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The Day I Quit Loving You - Betrayal, Regret & Romance - Drama Series ENGSUB
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Short filmTranscript
00:00My ex-husband asked me to remarry him. I said yes. Not because I loved him, but because my
00:05daughter needed stability. I stopped fighting for his attention. I stopped competing with the woman
00:11he always prioritized. I stopped caring, and that was when he fell apart. Honey. Honey, why aren't
00:18you angry? Kara, why don't you cling to me like you used to? I looked at him calmly, because the
00:23answer was simple. We had simply stopped loving him. After completing the remarriage procedures,
00:28Kara and I followed Rodney O'Connor home. Rodney came up behind us as we stood at the
00:34door. Why aren't you going in? The passcode has been changed. I kept my voice calm. Just
00:41then, the door opened from inside. Wearing an apron, Lindsay Mons said in a playful, complaining
00:49tone. Rod, why are you back so late? Polly's been asking for you.
00:58Miss Wright? I nodded politely. She hurriedly explained. Miss Wright, please don't misunderstand.
01:06Rod has been swamped with work lately, so I just came over to make some soup for him. I
01:13kept forgetting the passcode, so he changed it to my birthday. I'll change it back right
01:19away. Despite her words, she didn't move. The glint of triumph in her eyes was unmistakable.
01:27Daddy! A small figure threw herself at Rodney's leg. Lindsay hastily covered her mouth, looking
01:33terrified of me. Polly, what did I say? Call him Rodney. Rodney looked at Kara and me, seeming
01:42embarrassed. But we didn't make a scene as we used to. A flicker of surprise crossed his
01:47face. Kara's room was now filled with unfamiliar items. Lindsay bit her lip gently.
01:58Polly sometimes stays the night here. I could feel Kara's hand, which I was holding, clenched
02:03tightly.
02:08Mommy, I can stay in a different room.
02:11Her voice was soft. I had remained numb through it all, but now, as she said this, a sudden,
02:18dull ache spread through my heart. In the past, when Kara saw Rodney taking care of Polly, she'd
02:24always pout and cry her eyes out, shouting. Daddy is mine! Only mine! Daddy is mine! Only
02:34mine!
02:35Every time, Rodney would scold me for failing to teach her properly. But now, seeing her room
02:40so changed, she just stared at it calmly. Children were sensitive. She might be young, but she
02:46already knew, only those who were loved and favored had the right to act spoiled.
02:52Rodney frowned. Lindsay quickly said. I'll pack up Polly's things. Mrs. Wright, Kara, please
03:01don't be upset with us. Lindsay and Polly huddled together, trembling slightly, looking
03:05pitiful. In the past, her suggestive words always set me off, leading to arguments with
03:11Rodney. But today, I just looked at them without a word or change in expression. Just then, Rodney
03:19turned to Lindsay. It's probably best if you don't come and go so freely here anymore.
03:27You're a single mother, and you can't afford gossip.
03:30After packing her things, Polly said in a teary voice.
03:34Daddy, walk us out.
03:37Hesitating, Rodney looked at me. I smiled.
03:43You and Ms. Mann go way back. It's only right that you see them off. He opened his mouth
03:48to say something, but I had already turned to fill the kettle.
03:51Let's talk when I get back. He left hastily. Only after they left did Kara and I finally
03:56relax completely. Soon, a new message appeared on my phone. It was from Lindsay.
04:04I'm sorry, Ms. Wright. Polly is used to watching cartoons with Rod. He'll be home later.
04:10I'm sorry again. All right.
04:13A humorless smile formed on my lips.
04:17Rodney didn't return until the next day. I was reading Kara a story before her nap when
04:23he pushed the door open and entered. I didn't question why he was back so late.
04:34If I acted jealous and made a scene like before, he'd be displeased with me, and Kara would
04:39be dragged into the mess. After Kara fell asleep, Rodney handed me a box. It was the black diamond
04:45necklace I once wanted but lost to another bidder. If this were before, I would have probably
04:51thrown myself into his arms, overjoyed. But now, I felt nothing but calm. I used to adore jewelry.
04:58But after I moved to the shantytown with Kara, one day, a thief yanked the necklace from around my neck.
05:08I fell down the stairs and hit my head hard enough to open a gash. Blood trickled down.
05:13From that day on, I realized jewelry was fancy but useless. It could even be fatal sometimes.
05:19His expression shifted subtly, his tone inscrutable.
05:25Let me put it on for you.
05:26I smiled, avoiding his hands.
05:28Thank you. But I'm no longer into jewelry.
05:32He froze slightly. I went to the kitchen to cut fruit. When I returned, he had already left.
05:39And I didn't care. That was new. In the afternoon, I took Kara out.
05:48Money had been tight these past few years, and Kara often wore hand-me-downs from the landlord's daughter.
05:56Finally, I could afford to buy her properly-fitting clothes.
06:08As we entered a children's clothing store, we saw Lindsay and Polly, and Rodney, who was with them.
06:22Mr. O'Connell! Mrs. O'Connell! This just arrived yesterday!
06:26A clerk introduced eagerly.
06:28It would look perfect on Polly. She's such an absolute darling.
06:33I want it!
06:36With a smile, Rodney paid for it with his card.
06:44Another clerk came up to me.
06:46Ma'am, how may I help you?
06:49I'd like to buy something...
06:51mine my daughter can wear now.
06:53Hearing my voice, the three looked over.
06:56Taking Kara's hand, I walked further inside as if I didn't see them.
