- 2 days ago
THE Blood BAG BRIDE FREE
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Short filmTranscript
00:01Memento's fingers traced my cheek after we made love, warm, gentle, the same touch I'd
00:07craved for five years of marriage.
00:09You did well.
00:10I smiled against his pillow, believed every word, my period was two weeks late, and for
00:15the first time in my hollow life, I felt hope blooming inside me, a child, his child, ours.
00:21Then the study door stood a jive, just a crack, maybe an inch, and I heard his voice from
00:26the other side, cold, clinical, like he was reading a lab report.
00:31The antibodies are almost mature, 97%.
00:34His brother Enrique laughed, low, cruel.
00:37All those nights in bed, I almost thought you were starting to enjoy it.
00:42Memento's response cut through me like glass.
00:46I can barely stand her.
00:48Every time I touch her, I feel like scrubbing my skin raw.
00:51If her blood didn't have the antibodies Sile needs, I wouldn't even look at her.
00:56My hand flew to my mouth.
00:57I was just a stand-in.
00:59A blood bag with a pulse.
01:01For five years, I wasn't even real to him.
01:03The man who called me his only star had been counting down the days until he could throw
01:07me away.
01:08Night had settled in.
01:09The bedroom still held the scent of skin and shared heat.
01:12I lay curled on the bed, my wrist bandage stained with blood.
01:15Clemente traced my cheek, his eyes full of tenderness.
01:18You did well.
01:19He murmured.
01:20I don't know what I'd do without you.
01:22I managed a weak smile.
01:24Anything for you.
01:25I'd married him five years ago to save my crumbling family.
01:28My father arrested, mother bedridden, sister in a vegetative state.
01:33In business, Clemente was cold and merciless.
01:36But with me, he was gentle, caring, loving.
01:39Or so I thought.
01:40400 milliliters tomorrow.
01:42He said.
01:43He pressed a kiss to my forehead.
01:45The host personality has been getting more unstable.
01:47But my mind had already drifted elsewhere.
01:50My period was two weeks late.
01:51The nausea that morning stirred a fragile hope inside me.
01:55I might be pregnant.
01:56The idea both thrilled and frightened me.
01:59Donating that much blood would be dangerous for a pregnant woman.
02:02I ventured carefully.
02:04Clem, do you think we could take a little less tomorrow?
02:07His eyes flickered, then soft again.
02:10Probably just a cold.
02:11I lied.
02:12I needed to be sure first.
02:13If it were true, I'd tell him as a surprise.
02:15The best kind.
02:17Just see how you feel tomorrow.
02:18He said.
02:19I'll be in the study for a bit.
02:20Get some rest.
02:21The door closed softly behind him.
02:23I lay still for a moment.
02:25Excitement bubbled up inside me.
02:26I wanted to tell him.
02:28I wanted to see his face when he found out.
02:32The study door stood ajar.
02:33I stepped closer.
02:34Then stopped short at the sound of voices inside.
02:37Clemente's.
02:38And another I recognized instantly.
02:40Enrique Tate.
02:41His closest friend.
02:43My younger sister Sylvia Ritter's fiance.
02:45The antibodies are almost fully mature.
02:48Clemente's voice was clinical.
02:5197%.
02:51Two more draws at most.
02:53And we can extract everything.
02:56Sylvia's really going to pull through.
02:58Enrique said.
02:59I heard him let out a breath.
03:00You've been at this for a year.
03:02Playing along every day.
03:03Seeing her face.
03:04That had to be rough.
03:07I froze outside the door.
03:09My hand was halfway to the knob.
03:11It's nothing.
03:12Clemente said.
03:13I heard the scoff in his voice.
03:15She's just a stand-in.
03:16Every time I see a hint of Cell in her face.
03:19I remember what she did to Sylve.
03:21All the pretending is worth it.
03:23You really threw yourself into it.
03:24Enrique said.
03:25I could hear the grin in his voice.
03:29All those nights in bed.
03:30He chuckled.
03:31I almost thought you were starting to enjoy it.
03:35Enjoy it?
03:36Clemente barked aloud.
03:37I can barely stand her.
03:38Every time I touch her.
03:39I feel like scrubbing my skin raw.
03:41If her blood didn't have the antibodies Sile needs, I wouldn't even look at her.
03:46I clapped a hand over my mouth before a sound could escape.
03:51When Syl wakes up, what happens to Marcella?
03:55Enrique asked.
03:56Fall for her?
03:57Enrique scoffed.
03:59Sylve's the only one I care about.
04:00Marcella's just a lookalike.
04:02Do what you want.
04:03Clemente said.
04:05Clemente had told me there were two versions of him.
04:07Clemente and Enrique stepped out, watching me flee with cold eyes.
04:12Get her.
04:13Clemente demanded.
04:14Dwayne Hickman the hitman I'd saved by accident three years ago.
04:18Ella, where are you going at this hour?
04:20Clemente and Enrique sat on the couch, relaxed, almost amused.
04:25In a robe?
04:26Enrique raised a brow.
04:28Did you hear something?
04:29I backed up until my shoulders hit the door.
04:32Clemente stepped forward, eyes sharp and icy.
04:35Stop lying.
04:37Well, well.
04:39Our stand-in's not behaving.
04:41You've been using me this whole time?
04:43My voice cracked.
04:44The blood?
04:44The marriage?
04:46All of it was fake?
04:50What else would it be?
04:51He gripped my chin.
04:53You really thought I'd fall for the woman who ruined Sile?
04:56Sylve saw you last.
04:57Enrique said flatly.
04:58The final message on her phone.
05:00Ella needs me.
05:01It's urgent.
05:02Then she crashed into a coma.
05:04And somehow you ended up in Clem's bed.
05:08I didn't send that message.
05:09I realized.
05:10It was you.
05:11You set me up.
05:13Clemente's grip tightened, sharp enough to make me gasp.
05:16You figured it out too late.
05:18His voice soft in a way that made my skin crawl.
05:20Your dad's company?
05:21Your mom's illness?
05:23The crash?
05:24All arranged.
05:25We needed you desperate enough to give blood willingly.
05:30Clemente and Enrique closed in.
05:32So you can't bring yourself to do it, can you?
05:35Enrique lounged on the couch.
05:36Clemente's face darkened.
05:38Enrique?
05:39Mind your words.
05:41Clemente grabbed Enrique by the collar.
05:43I saw it a flicker of hesitation in Clemente's eyes.
05:46I clutched my belly, voice shaking.
05:49I've been meaning to tell you, please, for the sake of our child, let me go.
05:54Enrique recovered from the shock.
05:57Pregnant?
05:57Perfect timing.
05:58Your other self never ceases to surprise.
06:01Then the butler burst in, face beaming.
06:03She passed out again, but the doctor says she needs antibodies urgently, or else, start
06:08the car.
