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Presidents! Stop fighting for me - All Episodes Combined Short Film HD
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00:00:03Ethan Harlow
00:00:04I'd secretly bought a wedding dress
00:00:06Worked up every ounce of courage to propose to him
00:00:09But as luck would have it
00:00:10I was a few minutes late to the party that night
00:00:12I walked in just as he was talking with his friends
00:00:15I stood by the door
00:00:16Listening to the voices inside
00:00:18Quinn
00:00:19He lit a cigarette, grinned lazily
00:00:21Yeah, I'm over it
00:00:23Seven years, man
00:00:24Wouldn't you be?
00:00:26The others laughed along
00:00:27Fair point
00:00:28Seven years, even a guy
00:00:29The goddess gets old
00:00:30Though Quinn's genuinely stunning
00:00:33That body, too
00:00:34Remember Ethan's birthday last year?
00:00:36She wore that red dress
00:00:37And every guy in the room couldn't look away
00:00:40Seriously, Ethan
00:00:41You used to be so crazy about her
00:00:43You really done?
00:00:44Ethan's voice was flat
00:00:45When do I ever say things I don't mean?
00:00:48So
00:00:49You wouldn't mind if I went after Quinn?
00:00:51He blew out a smoke ring
00:00:52Barely interested
00:00:53Go for it
00:00:54As long as you're both fine with it
00:00:56Dude, have some self-respect
00:00:58You really want Ethan's leftovers?
00:01:00More laughter
00:01:01I didn't go into that room that night
00:01:02I texted him some excuse about a headache and went home
00:01:05Ethan didn't ask a single question
00:01:07Just hung up
00:01:08Whatever was left of my will to stay
00:01:09It died that night
00:01:31He wanted to be so fast
00:01:31So
00:01:31He was טובed
00:01:33I didn't go into that room
00:01:39What did he say?
00:01:41It's still there?
00:01:53He said
00:01:53He said
00:01:53.
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00:02:59.
00:03:19Two days later, everyone in their circle was talking.
00:03:22Ethan was chasing some sophomore,
00:03:23performing arts school, young, soft, naive.
00:03:27He always pursued others in a grand fashion,
00:03:29just like he did with me back then,
00:03:31showering them with flowers, fancy cars, and jewelry.
00:03:34The girl couldn't resist his advances at all.
00:03:36They soon got together.
00:03:37At a friend's dinner, Ethan walked right in with her on his arm.
00:03:40The room went quiet the moment he stepped through the door.
00:03:43A few of my closer girlfriends shot me worried looks.
00:03:45I smiled.
00:03:46Why'd everyone go quiet?
00:03:47What are you all staring at?
00:03:49Ethan settled the girl into a seat and finally looked at me.
00:03:51Quinn.
00:03:53Perfect timing.
00:03:54Let's just say it plainly.
00:03:55Sure.
00:03:56Go ahead.
00:03:57Mia's young.
00:03:58She's genuine.
00:03:59I actually like her.
00:04:00I don't want to do her wrong.
00:04:01I gripped my hands together.
00:04:02The ring on my finger pressed into the flesh.
00:04:04Deep and sharp.
00:04:05But I couldn't feel a thing.
00:04:07He stroked the girl's hair.
00:04:08She deserves love real.
00:04:09I nodded lightly.
00:04:10I understand.
00:04:11We can still be friends.
00:04:13Anything you need, just say the word.
00:04:15That's okay.
00:04:16I smiled.
00:04:17Stood up.
00:04:17If it's over, let's make it clean.
00:04:19No point confusing anyone.
00:04:20Ethan raised an eyebrow.
00:04:22Slightly surprised.
00:04:23Fair enough.
00:04:24You all enjoy the dinner.
00:04:25I'll head out.
00:04:27Want the driver to take you?
00:04:28No.
00:04:28I'll grab a ride.
00:04:29I walked out and pulled the door shut behind me.
00:04:31Through the gap, I heard someone ask.
00:04:33How long do you give her this time?
00:04:35Two days.
00:04:37She seemed actually upset this time.
00:04:40I'll say a week.
00:04:41Ethan laughed cold.
00:04:42Three days.
00:04:43She'll be crying back to me before then.
00:04:46Every single time.
00:04:48Getting tired of watching it.
00:04:49Yeah, because Quinn's obsessed with you.
00:04:51Everyone knows how far gone she is.
00:04:54I smiled bitterly to myself.
00:04:55Clutched my bag tighter.
00:04:57And walked fast toward the elevator.
00:05:13But for now.
00:05:34As I can say.
00:05:35But if I was out.
00:05:35And I saw a bus.
00:05:35I saw one next morning.
00:05:35What happened with him?
00:05:42That's a big time.
00:05:43.
00:06:30Back at the apartment, I went to the back of the closet and lifted down the dress.
00:06:34I'd waited half a year for it.
00:06:36A custom order.
00:06:37No returns.
00:06:38Such a shame.
00:06:39I'd never get to wear it.
00:06:41I found a pair of scissors and cut it apart.
00:06:43It had no business being here anyway.
00:06:45Before I left, I took off the ring and set it on the coffee table.
00:06:48I didn't take much.
00:06:49My personal things.
00:06:51Everything else I left behind.
00:06:52I thought about it, then wrote him a note.
00:06:54The apartment and everything in it.
00:06:56Do whatever you want with it.
00:06:57Don't ask me.
00:06:58I booked the earliest flight to Miami.
00:07:00My best friend had moved there earlier that year.
00:07:02She dragged me out for shopping and afternoon coffee.
00:07:04That evening, there was a small get-together.
00:07:06Old classmates.
00:07:07Old friends.
00:07:08Midway through the drinks, the door swung open.
00:07:10A few of the girls immediately lit up.
00:07:12Lucas?
00:07:13Since when do you show up to things like this?
00:07:15Seriously.
00:07:15What brings you out tonight?
00:07:18Had a meeting next door.
00:07:19Heard there was a reunion.
00:07:21Figured I'd drop by.
00:07:22Lucas said this, never taking his eyes off me.
00:07:24My best friend pinched my arm.
00:07:26Quinn.
00:07:27He came for you.
00:07:28I looked at him through slightly unfocused eyes.
00:07:31Taller than Ethan by an inch or two.
00:07:32Black overcoat.
00:07:33Dark suit underneath.
00:07:35Sharp features.
00:07:36A great build.
00:07:37Legs that went on forever.
00:07:38I squinted at him for a moment, then shook my head.
00:07:41No way.
00:07:42We haven't talked in years.