07:09When we walked out of the fitting room, Lindsay and Polly were gone.
07:13Rodney looked at me, his expression complicated.
07:23It's Polly's birthday today. I bought her a dress as a gift.
07:27All right.
07:29Please pass along my birthday wishes to her.
07:35Then I turned to the puzzled clerk.
07:37We'll take both sets.
07:41As I went to pay, Rodney grabbed my wrist.
07:44I quickly pulled it away.
07:50The clerk's gaze shifted between us.
07:55Ma'am, you and Mr. O'Connell are...
07:58I smiled.
07:59We're acquaintances.
08:01A clattering sound came from behind.
08:04Mr. O'Connor, you dropped your phone.
08:07A clerk reminded Rodney.
08:09I turned to see him staring at me intently.
08:13What are you talking about?
08:15I looked puzzled.
08:18Aren't you gonna be with them?
08:20It's Polly's birthday.
08:22He just glared at me, not saying a word, his chest heaving.
08:25Though I still didn't understand his anger, I didn't dare provoke him.
08:29Taking Kara's hand, I walked out.
08:31I could feel his eyes on my back.
08:36Outside the store, Rodney grabbed my wrist again.
08:43You just let them misunderstand our relationship?
08:46Aren't you gonna clarify?
08:47His voice was deep.
08:49You care about Lindsay's reputation more than anything, don't you?
08:54I smiled.
08:55My words left him speechless.
08:57He fell silent for a long moment before finally asking, his voice low.
09:02Why are you so different now?
09:04I used to bicker with him over things like this.
09:08And he'd snap impatiently every time.
09:12Don't be unreasonable.
09:13Life isn't easy for Lynn as it is.
09:16A single mother with a young daughter.
09:17Having the title Mrs. O'Connor at least means she won't be picked on.
09:23Now, I felt nothing.
09:25What was the point of fighting with Lindsay over these things?
09:28I just wanted to raise Kara well and let her have the carefree, comfortable life she deserved.
09:34This is how you've always wanted me to be, isn't it?
09:40With a livid face, Rodney turned and left angrily.
09:43But I didn't care.
09:44I took Kara to eat, drink, and buy many things.
09:48I no longer had to sweat for a living.
09:51It almost felt like I was back in the days before the divorce.
09:54But the scars of those years never really faded.
09:57They were just waiting to be remembered.
10:02It hadn't always been this cold between us.
10:04I remembered how it started.
10:06After marrying Rodney, I became a full-time homemaker.
10:10Everyone envied me.
10:11Rodney, a daughter from a wealthy family who had married a self-made man with a bright future.
10:15I believed my fairytale life would go on forever.
10:20That illusion was shattered when Lindsay got divorced.
10:24The first time Rodney missed Valentine's Day, he claimed he had to work overtime.
10:39But the moment he came home, Lindsay showed up at our door holding his tie.
10:54Confused, I looked at him.
10:59He merely pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.
11:03Lynn was working late, too.
11:05She just returned it on her way home.
11:07Though questions swirled in my mind, his exhausted expression made me swallow them.
11:11I had lived a sheltered life, while he had worked so hard.
11:17Perhaps I was being unfair.
11:19He didn't deserve my suspicion.
11:21But deep down, the doubt had already taken root.
11:28I reminded myself that trust was the bedrock of marriage, and jealousy was a poison.
11:37But such coincidences began piling up, and I kept making excuses for every single one.
11:44On our wedding anniversary, Rodney left me sitting alone at the restaurant because Lindsay's landlord was giving her a hard
11:51time.
11:55Kara and I got stranded at the early learning center during a sudden downpour, while Rodney drove Lindsay and Polly
12:01home.
12:10I stood in the rain with my daughter, watching their car pass by.
12:14When Kara came down with influenza A, spiking a fever and seizing, I couldn't reach Rodney.
12:21I rushed her to the hospital alone, only to find him directing a team of specialists, to examine a minor
12:27scratch on Polly's hand.
12:30Every time, Lindsay would text me, reporting his whereabouts.
12:35I'm sorry, Ms. Wright.
12:37Rod insisted I shouldn't stay here and arranged for Polly and me to move to his apartment.
12:48I'm sorry, Ms. Wright.
12:50I felt dizzy.
12:51It was all my fault.
12:52After dropping us off, Rod will come to pick you up.
12:59I'm sorry, Mrs. Wright.
13:02Rod was so worried about Polly.
13:05Please don't blame him, alright?
13:07I'll talk to him.
13:09I couldn't hold back anymore.
13:10The dam of patience I'd built was finally breaking.
13:16Time and again, I confronted Rodney, questioning,
13:20Who are your real wife and daughter?
13:23At first, Rodney was patient enough to explain.
13:29Lynn and I go way back.
13:31Of course I should help when I can.
13:33But gradually, his patience were thin.
13:36You come from money.
13:37You have no idea how ordinary people struggle.
13:40Is a little empathy too much to ask?
13:43Lynn is raising Polly all by herself.
13:45That's hard enough.
13:46Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:49Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:54Can't you handle things yourself?
13:56I'm swamped at work.
13:59I can't drop everything for you and Kara every single time.
14:03If you can't teach Kara properly, get someone who can.
14:06She's bullying Polly already.
14:10At her age, what does that say about her future?
14:17Kara and I stopped waiting for him with hopeful hearts.
14:21Because every time he came home, it ended in a fight.
14:27And every fight left scars.
14:30Kara grew quieter and quieter.
14:37She stopped asking when daddy was coming home.