06:09Clemente commanded.
06:11What about her?
06:12Enrique pointed at me.
06:14Clemente cast a cold glance.
06:16Bring her along.
06:18We need her blood now.
06:19No!
06:19Word ripped from-
06:20I'm pregnant!
06:22I can't-
06:23To bodyguards charged in, flanking me.
06:26I thrashed wildly.
06:27Clemente, that's your own flesh and blood!
06:29Enrique stepped forward, smirked.
06:32Before I could scream again, he seized my chin and twisted.
06:35I couldn't make a single coherent sound.
06:37Tears and blood ran together down my face.
06:39Much quieter.
06:41Enrique said.
06:42And she won't be running away now.
06:44I curled on the floor.
06:45Agony blurred my vision.
06:47With my last strength, I shot Clemente a beseeching glance.
06:50Those eyes once full of love and trust now held only despair.
06:53He shut his own eyes.
06:54When they opened again, nothing.
06:56His pant leg slipped from my grasp.
06:58I was dragged out.
06:59Shoved into the trunk.
07:02At the hospital, Enrique dragged me from the trunk into a wheelchair.
07:06What happened to her?
07:07My mother set down her teacup, voice dripping with disgust.
07:11She didn't cooperate.
07:12Enrique pushed the wheelchair forward.
07:14Even tried to threaten Clem by saying she was pregnant.
07:18Pregnant?
07:18My mother shot to her feet, slapped me across the face.
07:21I struggled to speak, jaw agony.
07:23Nothing came out.
07:25Know what?
07:26That you'd harm your own sister for a man?
07:29Sylvia is your own flesh and blood!
07:31Then the door swung open.
07:33A nurse wheeled Sylvia in.
07:34Enrique drove a sharp kick into my abdomen.
07:37My baby.
07:38I mouthed silently at Clemente.
07:40He stood beside Sylvia's bed.
07:43Holding her hand, sensing my gaze, he turned.
07:45Then looked away.
07:47Continue.
07:47Enrique said coldly.
07:49Stop!
07:49A doctor shouted.
07:50Her blood pressure is dropping.
07:52One more draw and she could die.
07:55Take the blood.
07:55Clemente ordered.
07:56Use drugs.
07:57Keep her alive.
07:59When the fifth bag was full blood pooled beneath me.
08:01She had a miscarriage!
08:03The nurse exclaimed.
08:04Only then did Enrique notice.
08:07His gaze flickered.
08:08He sneered.
08:09Clem, go.
08:11Stay with Syl.
08:12Leave this to me.
08:13Clemente nodded.
08:14Walked away.
08:15After the door clicked shut, Enrique crouched down.
08:18Grabbed my chin.
08:20Think you can use a baby to level with Clem?
08:22Never gonna happen.
08:24He turned to the doctor.
08:26Perform the abortion.
08:28And remove her uterus.
08:29In case she tries again.
08:33Sylve, don't get upset.
08:35Enrique soothed her.
08:36No, I wanna talk to Marski.
08:38Sylvia grabbed his hand.
08:40Enrique sighed.
08:41Kissed her forehead.
08:42Five minutes.
08:43I'll be waiting outside.
08:44The door clicked shut.
08:45He hadn't left.
08:46Turned back.
08:47Leaned close.
08:48Lips at my ear.
08:49If Sile sheds one tear, I'd break a bone.
08:53He pulled out his phone and it held the screen in my face.
08:55A video, me and Clemente.
08:58In our bedroom, my face visible.
09:00Clear as daylight, dazed.
09:02Cooperate.
09:03Thumb hovered over the screen.
09:04Or this reeks.
09:05I stared at him, hatred burning, nodded.
09:08Understood.
09:09The door burst open.
09:10Clemente rushed in.
09:12Saw Enrique leaning over me.
09:14What's going on here?
09:16Sylvia called.
09:17Clem, why are you here?
09:20Marcella, I'm talking to you.
09:22Play dumb.
09:23He sneered, uncorked the bottle.
09:25Phil, the syringe.
09:27Then never speak again.
09:29I spat one word.
09:31Sure.
09:32Xavier and my mother walked in with nurses.
09:35Phil, go back!
09:36My mother snapped.
09:38She's not worth it.
09:39While I lay there invisible, Clemente's hand quivered on the syringe.
09:46He remembered a year ago.
09:47Me in his arms.
09:49Clem, if I lose my voice, will you remember how I sound?
09:54Give the injection, or not.
09:57Enrique's voice snapped him back.
09:59Clemente gathered himself.
10:01Clem.
10:02Sylvia called weakly.
10:04He closed his eyes.
10:05Opened them nothing but ice remained.
10:07Silence fell like a shroud.
10:09I woke to pain.
10:11No sense of time passed.
10:12My throat burned like fire.
10:14The drug had taken effect.
10:15Sylvia sat beside my bed, peeling an apple.
10:18Finally awake.
10:19How does it feel to lose your voice forever?
10:22She took a bite.
10:24Don't look at me like that.
10:26Blame yourself for taking what's mine.
10:28Clemente!
10:29Enrique!
10:30Our parents!
10:31Their love belongs to me!
10:33What makes you think you can claim even a fraction of it?
10:36I shakily wrote on paper.
10:38Did you plan the car crash?
10:40She glanced down.
10:41Grin widened.
10:42Bravo!
10:43Yes, it was me.
10:44I sent that message.
10:46Planned the crash.
10:47Severe, but not fatal.
10:48She leaned in.
10:50Hissing like a snake.
10:51Why?
10:53Do you know what the funnest part was?
10:55I pretended to be sick.
10:57Said terrible things about you.
11:00Clemente believed I saved him.
11:02Enrique believed you bullied me.
11:05Even our parents believed it.
11:07I wrote, they are my family.
11:11Your family?
11:13In this family, there can only be one princess.
11:17Mom and dad chose me.
11:19From the first toy you gave me.
11:21Your birthday cake?
11:22They accepted everything yours should be mine.
11:25She smoothed her clothes gracefully.
11:26But don't worry.
11:28Once I'm well, I'll take good care of you.
11:31A mute girl with mental issues gets shipped off to a far-flung asylum.
11:36Makes perfect sense, doesn't it?
11:39And now, it's time to become the rightful Mrs. McNeil.
11:43Suddenly my gaze fell on the family portrait by the bedside, taken on my 18th birthday.
11:47I pointed at it with a shaking finger.
11:49Sylvia followed.
11:50Smile deepened.
11:53Oh, that?
11:54Mom and dad know everything.
11:56They support every decision I make.
11:58Dad cooked the books to bankrupt the company.
12:00Mom played sick to drive you to the wall.
12:03We pulled it off flawlessly, didn't we?
12:06Her voice sweet yet cruel.
12:07Marcy?
12:08In fact, you were never meant to exist.
