#shortdrama #movierecap #lovestory #billionairelove #alphalove #dramaromance #ceolove #revenge #romanticdrama #viraldrama
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:01Attorney Ziegler.
00:11Mr. Neff?
00:12Sit, please.
00:14Anything to drink? Coffee or tea?
00:17Mr. Neff didn't ask me here just to have tea, did he?
00:23When did I have the honor to know you? Why did you pay the bills for me?
00:30You need money, while I need a capable spy.
00:34Spy?
00:35One million for one mission. No shady business.
00:39The first mission came up. Are you in?
00:42Why me? A washed up attorney.
00:46You have the potential to be a bad guy.
00:49Do you have a choice, Attorney Ziegler?
00:53Think about your sister.
00:57You can't take my case! Pay the breach fee!
01:01This is the beginning.
01:08This is the beginning.
01:10First task, become Yousef Neff's personal assistant.
01:13Attorney Ziegler from TY Law Firm. Here to apply for assistant?
01:17You never lost a case. Why are you here?
01:19No reason. I'll prove myself during probation.
01:22Winning lawsuits doesn't make you a great assistant.
01:27How can I get hired?
01:29I'll get you on his radar.
01:32This how you treat an applicant?
01:35Mr. Neff! Hurry up and get the first aid kits.
01:37That's his plan. I've gotta turn his guilt into an offer.
01:51The interviewer will apologize to you.
01:54Would you tell me why you want this job?
01:57My license was revved.
01:58All my family died except my sister.
02:01I need this job to save her.
02:03Could you tell me why your law firm got shut down?
02:06I cut some corners in my last case.
02:08But I didn't break the law.
02:09Mr. Neff, I'm still in the race, right?
02:15Overheard our secretary say you have a meeting in 10.
02:18I won't hold you up.
02:24Hey!
02:26Assistant Zegler.
02:29Welcome aboard.
02:35First task complete.
02:37Money's been wired.
02:39I'm paid for this.
02:40You finished the first task, Yusef's assistant.
02:43You deserve this.
02:45Thanks, Master Zeke.
02:47What's next?
02:49So desperate.
02:51Of course.
02:52You know why.
02:54You do anything for money?
02:56Sure.
02:59Can you swim?
03:00No.
03:01No.
03:01Jump in and you get 1 million?
03:04I can.
03:05No.
03:06Yeah!
03:10No.
03:24She can't swim?
03:47Can you be invisible?
03:49What?
03:50I need an invisible girlfriend.
03:53Is this the second task?
03:56No, but I'll grant you what you want.
04:09Master Zeke, want another round?
04:12Attorney Ziegler, don't you have dignity?
04:14It's gone with my parents.
04:16I'm living for my sister.
04:19Get rid of Yusef's baby.
04:21Tomorrow.
04:28I'm no saint, but I believe in karma.
04:31You know the stakes.
04:33If the old man knows he's got a grandson,
04:36he might give Yusef everything.
04:37I'll be broke.
04:39How do you expect me to pay you?
04:43If you screw up,
04:44I can't guarantee your sister's salvation.
04:50Master Yusef!
04:51Did I freak you out?
04:52It's my engagement party today.
04:54You've been busy all day without a bite.
04:56I'll take the milk to Amanda.
05:00Careful!
05:03Are you alright?
05:10Sorry, Master Yusef.
05:12Just some milk.
05:13Don't feel bad.
05:14I'll get another glass.
05:15My hands aren't dirty enough for killing.
05:17I can't poison him.
05:24Why is that bastard here?
05:25Oh, bastard isn't nice.
05:27I should call him Mongrel.
05:28We share the same father.
05:30If I'm a mongrel,
05:31what does that make you?
05:33Thank you all for attending my engagement party.
05:36Before we get started,
05:37Amanda and I have some exciting news to share.
05:39She's carrying my child.
05:41Is this how you do your job?
05:47Amanda!
05:48How could you do this to me?
05:51Kurt.
05:51Sorry, Master Yusef.
05:53Marrying Master Neff with my kid?
05:54Have you thought about me and our baby?
05:56Who are you?
05:57You don't know?
05:58Master Neff,
05:59I'm your fiancé's broke boyfriend.
06:01She cheated on you.
06:05How dare you!
06:07Dad!
06:09Get lost, disgrace.
06:10I told you.
06:11Not any woman can marry into our family.
06:14How can I trust you with Newport?
06:31Do you think you deserve this?
06:33Whatever you say.
06:36Don't try to be clever,
06:37Attorney Ziggler!
06:39I'm being generous!
06:41You didn't earn this!
06:53Killing a feat is so hard to you?
06:55It's a life we're talking about.
06:57An extra will work out the same.
06:59Master Yusef didn't get the shares.