14:41Even her kindergarten teacher asked me if everything was alright at home.
14:48What finally made me decide on divorce was the day of Rodney's company's annual gala.
14:53Rodney told me he had to work overtime.
14:55At the time, I was often exhausted and drowsy.
14:58So the dinner slipped my mind.
15:00Until I stumbled upon a local tweet.
15:02The CEO of Phoenix Tech and his wife are absolute couple goals.
15:06Are we sure they're not straight out of a TV drama?
15:09The attached photo showed Rodney and Lindsay, standing side by side.
15:14I called him at least five or six times, but he didn't answer.
15:17On the seventh try, it finally connected, only for Lindsay's voice to come through.
15:26Mrs. Wright?
15:27Mrs. Wright?
15:29Rod is tied up at the moment.
15:31If it's important, you can relay it through me.
15:33I demanded to speak to Rodney directly.
15:35But she only gave a light, knowing laugh.
15:38Her voice dripping with syrup.
15:41Mrs. Wright?
15:42I'm Rod's personal secretary.
15:44He keeps no secrets from me.
15:48You know, so many people today have said,
15:51I'd make a far better Mrs. O'Connor.
15:54Trembling from head to toe,
15:55I slammed the phone down and rushed out the door in my slippers.
15:58Straight to the annual gala venue.
16:05When I arrived, I saw Lindsay's arms wrapped around Rodney's waist as she leaned into him.
16:10I yanked them apart and glared at him.
16:14So this is your overtime?
16:17Hugging and cuddling with your secretary?
16:19Lindsay hurried over to pull me aside.
16:25Mrs. Wright, I had a bit too much to drink.
16:31Please don't misunderstand.
16:33I shoved her hands away and shot a furious glance at her.
16:36Don't touch me, you shameless homewrecker!
16:39I hadn't pushed her hard, but she let out a delicate cry and crumpled to the floor.
16:44Beneath Wright!
16:46Have you lost your mind?
16:48Rodney shoved me aside roughly before crouching to help Lindsay up.
16:51His eyes filled with concern as he checked her for possible injuries.
16:56My lower back slammed into the sharp corner of a table.
16:59A bolt of pain shot through me, bringing instant tears to my eyes.
17:04Eyes reddening, Lindsay stifled her tears.
17:06Her performance was flawless.
17:08And Rodney, as always, was her perfect audience.
17:13It's all my fault.
17:15Please don't fight because of me.
17:19Rodney immediately comforted her.
17:23This has nothing to do with you.
17:25Bernice just being paranoid again.
17:27When Rodney turned back to me, his voice had turned to ice.
17:30How many times do I have to tell you?
17:33Bernice.
17:35Before Lynn's mother passed, she entrusted Lynn to my care.
17:41Do you have any idea how difficult her life has been?
17:47It's you to Lynn's?
17:48Raising Polly alone?
17:50You're a woman too!
17:51How can you be so vicious?
17:53Calling her a homewrecker?
17:55How dare you!
17:56His gaze as it fell upon me was cold, laced with disgust.
17:59My patience has its limits.
18:01Don't push me.
18:03Don't make me regret the day I married you.
18:05My ears were ringing.
18:06I stared at Rodney in utter disbelief.
18:09He was my husband.
18:10How could he take another woman's side?
18:12Lindsay kept flaunting their closeness, rubbing my face in it.
18:16Did he truly not know?
18:17The urge to expose her true colors on that call rose in my throat.
18:21But all the words stuck there.
18:23After a long moment, I simply said,
18:27Let's get a divorce.
18:29The moment I said that, I felt a profound relief.
18:32I couldn't even be bothered to care about the gloating look on Lindsay's face.
18:37After a stunned pause, Rodney let out a derisive scoff.
18:46A divorce?
18:48Bernice, seriously?
18:49That's your masterstroke?
18:51Stop it.
18:52Don't you have anything better to do than getting jealous and competing for attention?
18:58With that, he helped Lindsay to her feet and led her away.
19:03That night, I sat in the living room until dawn.
19:08Only when Kara burst into tears did I realize there was blood all over my legs.
19:12The second baby had quietly arrived, and it had slipped away just as quietly.
19:17A week later, Rodney and I finalized the divorce.
19:20I was granted full custody of Kara.
19:24Soon after, my father's company ran into serious trouble.
19:30Several key projects were maliciously poached,
19:32and within half a year, he was forced to file for bankruptcy.
19:36He suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized.
19:39Despite several attempts to save him, he passed away.
19:42I used what was left of the assets to pay the employees their final wages.
19:46From a sheltered, wealthy heiress,
19:48I became a single mother struggling to make ends meet in a shantytown.
19:52Kara suffered alongside me.
19:57Countless nights, I woke up crying from dreams,
20:01filled with regret for dragging her into this mess.
20:03This time, I wouldn't get jealous.
20:06I wouldn't compete for attention.
20:09I just wanted a decent life for myself and Kara.
20:12For that, I could overlook Lynn.
20:14I'd even turn a blind eye if Rodney had 10, 20 other women.
20:17That was why, when Rodney asked me to remarry, I said yes.
20:21Without hesitation.
20:27After leaving that day, Rodney never came home.
20:30Three days later, Kara started at her new kindergarten,
20:33and I began setting up my online store.
20:35Back when I was selling on the streets,
20:37I'd made pet clothes and accessories by hand and built up a loyal following.
20:41Many customers had encouraged me to open a proper shop.
20:45But at the time, I was working day shifts as a waitress and could only sell at night.