12:11If only I were the only twin to survive in my mom's womb, everything would have been perfect.
12:16The last flicker of light died in my eyes.
12:18I closed them.
12:19Tears fell silently.
12:21Sylvia chuckled.
12:22Are you crying?
12:24Save it.
12:25No one is going to pity you.
12:26Just then faint footsteps outside.
12:28Clemente and Enrique came back.
12:31Sylvia's eyes flashed.
12:32She grabbed the knife.
12:34Slashed at her own neck.
12:35Blood gushed out.
12:36Sylvia screamed.
12:38Slumped to the door.
12:41Door banged open.
12:42Syl!
12:43Clemente charged in first.
12:45Saw the blood.
12:45Face darkened.
12:46Enrique followed.
12:47Eyes burning with rage.
12:48Syl!
12:49What the hell is going on?
12:50Sylvia lifted a trembling hand.
12:52Pointed at me.
12:55Marcy, why?
12:56I just wanted to peel an apple for you.
12:58Marcella!
12:59What have you done to her?
13:01Enrique yanked me off the bed.
13:02How dare you hurt Syl!
13:04I'll make you pay!
13:06My right leg, in a cast, slammed into the bed.
13:09Pain darkened my vision.
13:10I wanted to defend myself yet only broken gurgles came out.
13:14Drop the ass.
13:15Enrique raised his leg to kick.
13:16Clemente shouted.
13:17Enough!
13:18Save Syl first.
13:21Locked in the hospital room.
13:23No food.
13:23No water.
13:25I curled in the corner.
13:27Watching light brighten in and fade outside the window.
13:30Clemente stopped in front of me.
13:32Syl woke up.
13:33But psychological trauma is severe.
13:35She screams when she sees red.
13:38Doctor says extreme fear.
13:40He squatted down.
13:42Marcella, how could you do it?
13:43She's your sister.
13:45I was in too much pain to respond.
13:47But it doesn't matter anymore.
13:49He stood.
13:49Antivite extraction complete.
13:51We don't need you.
13:52A doctor handed him a psychiatric evaluation report.
13:57Severe depression.
13:59Schizophrenic tendencies.
14:01Violent behavior.
14:03Recommendation.
14:04Immediate transfer to specialized institution.
14:07As for Mrs. Mcnail, that position belongs to Syl.
14:10She saved my life.
14:12Eight years ago.
14:14Rushed into a fire to pull me out.
14:16That summer, I was sketching near an abandoned factory.
14:19Sylve got a permanent scar saving me.
14:22Clemento's eyes grew complicated.
14:24So I promised to marry her.
14:26Take care of her forever.
14:28Marrying you was only to keep you stable.
14:30Make blood draws easier.
14:32From beginning to end.
14:34The only one I love is Syl.
14:37Enrique walked in.
14:38Eyes filled with disgust.
14:40Sylve is kind-hearted.
14:42Like a little son since childhood.
14:44If she hadn't played with me back then.
14:47As an illegitimate child, I'd have been bullied to death.
14:49She even saved my life.
14:51Fell into water once.
14:52She jumped in and pulled me out.
14:54They stood shoulder to shoulder.
14:55You shouldn't stand in Syl's way.
14:58Enrique said coldly.
15:00I began to tremble all over.
15:02It's not like this.
15:03It's not like this.
15:05Eight years ago.
15:06The one who rushed into the fire was me.
15:10I carried unconscious Clementa from the flames.
15:12My left arm struck by a falling beam.
15:15Still aches on rainy days.
15:16And when Enrico fell into the water, it was me who jumped in.
15:20Dragged the drowning boy ashore.
15:23Nearly developed pneumonia afterward.
15:26Sylvia Hu always looked down on everyone.
15:28Who wouldn't spare Encrick a glance since childhood?
15:33How could Esigi have saved them?
15:35I screamed in utter collapse.
15:37I wanted to speak.
15:38Wanted to tear apart every lie.
15:42Still making a scene?
15:44Enrique frowned.
15:45Bodyguards.
15:46Four burly men rushed in.
15:48Surrounded me.
15:49Beating.
15:50Kicking.
15:50I protected my head.
15:52Curled on the ground.
15:55Enough.
15:55Clemente finally spoke.
15:57Take her away.
15:58I was dragged out through the corridor.
16:00Saw Sylvia being coached by our parents to take medicine.
16:02Seeing me, she silently mouthed,
16:04Farewell forever.
16:05I closed my eyes.
16:07Gave up all resistance.
16:09The car drove out of the hospital onto winding mountain roads in the suburbs.
16:13Night deployed.
16:15Roads twisted.
16:16Suddenly dash blinding high beams from a half.
16:18Another car sped up from behind up.
16:20Both cars crashed into line simultaneously.
16:23Deafening collision echoing through mountains.
16:25Trapped in the deformed backseat.
16:27Blood blurring my vision.
16:28Gasoline spilled everywhere.
16:30Pungent smell.
16:31A figure stepped from the opposite car.
16:34Enrique's personal subordinate.
16:35Staring at me with a sinister look.
16:37Throat slitting gesture.
16:39It was Enrique.
16:40He wanted me dead.
16:42Gasoline met electric spark.
16:43Boom dash flames engulfed the car.
16:45Wave of heat.
16:46I pounded on the window.
16:48Useless.
16:48I turned saw cars parked in the distance.
16:51Clemente's people.
16:52Watching coldly.
16:54No intention of rescuing.
16:55Fire grew fiercer.
16:57Smoke choking my lungs.
16:59Consciousness fading.
17:00Just when I thought I was doomed.
17:01A dark figure rushed into the flames like a ghost.
17:04Car window smashed.
17:05A face appeared outside.
17:07Familiar somehow.
17:08Strong hands reached in.
17:10Unlocked the door.
17:11Dragged me from the sea of fire.
17:13Hold on tight.
17:14Hoisted onto his back.
17:15Knife in one hand.
17:16Shielding me with the other.
17:18Blade carved bloody path through attackers.
17:20Bullets whizzed.
17:21New wounds appeared on his body.
17:23But he didn't retreat a single step.
17:25Ahead only cliff's edge.
17:26Below.
17:27Surging turbulent river.
17:28Hold on.
17:29With me on his back he leaped into the void.
17:31I see Bainchill and River swallowed us both.
17:35River swallowed me whole.
17:37I see water rushed into nose.
17:38Mouth.
17:39Lungs.
17:40Couldn't breathe.
17:41Couldn't scream.
17:42Dwayne's arm around my waist.
17:43Dwayne Hickman the hitman I'd saved three years ago.
17:46The one I'd texted from the storage room.
17:49Help me.
17:49He'd come.
17:50Too late to stop them but not too late to save my life.
17:53Current tearing at us.
17:54Pulling apart.
17:55Broken leg throbbed.
