The Day I Quit Loving You - Full
Watch the full short drama with English subtitles. CEO, billionaire, revenge, betrayal — complete story in one video.
#shortdrama #ceodrama #drama #revenge #fullmovie #englishsub #reelshort #dramabox #miniseries #love #betrayal #drama2026
Watch the full short drama with English subtitles. CEO, billionaire, revenge, betrayal — complete story in one video.
#shortdrama #ceodrama #drama #revenge #fullmovie #englishsub #reelshort #dramabox #miniseries #love #betrayal #drama2026
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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
00:06daughter 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
00:34the door. Why aren't you going in? The passcode has been changed. I kept my voice
00:40calm. Just then, the door opened from inside. Wearing an apron, Lindsay Mons said in a
00:48playful, complaining tone. Rod, why are you back so late? Polly's been asking for you.
00:59Miss Wright? I nodded politely. She hurriedly explained. Miss Wright, please don't misunderstand.
01:07Rod 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!
01:28A small figure threw herself at Rodney's leg. Lindsay hastily covered her mouth, looking terrified
01:34of me.
01:37Polly, what did I say? Call him Rodney.
01:40Rodney looked at Kara and me, seeming embarrassed. But we didn't make a scene as we used to.
01:45A flicker of surprise crossed his face. Kara's room was now filled with unfamiliar items.
01:53Lindsay bit her lip gently.
01:58Polly sometimes stays the night here.
02:01I could feel Kara's hand, which I was holding, clenched tightly.
02:08Mommy, I can stay in a different room.
02:12Her 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,
02:24she'd always pout and cry her eyes out, shouting.
02:30Daddy is mine! Only mine! Daddy is mine! Only mine!
02:35Every time, Rodney would scold me for failing to teach her properly. But now, seeing her room so
02:41changed, she just stared at it calmly. Children were sensitive. She might be young, but she already
02:47knew, only those who were loved and favored had the right to act spoiled.
02:52Rodney frowned. Lindsay quickly said,
02:56I'll pack up Polly's things. Mrs. Wright, Kara, please don't be upset with us.
03:02Lindsay and Polly huddled together, trembling slightly, looking pitiful. In the past, her
03:08suggestive words always set me off, leading to arguments with Rodney. But today, I just looked
03:15at them without a word or change in expression. Just then, Rodney turned to Lindsay.
03:24It's probably best if you don't come and go so freely here anymore. You're a single mother,
03:29and you can't afford gossip. After packing her things, Polly said in a teary voice,
03:35Daddy, walk us out. Hesitating, Rodney looked at me. I smiled.
03:43You and Ms. Mann go way back. It's only right that you see them off.
03:47He opened his mouth to say something, but I had already turned to fill the kettle.
03:51Let's talk when I get back.
03:53He left hastily. Only after they left did Kara and I finally relax completely.
03:58Soon, a new message appeared on my phone. It was from Lindsay.
04:05I'm sorry, Ms. Wright. Polly is used to watching cartoons with Rod. He'll be home later.
04:10I'm sorry again.
04:12All right. A humorless smile formed on my lips.
04:17Rodney didn't return until the next day.
04:20I was reading Kara a story before her nap when he pushed the door open and entered.
04:30I 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 be dragged
04:39into the mess.
04:40After Kara fell asleep, Rodney handed me a box. It was the black diamond necklace I once wanted but lost
04:47to another bidder.
04:49If this were before, I would have probably thrown myself into his arms, overjoyed. But now, I felt nothing but
04:56calm. I used to adore jewelry. But after I moved to the shantytown with Kara, one day, a thief yanked
05:02the necklace from around my neck.
05:08I fell down the stairs and hit my head hard enough to open a gash. Blood trickled down. From that
05:14day 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.
05:29Thank you. But I'm no longer into jewelry.
05:32He froze slightly.
05:33Finally, 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.
06:34I 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 mine 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.
07:24It's Polly's birthday today. I bought her a dress as a gift.
07:28All 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.
08:00We're acquaintances.
08:01A clattering sound came from behind.
08:05Mr. O'Connor, you dropped your phone.
08:07A clerk reminded Rodney.
08:09I turned to see him staring at me intently.
08:14What are you talking about?
08:15I looked puzzled.
08:19Aren'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 miss a minute or stand 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.
09:18Having 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.
09:45I 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.
10:05I remembered how it started.