20:50Besides, I couldn't produce enough inventory.
20:54Now, with a bit of capital saved, I could finally launch it.
21:01I hadn't worked during my marriage to Rodney,
21:03but my family had kept a room for me as a sewing space.
21:08It now became my studio.
21:10I bought some basic equipment to live stream my crafting process.
21:14I was eating when Rodney came back.
21:17He walked into the kitchen and looked around.
21:21You didn't make a portion for me?
21:22I didn't think you were coming back.
21:25He fell silent for a moment.
21:26I quickly stood up.
21:30I'll make something now.
21:32It won't take long.
21:33It felt like playing house.
21:34Going through the motions of a marriage that no longer existed.
21:41While washing vegetables, it suddenly hit me, in the past.
21:45I used to cook and wait for Rodney every night.
21:50Whether he came home or not.
21:54I kept up the habit even when Rodney didn't show.
21:58Usually ending up throwing the food away.
22:03But today, I'd genuinely forgotten.
22:05I sighed.
22:06This couldn't happen again.
22:08We ate in silence.
22:09Rodney was the one who broke the silence.
22:12One of the projects ran into issues, so I've been staying at the office these days.
22:16I nodded.
22:18You must be tired.
22:20I'll run a bath for you.
22:26He looked at me for a long moment, then wiped his face, his voice somewhat weary.
22:33You didn't reach out to me once, these past few days.
22:40I used to be unable to resist sharing every little thing with him.
22:44Afraid of disturbing his work, I never called, just texted.
22:48I sent him dozens of messages a day, even though he rarely replied.
22:52But I wasn't that foolish woman anymore, the one whose world revolved only around him.
22:57I didn't want to bother you, I explained.
23:00Rodney kept his eyes on me, his tone layered with something I couldn't decipher.
23:04Bother me?
23:05What did you think I was doing?
23:07I smiled.
23:09Whatever you were doing, I hated to interrupt.
23:11This time, he said nothing.
23:13The silence stretched again.
23:15In that silence, something was breaking.
23:18And I wasn't the one breaking it.
23:22I cleared the table and went to the kitchen.
23:24Rodney followed.
23:34What's with all the delivery boxes in the living room?
23:42What did you buy?
23:43After a brief hesitation, I answered truthfully.
23:48I opened an online store.
23:51They're just materials.
23:52He nodded, not saying anything.
23:54A few minutes later, my phone buzzed with a notification.
23:57He had transferred a large sum to my account.
24:03Rodney's hand, reaching for the fruit plate, stilled.
24:06You're my wife.
24:07My money is yours.
24:09No need to thank me.
24:11I smiled but said nothing.
24:13Just then, his phone rang.
24:15My eyes inadvertently caught the name on the screen.
24:18Lindsay.
24:19He glanced at me and answered right there.
24:21But I wasn't interested.
24:29I tactfully slipped out to the balcony to gather the dried laundry.
24:33Lynn needs...
24:33Lynn, you go...
24:34I handed him his coat.
24:37Go.
24:38He glanced at me deeply.
24:40I'll be back soon.
24:41Not long after Rodney left, Kara's kindergarten teacher called.
24:51Mrs. O'Connor.
24:53Kara fell off the slide.
24:58As I rushed to the hospital, the teacher explained along the way.
25:03Kara had a disagreement with another child.
25:06Just as she finished, we reached the examination room door.
25:10The other child's parents were being led over as well.
25:14It was Lindsay and Rodney.
25:18Rodney's expression changed.
25:21Kara was hurt?
25:23I ignored him and walked straight into the emergency room.
25:34Kara had a fractured arm and a mild concussion.
25:41Kara's little face was pale as she curled listlessly against me.
25:47The kindergarten director showed us the footage from the incident.
25:51Kara had gone onto the slide first.
25:53Seeing Polly behind her, she had politely offered to let Polly go ahead.
25:57Polly turned around, said something, and Kara stood back.
25:59But then Polly suddenly lurched forward, shoving into Kara's back.
26:03Kara lost her balance and tumbled from the top of the slide.
26:06Furious, I shot a cold glare at Polly.
26:11She shrank behind Lindsay and whimpered in a sobbing voice.
26:15Mommy.
26:18Both Lindsay and Polly had their shoulders hunched.
26:21Eyes red.
26:22They looked almost like the victims.
26:32I'm so sorry, Miss Wright.
26:35I'll cover all of Kara's medical bills.
26:40Tears welled up in Lindsay's eyes as she glanced pleadingly at Rodney.
26:49And I'll make sure Polly learns her lesson.
26:53Please don't blame her.
26:58I'm sure she didn't mean to.
27:06Kara, who had been quiet the whole time, suddenly spoke up.
27:09Polly said Daddy didn't want me anymore and that he would kick Mommy and me out soon.
27:21Lindsay's expression changed drastically as she quickly pulled Polly close, stopping Polly from saying anything else.
27:29Kara, you mustn't make up stories like that.
27:33Lying is wrong.
27:34After a pause, she added meaningfully.
27:38Did someone tell you to say that?
27:43You used to.
27:45My slap cut her off.
27:46I lowered my hand.
27:48My goddess.
27:51That's to remind you to watch your mouth.
27:55Lindsay covered her cheek, tears now glistening in her eyes, making her look even more pitiful.
28:07Mrs. Wright, I understand how you feel about me.
28:10But Polly has never done anything to you.
28:13Rod has watched her grow up.
28:16He knows her better than anyone.
28:18I let out a cold laugh and turned away, disgust twisting in my gut at her act.