17:56Burned forearms stung.
17:57Every wound screaming at once.
17:58Darkness crept from edges of vision.
18:00Fought to keep eyes open.
18:01Surface grew farther and farther away.
18:04Voices above.
18:05Muffled.
18:05Distant.
18:06Jumped into the river.
18:07Find them.
18:07Alive or dead.
18:08Even here.
18:09Even drowning.
18:10I recognized his voice.
18:11Of course he did.
18:13I'd outlived my usefulness.
18:14Blood drained.
18:15Child taken.
18:16Voice silenced.
18:17What was left?
18:18I was nothing to them.
18:19Current spun me like a rag doll.
18:21Sank.
18:21Rose.
18:22Sank again.
18:23Each time I surfaced.
18:25Gasped for air.
18:26That wasn't there.
18:27Fingers numb.
18:29Couldn't feel Dwan's grip anymore.
18:32Had I lost him?
18:33He'd saved me once.
18:35He wouldn't let go.
18:37Another fragment of sound.
18:39Organize a rescue team.
18:41Search upstream and downstream.
18:43That voice.
18:44Clemente.
18:46Was he looking for me?
18:47Should have brought relief.
18:49Instead tasted like ash.
18:51He'd watched me burn.
18:52Ordered me dragged.
18:54Seen nothing worth saving.
18:56Now he wanted to play hero?
18:58I laughed underwater.
19:01Bubbles escaped.
19:03Last breath wasted on mockery.
19:05Let them search.
19:07Let them argue.
19:09Because I was gone.
19:11Could feel it.
19:12Cold spreading through veins.
19:15Reaching for my heart.
19:17Sometime later consciousness flickered back.
19:19Damp sand beneath my cheek.
19:20Small fire crackling nearby.
19:23Dwayne's jacket wrapped around me.
19:25He knelt beside me.
19:26Checking my injuries.
19:28Cast on right leg loose.
19:29Forehead wounds still bleeding.
19:31Worst problems.
19:32Hypothermia.
19:33Lack of oxygen.
19:35His voice low.
19:36Hold on.
19:38We have to out of here.
19:39I nodded.
19:40Trembling.
19:41He seemed to read my thoughts.
19:46Don't talk.
19:47You saved me once.
19:48I owe you my life.
19:50Now paying my debt.
19:52He lifted me onto his back.
19:53Walked downstream along the bank.
19:55As dawn broke a remote fishing village appeared.
19:58Rest there.
19:59You need clean clothes.
20:01Food.
20:02But as we approached.
20:03Dwayne stopped.
20:04Muscles tensed.
20:06What's wrong?
20:07I mouthed.
20:09He didn't answer.
20:11Quickly hid me under an abandoned fishing boat.
20:14Stay here.
20:15No matter what happens.
20:17Don't come out.
20:18I tried to grab him.
20:19Already gone.
20:20Running opposite direction.
20:21Then I saw them.
20:23Three men in black.
20:24Emerging like wolves.
20:25Movements to smooth.
20:26Two trained.
20:26Professional killers.
20:27It was Enrique.
20:28He hadn't just wanted me dead.
20:30He wanted Dwayne's life too.
20:31Twenty million dollars worth of dead.
20:33I clenched my jaw until it hurt.
20:35Couldn't hide here while Dwayne fought alone.
20:37This was my mess.
20:38Should end with me.
20:39I dragged myself out from under the boat.
20:41Broken legs screamed.
20:45The assassin grinned.
20:46Come here first.
20:47I took a step forward.
20:49His hand reached for my arm.
20:50I drove my elbow hard into his throat.
20:52He staggered back.
20:53Coughing.
20:54Choking.
20:55Recovered.
20:55Fast.
20:56Eyes vicious.
20:58You refuse a toast.
21:00You drink a 40.
21:02My hand moved on its own.
21:04Snatched second gun from his waist.
21:06Pressed to his temple.
21:07Frozen.
21:08Him staring at my trembling finger.
21:09He's staring down barrel of my own cowardice.
21:11You don't have the guts.
21:13My blood went...
21:13A pampered young lady.
21:14Ever killed a chicken?
21:16He was right.
21:18Finger on trigger.
21:20Couldn't make it move.
21:24Gunshot split the air.
21:26Killer's eyes went wide.
21:27Red hole in forehead.
21:29Collapsed like puppet with strings cut.
21:31Dwayne stood behind him.
21:33Smoke curling from gun barrel.
21:35Other to lay dead at his feet.
21:37I lowered gun.
21:38Hands shaking.
21:40I told you not to come out.
21:42Voice like ice.
21:44Moved fast checking bodies.
21:45Cleaning evidence.
21:47Professional.
21:48Efficient.
21:48Cold.
21:49Then I remembered something.
21:50Hand to neck.
21:51Amulet hanging there.
21:52Rico's name engraved on gold.
21:54Enrique's nickname.
21:55Birthday gift from years ago.
21:57One of a pair.
21:58He wore the other.
21:58I tore chain off.
22:00Hesitated one second.
22:02Tossed amulet beside the corpse.
22:04He deserves it.
22:05I mouthed.
22:06Dwayne saw.
22:07Frowned slightly.
22:08Didn't object.
22:08Police coming soon.
22:09We need to move.
22:11Disappeared into bamboo forest.
22:14Days later.
22:15Hiding in shack on village edge.
22:18Dwayne finally spoke.
22:21Enrique found your amulet at the scene.
22:23Showed Sylvia a photo.
22:25Asked how it ended up with you.
22:27She said couldn't remember.
22:29Played amnesia card.
22:30Same act for years.
22:31But something shifted in him after that.
22:33I see it in how he looks at her now.
22:37Like seeing a stranger.
22:39What question?
22:41My voice barely a whisper.
22:43Dwayne met my eyes.
22:44He asked Clementus.
22:46That fire eight years ago.
22:48The person who saved you.
22:50Are you sure it was Syl?
22:52Clemento froze.
22:53Said of course.
22:54Parents told him so.
22:56Syl showed Scar on her back.
22:58But Enrico pressed.
23:00Did you see it with your own eyes?
23:02When you woke.
23:03Who was by your bed?
23:05Clementa was in coma three days.
23:07Woke.
23:08Syl was there.
23:09Showed Scar.
23:10Believed her.
23:12But Enrico asked something else.
23:16Can you really tell difference between a burn scar and any other scar?
23:21Silence stretched between us.
23:24Truth was right there.
23:25Waiting.
23:26If person who saved Clemente wasn't Syl.
23:28If person who saved Enrico wasn't Syl either.
23:31Then everything they'd done to me.
23:34Every drop of blood taken.
23:36Every bone broken.
23:38Built on a lie.
23:39A lie Sylvia had told.
23:41A lie they chose to believe.
23:45Dwayne's phone buzzed.