00:07:44She wasn't listening.
00:07:45She called out to him directly.
00:07:46Lucas, could you do me a favor and drive Quinn home later?
00:07:50We've all been drinking, and I don't trust her in a taxi.
00:07:52I looked up at Lucas, startled.
00:07:54His eyes traveled across the room and settled on my face.
00:07:57Then I saw him nod.
00:08:00Sure.
00:08:00My best friend sat back down, leaned close to my ear.
00:08:03Quinn, after seven years with one man, it's time to move on and embrace a new life.
00:08:08Even Ethan has done it.
00:08:10Why can't you start a second chapter of your own?
00:08:13Besides, a man like Lucas?
00:08:15If you don't take your shot, it's practically a crime.
00:08:18What makes you think he'd even want to?
00:08:20Babe, the way he looked at you?
00:08:22Trust me, I've been through 18 of them.
00:08:24I know what I'm talking about.
00:08:45Lucas drove me back to the hotel.
00:08:47When we pulled up downstairs, I un-clipped my seatbelt.
00:08:51Thanks for the ride.
00:08:52Lucas glanced over at me.
00:08:53Don't mention it.
00:08:54I pushed the door open.
00:08:55Before I could think, I'd already spoken.
00:08:57Want to come up for a drink?
00:08:58He helped me walk toward the hotel.
00:09:00Lucas kissed me in the elevator.
00:09:02I was already tipsy, and he was demanding.
00:09:04Relentless.
00:09:05I nearly blacked out just from the kiss.
00:09:07There's a camera.
00:09:08I gasped, cheeks burning, legs so weak I had to hold onto his waist just to stay upright.
00:09:14Lucas glanced at the lens, turned me, shifted the angle, and kissed me again.
00:09:18When the door swiped open, he stopped and looked at me.
00:09:20Quinn, if you regret this, I'll still back off.
00:09:23Regret what?
00:09:24I tilted my face up at him, fingers looping around his tie, pulling him closer.
00:09:28You kissed my lips halfway to swollen?
00:09:30A little late to talk about backing off.
00:09:33Lucas laughed then.
00:09:34He reached out and brushed his thumb across my lower lip.
00:09:37And don't go blaming me later.
00:09:39Our first night together, Lucas didn't even make it to the bedroom.
00:09:42He pinned me against the wall, and it was rough enough to hurt a little.
00:09:45I bit down on his shoulder in protest.
00:09:47Lucas, what is wrong with you?
00:09:49Ever heard of being gentle?
00:09:50His warm hands pressed against my back.
00:09:52Then he was breathing against my neck.
00:09:54Quinn, I'm not sure I can hold back.
00:09:56Nick.
00:09:57Thanks.
00:09:58Nick.
00:10:00Nick.
00:10:00Nick.
00:10:01Nick.
00:10:15Nick.
00:10:24Rick.ổiсть.
00:10:25.
00:10:55.
00:10:57Five minutes later, I understood what he'd meant.
00:11:00He carried me to the bedroom.
00:11:02I buried my face in the pillow, laughing.
00:11:04Lucas, how long has it been for you?
00:11:07He gave me a look.
00:11:08A while. Work's been everything lately.
00:11:11I stared at him, the laughter fading.
00:11:13A moment later, tears came out of nowhere.
00:11:15I'm sorry. I shouldn't have...
00:11:18Quinn, don't.
00:11:20He fumbled to wipe my face, but the tears wouldn't stop.
00:11:23I shouldn't have dragged you into this.
00:11:24But you already did.
00:11:26He leaned down, cupped my face in his hands, steady, almost serious.
00:11:30Quinn, since you started this, you don't get to stop halfway.
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00:14:23Serena of House Stavos, you are kind.
00:15:16Serena of House Stavos, you are kind.
00:15:30Serena of House Stavos, you are kind.
00:15:42Serena of House Stavos, you are kind.
00:15:45Nobody contacts her, not for anything!
00:15:48Okay, okay, we won't.
00:15:49Calm down.
00:15:50You just got out of the hospital two days ago.
00:15:53Your stomach.
00:15:54She was around and your stomach never acted up.
00:15:57She leaves for five days and you do this to yourself.
00:15:59With every word from his friends, Ethan's expression went darker.
00:16:02Eventually, he grabbed his jacket and walked out, slammed the door.
00:16:05He hit the street.
00:16:06Cold air rushed in.
00:16:07The anger still burned in his chest.
00:16:09Seven days.
00:16:10No calls.
00:16:11No texts.
00:16:12Not even one.
00:16:13He pulled out his phone, blocked her number.
00:16:22Lucas called just as I typed the last line and hit send.
00:16:25I've been writing columns for magazines since college.
00:16:28It turned out to be enough to make a living.
00:16:30Freelance life.
00:16:31Laptop, good wifi, and I could work from anywhere.
00:16:34So when it ended, I had no reason to stay in the city and hurt.
00:16:39Quinn, what do you want for dinner?
00:16:40His voice came through clearly.
00:16:42After an afternoon of work, something in me settled.
00:16:44I'm exhausted. You pick.
00:16:47How about steak?
00:16:49I know a place with a really good steak. You'll love it.
00:16:51I always like my steak rare.
00:16:53But Ethan used to say watching me eat it turned his stomach, so I stopped.
00:16:56Though I vaguely remembered Lucas preferring lighter food.
00:16:59Lucas, you don't have to do this for me.
00:17:01I'm not picky anymore.
00:17:02I actually want it too.
00:17:04Remember in college? There was that little joint near campus.
00:17:07The steak were amazing.
00:17:08Hearing him say that made me hungry for it too.
00:17:10That place was genuinely good.
00:17:12I ate there for four years and never got tired of it.
00:17:15Okay. Steak then.
00:17:17I'll come get you now.
00:17:18Sure.
00:17:21Lucas took me to a place that had been in Miami for years.
00:17:24Old and a little cramped, but always packed.
00:17:27And Lucas, in his tailored suit, sitting in that grimy booth,
00:17:30was a completely ridiculous visual.
00:17:31I watched him carefully wipe down my chair with a napkin.
00:17:35For someone like him, these small domestic gestures came surprisingly naturally.
00:17:39Lucas, your ex did a great job with you.
00:17:42I couldn't help saying it.
00:17:43In the beginning, when Ethan was still chasing me, I felt it.
00:17:47Being cared for.
00:17:48Being someone's priority.
00:17:49Then we moved in together the year after graduation.
00:17:52A little over a year.
00:17:53And I became the household.
