough chuckle.
00:49:03There was a dangerous glint of amusement in his eyes as he finally stayed still.
00:49:11They told me Eleanor Vance was just another rich girl with a silver spoon in her mouth.
00:49:15I didn't expect your hands to be this steady with a scalpel.
00:49:19You actually had the balls to storm my compound alone just to save one life.
00:49:23You've definitely proven me wrong, doctor.
00:49:26As he spoke, he looked up.
00:49:27The moment he saw Julian, who had just kicked the door open and stood there panting,
00:49:31Carl's eyes turned cold and lethal.
00:49:33As sharp as the edge of a blade.
00:49:36This uninvited guest is even more annoying than the desert sandstorms.
00:49:39Not a shred of manners.
00:49:41My hands never paused.
00:49:43Are you still here?
00:49:46Do you want to end up as a nameless corpse in this godforsaken place too?
00:49:50This isn't Kingston.
00:49:52Your power and influence mean nothing here.
00:49:55Here, I turned to Carl.
00:49:56Here, the only things that matter are the scalpel in my hand and Carl's word.
00:50:00Julian stared at me in utter disbelief, as if he had seen a ghost.
00:50:03Eleanor, how could you, how could you associate with a cold-blooded killer like him?
00:50:09I smiled faintly.
00:50:11I tossed the bloody gauze into the tray.
00:50:16Julian, you know the answer perfectly well.
00:50:18Why ask me?
00:50:21Fighting back the nausea rising within me, I refused to look at him.
00:50:25Go back.
00:50:26Tell Alexander that I, Eleanor, will never return in this lifetime.
00:50:31Carl's murderous gaze locked onto Julian, forcing him to take a frightened half-step back.
00:50:37Before leaving, Julian left one last remark.
00:50:42Eleanor, seeing that you're doing well, I'm relieved.
00:50:46If you ever regret this, call me anytime.
00:50:49Alexander and I will come to get you.
00:50:52I merely chuckled at his words.
00:50:54Go back and tell Alexander that whatever bond we geared over the last decade ends today.
00:50:58We are finished.
00:50:59From now on, in life, my soul belongs to this land.
00:51:02In death, I shall be buried beneath these deserts.
00:51:04Julian stood frozen for a long moment.
00:51:06The desert wind whipped sand against his face.
00:51:09He opened his mouth as if to say something else.
00:51:11But no words came out.
00:51:13He turned and walked away.
00:51:17Let's go inside.
00:51:18It's getting cold.
00:51:22I leaned into his warmth.
00:51:24From that day on, I stopped being the ruined girl from Kingston.
00:51:28Between my steady surgical hands and a raw grit they'd never seen in a woman, I did the impossible.
00:51:34I earned the respect of Carl and his men.
00:51:37Back home, people whispered about the ruthless general as if he were a monster from a nightmare.
00:51:42But up close, he wasn't the demon they made him out to be.
00:51:46He was a man of his word, fiercely loyal to those under his protection.
00:51:50I realized his cruelty wasn't born of malice.
00:51:53It was just his armor in this living hell where only the strongest survived.
00:51:57I had thought coming here would be a death sentence.
00:52:01But unexpectedly, this life of brushing shoulders with death every day gave me a newfound sense of purpose.
00:52:08Six months passed.
00:52:09An international medical organization was holding a charity gala in Kingston.
00:52:13They invited our team as special guests.
00:52:18Thinking it was a good opportunity to visit my father and settle the Vance family assets,
00:52:24Carl canceled his other engagements to accompany me back.
00:52:28We returned to Kingston in early summer.
00:52:31The city was filled with drifting willow catkins, warm breeze, golden sunlight.
00:52:36Everything looked the same, and yet nothing was the same at all.
00:52:40The girl who had left this city broken and humiliated was gone.
00:52:44In her place stood a woman who had survived war zones,
00:52:47who had held beating hearts in her hands,
00:52:50and learned that the only person she could count on was herself.
00:52:54Before the gala began,
00:52:56I went to the hotel's open-air garden alone for some fresh air,
00:53:00and I ran into a heavily pregnant woman, Lily.
00:53:03She stared at me for a long moment, as if struggling to recognize me,
00:53:08then she let out a sneer.
00:53:10Well, well, isn't this Eleanor?
00:53:12I didn't expect you to be so tough.
00:53:14You actually made it back alive?
00:53:16I ignored her and turned to leave,
00:53:18but she rushed forward to block my path.
00:53:20Her eyes brimmed with triumph.
00:53:23I won.
00:53:24Are you still not convinced?
00:53:26Hearing her words, I only found it amusing.
00:53:29Why would I care about two pieces of trash
00:53:31that never belonged to me in the first place?
00:53:37Lily stroked her protruding belly,
00:53:39her lips curved into an eerie smile.
00:53:44Guess whose child is in here?
00:53:47My gaze faltered slightly,
00:53:50looked past her at two figures slowly approaching from the garden path,
00:53:54Alexander and Julian, having not seen them for six months.