07:02Playing the good one now?
07:04Of course not.
07:05I took the case and money that I shouldn't have.
07:08My parents died for it,
07:10and my sister-
07:11Here's some advice.
07:12Sympathy will ruin you.
07:13Thanks for your reminder.
07:15Butter up your boss.
07:16This won't happen again.
07:19Yes.
07:22Mr. Neff?
07:24Mr. Neff,
07:25let me take you home.
07:30Please don't leave me.
07:32This should be the best night of our lives.
07:35What have I done?
07:38Amanda!
07:39Amanda!
07:41Master Yusef,
07:42you're drunk!
07:43I'm taking you home!
07:47I'm not Amanda.
07:50I'm your assistant.
07:52Sorry.
07:53Sari, so sorry.
07:55So sorry.
07:59Please don't leave me.
08:03Just a mechanic's daughter!
08:05How long is he going to keep this drama?
08:07Newport is breaking ground next week.
08:09Savannah Anderson will be there.
08:11Anderson family helped us a lot.
08:12Whoever marries Savannah gets 10% of the shares.
08:16Zeke has been following up the project.
08:18Let.
08:19Miss Amanda, please stop!
08:20Master Zeke paid Kurt!
08:21It's Yusef's kid!
08:24They forced me!
08:26Now it's gone!
08:31Can you prove it?
08:33His seal is on it.
08:35Dad, it's his seal.
08:37And it's from our bank.
08:38I can't believe this.
08:39Is this the price for playing tricks if I get caught?
08:46Zeke, what have you done?
08:51Amanda, you took my money and betrayed me.
08:57Playing double spy?
08:59Zeke, you really did this?
09:01Bring me the whip!
09:02I'm going to teach this bastard a lesson!
09:07You and your mom should both go to hell!
09:11What did you say?
09:14Zeke, I'm so disappointed.
09:18Timothy, Newport is yours.
09:20Don't let me down.
09:24You're lucky.
09:25Dad didn't kill you.
09:28Sarah, it's going to rain.
09:30Let's go back.
09:38I shouldn't feel sorry for him, right?
09:45Zeke, you're back.
09:46No one's watching.
09:48Drop the act.
09:50Brother, we're family.
09:53Why are you always so aggressive to me?
09:57I worried too much.
09:59You seem fine.
10:01Got energy for this?
10:03Want to join me?
10:13You'll like her.
10:21Stop teasing me.
10:23Enjoy.
10:24Good night.
10:30Thrilled?
10:33Is he really your brother?
10:36Offering him your woman?
10:39Wrong.
10:40I'm sharing.
10:43Get the job done
10:44and your sister gets a skin for it
10:46from a top expert.
10:48Don't betray me.
10:51Not sure what I'll do when I'm mad.
10:58My eldest son, Timothy,
11:00will lead the Newport Project.
11:07Thanks for attending this ceremony.
11:09I'll take Nefskai to the next level.
11:16Savannah, haven't seen Timothy for a while, huh?
11:19Savannah, nice to meet you again.
11:20I'm Timothy.
11:21Where's Yusuf?
11:25For God's sake!
11:31Hey, are you Zeke?
11:33Zeke neft.
11:34You ruined my dress and expect to leave?
11:36I'll pay.
11:37How?
11:38It's one of a kind.
11:40Follow me.
12:00Now it all makes sense.
12:03Had me seduce Yusuf
12:04so you could marry the rich Aniris.
12:09I need to find a way to stall Yusuf.
12:13Oops!
12:14Are you okay?
12:16Sprained my ankle.
12:18Let's go to the hospital.
12:29She's Yusuf's assistant?
12:31Jealous?
12:31Me?
12:32Why?
12:32But she's trouble for sure.
12:34Heard she crossed the wrong people
12:35and got her family killed.
12:36A walking disaster.
12:37I don't like gossip.
12:39A classy lady should know when to shut up.
12:41You!
12:44What are you doing?
12:47Your earrings don't match the dress.
12:49You'll get them back next time.
12:55Master Zeke?
12:56What's wrong, assistant Zegler?
12:58She twisted her ankle.
13:00It's gonna take a while to recover.
13:02What a gentleman.
13:04Always sweet to the gals.
13:19Sarah.
13:21No need to come.
13:22Be careful.
13:23Good night.
13:24It's fine.
13:26Well, I'm heading back.
13:27Take it easy.
13:28Good night, Master Yusuf.
13:35Impressive.
13:36Got your place in this house.
13:39And his attention.
13:40I guess I did my job well.
13:42I underestimated you.
13:44A task from you?
13:46I've gotta nail it.
13:47No matter what.
13:48That's smooth.
13:49You're quite a pro with men.
14:01This is your house.