00:17:55Managing his diet, his rest, his schedule.
00:17:58Like a wife before the wedding.
00:17:59But I understand now what I didn't then.
00:18:01I lost myself loving him.
00:18:03Forgot that you have to love yourself first.
00:18:05No wonder the love wore out.
00:18:07Lucas glanced up from tending the pot.
00:18:09Where'd you hear I had an ex?
00:18:17I paused.
00:18:18The girl who was always around you in college?
00:18:19Weren't you two childhood friends?
00:18:21You mean Sophie?
00:18:22He laughed once.
00:18:23We grew up together, yeah.
00:18:25But we never dated.
00:18:26I never felt that way about her.
00:18:28She was more like a little sister.
00:18:30So you haven't been with anyone all these years?
00:18:31Went on a few setups.
00:18:33It wasn't right, so...
00:18:35It ended.
00:18:36And after that, I looked down, thinking about that first night.
00:18:40Suddenly, it made complete sense.
00:18:42Quinn, I'll do better next time.
00:18:44His comment came out of nowhere.
00:18:45I blinked.
00:18:46Better at what?
00:18:47He turned his face away, cleared his throat quietly.
00:18:49His ears were deeply flushed.
00:18:51You'll see later.
00:18:52He kept his word.
00:18:53After dinner, back at the hotel.
00:18:55Once he'd carried me out of the bathroom and onto the bed,
00:18:57I finally understood what he'd meant.
00:18:59By then, I was completely undone.
00:19:01Lucas.
00:19:02I tried to glare at him, but my eyes were misted over,
00:19:04which only made me look more helpless.
00:19:06His name in my mouth came out soft,
00:19:08nowhere near as angry as I wanted.
00:19:10Lucas bowed his head and kissed me softly.
00:19:12Quinn, is this okay?
00:19:13I shook my head, refused to answer.
00:19:15He didn't push, just kept kissing me,
00:19:17over and over, patient and unhurried.
00:19:20I couldn't hold out.
00:19:21Tears were leaking from the corners of my eyes.
00:19:23Lucas.
00:19:23My nails pressed into his lower back,
00:19:25and there was a sound in my voice I couldn't quite control.
00:19:28Quinn, tell me now.
00:19:30Is this okay?
00:19:31Lucas' own eyes had gone red,
00:19:33arms taut, sweat falling in drops.
00:19:35I gave in, voice small and wrecked.
00:19:37Yes.
00:19:38Yes, it is.
00:19:39As my last thought drifted away,
00:19:41Lucas put his lips to my ear and whispered very low,
00:19:43Quinn, if this is good,
00:19:46then promise you'll never leave me, okay?
00:20:02It sudden, it's good,
00:20:30then convulsed away with me.
00:20:30Let me get to good information initially.
00:20:30Thanks.
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00:25:09.
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00:25:19The night of Ryan's birthday, the gift I'd sent from Miami made it to his party. Ethan sat on the
00:25:23couch, smoking, the bottle in front of him mostly empty. The gift had been chosen by Lucas and me together,
00:25:28a vintage pair of cufflinks from a high-end label Ryan loved. These are beautiful.
00:25:32Ryan laughed a little stiffly, reading Ethan's expression,
00:25:34and quickly had his girlfriend put them away.
00:25:36Let me see.
00:25:37Ethan spoke without warning.
00:25:39Ryan froze, but handed the box over without a word.
00:25:41Ethan stared at the pair of cufflinks.
00:25:43The brand's logo was discreet, almost invisible,
00:25:45but Ethan stared at it for a long moment.
00:25:47Put them away.
00:25:48He closed the box and pushed it aside.
00:25:50Ryan exhaled with relief and reached for it.
00:25:52Ethan snatched the empty bottle from the table
00:25:54and smashed it against the coffee table.
00:25:56Glass scattered.
00:25:56A long gash opened across the back of his hand.
00:25:59The room erupted.
00:26:00What happened?
00:26:01Why did you...
00:26:01That's a bad cut.
00:26:02It won't stop bleeding.
00:26:04Hospital...
00:26:04Ethan stood there, emotionless, face dark, still as stone.
00:26:07Quinn never bought anything from that label.
00:26:09His voice was low and frayed.
00:26:11Ryan smiled quickly.
00:26:12So what?
00:26:12Quinn probably just picked something at random.
00:26:14Not like your birthday.
00:26:16She'd been planning your gift for six months.
00:26:19Exactly.
00:26:19You know what she means to you.
00:26:21None of us combined are worth a tenth of what she feels for you.
00:26:23Ethan laughed sharply.
00:26:25Feels for me.
00:26:26The noise in the room bled away, one degree at a time.
00:26:29Ethan, should I call Quinn?
00:26:31We need to deal with that cut first.
00:26:32Ryan suddenly worked up the nerve, picked up his phone, and photographed Ethan's torn-up
00:26:36hand, then sent it to Quinn on the spot.
00:26:39Ethan didn't stop him.
00:27:06The room went still.
00:27:08About ten seconds passed.
00:27:09Then Ryan's phone rang.
00:27:10See?
00:27:11I knew she loved you more than anything.
00:27:14Look, Ethan, it's Quinn!
00:27:15The others noticed it too.
00:27:16The tension in Ethan's face had eased, just slightly.
00:27:19You want to take it?
00:27:20Ryan held out the phone.
00:27:21Ethan didn't look at it.
00:27:22He turned away.
00:27:23I'll get it, I'll get it.
00:27:24Ryan said eagerly, putting it on speaker.
00:27:26When Quinn's voice came through, Ethan's jaw locked.
00:27:28Ryan, are you okay?
00:27:30Are you hurt?
00:27:30It's not me.
00:27:31It's Ethan's hand.
00:27:32You have no idea how bad it is!
00:27:34Blood everywhere!
00:27:34He won't stop!
00:27:35Ryan rambled on.
00:27:36The other end went quiet.
00:27:38Quinn, are you there?
00:27:38Maybe, maybe you should come back.
00:27:40Ethan won't go to the hospital.
00:27:41He can't just keep bleeding like this.
00:27:42Ryan.
00:27:43Her voice was still soft.
00:27:44Still the same.
00:27:45Yeah?
00:27:45Yeah, I'm here.
00:27:46Go on.
00:27:46Ryan signaled frantically to Ethan.
00:27:48Don't tell me about him anymore.
00:27:50Ryan's smile collapsed.
00:27:51Quinn?
00:27:52And happy birthday, Ryan.
00:27:53Wait, Quinn, don't hang up!
00:27:55The line went dead.