10:06After marrying Rodney, I became a full-time homemaker.
10:10Everyone envied me, a daughter from a wealthy family who had married a self-made man with a bright future.
10:15I believed my fairy tale 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.
10:55Confused, 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.
11:29I reminded myself that trust was the bedrock of marriage.
11:32And 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
12:28scratch 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.
13:17Time and again, I confronted Rodney, questioning.
13:21Who are your real wife and daughter?
13:24At 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.
13:41Is a little empathy too much to ask?
13:43Lynn is raising Polly all by herself.
13:46That's hard enough.
13:47Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:50Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:55Can'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.
14:11At 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.
14:28And 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.
14:56At the time, I was often exhausted and drowsy.
14:58So the dinner slipped my mind.
15:00Until I stumbled upon a local tweet.
15:03The CEO of Phoenix Tech and his wife are absolute couple goals.
15:07Are we sure they're not straight out of a TV drama?
15:10The 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.
15:18On the seventh try, it finally connected, only for Lindsay's voice to come through.
15:26Mrs. Wright?
15:28Mrs. 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.
15:41Ms. Wright?
15:42I'm Rod's personal secretary.
15:45He 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, I 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.
17:00A bolt of pain shot through me, bringing instant tears to my eyes.
17:04Eyes reddening, Lindsay stifled her tears.
17:07Her performance was flawless.
17:09And 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.
17:31How many times do I have to tell you, Bernice?
17:35Before Lynn's mother passed, she entrusted Lynn to my care.
17:42Do you have any idea how difficult her life has been?
17:48Lindsay Lynn's?
17:49Raising Polly alone?
17:50You're a woman too!
17:52How 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.
18:14Rubbing 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.
18:28Let'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.
18:38After a stunned pause, Rodney let out a derisive scoff.
18:46A divorce?
18:48Bernice?
18:49Seriously?
18:50That's your master stroke?
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.
19:13The second baby had quietly arrived and it had slipped away just as quietly.
19:17A week later, Rodney and I finalized the divorce.
19:21I was granted full custody of Kara.
19:24Soon after, my father's company ran into serious trouble.
19:30Several key projects were maliciously poached.
19:33And 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, I became a single mother struggling to make ends meet in a shantytown.
19:52Kara suffered alongside me.
19:58Countless nights, I woke up crying from dreams, filled 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.
20:18That was why, when Rodney asked me to remarry, I said yes.
20:22Without hesitation.
20:27After leaving that day, Rodney never came home.
20:30Three days later, Kara started at her new kindergarten, and I began setting up my online store.
20:35Back when I was selling on the streets, I'd made pet clothes and accessories by hand and built up a
20:40loyal following.
20:42Many 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.
20:49Besides, 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, but my family had kept a room for me as a sewing
21:06space.
21:08It now became my studio.
21:10I bought some basic equipment to live stream my crafting process.
21:15I was eating when Rodney came back.
21:17He walked into the kitchen and looked around.
21:21You didn't make a portion for me?
21:23I didn't think you were coming back.
21:25He fell silent for a moment.
21:27I 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.
21:44In the past, I used to cook and wait for Rodney every night.
21:50Whether he came home or not.
21:55I 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.
22:06I 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.
23:05Bother 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?
23:44After a brief hesitation, I answered truthfully.
23:49I opened an online store.
23:51They're just materials.
23:53He nodded, not saying anything.
23:55A 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.
24:16My eyes inadvertently caught the name on the screen, Lindsay.
24:19He glanced at me and answered right there, but I wasn't interested.
24:29I tactfully slipped out to the balcony to gather the dried laundry.
24:33Lynn needs- Lynn, you go-
24:34I handed him his coat.
24:37Go.
24:38He glanced at me deeply.
24:40I'll be back soon.
24:42Not long after Rodney left, Kara's kindergarten teacher called.
24:52Mrs. O'Connor, Kara fell off the slide.
24:58As I rushed to the hospital, the teacher explained along the way.
25:04Kara 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.
25:15It 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.
26:00But 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, eyes red.
26:22They looked almost like the victims.
26:33I'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.
27:10Polly 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.
27:57Tears now glistening in her eyes, making her look even more pitiful.
28:07Mrs. Wright, I understand how you feel about me.
28:11But Polly has never done anything to you.
28:14Rod 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.
28:38Kara, is there anything else you want to tell us?
28:40She shook her head and buried her face in my chest.
28:43Her 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.