28:27Kara seemed to want to say more, but after glancing at Rodney, she bit her lip and stayed quiet.
28:33Her teacher gently coaxed.
28:37Kara, is there anything else you want to tell us?
28:40She shook her head and buried her face in my chest, her voice muffled.
28:44Only Mommy believes me.
28:46It's always been like that.
28:48My heart ached so fiercely, my hands trembled.
28:52Rodney frowned.
28:55Kara?
28:56I looked at him coldly, unable to hold back my anger any longer.
29:02My daughter is hurt.
29:04You may not feel anything, but I do.
29:06It breaks my heart.
29:08Stunned, Rodney stepped closer to take my wrist.
29:11That's not what I meant.
29:14Instinctively, I stepped back, holding Kara tighter.
29:17His voice died abruptly as he stared at me, disbelief etched across his face.
29:25You don't trust me?
29:30No.
29:31I didn't.
29:33Between Polly and Kara, he had always favored Polly.
29:38Just as he had always favored Lindsay over me.
29:44Polly said she liked Kara's birthday gift, so he gave it to her even as Kara cried her eyes out.
29:51Polly cut up her own dress and claimed that Kara wouldn't let her wear it.
29:57So he threw away all of Kara's favorite dresses.
30:03Polly fell down the stairs and blamed Kara for pushing her, so he locked Kara in her room without even
30:08asking for the truth.
30:10The list went on.
30:11There were too many instances to count.
30:17Truthfully, there was another reason I had asked for a divorce.
30:21I didn't want Kara to suffer anymore.
30:23I didn't want Kara to suffer anymore.
30:25It wasn't fair to her, Dot, with that thought.
30:28I turned my face away.
30:34I don't want my daughter to stay in the same kindergarten as that child.
30:39Either she leaves, or we do.
30:43Lindsay immediately pulled Polly into a deep bow.
30:46Her voice choked with tears.
30:47Every word out of her mouth felt calculated.
30:50Every tear seemed like a weapon.
30:51Mrs. Wright, I'm so sorry.
30:55I know you don't like Polly and me.
31:01But Polly has groans to this kindergarten.
31:03She loves it here.
31:05She turned to Rodney, her eyes leading.
31:07I promise I'll discipline her.
31:09She'll never bother Kara again.
31:12Please, don't make us leave.
31:15Rodney looked away, making no move to help her up as he usually would.
31:19For once, he wasn't rushing to her rescue.
31:21Lindsay's eyes widened.
31:23This time, her panic seemed real.
31:25She clutched at the hem of his shirt.
31:28Rod.
31:29I was so fed up with the farce.
31:31The years of patience.
31:32The swallowing of pride.
31:34It all shattered in that instant.
31:37Enough, Lindsay.
31:38I'm tired of your lame act.
31:40Just admit it.
31:42You want Rodney, don't you?
31:45Fine, you can have him.
31:47I don't care anymore.
31:49I looked at Rodney.
31:50I want a divorce.
31:52And this time, I meant it.
31:54His face went pale.
31:58Rodney roughly shook off Lindsay's hand and walked over to me, his voice urgent.
32:03Bernie, I'll fix this.
32:04I know you're speaking out of anger.
32:06You don't mean it.
32:07Rodney reached out to stroke Kara's hair.
32:09Kara, I will make it up to you.
32:11But Kara turned her face away, avoiding his touch.
32:14His hand froze in midter.
32:16I spoke calmly.
32:17Rodney, I mean every word.
32:20I remarried you because I wanted to give Kara a stable life.
32:24But now, I glanced toward Lindsay and Polly.
32:29It seems our lives can't be peaceful with you in the picture.
32:33Lindsay put on a remorseful expression.
32:35It's all Polly's fault.
32:38And mine.
32:40Please, just don't fight because of us.
32:42Despite her words, the gloat in her eyes was unmistakable.
32:45Suddenly, Rodney barked.
32:46Shut up!
32:47He had never spoken to her in that tone before.
32:50Her eyes widened in shock.
32:52Rod.
32:53But he didn't look at her again.
32:54His chest rose and fell heavily as he stared silently at me.
32:58The kindergarten director tried to mediate, suggesting we return to the kindergarten to discuss the matter further.
33:03I shook my head.
33:06My decision is made.
33:08Kara and Polly, only one stays at that kindergarten.
33:14The rest is up to you.
33:16After returning home to pack a bag for Kara's hospital stay, I contacted a lawyer.
33:21This time, I wouldn't walk away empty-handed like a fool again.
33:25Soon, Rodney came back to the hospital too.
33:32I found what's airy then was Constitu.
33:37I've transferred Polly to another kindergarten.
33:40Kara won't see her again.
33:42My tone remained even.
33:45I see.
33:46And does that heal Kara's arm?
33:51He fell silent for a moment before saying,
33:59I'm Kara's father.
34:04It hurts me to see her hurt too.
34:07I know you're upset.
34:08But that doesn't mean you can say whatever comes to mind in the heat of the moment.
34:12I cut him off, my calm finally cracking.
34:14Rodney, this isn't heat of the moment.
34:16I could live with you keeping Lindsley and her daughter.
34:22But I will never tolerate them hurting Kara under the shelter of your favoritism.
34:27Looking agitated, Rodney insisted.
34:30I haven't favored them.
34:32You and Kara are my family.
34:35Why would I-
34:36A cold laugh escaped me.
34:41Oh, really?
34:43A wave of weariness washed over me, and I closed my eyes briefly.