00:27:56Ryan stood there holding the phone like it had burned him.
00:27:58He wanted to slap himself.
00:28:00What was he thinking?
00:28:01Getting involved.
00:28:01Now look at the mess.
00:28:02Silence.
00:28:03Ethan looked around at everyone and smiled lightly.
00:28:05You all go mute?
00:28:06No one dared speak.
00:28:07He smiled again.
00:28:08What, nobody's got anything to say?
00:28:09Ethan, don't get worked up.
00:28:10The cut's bleeding more.
00:28:11Ethan, you know how Quinn is.
00:28:13From the corner, where she'd been sitting quietly through everything,
00:28:15Vera finally spoke.
00:28:16I've wanted to say this for a long time.
00:28:18What you did was cruel.
00:28:20Quinn's a woman.
00:28:21Women have pride.
00:28:22Even if you stopped loving her, you could have ended it cleanly.
00:28:24Who says I wanted it to end cleanly?
00:28:26Ethan smiled, sharp and cold.
00:28:28She gave me seven years.
00:28:31Seven years, you think that's nothing to me?
00:28:33Vera smiled very quietly.
00:28:34But did you ever stop to think?
00:28:36A girl only has so many seven years.
00:28:39What if Quinn never comes back?
00:28:41Impossible!
00:28:42No one caught it, but there was the faintest tremor at the end of that word.
00:28:45What's impossible in this world?
00:28:46Once the heart's been hurt badly enough, can you really warm it back up?
00:28:50Ethan, stop doing things you'll regret.
00:28:53Vera said nothing more.
00:28:54She picked up her bag and walked out.
00:28:56Across the room, Daniel watched her leave.
00:28:58His own wife of two years.
00:28:59His expression unreadable.
00:29:00Was she pitying Quinn?
00:29:02Defending her?
00:29:02Or was she talking about herself?
00:29:04Aren't you gonna go after her?
00:29:05Daniel curved his lips.
00:29:06Lit a cigarette.
00:29:07She's not my wife tonight.
00:29:09My wife is on set.
00:29:10She's out of the production next month.
00:29:12You're gonna wreck yourself.
00:29:13His friend sighed.
00:29:14Daniel didn't respond.
00:29:16Vera and Quinn were different.
00:29:17Quinn had no family draining her.
00:29:19Earned her own money.
00:29:20A breakup just meant a softer lifestyle for a while.
00:29:22But Vera had her family's debt behind her.
00:29:24And a brother bedridden at home.
00:29:26She couldn't leave him.
00:29:27She wouldn't dare.
00:29:28No matter how many chances she had.
00:29:47She wasn't dla hands of anti-pharmia.
00:29:51He didn't want to refuse it.
00:29:51She couldn't.
00:29:57She co-worker with her.
00:30:00She couldn't leave her заболевar.
00:30:01Everyone came into a
00:30:02combo.
00:30:02And he didn't want to come to a
00:30:03Because it's agt V기에 state,
00:30:16I was a Coach for a show that
00:30:17.
00:30:47.
00:31:17.
00:31:47.
00:32:17.
00:32:47.
00:33:17I just ended the call when Lucas wrapped his arms around me from behind.
00:33:20He rested his chin on the side of my neck and said nothing.
00:33:22I laughed softly.
00:33:24What?
00:33:24Quinn, are you going back?
00:33:26Back where?
00:33:27Back home.
00:33:28Not right now.
00:33:30Eventually, maybe.
00:33:31It's not like I did anything I need to run from.
00:33:34My family's there.
00:33:35My apartment's there.
00:33:36I'm not staying away forever.
00:33:38Lucas went quiet again.
00:33:45I caught up.
00:33:45Are you asking if I'm going to get back together with Ethan?
00:33:48Are you?
00:33:48If I say absolutely not, do you believe me?
00:33:52He lowered his eyes, that sharp nose brushing the side of my face.
00:33:55I want to.
00:33:56Lucas, I have a face and a spine.
00:33:58Do you still have feelings for him?
00:33:59I thought about it honestly.
00:34:00If I said there's nothing left, that wouldn't be true.
00:34:03It's been a long time.
00:34:05Lucas bit down on my shoulder, lightly.
00:34:07Don't say anymore, Quinn.
00:34:08Let me finish.
00:34:10But to say I still miss him, or that I can't let go, that's not right either.
00:34:14I touched his face gently.
00:34:15Leaving him didn't destroy me.
00:34:18So maybe I stopped loving him a long time ago.
00:34:20Maybe the moment he started coasting on this relationship,
00:34:22I'd already started preparing for the end.
00:34:25I won't.
00:34:25Won't what?
00:34:26I won't get distracted.
00:34:28Won't play around.
00:34:29Won't make you cry or hurt you.
00:34:31He held me tighter and tighter, and then he kissed me.
00:34:33Quinn, be with me for real.
00:34:40But I didn't kiss him back.
00:34:41In the end, I gently pushed him away.
00:34:43Lucas, I'm sorry.
00:34:46Why are you sorry?
00:34:47He looked down at me, his eyes faintly red.
00:34:50It's my issue.
00:34:51I looked away.
00:34:52I don't want to be in a relationship right now.
00:34:53Then what have we been doing?
00:34:55Lucas gripped my shoulders, voice unsteady.
00:34:57Quinn, what am I to you?
00:34:59I squeezed my hands tight and breathed.
00:35:01Think of it as two people getting what they need.
00:35:05If you want, we can keep things as they are.
00:35:07If you meet someone you actually want, you can end this whenever.
00:35:10Getting what they need.
00:35:11Like I'm a tool for you.
00:35:13You can see it that way.
00:35:14I wouldn't look at him, afraid I'd cry if I did.
00:35:17Lucas, I'm truly sorry.
00:35:18If this arrangement makes you uncomfortable,
00:35:21I'll leave Miami right away.
00:35:22I swear I'll never bother you again.
00:35:25Quinn.
00:35:26His eyes burned red.
00:35:27He let go, stepped back slowly.
00:35:29Something in his expression was broken, even as he tried to smile.
00:35:32Quinn, you can't do this to me.
00:35:35Lucas.
00:35:36He turned, picked up his coat, and walked toward the door.
00:35:38I took one step after him, then stopped.
00:35:41He made it all the way to the door, hand on the knob.
00:35:43And then he turned and looked back at me, even managed a reassuring smile.
00:35:47Sorry, I just need a little time alone.
00:35:48I nodded.
00:35:49Go ahead, I won't bother you.
00:35:51Quinn, give me some time.