00:53:58They seemed much more haggard.
00:54:01They had lost weight.
00:54:03Their eyes held an exhaustion they couldn't hide.
00:54:07The moment Alexander's gaze landed on me,
00:54:10he stopped dead in his tracks.
00:54:12His face went pale.
00:54:14Beside him, Julian's hand flew to his mouth.
00:54:18Eleanor?
00:54:18I didn't answer.
00:54:19I didn't even acknowledge them.
00:54:21I simply watched Lily Preen,
00:54:23utterly oblivious to the devastation spreading across both men's faces.
00:54:27She had no idea that her little victory,
00:54:30speech was about to blow up in her face.
00:54:33I'm talking to you!
00:54:35Stop acting so high and mighty!
00:54:37Guess whose seed this child really is!
00:54:43I caught her wrist in mid-air.
00:54:49I smiled coldly.
00:54:51I don't know.
00:54:53Isn't it Alexander's?
00:54:55She tilted her head back arrogantly,
00:54:57her voice shrill.
00:54:59Of course it's not his, Miz!
00:55:02I was already pregnant before I even met him!
00:55:07Then is it Julian's?
00:55:12To tell you the truth,
00:55:15even I don't know which client this child belongs to.
00:55:19You're two good brothers.
00:55:20One treats me like a chevel and raises a bastard for me,
00:55:24while the other thinks the child is has and obeys my every command.
00:55:28It's hilarious.
00:55:29Tell me, wouldn't I your wind surround completely?
00:55:32I smirked.
00:55:34I looked at the pale-faced Alexander and Julian behind her.
00:55:40Did you both hear that?
00:55:41Lily rolled her eyes dismissively.
00:55:44Who are you trying to scare?
00:55:46It's not like Stanheim me is...
00:55:51She glanced back casually,
00:55:53but upon seeing two faces grimmer than death,
00:55:55she was so terrified she collapsed onto the ground.
00:55:58She clutched her belly and screamed.
00:56:00Why are you both here?
00:56:02Did Eleanor call you here?
00:56:04Those words weren't true.
00:56:05Eleanor forced me to say them.
00:56:08Lily scrambled frantically toward Alexander.
00:56:14Alexander, the child is yours!
00:56:17My stomach hurts so much!
00:56:19Please save our child!
00:56:21Alexander's face was dark as thunder.
00:56:23He looked as if he might collapse.
00:56:25Lily, Lily, you wretch!
00:56:27You've been lying to me for so long,
00:56:29but when I took you to the hospital for the checkup,
00:56:31the doctor clearly said it was my child.
00:56:34Were those test reports all fake?
00:56:35I let out a cold laugh.
00:56:38How hard is it to forge a report?
00:56:40How easy is it to bribe a doctor?
00:56:43Don't you understand these kinds of tricks?
00:56:45Julian rushed forward from the side.
00:56:47He slapped Lily viciously across the face twice.
00:56:49Those two slaps are for Eleanor,
00:56:51and these two are to help you wake up
00:56:53and realize who the real fool is!
00:56:55Stop hitting me! Stop hitting me!
00:56:57I admit everything!
00:56:58Please just save me and the child first!
00:57:00The doctor said if I lose this pregnancy, I'll die!
00:57:03I know you both love me.
00:57:04You wouldn't have the heart to let me die, would you?
00:57:07Soon as the baby's born,
00:57:07I can take a parenting test!
00:57:09I beg you!
00:57:10Alexander pulled a self-defense dagger from his inner pocket.
00:57:13He walked toward Lily with hollow eyes.
00:57:17You and this bastard both deserve to die.
00:57:22I watched the circus unfold before me.
00:57:25My heart was as cold as stone.
00:57:27Not a single spark of pity remained.
00:57:30Alexander's eyes were beeloded,
00:57:31his face wet with useless tears.
00:57:34Eleanor, I failed you.
00:57:36I was blind.
00:57:37Please, can we just start over?
00:57:40Even if we're just friends?
00:57:42No.
00:57:44We're nothing.
00:57:45The word hung in the air between us like a death sentence.
00:57:49Alexander staggered back as if I had struck him.
00:57:52His hand reached toward me.
00:57:54Then it dropped to his side.
00:57:56He understood.
00:57:57There was no coming back from this.
00:57:59Not ever.
00:58:01Julian dropped to his knees with a heavy thud.
00:58:03He sobbed like a child.
00:58:05Eleanor, if you hate Alexander, fine.
00:58:07But please forgive me.
00:58:08I never wanted to hurt you.
00:58:10I just...
00:58:10You just what?
00:58:11Let me save you from that, General?
00:58:12I'll give you a life of luxury?
00:58:14You shouldn't be in this war-torn hell.
00:58:16I arched an eyebrow.
00:58:17Forgive me?
00:58:18You've got to be kidding me.
00:58:20You stood by and watched while Lily made me the city's punch tone.
00:58:24You were his partner in crime the day my life was ruined.