29:12That's not what I meant.
29:14Instinctively, I stepped back, holding Kara tighter.
29:17His voice died abruptly as he stared at me.
29:20Disbelief 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.
29:52Polly 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
30:09asking 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.
30:26It wasn't fair to her, Dot, with that thought.
30:28I turned my face away.
30:35I 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.
30:48Every word out of her mouth felt calculated.
30:50Every tear seemed like a weapon.
30:52Mrs. Wright, I'm so sorry.
30:56I know you don't like Polly and me.
31:01But Polly has grown 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.
31:13Please, 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.
31:22Lindsay'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.
31:32The years of patience, the 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.
31:46You 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.
31:59Rodney 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.
32:18Rodney, I mean every word.
32:20I remarried you because I wanted to give Kara a stable life.
32:24But now, I glance 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.
32:36It'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.
32:55His chest rose and fell heavily as he stared silently at me.
32:58The kindergarten director tried to mediate,
33:00suggesting we return to the kindergarten to discuss the matter further.
33:04I shook my head.
33:06My decision is made.
33:09Kara and Polly, only one stays at that kindergarten.
33:14The rest is up to you.
33:17After returning home to pack a bag for Kara's hospital stay,
33:20I contacted a lowyer.
33:22This time, I wouldn't walk away empty-handed like a fool again.
33:25Soon, Rodney came back to the hospital too.
33:29Bernie?
33:33I found what's airy then, Wisconsin-Cue.
33:37I've transferred Polly to another kindergarten.
33:40Kara won't see her again.
33:43My 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?
34:42A wave of weariness washed over me,
34:45and I closed my eyes briefly.
34:48Rodney,
34:50do you remember why we divorced the first time?
34:52He fell silent.
34:54After a long pause,
34:55he answered with difficulty,
34:57his voice rough.
35:00Yes.
35:03Before I could speak,
35:05he continued urgently.
35:07But I only agreed to that divorce.
35:11Because I was angry you didn't trust me.
35:14Later, 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,
35:33just to force me to surrender.
35:36Rodney shifted his gaze uneasily.
35:39I came to you.
35:41I looked straight at him,
35:42each 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,
35:52I only had $50 left.
35:55After rushing Kara to the hospital,
35:57I realized my bag had been slashed open.
36:00The money was gone.
36:01That day,
36:02I waited outside the Phoenix Tech building
36:04for over an hour,
36:05only to be dragged away by security.
36:09They'd said with contempt,
36:11Mr. O'Connor said he never wants to see you again
36:13in 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
36:33were just understanding enough,
36:34we could have a stable life with you.
36:43But I was wrong.
36:46Rodney,
36:47you're not fit to be my husband
36:49or Kara's father.
36:51This remarriage
36:52was a mistake.
36:54From the very beginning,
36:56Rodney stood frozen,
36:57staring at me intently.
36:59His lips parted,
37:00but for a long time,
37:01no sound came out.
37:02Rodney turned to leave.
37:10Pausing at the door,
37:11his back still to me.
37:20I didn't feel anxious.
37:22I knew.
37:23He just couldn't accept me
37:24leaving him again.
37:26It was only a matter of time
37:27before he agreed.
37:29The next day,
37:29Rodney returned to the hospital.
37:33Bernie,
37:34I brought the cupcakes you like
37:36and the macaroons Kara loves.
37:38I accepted them naturally
37:40and shared them with Kara.
37:42She chatted with me
37:43the whole time,
37:44not once looking Rodney's way.
37:49The hurt in his eyes
37:50was unmistakable.
37:53After we finished,
37:54Rodney cleared the table
37:55and washed some fruit.
37:56While Kara watched cartoons,
37:58I worked quietly
37:59on a handmade accessory nearby.
38:01Rodney sat for a while
38:02before leaning toward Kara.
38:06What are you watching, Kara?
38:07She lifted her clear eyes
38:09to look at him,
38:10then silently looked back down.
38:11He couldn't keep the smile
38:13on his face any longer
38:14and left soon after,
38:15making up some excuse.
38:18He was trying,
38:19in his own clumsy way.
38:21But trying wasn't enough.
38:22Not anymore.
38:30Another evening,
38:32just before visiting hours ended,
38:34Rodney rushed into the hospital.
38:36I happened to step out
38:37to fetch water
38:37when Rodney pulled me
38:38into a tight embrace.