00:35:53I'll get back to you.
00:35:54He left.
00:35:55I sank slowly onto the couch, all the energy gone from my body.
00:35:58I felt something I couldn't name.
00:36:00It hurt in a way that wasn't pain, exactly.
00:36:02But I knew, clearly, that I couldn't do it.
00:36:04Couldn't throw myself into love again.
00:36:06Not like that.
00:36:07Not without walls.
00:36:07Not a new beginning.
00:36:08I was scared.
00:36:09Scared it would end the same way.
00:36:11Two people watching each other with contempt.
00:36:13The warmth gone cold.
00:36:14The cold gone freezing.
00:36:15I didn't want to go around again.
00:36:16I just shouldn't have gotten Lucas involved.
00:36:18If I'd known from the start that he had feelings for me,
00:36:20I never would have let him drive me home that night.
00:36:42he wasn't straight.
00:36:43He was a dead God.
00:36:43I don't know.
00:36:43But that's the time that he's got to hang out.
00:36:43He's just asking.
00:36:43I said I might sit down with a crew myself.
00:36:47To be honest with you, I had to take a nap.
00:36:48He's in my head.
00:36:50I didn't even see that in the center of the world.
00:36:55He's not even hung out.
00:36:56He's got a crew at the crew.
00:37:52It was past 3 a.m. when Lucas drove back to Quinn's hotel.
00:37:55He got out of the car but didn't go in.
00:37:57He leaned against the door and lit a cigarette, countless windows glowing above him.
00:38:00He couldn't tell which one was hers, but knowing she was there, knowing she was in the same
00:38:04city as him, knowing that if he walked through those doors, in 10 minutes he'd see her, that
00:38:08was enough.
00:38:09Something like contentment.
00:38:10It hadn't taken him two days to figure it out.
00:38:12Quietly, he'd talked himself down.
00:38:14Quinn had just come out of something long and damaging.
00:38:16Not wanting to dive back into a relationship made complete sense.
00:38:19Being disappointed in men, in love, in the idea of marriage, made even more sense.
00:38:23Maybe he'd pushed too hard.
00:38:24He shouldn't have cornered her like that.
00:38:26If keeping things loose made her feel lighter, easier, he didn't need a label.
00:38:29What's worse than wanting someone and never having them?
00:38:31Maybe a year and a half ago, when he found out Quinn had moved in with him, that was when
00:38:35he genuinely decided to let go.
00:38:37So he'd tried the setups, tried to meet someone new, tried to move forward, couldn't do it,
00:38:41recognized that quickly, cut it off.
00:38:42After that, no matter how much pressure came from his family, he never went back down that
00:38:46road.
00:38:46If Quinn hadn't left Ethan and come to Miami, if she hadn't invited him up that night, he
00:38:50probably would have stayed alone his whole life.
00:38:52Lucas stubbed out the cigarette, his eyes went still and settled, but Quinn did come
00:38:56to Miami, and she did ask him up.
00:38:57If the girl he'd loved for years came to him and he let her slip away anyway, then Lucas
00:39:01Shaw, you don't deserve the happiness you want.
00:40:43The night before I was set to leave Miami, I went out for drinks with my best friend.
00:40:46So, how's things with Lucas?
00:40:48She looked me over.
00:40:49Look at you.
00:40:50That glow.
00:40:51Your skin's been absolutely luminous all week.
00:40:54He's been good for you.
00:40:55I should stop.
00:40:57I don't want a relationship.
00:40:58I don't want to get married.
00:40:59Quinn, why are you punishing yourself for someone else's mistakes?
00:41:02And it's not fair to Lucas either.
00:41:03The saying goes, one person plants the tree, another enjoys the shade.
00:41:06Fine.
00:41:07But that doesn't mean the person who planted the tree gets to leave a storm behind for
00:41:09the next one.
00:41:10Ethan was terrible.
00:41:11But Lucas is a good man.
00:41:12One worth something real.
00:41:13Why should Ethan's garbage keep you from giving Lucas a real chance?
00:41:17It's not that I'm biased against him.
00:41:19I just haven't gotten over the damage yet.
00:41:21You haven't gotten over the damage.
00:41:23Babe, Ethan spent seven years running you down and you don't even know it.
00:41:27You think you're not worth being loved?
00:41:28I stared at her.
00:41:29Was she right?
00:41:30The exhaustion of the back and forth.
00:41:32The constant anxiety.
00:41:33The feeling of never being enough.
00:41:35Never being secure.
00:41:36So now my guard was up against everyone.
00:41:37Against the whole world.
00:41:38Convinced that no one would ever love me without conditions.
00:41:41But why shouldn't I deserve that?
00:41:42The ones who waste your love, let them choke on it.
00:41:44The ones who love honestly, the universe opens a window for them.
00:41:47Babe, do you know how incredible you are?
00:41:49My best friend pulled me in, swayed gently.
00:41:51You're gorgeous.
00:41:51You have an amazing body.
00:41:53You were making your own money since sophomore year.
00:41:56Paid your own rent and practically kept me fed too.
00:41:58You're talented and driven and kind.
00:42:01If I were a man, I'd fight anyone to marry you.
00:42:03You deserve to be loved, Quinn.
00:42:05Genuinely loved by the right person.
00:42:07And not ground down and wasted on someone like Ethan.
00:42:10Trust me on this.
00:42:12He will regret it.
00:42:13For the rest of his life, he won't be able to shake losing you.
00:42:15Now, call Lucas and cancel your flight home.
00:42:18Don't think I don't know you already rebooked it.
00:42:20My eyes were getting hot.
00:42:21But what if Lucas and I end up in the same place?
00:42:24What if it ends the same way?
00:42:25It won't.
00:42:26How do you know?
00:42:26Because a man with that kind of self-control, who's never settled for less,
00:42:29will not be stupid enough to throw away the girl he actually chose.
00:42:32He's not Ethan.
00:42:33I shook my head.
00:42:34He wasn't.
00:42:35He really wasn't.
00:42:35So, call him.
00:42:36You have no idea how happy it'll make him.
00:43:06I thought Lucas would be happy.
00:43:08I didn't think a man in his late 20s, running a company, could be that happy over a phone call.
00:43:12Like a kid on Christmas morning, my best friend beamed at me.
00:43:15Quinn, happy?
00:43:16I nodded slowly.
00:43:17I think, yeah.
00:43:18Really happy.
00:43:20See?
00:43:20You're happy.
00:43:22Lucas is happier.
00:43:23What else is there to figure out?
00:43:24Then she laughed.