00:58:32Besides, I've already fallen for Carl.
00:58:35I'm spending the rest of my life with him.
00:58:37Impossible!
00:58:38How could you love a beast like him?
00:58:40He kills without a second thought.
00:58:42He isn't even half the man I am.
00:58:44Tell me the truth.
00:58:45Is he holding you hostage?
00:58:47Just say the word and I'll spend every cent I have to rescue you.
00:58:50Even if it bankrupts the Sterling Empire.
00:58:52I calmly smoothed the hem of my gown.
00:58:54I looked at them both like they were insects.
00:58:57You're overthinking it, Alexander.
00:58:59The Middle East is dangerous, sure.
00:59:01But I've never felt more free.
00:59:03Do you want to know why?
00:59:04The two exchanged glances.
00:59:06They shook their heads in turn.
00:59:09Because he truly understands me,
00:59:11cherishes me,
00:59:13and treats me like the only treasure in the world.
00:59:18He saves the best of everything for me immediately.
00:59:21Even if it's just a piece of candy.
00:59:24He'd cross half a desert just to bring it to me.
00:59:27Just like how you used to treat me when we were children.
00:59:31If you're willing, we can go back to how things were.
00:59:33We can be even better than before.
00:59:35Before their words could settle,
00:59:37Carl strode over.
00:59:38He was dressed in an immaculate suit,
00:59:40walking with purpose.
00:59:42Eleanor, the banquet is about to start.
00:59:45Why aren't you inside yet?
00:59:46What is there to talk about with such boring people?
00:59:49I'm coming right now.
00:59:55We can never go back.
00:59:56We can never go back, not ever.
00:59:59With that, I linked my arm tighter through Carl's
01:00:02and walked away without looking back,
01:00:04leaving them with nothing but my firm silhouette
01:00:06fading into the golden afternoon light.
01:00:09I didn't glance back once.
01:00:13Not even when I heard Alexander's voice crack behind me.
01:00:17They were strangers to me now.
01:00:19Complete strangers.
01:00:20Not long after, news came from Kingston.
01:00:24Alexander and Julia had both committed suicide.
01:00:27It was said that the day after,
01:00:28Lily died from a massive hemorrhage following a miscarriage.
01:00:32They knelt outside the gates of our mansion for an entire night.
01:00:36Eventually, they were found dead in the freezing cold,
01:00:39still kneeling.
01:00:41They were tightly clutching the birthday gifts
01:00:43I had given them when we were children
01:00:45to engraved silver lockets bearing their names.
01:00:48Eleanor, I'm sorry.
01:00:49If there is a next life, I promise to cherish you with my life.
01:00:52The paper trembled slightly between my fingers.
01:00:55I'd already called my father.
01:00:57He was safe.
01:00:59He told me not to come back.
01:01:01Not for them.
01:01:02Not for anyone.
01:01:03Not from grief.
01:01:05From something I couldn't name.
01:01:08Carl's hand covered mine.
01:01:10Steading it.
01:01:11He didn't speak.
01:01:12He didn't need to.
01:01:14That night, I sat alone in Carl's tent
01:01:17and read the full report for the second time.
01:01:20The desert wind howled outside,
01:01:22carrying sand that stung like tiny needles against the canvas.
01:01:27Carl sat across from me,
01:01:29watching my face.
01:01:33Carl didn't ask how I felt.
01:01:35He didn't offer platitudes or empty condolences.
01:01:38He simply reached,
01:01:40across the table and took my hand.
01:01:43His palm was rough,
01:01:45calloused from years of handling weapons,
01:01:47but warm,
01:01:48steady,
01:01:49real.
01:01:50Do you regret it?
01:01:53I thought about his question.
01:01:55I thought about the girl I used to be,
01:01:57the one who cried over scratched knees,
01:01:59who believed every promise,
01:02:01who thought love was enough.
01:02:03I thought about the woman lying in that alley,
01:02:06broken and bleeding,
01:02:07while the two men she trusted most
01:02:09were planning their futures with someone else.
01:02:11I thought about the surgeon
01:02:13who'd learned to hold a scalpel steadier than a sword,
01:02:16who'd walked through fire to save lives,
01:02:18who'd found that the only person worth trusting
01:02:21was the one who'd never lied to her.
01:02:24No,
01:02:25I'd regret a single choice I made.
01:02:29Carl lifted my hand to his lips
01:02:31and kissed my knuckles,
01:02:32one by one.
01:02:35Good,
01:02:36because neither do I.
01:02:37Outside,
01:02:38the desert stretched endless in every direction.
01:02:41Brutal,
01:02:42beautiful,
01:02:43and ours.
01:02:44We'll see you next time.
01:02:46We'll see you next time.
01:02:46We'll see you next time.
01:02:46We'll see you next time.
01:02:46We'll see you next time.
01:02:47We'll see you next time.
01:02:47We'll see you next time.
01:02:47We'll see you next time.
01:02:47We'll see you next time.
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