34:49Rodney, do you remember why we divorced the first time?
34:52He fell silent.
34:54After a long pause, he answered with difficulty, his voice rough.
35:00Yes.
35:03Before I could speak, he continued urgently.
35:07But I only agreed to that divorce.
35:10Because I was angry you didn't trust me.
35:13Later, when your family fell on hard times.
35:20I waited for you to come back to me.
35:22I smiled sarcastically.
35:26So you knew exactly how hard things were for Kara and me.
35:31Yet he had chosen to sit back and do nothing, just to force me to surrender.
35:36Rodney shifted his gaze uneasily.
35:38I came to you.
35:40I looked straight at him, each word deliberate.
35:43I came to you when Kara had appendicitis.
35:45But your company's security guards threw me out.
35:49I had been truly desperate then.
35:51After paying rent, I only had $50 left.
35:55After rushing Kara to the hospital, I realized my bag had been slashed open.
35:59The money was gone.
36:01That day, I waited outside the Phoenix Tech building for over an hour,
36:05only to be dragged away by security.
36:09They'd said with contempt.
36:10Mr. O'Connor said he never wants to see you again in this lifetime.
36:18Rodney was visibly shaken.
36:21He blurted out, his hands trembling.
36:25That's impossible.
36:26I would never say something like that.
36:28I lowered my gaze.
36:29It doesn't matter now.
36:31I used to think that if Kara and I were just understanding enough,
36:34we could have a stable life with you.
36:43But I was wrong.
36:47Rodney, you're not fit to be my husband or Kara's father.
36:50This remarriage was a mistake.
36:54From the very beginning,
36:55Rodney stood frozen, staring at me intently.
36:58His lips parted, but for a long time, no sound came out.
37:02Rodney turned to leave.
37:10Pausing at the door, his back still to me.
37:20I didn't feel anxious.
37:21I knew.
37:23He just couldn't accept me leaving him again.
37:26It was only a matter of time before he agreed.
37:28The next day, Rodney returned to the hospital.
37:38I accepted them naturally and shared them with Kara.
37:42She chatted with me the whole time, not once looking Rodney's way.
37:49The hurt in his eyes was unmistakable.
37:52After we finished, Rodney cleared the table and washed some fruit.
37:56While Kara watched cartoons,
37:58I worked quietly on a handmade accessory nearby.
38:01Rodney sat for a while before leaning toward Kara.
38:06What are you watching, Kara?
38:07She lifted her clear eyes to look at him,
38:09then silently looked back down.
38:11He couldn't keep the smile on his face any longer
38:14and left soon after, making up some excuse.
38:18He was trying, in his own clumsy way.
38:20But trying wasn't enough.
38:22Not anymore.
38:30Another evening, just before visiting hours ended,
38:34Rodney rushed into the hospital.
38:35I happened to step out to fetch water
38:37when Rodney pulled me into a tight embrace.
38:40I struggled but couldn't break free.
38:43His voice trembled with remorse.
38:46I found one of the security guards.
38:48He admitted Lindsay told them to kick you out.
38:52Bernie, I'm sorry.
38:53I didn't know she'd do something like that.
38:56I'm letting her go!
38:58I pushed him away expressionlessly.
39:00That was the least he should have done.
39:02Back then, a kind doctor had paid Kara's surgery deposit in advance.
39:07Otherwise, she wouldn't have gotten the appendectomy in time.
39:10Yet Rodney, her own father, had sat high and untouchable,
39:14waiting for us to crawl back to him.
39:21I walked back into the room and handed him the divorce papers.
39:27Kara stays with me.
39:31Look over the rest if acceptable, sign it.
39:37Rodney's hand went slack and the papers fluttered to the floor.
39:40He gripped my shoulders, pleading.
39:46Bernie, I swear...
39:49I'll cut Lindsay out completely.
39:51Let's start over.
39:52We can still build a good life together.
39:54Alright?
39:56I met his gaze evenly.
40:02Rodney.
40:03If you'd been like this three years ago, we wouldn't be here now.
40:13If you won't sign, fine.
40:15I'll take it to court.
40:19Phoenix Tech is about to go public, isn't it?
40:22He stumbled back a few steps.
40:24Regret written across his face.
40:28But I didn't care anymore.
40:30I turned and went back inside.
40:35Rodney still didn't sign, so I emailed him the electronic version.
40:39Over the next few days, Rodney came to the hospital every day as if nothing had happened,
40:44checking on Kara and staying a while.
40:46After Kara was discharged, we moved to a new apartment.
40:49I didn't want the villa we'd shared before, it felt tainted now.
40:53Rodney's mother, Jeanette O'Connor, showed up at our door just as Kara and I were bathing the puppy we'd
40:58just adopted.
41:06Bernie, you and Rod have been through so much over the years.
41:10Now that you're back together, don't make waves.
41:15Kara's still little.
41:16Could you really let her grow up without a father?
41:20Seeing my calm expression, Jeanette seemed displeased.
41:24You young people make everything so dramatic.
41:27Lynn and Rod grew up together, so what if he looks out for her?
41:32If there were really anything between them they'd have married years ago, you wouldn't have even been in the picture.
41:39Realizing she'd gone too far, she cleared her throat softly.
41:43Anyway, just think about Kara before you decide.
41:47Besides, what decent man wants a divorced woman with a child?
41:54I listened with detached calm, neither arguing nor agreeing.
41:58So pretentious.
42:00Her voice was barely audible as she walked away.
42:02I texted Rodney afterward.