00:43:25Honestly?
00:43:25I just keep thinking about how miserable Ethan's going to be.
00:43:29That alone puts me in a great mood.
00:43:31Who knows?
00:43:32He's probably already moved on.
00:43:34I smiled faintly.
00:43:35Let's stop talking about him.
00:43:36In that moment, I could say it with no weight at all.
00:43:38Like he was just a name.
00:43:40Someone with no claim on me anymore.
00:43:41Lucas' car pulled up downstairs just as I stepped out of the bar.
00:43:44He stood in the night air with his arms open.
00:43:47I stopped and looked at him.
00:43:48Honestly, he was striking.
00:43:49Every feature exactly what I'd want.
00:43:51Men can like whoever they want.
00:43:53Overlap if they choose.
00:43:54The world hardly blinks.
00:43:55So why can't I, after a real ending, start something new?
00:43:58I walked toward him.
00:43:59He walked toward me.
00:44:00People moved around us.
00:44:02We kissed like no one was watching.
00:44:03His heart was pounding so fast.
00:44:05I reached up and touched the back of his neck.
00:44:07Burning hot.
00:44:08He was still warm when I pressed my forehead to his.
00:44:10Slightly breathless.
00:44:11Voiceless.
00:44:12Quinn, do I have a fever?
00:44:14Maybe.
00:44:15Too much touching and this happens?
00:44:17I laughed and kissed under his chair.
00:44:19Maybe more of this and you'll be cured?
00:44:22His ears went redder.
00:44:23He cupped my face, eyes open and searching.
00:44:25Quinn, what am I to you right now?
00:44:27I teased him.
00:44:28What do you think?
00:44:30A hugger or a boyfriend?
00:44:31He asked, then immediately shook his head, pressing his face into my neck.
00:44:34Never mind, I don't want to know right now.
00:44:35I wrapped my arms around his waist and pulled him closer.
00:44:38You sure you don't want to know?
00:44:39Boyfriend.
00:44:53What do you think?
00:44:53.
00:45:23.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:45:56.
00:46:07.
00:46:08.
00:46:08.
00:46:08.
00:46:38anything. A moment's impulse, nothing more. Even Mia, the one who'd actually triggered Quinn walking
00:46:42out. She lasted three days before he was already over it. He kept thinking about Quinn. Seven years
00:46:46had made him lazy, complacent. He'd taken it all for granted. But some people are like the air,
00:46:51you don't notice until they're gone. Since Quinn left, he couldn't focus on anything. He'd be with
00:46:54his friends and she'd be in the back of his mind the whole time, especially when he drank. If Quinn
00:46:58were there, she'd fake scold him and try to slow him down. And if she couldn't stop him, she'd be
00:47:02up at 3am making soup, letting him put his head in her lap, rubbing his temples with her hands.
00:47:06Her fingers were soft, the little complaints she'd mutter, the way she'd fuss over him.
00:47:10It had annoyed him back then. Now he'd give anything to hear it again. This time when Quinn
00:47:13came home, he'd propose. He'd always known how much she wanted to marry him. Give her that and
00:47:17she'd feel safe. She'd forgive him. She would.
00:47:47She'd give her a little bit of a feeling. She's not going to marry him, she'd never
00:48:06.
00:48:36.
00:49:06.
00:49:36.
00:49:37.
00:49:37.
00:49:37.
00:49:38.
00:49:49.
00:50:00The old man's work was remarkable.
00:50:01The dress looked almost exactly as it had before.
00:50:04Ethan paid him and was heading out when his phone rang.
00:50:06His pulse spiked slightly until he saw Ryan's name on the screen.
00:50:09His heart slowed back down.
00:50:10Ethan, there's something I need to tell you.
00:50:12I wanted to think it over first.
00:50:14Go ahead.
00:50:14Just don't freak out, okay?
00:50:16It's probably just rumors.
00:50:17Could be nothing at all.
00:50:19What is it?
00:50:20It's about Quinn.
00:50:21Actually, forget it.
00:50:22I'm probably 80% sure it's someone making stuff up.
00:50:24Ryan, since when do you talk like this?
00:50:26What happened to Quinn?
00:50:27Did she come back?
00:50:29Ethan.
00:50:29Ryan suddenly felt sick.
00:50:30Of all the rumors that could have gotten out, why did it have to be Lucas Shaw?
00:50:33Ethan had been at each other's throats with Lucas for years.
00:50:36Two years ago, they'd gone head to head over a major contract.
00:50:39Ethan's company lost.
00:50:40First time he'd ever tasted defeat.
00:50:41It had poisoned what was already a tense relationship into something close to hatred.
00:50:44I said, don't freak out.
00:50:46This is all second hand, there's no confirmation.
00:50:48Someone spotted Quinn in Miami.
00:50:49Ethan's grip on the phone tightened.
00:50:51His voice stayed controlled, barely.
00:50:53So she's in Miami.
00:50:54So what?
00:50:54She was with Lucas Shaw.
00:50:56Could just be dinner?
00:50:57Probably nothing.
00:50:58Got it.
00:50:58Ethan.
00:50:59Nothing else?
00:50:59I'm hanging up.
00:51:00The call cut off.
00:51:01Ethan stood in the narrow street, shopping bag in hand.
00:51:03The bag holding the dress Quinn had bought.
00:51:05He walked, step by step, through the cold of early winter.
00:51:08All the way to the mouth of the alley.
00:51:09Back to his car.
00:51:10He stopped.
00:51:11A quiet smile crossed his face.
00:51:12Slow.
00:51:13Faint.
00:51:13Laced with something sharp and bitter.
00:51:15And then, without hesitation, he dropped the elegant shopping bag into the trash can at
00:51:19the curb.
00:51:29From here to the washroom.
00:51:34I hid in America, a alien Guy had gone down to the drunk town.
00:51:35I have lost a woman.
00:51:35I我在 leía, when he he sent在 и Арид対.
00:51:35From here.
00:51:45But...
00:51:48I saw Kayakum场, He had découvrir ideas, the przyjaciners.
00:51:49That's the whole point of getting episode.
00:51:49The bike already needed.
00:51:49Let's go back to T bientôt.
00:51:50This one has got to be a�를izy.
00:51:50And right?
00:51:53Okay.
00:51:53.
00:52:23.
00:52:53.
00:53:23.
00:53:53.
00:54:23.
00:54:23.
00:54:23.
00:54:23.
00:54:23.
00:54:24.
00:54:32.
00:54:32.
00:54:33.
00:54:33.
00:54:33.