23:46He glanced at screen.
23:48Expression shifted.
23:49What is it?
23:52My contact inside Tate's organization.
23:55Lowered voice.
23:55Enrico got call while still in Clemento's office.
24:00From his assassinates.
24:02One's hunting us.
24:04They found us.
24:09Where?
24:10Westridge Hill.
24:11The cliff.
24:13My blood went cold.
24:15Dwayne seriously injured.
24:16You were shot too.
24:18Nowhere left to run.
24:19You jumped.
24:21Dwayne's voice flat.
24:22Reciting facts.
24:24Sheer drop.
24:25Rocks below.
24:27They're saying we shouldn't have survived.
24:30I stared at him.
24:32But then something happened.
24:34Enrico's contact said Enrique went completely still after hearing that report.
24:38Grabbed phone.
24:40Shouted one word.
24:41Stop!
24:43Ordered pursuit called off immediately.
24:45Send teams down to search.
24:46Wants us alive.
24:47Dwayne looked at me.
24:48If we're dead, he couldn't finish this.
24:52He needs answers.
24:53For first time, I think he's afraid those answers might destroy him.
24:58Outside, wind picked up.
25:03Somewhere across those mountains.
25:05A man who tried to kill me.
25:07Now desperate to find me alive.
25:10Irony tasted like ash.
25:14But something shifted in Enrique after that.
25:17I could see it in his eyes when he looked at her like seeing her for the first time.
25:21Dwayne's hand rested on my shoulder.
25:25Ella.
25:26They want to see you.
25:27I looked up from my cot.
25:29Clemente and Enrique stood in doorway.
25:30Faces pale.
25:31Hollow.
25:32Gaunt.
25:32Like men who hadn't slept in days.
25:35We found everything.
25:36Enrique said.
25:37Voice rough.
25:38Medical records.
25:39The lies.
25:40All of it.
25:41Sylvia was never sick?
25:43I mouthed.
25:44Never.
25:45Clemente's jaw tightened.
25:46Not once.
25:47Every bag of blood taken from me.
25:48Every night lying weak in hospital bed while she played victim.
25:52All of it a performance.
25:57She's out of state now.
25:59Enrique said.
26:00Going to confront her.
26:03But you should be there too.
26:06You deserve to watch her fall.
26:10Sylvia stood straight.
26:11Mask shattering.
26:13Because I refuse to accept it!
26:16Ever since we were kids, whatever Markella had, I took from her.
26:22Eyes sweeping room.
26:23Moment toward my corner.
26:24She didn't see me.
26:26I saw everything.
26:27Toys.
26:29Clothes.
26:30Presents.
26:31Smile twisted.
26:32Why did you two revolve around her?
26:34Pointed at Enrique.
26:35You!
26:36Marcy protected you from bullies.
26:39Moment she turned away, you crawled after me!
26:41Turned on Clemente.
26:44And you?
26:44Her only starlight!
26:46Disgusting!
26:48If I hadn't...
26:49Faked saving you from that fire...
26:53The Ryder family can only have one princess!
26:56Sylvia laughed.
26:56Me!
26:58Marcy is my shadow.
26:59Two idiots I've been playing for fools!
27:02I never wanted either of you!
27:05Marcy treasured you.
27:07So I took you.
27:08Enrique stepped forward, smack, palm connected with her cheek so hard she hit floor.
27:13Blood trickled from lip.
27:14Breath caught.
27:16This slap is for Ella.
27:19Clemente looked down at her.
27:21So Ella really saved me from the fire.
27:27Clem, no!
27:28It was me!
27:30Sylvia's face drained white.
27:31Enough.
27:32Clemente's eyes turned to cold steel.
27:34Biggest mistake of my life, trusting you.
27:37Only person you love is yourself.
27:39You destroyed Ella.
27:41You destroyed me!
27:43Stepped back.
27:45I'm leaving her to you.
27:48What are you doing?
27:50Rico!
27:51Clem!
27:51I was wrong, I beg you!
27:54Enrique crouched, gripped her chin.
27:57Remember what you said?
27:59After it's done?
28:00Ruin Ella's face?
28:02Throw her on black market?
28:06First Slash opened her left cheek from eye to jaw.
28:09Screams filled the study.
28:11Faded to whimpers.
28:15When they released her, Sylvia collapsed.
28:17Bloody ruin on marble.
28:20Enrique looked down without pity.
28:22What she owes Ella, she'll repay for a lifetime.
28:27Then Clemente turned.
28:30For first time in months.
28:32I didn't feel like hiding.
28:35Justice.
28:36At long last.
28:39I didn't get rest days they promised.
28:41Third morning.
28:42Woke to Duane rigid by window.
28:44What?
28:45Before I finished I heard it engines.
28:47Multiple engines.
28:49Getting closer.
28:50Duane's hand already on my arm.
28:52They found us.
28:53Pulled me up, leg buckled.
28:54He caught me.
28:56Slipped out through back of shack into gray dawn.
28:58Village still asleep around us.
29:00But past those hills cars coming.
29:02Duane moved fast half carrying me toward tree line.
29:05Behind, doors slamming, voices shouting.
29:08Already here.
29:09Plunged into coastal jungle.
29:11For three days ran.
29:12Hid by day.
29:14Moved by night.
29:15Duane set traps.
29:16Hunted food with bare hands.
29:18Always gave me bigger portion.
29:20This man had killed people for money.
29:22Now keeping me alive with everything he had.
29:24Never asked thanks.
29:25Never complained.
29:27Third night a cave.
29:28Deep enough.
29:29Dry enough.
29:30Duane built fire.
29:31Grilled fish.
29:32Handed me best piece.
29:34Ate almost nothing himself.
29:35I wanted to ask why.
29:37Why risk everything for me.
29:38My voice was gone.
29:40Somehow he already knew answer.
29:43I slept fitlessly that night.
29:48Sometime after midnight.
29:50Footsteps outside cave.
29:51Soft.
29:52Deliberate.
29:53Eyes snapped open.
29:55Duane already on feet.
29:56Moving silently toward entrance.
29:59Something in posture.
30:00Not danger.
30:01Not yet.
30:02But important.
30:03Pushed myself up.
30:05Followed.
30:06Legs screaming.
30:08Ignored.
30:09Outside.
30:10Moonlight painted jungle silver.
30:12Duane faced stranger.
30:14Man I'd never seen.
30:16Middle aged.
30:17Weathered eyes.
30:19Duane.
30:20Stranger's voice low.
30:21Urgent.
30:21Your debt has been repaid.
30:24Your debt has been repaid.
30:25I froze behind tree.
30:27McNeil's and Tatev's.
30:29Both hunting her now.
30:30Words hit like stones.
30:32She goes back.
30:33She's fine.
30:34They'll forgive everything.
30:37But keep hiding her.
30:39Offending two most powerful families in country.