38:40I struggled
38:41but couldn't break free.
38:43His voice trembled
38:45with remorse.
38:46I found one of the security guards.
38:48He admitted Lindsay
38:49told them to kick you out.
38:52Bernie, I'm sorry.
38:53I didn't know
38:54she'd do something like that.
38:57I'm letting her go!
38:58I pushed him away
38:59expressionlessly.
39:00That was the least
39:01he should have done.
39:02Back then,
39:03a kind doctor
39:04had paid Kara's
39:05surgery deposit
39:06in advance.
39:07Otherwise,
39:08she wouldn't have gotten
39:09the appendectomy in time.
39:10Yet Rodney,
39:11her own father,
39:13had sat high
39:13and untouchable,
39:14waiting for us
39:15to crawl back to him.
39:21I walked back
39:22into the room
39:23and handed him
39:24the divorce papers.
39:27Kara stays with me.
39:31Look over the rest
39:32if acceptable,
39:33sign it.
39:37Rodney's hand went slack
39:38and the papers
39:39fluttered to the floor.
39:40He gripped my shoulders,
39:42pleading.
39:46Bernie, I swear.
39:49I'll cut Lindsay out
39:50completely.
39:51Let's start over.
39:52We can still build
39:53a good life together.
39:55Alright?
39:57I met his gaze evenly.
40:02Rodney,
40:03if you'd been like this
40:05three years ago,
40:05we wouldn't be here now.
40:13If you won't sign,
40:15fine.
40:15I'll take it to court.
40:20Phoenix Tech
40:21is about to go public,
40:22isn't it?
40:23He stumbled back
40:23a few steps,
40:25regret written
40:25across his face.
40:29But I didn't care anymore.
40:30I turned
40:31and went back inside.
40:35Rodney still didn't sign,
40:37so I emailed him
40:37the electronic version.
40:39Over the next few days,
40:41Rodney came to the hospital
40:42every day
40:42as if nothing had happened,
40:44checking on Kara
40:44and staying a while.
40:46After Kara was discharged,
40:47we moved to a new apartment.
40:49I didn't want the villa
40:50we'd shared before,
40:51it felt tainted now.
40:53Rodney's mother,
40:54Jeanette O'Connor,
40:55showed up at our door
40:56just as Kara and I
40:57were bathing the puppy
40:58we'd just adopted.
41:06Bernie,
41:07you and Rod
41:08have been through
41:08so much over the years.
41:11Now that you're back together,
41:13don't make waves.
41:15Kara's still little.
41:17Could you really let her grow up
41:19without a father?
41:20Seeing my calm expression,
41:22Jeanette seemed displeased.
41:23You young people
41:25make everything so dramatic.
41:28Lynn and Rod grew up together,
41:29so what if he looks out for her?
41:32If there were really anything
41:33between them
41:34they'd have married years ago,
41:35you wouldn't have even
41:37been in the picture.
41:39Realizing she'd gone too far,
41:41she cleared her throat softly.
41:43Anyway,
41:44just think about Kara
41:45before you decide.
41:47Besides,
41:48what decent man
41:50wants a divorced woman
41:51with a child?
41:54I listened with detached calm,
41:56neither arguing nor agreeing.
41:58So pretentious.
42:00Her voice was barely audible
42:01as she walked away.
42:02I texted Rodney afterward.
42:04Don't send anyone else
42:05to change my mind.
42:06It won't work.
42:07I want to divorce Rodney.
42:11He never replied.
42:13A few nights later,
42:14the doorbell rang unexpectedly.
42:17Rodney's assistant stood outside,
42:19panting slightly.
42:21Mrs. O'Connor.
42:22Mr. O'Connor is drunk.
42:24Could you open the door?
42:28I instinctively wanted to refuse,
42:30but at the sight of Kara's
42:31upturned face,
42:32I sighed.
42:33I didn't want to see Rodney,
42:35but the truth remained,
42:36he was Kara's father.
42:38Rodney's assistant left soon
42:39after putting him on the bed.
42:40I tossed a wet towel
42:42onto his face.
42:55Stop the act.
42:57I know how well
42:58you hold your liquor.
43:03After a moment of silence,
43:04he sat up and looked at me.
43:06His eyes rimmed red.
43:10If I hadn't pretended to be drunk,
43:12you wouldn't have let me in.
43:14I looked at him without a word.