00:54:33.
00:54:34.
00:54:34It went through. No response. The message read. Thinking about selling the apartment. What do you want to do with
00:54:39your clothes? Maybe he forgot she'd left a note saying to deal with everything herself. Dispose of it all however
00:54:43he liked. Or maybe it was intentional. An excuse to reach out. Maybe Ethan told himself he was giving her
00:54:48a way back in. She was smart. She'd know to take the out. His temper looked bad but he wasn't
00:54:52that hard to deal with. Quinn never replied. The apartment didn't sell. Her clothes and everything else stayed exactly as
00:54:57they were. Like she'd never left. Ethan came back late nights after going out. Lay down in her bed. Stared
00:55:02at the ceiling until almost dawn.
00:55:03The third month after she left. Same as always. Late and still. When the clock hands crept toward midnight. Ethan
00:55:09dialed her number.
00:55:21The second month after Quinn left. Quinn had been careful. Quiet. A good girl in the old fashioned sense. Her
00:55:30family was ordinary but comfortable. Her parents adored her.
00:55:33And because she'd been beautiful since she was young. They'd kept a close eye on her. It wasn't until the
00:55:37fall after graduation that Quinn moved in with Ethan. He still remembered that night. She'd been shaking from head to
00:55:41toe. Her skin flushed everywhere. A deep burning pink. She was breathtaking. Fragile beneath him in a way that made
00:55:47his chest ache. When it was over she cried for a long time. Over and over she said.
00:55:51Ethan you're not allowed to hurt me. Not now. Not ever. You have to be good to me. You have
00:55:56to marry me. Ethan. We're gonna be together forever. Right?
00:56:01The girl who'd believed all of that. Who'd trusted with her whole self that she'd end up with the man
00:56:05she loved.
00:56:05He'd lost her a long time ago. Long enough that he couldn't even recall. The last time they'd said goodbye.
00:56:10What had her face looked like?
00:56:11Did she smile and nod? Or did her eyes go red?
00:56:13The phone rang for a while. He'd almost given up. Then it connected.
00:56:16In that moment what he wanted to say was. Quinn come home. But what came out of his mouth was.
00:56:21Quinn you've made your point. Come home.
00:56:23His pathetic idiotic words were cut off by a man's low laugh. That laugh landed like cold concrete. Ethan went
00:56:29rigid. Like he'd been encased in ice and couldn't move.
00:56:31Ethan. You snooze you lose. Can't let a girl stew overnight or someone else steps in.
00:56:38Lucas Shaw? Ethan said the name through clenched teeth. Blood rushing into his eyes.
00:56:43It's me. Put Quinn on. Now!
00:56:46His eyes looked flooded. He gripped the phone. Voice shaking low.
00:56:50Lucas if you took advantage of-
00:56:52She could come to the phone.
00:56:53Lucas lowered his head and pressed a soft kiss to his girl's temple. Quinn's lashes were still wet. Her mouth
00:56:58in a small pout. Eyes closed. But everything on her face said one thing. I was hurt. His chest clenched.
00:57:03He kissed the corner of her eye. Drew away the tear that sat there.
00:57:06She's asleep. Upset with me. I have to kiss her awake first.
00:57:09Lucas!
00:57:09Ethan's voice went dead silent. Lucas ended the call. Turned off his phone. He brought his lips down to Quinn's.
00:57:15Softly.
00:57:15Hey. Wake up.
00:57:55I thought about what it would be like to see Ethan again. He came from money and he knew it.
00:57:59Pride ran deep in him. We'd ended things without a scene. If we ever crossed paths, he'd probably look right
00:58:04through me. Or we'd exchange a polite, meaningless smile.
00:58:06My family was in the city. We had mutual friends. It wasn't realistic to think we'd never be in the
00:58:10same room again. But I never expected that. Never expected to see him come undone like that. The day it
00:58:15happened, I'd slept well and woken up in a good mood. I was wearing a new blush pink cashmere dress.
00:58:19Makeup done. Feeling like myself again. Warm and whole. Like a ripe peach in September.
00:58:23I had my hand tucked in Lucas's arm. We were laughing about something as we pushed through the revolving door.
00:58:28And there was Ethan, stepping out of a car. I stopped. My feet stopped with me. Lucas's warm fingers closed
00:58:33around mine. Ethan's shirt was wrinkled. No tie. The exhaustion on his face was plain. His brow heavy. The whites
00:58:38of his eyes shot through with red. People moved past us on both sides. A fountain not far off played
00:58:43something cheerful.
00:58:43The whole moment felt like a slow motion shot from a movie. Except I wasn't watching. I was in it.
00:58:48Ethan looked more undone than I'd ever seen him. Lucas moved instinctively, stepping slightly in front of me. But Ethan's
00:58:54expression was perfectly calm. He said my name the way he used to, back when things were good. Soft. Warm.
00:58:59Quinn. I stood there and didn't move. The music from the fountain kept playing. And yet something in me ached.
00:59:04Quietly. I didn't quite know why. Maybe for the girl who'd overheard those words that night. Maybe for the girl
00:59:09who'd gotten a breakup handed to her without warning. Maybe most of all for the girl who'd loved foolishly for
00:59:13seven years.
00:59:13And let go in seven days. Quinn. I came to bring you home. He hadn't looked at Lucas once. His
00:59:19eyes were on my face. And they were soft in a way I'd almost forgotten. I couldn't even remember the
00:59:23last time he'd looked at me like that before we fell apart. He stopped about a meter in front of
00:59:26me. Quinn. Come home. We get married. We do it right this time. He meant every word. He was so
00:59:33serious I almost let myself believe. That the Ethan who'd said he was giving another girl something real had been
00:59:38a figment of my imagination. But it was too late Ethan. A broken heart doesn't reassemble itself. And the new
00:59:42one that had grown up from
00:59:43the wreckage. It already belonged to someone else.
01:00:15And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from
01:00:20the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown
01:00:21up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that
01:00:21had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new
01:00:21one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And
01:00:22the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the
01:00:24wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up
01:00:26from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had
01:00:27grown up from the wreckage. And the new one that had grown up from the wreckage. And the new one
01:00:27that had grown up from the wreckage.
01:00:43.
01:01:13.
01:01:43.
01:02:13.
01:02:43.
01:03:13.
01:03:43.
01:04:13.
01:04:14.
01:04:23.
01:04:23I shook my head gently.
01:04:24Ethan?
01:04:26Please go.
01:04:27Quinn, I never touched Mia.
01:04:29Three days, and I ended it.