30:42Duane said nothing.
30:44Stranger stepped closer.
30:47Are you crazy?
30:49Worth dying for a woman who has nothing to do with you?
30:52Send her back, Duane.
30:54Walk away clean.
30:55Today.
30:56I leaned against Bark.
30:58Chest aching.
31:00He was right.
31:01Going back meant another cage.
31:03Another round of games.
31:05But at least Duane wouldn't be dragged down.
31:08At least one survives.
31:11Turned quietly.
31:12Prepared to slip back.
31:13Thieve before hearing expected answer.
31:16Then Duane spoke.
31:17One word.
31:18Clear as bell.
31:20No.
31:23She saved my life.
31:24Duane's voice resolute.
31:26When I was at my most desperate.
31:28She reached out.
31:29Now she needs me.
31:31Won't abandon her.
31:33You'll die!
31:35Then let me die.
31:36Palm.
31:37Won't hand her over to people who don't deserve her.
31:40He pulled package from Jacket.
31:43Pressed into stranger's hands.
31:45ID papers inside.
31:47Both of us.
31:48Money.
31:49Enough to start somewhere new.
31:51Head south.
31:52Town called Clearwater.
31:53Small.
31:54Quiet.
31:55Nobody asked questions.
31:56Don't thank me.
31:58Clapped shoulder.
32:01You're my brother.
32:02You're my brother.
32:02Take care.
32:03Don't contact me again.
32:05If tracked through me, we're both done.
32:11I slipped under blanket before he returned.
32:14Pretended sleep.
32:15Ella.
32:15Taking you away from here.
32:17Somewhere no one knows us.
32:19Start over.
32:20Just two of us.
32:21Tears soaked into dry grass beneath my head.
32:27Next day chaotic footsteps from deep within jungle.
32:30Surrounded Dot Clemente and Enrique emerged from woods.
32:33Both gaunt, former confidence gone.
32:36Only defeat and anxiety.
32:38Moment they saw me both men's eyes turned red.
32:41Ella.
32:41Clemente's voice broken.
32:43Finally found you.
32:44Tried step forward.
32:46Dwayne blocked him with blade.
32:47Enrique fell to knees.
32:49Thud.
32:49This crowd man now kneeling in mud.
32:51Ella.
32:52I was wrong.
32:53So wrong.
32:54Please.
32:55Come back.
32:56Begging you.
32:58Hit me.
32:59Curse me.
33:01Kill me if you want.
33:02Just don't leave again.
33:03Same man who kicked me until I couldn't scream.
33:06Who ordered my uterus removed.
33:07Who laughed while I bled out child on hospital floor.
33:10Not a flicker of emotion in my chest.
33:12Nothing.
33:16You don't believe me.
33:17Voice shook.
33:18Enrique's hand went to waste.
33:19Dwayne tensed.
33:20Blade ready.
33:21Not reaching for gun.
33:23Pulled dagger.
33:24Drove into own right shoulder.
33:26Clemente shouted.
33:28Rico!
33:29Blood deemed a cross shirt.
33:30Yanked blade out.
33:32Stabbed into right shoulder.
33:33Is this enough?
33:35Horse.
33:35Steady despite blood.
33:36If still not satisfied.
33:38Raised blade again.
33:39Aimed for chest.
33:40Disgust curdled in stomach.
33:42My voice came out flat cold.
33:44Stop putting on a show.
33:45It's sickening.
33:47Stepped back.
33:48Not an act.
33:49Voice fractured.
33:50Ella, I really-
33:51Really regret it?
33:53I looked at him.
33:54My child can come back?
33:56My voice?
33:57My leg?
33:59Can any of it be undone?
34:00Each question their faces grew paler.
34:02Tears burned behind eyes.
34:04Refused to fall.
34:05Stop pretending.
34:06All I want.
34:08Leave with Duany.
34:10Step aside.
34:12Clemente's gaze dropped to my hand clutching Duane's sleeve.
34:15Pain-twisted expression.
34:17Raw, ugly.
34:18Ella.
34:18Calm.
34:19Know you hate us.
34:20But at least give us chance.
34:23Word tasted like poison.
34:25How many chances did I give you?
34:28Every single time you had to choose.
34:30You chose her.
34:32Name hung between us.
34:34Done begging.
34:35Done hoping.
34:36Done being your stand-in.
34:38Clemente and Enrique exchanged glance.
34:40Something shifted in Enrique's eyes.
34:42Pleading died.
34:43Cold calculation replaced it.
34:45Ella.
34:46Voice hardened.
34:47Can't let you leave with him.
34:48Raised hand.
34:49From surrounding woods they poured out.
34:51Dozens of bodyguards armed and circling from every side.
34:55Duane pulled tighter behind him.
34:57Blade up.
34:57If want her, step over my dead body first.
35:01Enrique's lip curled.
35:02Think I won't dare?
35:04Circle tightened.
35:05Blades drawn.
35:06Guns raised.
35:07Duane's body tense in front of mine.
35:09Could feel wounds, hidden ones from saving me.
35:11Protecting me.
35:12Carrying through three days of jungle.
35:14Running on nothing but will.
35:16About to tear him apart.
35:18Duany, don't!
35:20Grabbed his arm.
35:22Go!
35:23They're after me!
35:24You don't have to-
35:25Told you.
35:25Cut me off.
35:27Firm.
35:28Final.
35:29Won't leave you behind.
35:30Face to men who destroyed my life.
35:32Gaze sharp as hawk.
35:35If want to take her, kill me first.
35:39He walks free.
35:41Never trouble him again.
35:43Not today.
35:44Not ever.
35:45Clemente didn't hesitate.
35:47I swear.
35:47Voice cracking.
35:48As long as Duane leaves, never hunt him again.
35:51On my life.
35:56Enrique's jaw worked.
35:57Wounded shoulders trembling.
35:59Didn't matter.
36:00What mattered?
36:01Getting Duane out alive.
36:02Cut him off.
36:04You're injured.
36:05Forcing yourself for days.
36:07See it?
36:08Hands tightened.
36:09Covered them.
36:10Pulled away.
36:11Turned.
36:12Walked toward them step by step.
36:15From behind another group surged forward.
36:18More men.
36:19Far more than either side brought.
36:21Leading them one-eyed man I didn't recognize.
36:24Well, well.
36:27Arms wide.
36:28Never thought I'd see you both this desperate.
36:31Everyone's here.
36:32Settle this together.
36:34Today.
36:39Short blade carved through first attacker's throat.
36:42Spun.
36:43Elbow into second jaw.
36:46Clemente fought beside him.
36:48No gun.
36:49Fists in desperation.
36:51Didn't flinch.
36:52Threw attacker aside.
36:54Step back.
36:56Two fresh wounds.
36:58Bleeding through shirt.