43:16He ran a hand slowly
43:17through his hair,
43:18his voice suddenly rough
43:19with emotion.
43:20Bernie, I'm so sorry.
43:25I truly didn't know
43:26Lindsay would go against you
43:28like that.
43:29She used
43:32Phoenix Tech's name
43:33to contact several
43:34business partners
43:35and targeted your father
43:36all behind my back.
43:38Then she kept undermining
43:39your job hunt.
43:40I stood up, shocked.
43:42Everything made sense now.
43:44No wonder I'd been fired
43:45from every job
43:46for no real reason,
43:47even with a degree
43:48from a top university.
43:49Later,
43:50no company would even
43:51call me for an interview.
43:53In the end,
43:54I'd had to make a living
43:55selling my crafts
43:55on the street.
43:58Rodney looked at me,
44:00eyes bloodshot,
44:01his face etched
44:01with remorse.
44:02I'm sorry.
44:04You never came to me
44:05and I was so angry.
44:08I just stopped
44:09paying attention.
44:10Rodney stepped closer,
44:11his lowered gaze
44:12full of sorrow.
44:13Will you
44:14never forgive me?
44:16Suddenly,
44:17fragments of memory
44:18washed over me.
44:19The Rodney who was
44:20at a loss when I first
44:21told him how I felt
44:22about him.
44:24The Rodney who skipped
44:26class to take me
44:26to the hospital
44:27after I sprained
44:28my ankle in gym.
44:29The Rodney who was
44:30so thrilled to learn
44:31I was pregnant
44:32that he drove
44:32the wrong way home.
44:33And the Rodney who
44:35looked at me with disgust
44:36and said he regretted
44:37marrying me.
44:39After the first divorce,
44:41I'd been too busy
44:42surviving to dwell
44:43on emotions.
44:44But now,
44:45I finally understood,
44:46I had completely
44:47let go.
44:48I shook my head.
44:49I don't hate you.
44:53So forgiveness
44:54doesn't even come
44:54into it.
44:55Rodney's eyes clouded
44:56instantly with moisture.
44:58Ashamed,
44:58he turned away
44:59to hide it.
45:00From now on,
45:01the only relationship
45:02we have is as
45:03Kara's co-parents.
45:04Then I returned
45:05to the bedroom.
45:06I didn't know
45:07how much time had
45:07passed before I heard
45:08the main door
45:09close softly.
45:10When I came out,
45:11the signed divorce
45:12papers lay on
45:13the coffee table.
45:14He had revised
45:15the terms.
45:15He gave me
45:16more assets.
45:17Now I was wealthier
45:18than he was.
45:21My lawyer
45:22had all the materials
45:23ready and filed
45:24a suit against Lindsay.
45:25Demanding she return
45:26the marital assets
45:27she'd received
45:28from Rodney.
45:29On the day of the hearing,
45:31Lindsay appeared,
45:32stripped of all luxury.
45:33The radiant aura
45:34she once had
45:35was gone.
45:36Dropping her delicate,
45:37harmless facade,
45:38she glared at me
45:39with naked hatred.
45:40With solid proof,
45:42transfer records
45:42and purchase receipts.
45:44The amount she was
45:45ordered to return
45:46exceeded $350,000.
45:48While I had struggled
45:49to put food
45:50on the table,
45:51Rodney had been
45:51lavishing a fortune
45:52on his friend.
45:53I felt a gaze
45:54fixed on me,
45:55but I pretended
45:56not to notice.
45:57Once the judgment
45:58was announced,
45:59I walked straight out.
46:00Lindsay charged
46:01after me,
46:02shouting furiously,
46:03Bernita,
46:04don't think you've won!
46:05I stopped and turned
46:07with a derisive scoff.
46:09Everything you fought
46:11so desperately for
46:12is something
46:12I no longer want.
46:13You?
46:16You're nothing
46:16but a trash collector.
46:22Furious,
46:23she stomped her foot
46:24and lunged to slap me,
46:25no longer caring
46:26about her image,
46:27only to be yanked back
46:28and shoved away
46:29by a strong hand.
46:30After a cold glance
46:31at her,
46:31Rodney walked toward me.
46:32Behind him,
46:33she shrieked miserably.
46:35Rodney!
46:36I've waited for you
46:37all these years!
46:40How could you
46:41do this to me?
46:43You promised my mom
46:45you'd take care of me
46:46forever!
46:46Have you forgotten?