14:02Aren't you afraid and busted?
14:04I like the thrill.
14:05What about you?
14:08Attorney Ziegler?
14:12Pervert.
14:14I like it as well.
14:22You should focus more on Savannah.
14:25Your father is rooted for her and Yusuf.
14:27They're not a good match.
14:29And you?
14:29Suit her better?
14:31What's this attitude?
14:42Sarah?
14:45I just woke up.
14:48Should we invite him?
14:50What is it, Master Yusuf?
14:52Just checking on you.
14:54Does it still hurt?
14:57I...
14:57I feel better.
14:59It's not swollen.
15:02What's wrong, Sarah?
15:03Get away!
15:04Get away from me!
15:05Shut your mouth down!
15:09Get away from me!
15:11Get away from me!
15:24Who the fuck ruined my...
15:35Mr. Koto!
15:37Mr. Koto!
15:56Whichever hand touched her, destroyed.
15:58Yes, Mr. Koto!
16:02My hand!
16:06Wanna leave me?
16:07You kidnapped me.
16:09I don't even know you.
16:14What are you doing?
16:16Don't move.
16:25Wearing this means you are a Konte.
16:30And you can never escape from me.
16:32Clean yourself up.
16:33Tomorrow morning, the wedding.
16:44Well, well.
16:45The piano girl?
16:47My brother's obsessed with you.
16:49What?
16:51It suits you.
16:53I won't marry him.
16:55Konte family or whatever.
16:56I don't care.
16:58Release me.
16:58Are you serious?
17:00Honey, you think you'll survive the night?
17:04Axton family's rivals knew you helped Sophia.
17:07Your parents are in danger.
17:09Only we can save them.
17:12Well, get ready.
17:13Your fiancé is waiting.
17:23The bride comes.
17:34She's so beautiful.
17:35She is so beautiful.
17:37Absolutely.
17:38She looks stunning.
17:45Simon Konte, do you take Martina Collins as your wife?
17:49I do.
17:50Martina Collins, do you take Simon Konte as your husband?
17:58Do you?
18:03I pronounce you husband and wife.
18:08You may kiss your bride.
18:20Let's go!
18:22I can't.
18:27Hit me down!
18:39Don't come any closer.
18:45We're officially married now.
18:46So what?
18:55No.
18:57Please.
19:12Please.
19:13I don't want to stop.
19:35You...
19:42I...
19:51Don't move.
20:05Please don't do this, Simon.
20:15Forget it. It's been a long day. Good night.
20:25Why is he still frowning?
20:38Simon! It's me!
20:47I'm sorry.
20:52What's wrong with you?
20:59None of your business.
21:02Lunatic.
21:11I have a meeting at the bar. You're coming with me.
21:14Oh, need my company? Thought you'd lock me at home forever.
21:17You'll be safer with me. I'll protect you.
21:20It'll be more dangerous with you.
21:22Why did you drag me into your mess?
21:24I didn't sign up for this, Simon Conti.
21:31You don't have a choice.
21:47Miss Collins, why are you dressed like this?
21:50Enjoy the show.
22:04What the hell are you wearing?
22:08What, don't like it?
22:09What?
22:10Don't like it?
22:25Where's the pianist?
22:30Finally!
22:32Play something!
22:33I'll duck your pay for being late.
22:34Wait?
22:35I'm not-
22:36Anything will do. Come on!
22:38Come on!
23:12Gorgeous. That's beautiful.
23:17Leave me alone.
23:18Don't be shy.
23:20Let's compliment.
23:21Let go! Don't you dare touch me!
23:28Piss off.
23:32Who are you?
23:46I'll try again and die.
23:49Alright. Alright. Alright.
23:52I didn't mean any harm.
23:57Let's go.
24:04Simon. Thank you for helping me.
24:07But I won't forgive you for this.
24:21Are you flaunting this dress to get back at me?
24:24Remember your identity, Mrs. Conti.
24:39I wasn't sure who is going to get back at me.
24:40Oh my God.
24:44I know.
24:48I just了.
24:52Hey, Antony.
24:53I saw 볼 거.
24:54I don't know.
24:54I can't wait until I yesterday was gonna miss you.
24:55I don't know.
25:02Simon you jerk
25:06You hate me so
25:11Thanks to you
25:12I'm stuck in this mafia mess
25:15I'm just an ordinary person
25:18Maybe you're not so terrible
25:20But you're a gangster
25:21You kill people
25:22Ever consider I only kill those who deserve it?
25:27Enough
25:28You're drunk
25:33Put me down asshole
25:35Why did you trap me?
25:38I want to play the piano
25:39I want to let me
25:41I hate you
25:54Simon don't
25:55Don't you dare touch me
26:14What's so special about today?