01:04:31The dress you bought, I had it repaired.
01:04:33And our rings, I kept them both.
01:04:36Quinn, I had a custom ring made.
01:04:38I mean this.
01:04:39his eyes were getting redder his voice had the faintest tremor he held out a small velvet box
01:04:44held it out to me like an offering everything in his face was careful hoping terrified looking
01:04:49at him i couldn't pretend it didn't hurt at all but it was only that just a little hurt
01:04:53ethan i have a boyfriend i tightened my hand around lucas's and stepped out from behind him
01:04:58to stand beside him shoulder to shoulder the color drained out of ethan's face in an instant
01:05:02his gaze dropped slowly and stopped on our intertwined fingers the matching bands on
01:05:07our ring fingers just like it had been with us once quinn are you serious i took a breath turned
01:05:13to look at lucas and nodded yes completely serious ethan laughed softly just once you think he's
01:05:19serious about you you think you know how much of this is real two years ago he fought me tooth
01:05:24and
01:05:24nail over a deal and now he's going after you quinn don't you think there's something in that
01:05:28some other motive can he honestly say he's pursuing you with absolutely nothing to prove to me quinn
01:05:33you've always been too trusting all men are the same in the end you were with me for seven years
01:05:37you know how much happened between us you think lucas won't care you think it won't matter to him
01:05:41in the end you think he's actually going to stay that you'll get your happy ending with him aren't
01:05:45you afraid that being with him just leads you to another seven years exactly like this one
01:05:52i shook my head gently ethan please go quinn i never touched mia three days and i ended it
01:06:00the dress you bought i had it repaired
01:06:06the fountain music stopped ethan stopped a silence settled over me then came the smallest sound like
01:06:12something very fine and thin quietly breaking and after that sound relief lightness whatever last
01:06:18piece of grief i'd been carrying was gone nothing left to lose now it's just such a waste i thought
01:06:23why does living always come with things you regret before today i didn't regret loving ethan good or
01:06:27bad it was mine it happened but in this moment i couldn't help grieving it seven years and i'd never
01:06:32seen clearly ethan at his core had never really looked at me not the way i deserved to be seen
01:06:37lucas
01:06:37pulled me into his arms his eyes full of something pained i was a little pale but i smiled and
01:06:41shook my head
01:06:42i'm okay come on wait by the car i've got this i want to be here with you i held
01:06:47his hand and
01:06:47wouldn't let go lucas looked at me for a long moment then bowed his head and kissed me hard
01:06:51quinn everything i've ever done i've done with a clear conscience no regrets but right now right
01:06:57now i genuinely regret not taking you from him when i had the chance what gives you the right ethan
01:07:02cut in going after someone when they're at their lowest what kind of man does that make you lucas
01:07:06ethan you didn't deserve a single year of what quinn gave you not one maybe those words finally
01:07:11broke something in ethan he lost control in a way he never had before words he'd never have said
01:07:15otherwise oh yeah and you lucas you go after a woman who spent seven years with me what right
01:07:23do you have to stand there and lecture me tell me the truth do you actually love quinn or do
01:07:27you love
01:07:27the idea of having something that was mine lucas put his fist through ethan's face ethan wasn't one to
01:07:40absorbent he came back swimming they went at each other until both of them were marked up split and
01:07:45bruised security rushed over finally managed to get between them the two men stood there breathing hard
01:07:50still glaring at each other not giving an inch can we stop now i was furious and scared and my
01:07:56voice
01:07:56broke a little quinn ethan's face was cold you saw it lucas threw the first punch i'm not letting this
01:08:02go yes he did mr harlow i'll have him apologize to you whatever you want to do next we'll cooperate
01:08:08quinn he said it first lucas started immediately i pressed my hand lightly over his then turned back
01:08:14calm mr harlow i'll apologize on his behalf you're defending him just like that ethan stepped toward
01:08:20me slowly he hit me quinn what would you like us to do about it quinn i'm hurt he gestured
01:08:25at his face
01:08:25you can see this right this really hurts i looked at it we'll call you an ambulance we'll cover
01:08:31everything you know that's not what i want he reached for my arm i stepped back quinn everything
01:08:36ethan had been holding up cracked all at once the way he looked at me loss bare and unguarded but
01:08:41my
01:08:41chest was still and quiet genuinely still lucas made a sharp sound quinn am i gonna be scarred i
01:08:46turned fast his lip was split his eye was swelling his jaw had blood on it and it looked worse
01:08:50than it
01:08:50was i reached into my bag for a tissue and started cleaning it ow quinn gently gently
01:08:55he winced and grimaced dramatically serves you right i said quietly but i was careful
01:08:59you're going to need stitches then come with me i pass out around needles i gave him a look but
01:09:05i
01:09:05nodded lucas immediately pulled me into a hug and i need you to kiss it right here it's killing me
01:09:10i rose slowly on my toes and pressed my lips gently right to the wound
01:09:33it's killing me
01:09:37ethan didn't say anything more the late sun stretched his shadow long and quiet behind him
01:09:41maybe it was the moment quinn dabbed at lucas's face maybe it was the moment she kissed him there
01:09:46softly that was when ethan finally understood it quinn did not love him anymore what vera had asked that
01:09:51night had turned out to be true quinn was not coming back to him he thought he was the one
01:09:54who
01:09:55could walk away from seven years easily he thought he was the one who'd always held the upper hand
01:09:59he thought he was always going to come out ahead but standing here now he understood the one who
01:10:03couldn't let go was him quinn had been the string that held the kite to the sky the string snapped
01:10:07and
01:10:07the kite lost its way it was never going to find home again
01:10:21ogre
01:10:21w
01:10:22w
01:10:23w
01:10:24w
01:10:24w
01:10:24w
01:10:32w
01:10:34w
01:10:54I watched Ethan turn and walk back to his car.
01:10:56I watched that solitary figure disappear.
01:10:58The sun at dusk slid below the horizon all at once.
01:11:01The sky shifted to a pale, soft blue.
01:11:03His car pulled away and got smaller.
01:11:05I felt like I could see it.
01:11:06All seven years, from 17 to 24, rushing away with that car.
01:11:10Gone.
01:11:10From this day on, I knew.
01:11:12His name would be like any ordinary name in the world.
01:11:14I wouldn't try to forget it.
01:11:16I just wouldn't think of it on my own.
01:11:17Quinn.
01:11:18Lucas wrapped me in his arms quietly.
01:11:19I turned and looked up at him, smiling lightly.
01:11:22Let's go.
01:11:23Hospital.
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