46:53Rodney's expression
46:54darkened.
46:55He hurriedly
46:56explained to me,
46:58Bernie,
46:59nothing ever happened
47:00between Lindsay and me.
47:01I smiled indifferently
47:02and turned to leave.
47:04Now that we were divorcing,
47:06I didn't give a damn
47:07what had or hadn't
47:07happened between them.
47:09My heart was closed
47:11and no explanation
47:12could open it.
47:16Rodney sued Lindsay
47:17for leaking company secrets
47:19and embezzling funds.
47:20The evidence was solid.
47:22Lindsay was sentenced
47:23to three years in prison.
47:25Three years.
47:26It would never undo
47:27what she'd done.
47:28A month later,
47:29Rodney and I
47:30finalized our divorce.
47:31I had dressed up
47:32and had my hair done.
47:33When I walked out
47:34with the divorce certificate
47:35in hand,
47:36I felt lighter than ever.
47:38Even the air felt clearer,
47:39for the first time in years,
47:41I could breathe.
47:42Ernie,
47:43Rodney's voice
47:44came from behind me.
47:46Could we have
47:47one last meal together?
47:49I turned these days.
47:51Rodney had looked
47:51worn down.
47:52He looked like a man
47:53who'd lost everything
47:54because he had.
47:55His hair was untidy,
47:57bangs falling
47:58across his eyes.
47:59Dark circles
48:00shadowed his cheeks.
48:01His beard was unshaven
48:02and his face
48:03seemed thinner.
48:04The second divorce
48:05seemed to have
48:06hit him hard.
48:07Good.
48:07It was about time
48:09he felt something.
48:10I smiled.
48:11I'll pass.
48:13I have things to do.
48:14With that,
48:15I drove away.
48:16I didn't look back.
48:17Not even once
48:18it was over.
48:20Back when I was
48:21at the hospital,
48:22a nurse had bought
48:23a few pet clothes
48:24from me.
48:26The nurse posted
48:28photos of her cat
48:28wearing them online
48:29and they unexpectedly
48:30went viral.
48:32Orders for my online shop
48:33flooded in within days.
48:35The apartment
48:36was overrun
48:36by my work materials.
48:38After looking around,
48:39I rented a studio.
48:40The renovation
48:41was nearly done
48:42and we were airing it out.
48:44Standing before
48:44the tidy work tables
48:45and neatly organized materials.
48:48I couldn't help
48:48recording a short clip
48:49and posting it
48:50on my social account.
48:51Every piece I made
48:52carried a story.
48:53My story.
48:54Not anyone else's.
48:55For the first time,
48:56I was building something
48:56that couldn't be taken away.
48:58I used to anchor
48:58my entire life to Rodney.
49:00Looking back now,
49:01I realized how foolish
49:02I had been.
49:03I should have shed the label
49:04of full-time homemaker
49:05long ago
49:06and found my own worth.
49:07This studio marked
49:08the beginning
49:08of a new chapter.
49:10Right after I posted,
49:11the video received a like
49:12from an account named Ro.
49:17Ro.
49:18Rodney O'Connor.
49:20Still watching,
49:21still too late.
49:22Children's bones healed quickly.
49:24Kara recovered well
49:25and after a final checkup
49:26was cleared
49:27to return to school.
49:28One day,
49:29I went to pick her up.
49:31The moment we returned
49:32to the car,
49:32we saw a boy
49:33sitting in the back seat.
49:36Lewis!
49:37What are you doing
49:38in my mommy's car?
49:40I almost laughed
49:41at the indignation
49:41in her voice.
49:43Lewis Blanchard
49:44covered her mouth.
49:51Shhh!
49:52If my uncle hears you,
49:54I'm dead!
49:55Just then,
49:56a deep voice
49:56sounded outside.
49:58Lewis.
49:58Out.
49:59I turned to see
50:00a tall,
50:01sharp-featured man
50:02standing beside the car.
50:03Lewis kicked and protested,
50:05but the man lifted him out
50:06effortlessly.
50:07After apologizing to me,
50:09he carried Lewis away
50:10by the collar.
50:14Lewis is the class bully
50:16from D2.
50:17Mrs. Bryant told us
50:18to stay away from him.
50:20She scrunched up
50:20her little brow.
50:28Mommy, what's a rich,
50:31eligible bachelor?
50:34At nap time,
50:35Miss Bryant said
50:36Lewis' uncle
50:38is a rich,
50:39eligible bachelor.