42:04Don't send anyone else to change my mind.
42:06It won't work.
42:07I want to divorce Rodney.
42:11He never replied.
42:13A few nights later, the doorbell rang unexpectedly.
42:16Rodney's assistant stood outside, panting slightly.
42:21Mrs. O'Connor.
42:22Mr. O'Connor is drunk.
42:23Could you open the door?
42:27I instinctively wanted to refuse.
42:30But at the sight of Kara's upturned face, I sighed.
42:33I didn't want to see Rodney, but the truth remained.
42:36He was Kara's father.
42:37Rodney's assistant left soon after putting him on the bed.
42:40I tossed a wet towel onto his face.
42:54Stop the act.
42:56I know how well you hold your liquor.
43:02After a moment of silence, he sat up and looked at me, his eyes rimmed red.
43:10If I hadn't pretended to be drunk, you wouldn't have let me in.
43:14I looked at him without a word.
43:15He ran a hand slowly through his hair, his voice suddenly rough with emotion.
43:20Bernie, I'm so sorry.
43:24I truly didn't know Lindsay would go against you like that.
43:29She used Phoenix Tech's name to contact several business partners and targeted your father all behind my back.
43:37Then she kept undermining your job hunt.
43:40I stood up, shocked.
43:42Everything made sense now.
43:44No wonder I'd been fired from every job for no real reason, even with a degree from a top university.
43:49Later, no company would even call me for an interview.
43:52In the end, I'd had to make a living selling my crafts on the street.
43:58Rodney looked at me, eyes bloodshot, his face etched with remorse.
44:02I'm sorry.
44:04You never came to me and I was so angry.
44:08I just stopped paying attention.
44:10Rodney stepped closer, his lowered gaze full of sorrow.
44:13Will you never forgive me?
44:16Suddenly, fragments of memory washed over me.
44:19The Rodney who was at a loss when I first told him how I felt about him.
44:24The Rodney who skipped class to take me to the hospital after I sprained my ankle in gym.
44:29The Rodney who was so thrilled to learn I was pregnant that he drove the wrong way home.
44:33And the Rodney who looked at me with disgust and said he regretted marrying me.
44:39After the first divorce, I'd been too busy surviving to dwell on emotions.
44:44But now, I finally understood, I had completely let go.
44:47So, I shook my head.
44:49I don't hate you.
44:53So forgiveness doesn't even come into it.
44:55Rodney's eyes clouded instantly with moisture.
44:57Ashamed, he turned away to hide it.
45:00From now on, the only relationship we have is as Kara's co-parents.
45:04Then I returned to the bedroom.
45:06I didn't know how much time had passed before I heard the main door close softly.
45:10When I came out, the signed divorce papers lay on the coffee table.
45:13He had revised the terms.
45:15He gave me more assets.
45:17Now I was wealthier than he was.
45:21My lawyer had all the materials ready and filed a suit against Lindsay.
45:25Demanding she returned the marital assets she'd received from Rodney.
45:29On the day of the hearing, Lindsay appeared, stripped of all luxury.
45:33The radiant aura she once had was gone.
45:36Dropping her delicate, harmless facade, she glared at me with naked hatred.
45:40With solid proof, transfer records and purchase receipts.
45:44The amount she was ordered to return exceeded $350,000.
45:48While I had struggled to put food on the table, Rodney had been lavishing a fortune on his friend.
45:53I felt a gaze fixed on me.
45:55But I pretended not to notice.
45:57Once the judgment was announced, I walked straight out.
46:00Lindsay charged after me, shouting furiously.
46:03Bernita, don't think you've won!
46:05I stopped and turned with a derisive scoff.
46:09Everything you fought so desperately for is something I no longer want.
46:14You?
46:16You're nothing but a trash collector.
46:22Furious, she stomped her foot and lunged to slap me.
46:25No longer caring about her image, only to be yanked back and shoved away by a strong hand.
46:30After a cold glance at her, Rodney walked toward me.
46:32Behind him, she shrieked miserably.
46:34Rodney, I've waited for you all these years!
46:40How could you do this to me?
46:43You promised my mom you'd take care of me forever!
46:47Have you forgotten?
46:53Rodney's expression darkened.
46:55He hurriedly explained to me.
47:00I smiled indifferently and turned to leave.
47:04Now that we were divorcing, I didn't give a damn what had or hadn't happened between them.
47:09My heart was closed, and no explanation could open it.
47:16Rodney sued Lindsay for leaking company secrets and embezzling funds.
47:20The evidence was solid.
47:22Lindsay was sentenced to three years in prison.
47:24Three years.
47:25It would never undo what she'd done.
47:27A month later, Rodney and I finalized our divorce.
47:31I had dressed up and had my hair done.
47:33When I walked out with the divorce certificate in hand, I felt lighter than ever.
47:38Even the air felt clearer, for the first time in years.
47:41I could breathe.
47:42Ernie, I...
47:43Rodney's voice came from behind me.
47:46Could we have one last meal together?
47:49I turned these days.
47:50Rodney had looked worn down.
47:52He looked like a man who'd lost everything, because he had.
47:55His hair was untidy, bangs falling across his eyes.
47:59Dark circles shadowed his cheeks.
48:01His beard was unshaven, and his face seemed thinner.
48:04The second divorce seemed to have hit him hard.
48:07Good.
48:07It was about time he felt something.
48:09I smiled.
48:11I'll pass.
48:12I have things to do.
48:14With that, I drove away.
48:16I didn't look back.
48:17Not even once, it was over.