36:59On top of shoulder wounds he gave himself.
37:08Dwayne's blade.
37:11Clemente's fist.
37:12Enrique's body throwing itself in front of mine.
37:17Dwayne dropped to one knee.
37:19Blood pouring from wounds I couldn't count.
37:21Clemente clutched chest.
37:23White-faced.
37:25Deeper than looked.
37:28Enrique collapsed onto hands and knees.
37:30Spat blood onto jungle floor.
37:38All three broken.
37:40Because of me.
37:43Staggered to Dwayne.
37:44Grabbed shoulders.
37:45Held him up.
37:50Dwayne.
37:51Voice cracked.
37:52Are you-
37:53Won't die.
37:54Sorry.
37:56Promise to get you out.
37:57Torstrip from dress.
37:59Hands taken.
38:00Pressed against worst wound.
38:02Clemente and Enrique.
38:03Standing there.
38:04Watching me tend another man's wounds.
38:06Enrique couldn't hold himself up.
38:08Pitched forward.
38:09Mouth full of blood.
38:10Clemente gripped tree trunk.
38:12Chest heaving.
38:13Each breath shallow.
38:14Looked at both.
38:15Cold.
38:16Empty.
38:16Past anger.
38:17Past pain.
38:18Clemente's voice barely whisper.
38:20Ella.
38:23We-
38:24Enrique's bloody lips twisted.
38:26Not quite smile.
38:29Do oaths still count?
38:31They-
38:31They count.
38:33Pulled Dwayne's arm over shoulder.
38:35Helped stand.
38:36Supported Dwayne step by step into deepening jungle.
38:39Behind two men collapsed.
38:40He was in mud.
38:41Watching only woman they ever loved walk away.
38:43Some people once lost are gone forever.
38:46Jungle came alive around us.
38:48Insects.
38:49Distant cries.
38:50Rustle of things moving in darkness.
38:52Dwayne's breathing only thing grounding me.
38:58Sometime before dawn footsteps behind us.
39:02Pressed flat against hollow wall.
39:04Hand over Dwayne's mouth.
39:07Clemente Enrique.
39:08Stumbling through underbrush like wounded animals.
39:11Enrique went down hard against tree trunk.
39:14Didn't get up.
39:18Clemente stopped beside him.
39:21Tried pulling to feet.
39:25Enrique shoved him away.
39:28To broken men staring into darkness where I disappeared.
39:33Turned back to Dwayne.
39:35Held his hand until morning.
39:40Three days later.
39:42Arrived at Black Market.
39:44Air thick with smoke.
39:46Sweat.
39:46Blood.
39:47Been hiding and running for two weeks.
39:49Clemente and Enrique hunting like madmen.
39:52Bounty staggering.
39:54Underground auction tonight.
39:56Dwayne whispered.
39:57Sneak in.
39:58Leave city through secret passage.
40:00I nodded.
40:04Auction held underground.
40:06Dim yellow bulbs strung along ceiling.
40:08Crowd.
40:08Faces I never wanted to see again.
40:10Arms dealers.
40:11Traffickers.
40:12Dead eyes.
40:13Too much money.
40:15Dwayne found corner spot.
40:16Pulled me behind him.
40:18Hand on blade always.
40:19Auction crawled forward.
40:21Items I didn't want to know.
40:23Prices made me sick.
40:25Then host his voice changed.
40:27Next item.
40:28Very special.
40:29Excitement rippled through crowd.
40:31Once darling of Ryder family.
40:34Sylvia.
40:35Arms wide.
40:36Iron cage rolled onto stage.
40:38Inside woman in rags.
40:40Curled in ball.
40:41Hair matted.
40:42Skin gray with filth.
40:43Hineous jagged scars carved across both cheeks.
40:46Eye corners to jawline.
40:49Even like this.
40:50Even destroyed.
40:52Sylvia.
40:53Starting bid.
40:5420,000.
40:56Host grinned.
40:57Ha ha ha ha.
40:58Do whatever you want.
40:59Just don't kill her.
41:00Laughter erupted.
41:01Bids shouted from every direction.
41:03At girl who stole everything from me.
41:05Who lied about saving Clemente.
41:07Faked illnesses.
41:08Orchestrated my torture.
41:10Now sold like cattle.
41:11Knew whose work this was.
41:13Enrico.
41:14Promised.
41:15Ruin her face.
41:16Throw on black market.
41:17Done exactly that.
41:19Seeing it.
41:20Ice through veins.
41:23Let's go.
41:24Dwayne felt me trembling.
41:26Now.
41:26Before anyone notices.
41:29Every light in Venue died at once.
41:34Darkness.
41:35Total.
41:35Absolute.
41:36What's going on?
41:37Power cut.
41:38Don't push me.
41:39Panic erupted.
41:40Bodies clashing.
41:41Sharks.
41:42Curses.
41:42Reached for Dwayne's hand in blackness.
41:45Found nothing but air.
41:46Dwayne.
41:47Large hand clamped over mouth from behind.
41:50Another arm locked around waist.
41:52Yanked backward feet dragging across concrete towards somewhere couldn't see.
41:57Bit down hard.
41:58Tasted blood.
41:59Grip didn't loosen.
42:00Dwayne's voice sharp with terror.
42:02Ella.
42:03Then.
42:05Gunfire.
42:05Multiple shots.
42:06Deathly in enclosed space.
42:08Muzzle flashes lit darkness in stroboscopic bursts.
42:13In one flash saw him.
42:15Dwayne.
42:16Running toward him.
42:17Played drawn.
42:18Eyes wild.
42:21Another flash.
42:22Body jerked.
42:23Red bloomed across chest.
42:25He fell.
42:28No.
42:30Word ripped from throat.
42:31Vision tunneled.
42:32Darkened.
42:33Blasping register Dwayne's body hidden concrete.
42:36Still.
42:36Not moving.
42:37Then nothing.
42:39Mattress beneath me.
42:41Clean sheets.
42:42Lavender scent.
42:43White ceiling.
42:44Curtains drawn halfway.
42:46Sunlight filtering through.
42:47Clemente.
42:48Enqui.
42:49Stood at foot of bed.
42:50Cautious.
42:51Watchful.
42:52Like men approaching wounded animal that might bite.
42:56Clemente's voice.
42:58Soft.
42:58Too soft.
43:00Ella.
43:01Are you feeling alright anywhere?
43:03Enrique half-stepped forward.
43:05Hesitated.
43:06Hungry?
43:07Kitchen-made favorite porridge.
43:09Still warm.
43:10As if they hadn't broken leg.
43:11Forced mute drugs.
43:13Driven me off cliff into frozen river.
43:15Hand moved.
43:16Slowly.
43:17Silently.
43:18Under pillow.
43:19Yanked knife out.
43:20Enrique staggered.
43:21Stayed standing.