50:41I chuckled,
50:42gently pinching her cheek.
50:44Caught you.
50:45You weren't napping,
50:47were you?
50:47Life was slowly
50:49piecing itself back together
50:50over the next six months.
50:52My studio gained momentum.
50:55I partnered with a factory
50:56to add batch-produced lines
50:58alongside my handmade items.
51:00I wanted to build
51:01my own brand
51:01step-by-step.
51:03This brand was mine,
51:04every stitch,
51:05every design,
51:06every late night.
51:07Not as someone's wife,
51:09not as someone's mother,
51:11just me.
51:12One day,
51:12while at the factory
51:13to tweak a design detail,
51:14I saw the director
51:16seeing someone out.
51:17It was Lewis' uncle.
51:18We'd only met once,
51:20so I simply nodded
51:21and turned to leave.
51:22But he called out to me.
51:27Carlton Gilbert.
51:29He introduced himself.
51:31Executive director
51:31at Starlight Group.
51:33He had seen my studio's
51:34samples at the factory
51:35and was very interested.
51:36Starlight Group
51:37was preparing year-end gifts,
51:38small in quantity,
51:39but with high design standards.
51:41He hadn't yet found
51:42a design that clicked.
51:43Of course,
51:44I wouldn't miss
51:45a business opportunity.
51:46Not after everything
51:48I'd fought for.
51:49We exchanged contacts.
51:51Something about his directness
51:52was refreshing.
51:53No games.
51:54No hidden agendas.
51:56Just business.
51:57I had no idea
51:58that my past
51:59was already waiting
52:00for me at the studio.
52:03As soon as I returned
52:04to the studio,
52:05my newly hired assistant,
52:06Neil Hull,
52:07told me someone was waiting.
52:09It felt like a long time
52:10since I'd last seen Rodney.
52:12I hadn't wanted to.
52:14He looked even more haggard
52:16than on the day
52:17of the divorce.
52:18His suit hung loosely.
52:19His eyes lit up
52:20when he saw me,
52:21the joy on his face
52:22undisguised.
52:25That joy cut deeper
52:27than any accusation.
52:28Because I couldn't return it.
52:30Not anymore.
52:31He had set up
52:32a trust fund for Kara.
52:40I don't think I'll get
52:41to see her grow up.
52:43Stunned,
52:43I looked up at him.
52:44His eyes were rimmed red.
52:50Maybe this is karma.
52:52Last month,
52:53I was diagnosed
52:54with liver cancer.
52:57Late stage.
52:58I opened my mouth
52:59but didn't know
53:00what to say.
53:01What do you say
53:01to someone who's dying?
53:03Someone you used to love?
53:05Silence filled the room.
53:06The light in Rodney's eyes
53:07slowly faded
53:08and he smiled
53:09self-mockingly.
53:10Before leaving,
53:10he suddenly pulled me
53:11into his embrace.
53:12I felt the heat of tears
53:13against my neck.
53:14I'm sorry.
53:15His voice was choked.
53:17I stood frozen,
53:18my hands at my sides.
53:21Rodney died for months later.
53:23He had notarized
53:24his will in advance,
53:26dividing his company
53:27shares among me,
53:28Kara and Jeanette.
53:31At least your ex-husband
53:33did one decent thing
53:34before he died.
53:35Carlton swapped
53:35his neatly cut steak
53:36for mine.
53:40It's been a while
53:41since the divorce.
53:43Aren't you thinking
53:44of letting someone new
53:44into the picture?
53:45I met his gaze.
53:46Mr. Gilbert,
53:47is that someone new?
53:58I won't argue
53:59if that's what you think.
54:01We clinked glasses
54:01and smiled at each other.
54:03The seasons changed.
54:04My studio grew
54:05from a small workshop
54:06into a brand
54:07that people recognized.
54:08Kara started first grade,
54:09top of her class,
54:11with a smile
54:11that could light up
54:12any room.
54:13She still didn't talk
54:14much about Rodney.
54:16But sometimes,
54:17I'd catch her sitting quietly,
54:19looking at old photos,
54:20her small fingers
54:21tracing his face.
54:23Carlton was there,
54:24steady, undemanding,
54:25sure, never pushing,
54:27always present.
54:28For the first time in years,
54:29I wasn't looking back.
54:30I was just,
54:31here,
54:31and that was enough.
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