48:20Back when I was at the hospital, a nurse had bought a few pet clothes from me.
48:26The nurse posted photos of her cat wearing them online, and they unexpectedly went viral.
48:32Orders for my online shop flooded in within days.
48:35The apartment was overrun by my work materials.
48:38After looking around, I rented a studio.
48:40The renovation was nearly done, and we were airing it out.
48:44Standing before the tidy work tables and neatly organized materials.
48:47I couldn't help recording a short clip and posting it on my social account.
48:51Every piece I made carried a story.
48:53My story.
48:53Not anyone else's.
48:54For the first time, I was building something that couldn't be taken away.
48:57I used to anchor my entire life to Rodney.
49:00Looking back now, I realized how foolish I had been.
49:02I should have shed the label of full-time homemaker long ago and found my own worth.
49:06This studio marked the beginning of a new chapter.
49:09Right after I posted, the video received a like from an account named Ro.
49:17R.O. Rodney O'Connor.
49:19Still watching, still too late.
49:22Children's bones healed quickly.
49:24Kara recovered well and, after a final checkup, was cleared to return to school.
49:28One day, I went to pick her up.
49:30The moment we returned to the car, we saw a boy sitting in the back seat.
49:36Lewis! What are you doing in my mommy's car?
49:39I almost laughed at the indignation in her voice.
49:43Lewis Blanchard covered her mouth.
49:51Shhh!
49:52If my uncle hears you, I'm dead!
49:55Just then, a deep voice sounded outside.
49:57Lewis. Out.
49:59I turned to see a tall, sharp-featured man standing beside the car.
50:03Lewis kicked and protested, but the man lifted him out effortlessly.
50:07After apologizing to me, he carried Lewis away by the collar.
50:13Lewis is the class bully from D2.
50:17Mrs. Bryant told us to stay away from him.
50:20She scrunched up her little brow.
50:28Mommy, what's a rich, eligible bachelor?
50:34At nap time, Ms. Bryant said Lewis' uncle is a rich, eligible bachelor.
50:41I chuckled, gently pinching her cheek.
50:44Caught you. You weren't napping, were you?
50:47Life was slowly piecing itself back together, over the next six months.
50:51My studio gained momentum.
50:55I partnered with a factory to add batch-produced lines alongside my handmade items.
51:00I wanted to build my own brand step-by-step.
51:02This brand was mine, every stitch.
51:05Every design, every late night.
51:07Not as someone's wife.
51:09Not as someone's mother.
51:10Just me.
51:11One day, while at the factory to tweak a design detail, I saw the director seeing someone out.
51:17It was Lewis' uncle.
51:18We'd only met once, so I simply nodded and turned to leave.
51:22But he called out to me.
51:27Carlton Gilbert.
51:28He introduced himself.
51:30Executive director at Starlight Group.
51:32He had seen my studio's samples at the factory and was very interested.
51:36Starlight Group was preparing year-end gifts.
51:38Small in quantity, but with high design standards.
51:41He hadn't yet found a design that clicked.
51:43Of course.
51:44I wouldn't miss a business opportunity.
51:46Not after everything I'd fought for.
51:48We exchanged contacts.
51:50Something about his directness was refreshing.
51:53No games.
51:54No hidden agendas.
51:56Just business.
51:57I had no idea that my past was already waiting for me at the studio.
52:02As soon as I returned to the studio, my newly hired assistant,
52:06Neil Hull, told me someone was waiting.
52:09It felt like a long time since I'd last seen Rodney.
52:12I hadn't wanted to.
52:14He looked even more haggard than on the day of the divorce.
52:18His suit hung loosely.
52:19His eyes lit up when he saw me, the joy on his face undisguised.
52:25That joy cut deeper than any accusation.
52:28Because I couldn't return it.
52:30Not anymore.
52:31He had set up a trust fund for Kara.
52:39I don't think I'll get to see her grow up.
52:42Stunned, I looked up at him.
52:44His eyes were rimmed red.
52:50Maybe this is karma.
52:52Last month, I was diagnosed with liver cancer.
52:56Late stage.
52:58I opened my mouth but didn't know what to say.
53:00What do you say to someone who's dying?
53:03Someone you used to love?
53:04Silence filled the room.
53:06The light in Rodney's eyes slowly faded and he smiled self-mockingly.
53:09Before leaving, he suddenly pulled me into his embrace.
53:12I felt the heat of tears against my neck.
53:14I'm sorry.
53:16His voice was choked.
53:17I stood frozen, my hands at my sides.
53:21Rodney died for months later.
53:23He had notarized his will in advance,
53:25dividing his company shares among me, Kara and Jeanette.
53:31At least your ex-husband did one decent thing before he died.
53:34Carlton swapped his neatly cut steak for mine.
53:40It's been a while since the divorce.
53:43Aren't you thinking of letting someone new into the picture?
53:45I met his gaze.
53:46Mr. Gilbert, is that someone you?
53:58I won't argue if that's what you think.
54:00We clinked glasses and smiled at each other.
54:02The seasons changed.
54:04My studio grew from a small workshop into a brand that people recognized.
54:08Kara started first grade, top of her class, with a smile that could light up any room.
54:13She still didn't talk much about Rodney.
54:16But sometimes, I'd catch her sitting quietly, looking at old photos, her small fingers tracing
54:21his face.
54:23Carlton was there, steady, undemanding, sure, never pushing, always present.
54:27For the first time in years, I wasn't looking back.
54:30I was just, here, and that was enough.
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