43:23Turned toward Clemente.
43:25He saw bloodied knife in my hand.
43:28Saw a look in my eyes.
43:29Did unthinkable.
43:31Stepped forward.
43:32Closer.
43:34Into range.
43:36Here.
43:37Pressed hand to own chest.
43:38Over heart.
43:39Stab me here.
43:40Voice steady.
43:41Calm.
43:42Like waiting for this.
43:43Like wanting it.
43:44I stabbed him.
43:45Second stab.
43:46Third.
43:47Fourth.
43:47Lost count.
43:48Arm rose and fell like machine.
43:50Each thrust punctuated by wet sound of steel entering flesh.
43:54Neither moved.
43:55Not once.
43:58They let me.
43:59Stood there.
44:00Let me bury knife over and over.
44:02Blood soaking clothes.
44:04Dripping to floor.
44:06Clemente's face grew paler with each wound.
44:11Enrico clutched stomach.
44:14Swaying.
44:15Wouldn't fall.
44:16Wouldn't give satisfaction of making me stop.
44:19At last legs gave out.
44:20Both collapsed.
44:22Pool of blood spread beneath them.
44:23Dark.
44:24Spreading.
44:25Stood over them.
44:26Knife in hand.
44:28Dipping red.
44:30Started laughing.
44:32Broken horse.
44:33Torn deep in chest.
44:34Tears streamed as I laughed.
44:36Knife slipped from fingers.
44:37Could barely speak.
44:38Throat burned.
44:40Name cracked like glass.
44:43You think this enough?
44:44Few stabs make us even?
44:47He's dead!
44:48Because of you!
44:50Enrique clutched wound.
44:52Voice thin.
44:53Ragged.
44:54Ella.
44:55Dwan was killer.
44:57Wanted by half underworld.
45:00Laugh turned sharper.
45:02Being with you peaceful?
45:04Blood drained until collapse?
45:06Legs shattered?
45:07Mute drugs forced?
45:08Chased off cliff into river?
45:10That is peace you gave me?
45:13Clemente spoke from floor.
45:15Each word struggle.
45:16We're wrong.
45:18Give us a chance.
45:20Looked down.
45:21Two powerful men bleeding on bedroom floor.
45:24Give me back Dwayne.
45:26Give him back.
45:29And forgive you.
45:30No answer.
45:32We'll never live alone again.
45:34Keep locked here forever.
45:35Can't imprison corpse.
45:37Exchanged glance across blood.
45:39Eyes held something new.
45:40Understanding.
45:41Woman before them didn't love anymore.
45:43Didn't hate either not leaving room for redemption.
45:46Only emptiness.
45:47Complete.
45:48Years of warmth and pretense burned to ash.
45:50Nothing but hatred carved into bone.
45:53Enrique's voice shook.
45:54Pale.
45:55Losing blood.
45:57What if told you Dwayne isn't dead?
46:01Clemente pushed up on one elbow.
46:03Wincing blood on lips.
46:04A shootout planned.
46:05By us.
46:07Wanted force him to leave you.
46:09Never meant actually kill.
46:11Seriously injured.
46:12But alive Ella.
46:14Still alive.
46:14For one heartbeat tendless.
46:16Suspended everything stopped.
46:18Saw both men flinch at sight of it.
46:20Burned more than any knife ever could.
46:22Already on feet.
46:23Stepping over blood.
46:24Toward door.
46:26Take me to him.
46:27Now.
46:27Half hour later.
46:29Secluded clinic on outskirts.
46:31Dwayne lay on hospital bed.
46:33Body wrapped in bandages.
46:35Still alive.
46:37Dwayne!
46:38Rushed to bedside.
46:39Grasped hand.
46:40Tears fell onto back of his hand.
46:42Dwayne opened eyes.
46:43Saw me.
46:44Weak smile.
46:47Ella.
46:48Safe.
46:49I'm fine.
46:51Really fine.
46:52I stared.
46:53Sorry.
46:54All because of me.
46:57Clemente and Enrique stood at doorway.
46:59Watching.
46:59Hearts torn apart.
47:01Long silence.
47:02Take him away.
47:03Both turned.
47:04Then Enrique spoke hoarse.
47:06Ruined.
47:09Canceled every warrant.
47:11Every...
47:16Each word costs something.
47:18Prepared new identities.
47:21Passports.
47:22Accounts.
47:24Enough money to disappear completely.
47:28Jaw tightened.
47:30Go.
47:31Far away.
47:33Somewhere can never find you.
47:34Stared at them.
47:35Reek smile bitter.
47:37Broken.
47:37This last time.
47:39Truly letting go.
47:41Real this time.
47:42Walked to bedside.
47:44Looked at Dwayne.
47:45Expression complicated grief.
47:46Regret.
47:47Respect.
47:48Treat her well.
47:49Voice dropped low.
47:50Dangerous.
47:51If suffers.
47:52Even little.
47:53No matter where go.
47:55We'll find you.
47:56Dwayne nodded.
47:57Without flinching.
47:59We'll protect her with my life.
48:01Go.
48:03Clemente turned away.
48:04Voice caught.
48:06Before change minds.
48:09Helped Dwayne up.
48:10Arm draped over shoulder.
48:12Mind wrapped around waist.
48:14Step by step toward door.
48:19Clemente and Enrique stood on either side of frame.
48:22Passed between them.
48:23For single moment footsteps faltered.
48:26One second.
48:26Maybe less.
48:28Kept walking.
48:29Didn't look back.
48:30Not once.
48:31Door clicked shut.
48:32Never looked back again.
48:34In that room two men stood motionless long time.
48:37Sunlight poured through window.
48:39Bright.
48:39Warm.
48:39Indifferent.
48:40All they felt was cold.
48:42Cold with nothing to do with temperature.
48:44He watched me eat it.
48:45Look on face.
48:46Tender.
48:46Quiet.
48:47Complete.
48:48Afternoon.
48:49Lound in reading chair.
48:50Dwayne trimmed flowers at work table.
48:52Old television hummed in corner.
48:54Midday news.
48:55Group president Enrique Tate.
48:57Serious car accident last night.
48:59ICU condition critical.
49:03Enrique's former McNeil group president Clemente McNeil.
49:07A coma three years after cerebral hemorrhage.
49:10Enrique's confident portrait.
49:11Clemente's gentle profile from years ago.
49:14Waited for something.
49:15Anger.
49:15Grief.
49:16Anything.
49:16Like watching strangers stories on evening news.
49:19Nothing came.
49:20Dwayne came over.
49:21Turned off TV.
49:23Boring news.
49:24Don't watch.
49:25Nodded.
49:25Continued reading.
49:27Some mistakes cannot be undone.
49:29Some people, once lost are gone forever.
49:31But ahead simple life.
49:33Countless tomorrows.
49:34Hand in hand.