26:20I ran into Leo
26:24Your ex?
26:26What did he say?
26:28He offered to get me out of here
26:30And you?
26:33Freedom's tempting
26:35But I don't trust him
26:41Wise choice
26:52You don't have work to do?
26:54Anything can wait
27:00Take a shower
27:01You're all sweaty
27:02You're all sweaty
27:03Hiding something from me?
27:09Hiding something from me?
27:13No, you need a shower
27:14Right
27:28So legit?
27:41Damn, I know nothing about him
27:43Damn, I know nothing about him
27:49It's my birthday
27:58Simon, don't make me regret this
28:02Simon, don't make me regret this
28:08Martina, what are you doing?
28:12Nothing
28:12I just want to search something
28:15Yeah?
28:18Are you lying to me?
28:23Thought you wanted a shower
28:31I can explain
28:49Why did you lie to me?
28:51Why?
28:53I didn't
28:53You still love Leo?
29:00No
29:09You'd enjoy if he did this to you?
29:13Enough, Simon
29:14He's just my ex
29:21Do us both a favor
29:23Stop harming people
29:45I brought it
29:46When can I leave?
29:48Don't worry, Martina
29:49The police is on it
29:50You can leave them soon
29:59Got the evidence on your brother
30:08Now, about my share
30:17What the fuck is this?
30:20What's wrong?
30:21Martina gave me this
30:22These are regular financial reports
30:24Worthless
30:25She tricked you, dumbass
30:28I didn't mean it
30:29Mr. Conti, believe me
30:30Get me something
30:32Or I'll chop you up
30:36Martina
30:37How dare you
30:39I'll make you pay
30:57Martina, you lying bitch
30:59Now, Andrea's after me
31:01You won't get off easy
31:03Leo, it's your own fault
31:05If you worked for the police
31:06You wouldn't end up like this
31:10Mr. Conti
31:11I want five million in cash
31:13Or you won't see
31:15Gorgeous wife again
31:31Release her, Leo
31:33I've got the money
31:36Kick it over
31:45She's all yours
31:53Are you alright?
31:58Watch out
32:04In the name of the blood moon
32:09Carmella Bloodthorn
32:10You are summoned to receive
32:12Your elevation to Duchess
32:19By my authority
32:21As the King of the Vampires
32:22I grant you this power
32:25I shall follow you for eternity
32:27Your Majesty
32:28Your Majesty
32:29Please
32:30Save our child
32:32Who is this madwoman?
32:33Your Majesty
32:34She is Seraphina Nightsilver
32:36Your Majesty
32:36She's lost her mind
32:38Ever since her child
32:39Died of blood recession
32:40It's truly tragic
32:42It was you
32:43You murdered my child
32:44Your Majesty
32:45Her werewolf blood
32:46Is spiraling out of control again
32:51Guards
32:52Put a silent stone collar
32:53On this lunatic
32:54And throw her
32:55Into the forgotten spire
33:10You crossed Carmella
33:11Don't expect to see the moon
33:13Ever again
33:14Hayden
33:15My sweet Hayden
33:22Another mad one
33:26Seraphina Nightsilver
33:27Offering my respects
33:28To Morgana Wolfsfaith
33:30Last of the Moonbreaker tribe
33:32The living legend
33:33Of the Blood Moon War
33:34You know me?
33:36Who doesn't?
33:37The great chieftest
33:38Who nearly topped
33:38The vampire court
33:39To the vampires
33:40You are moon wrath
33:41To the werewolves
33:42The moonbreaker
33:43The elders still call you
33:45The root of all chaos
33:46So did you get yourself
33:47Thrown in here
33:48Just to insult me?
33:49I am here to be
33:50Your apprentice
33:50Teach me
33:52Teach me how to have
33:53My revenge
33:53And what exactly
33:55Are you seeking
33:56Revengeance for?
33:57He was my only son
33:59It was Carmella
34:01She kept the blood healers
34:03From him
34:03She killed Hayden
34:05It's all my fault
34:06I was so overwhelmed
34:08By my first pregnancy
34:09That my blood grew unstable
34:10You're pregnant?
34:11The blood healers
34:12Say it's a boy
34:12An heir to the blood moon's power
34:14Splendid
34:15Spread the word
34:15Grant her the blood moon crown
34:17The court shall treat her
34:18As queen
34:21Do you see now?
34:23He doesn't care about you
34:24He didn't care about your child
34:26He only cares about the one
34:27I'm carrying
34:28If you want someone to blame
34:29Blame your own weakness
34:35No!
34:41Seeking revenge?
34:43Plea than anything
34:44No different
34:45More than anything
34:46Then let your submission and patience die here
34:49From this day forth
34:50You are no longer the prey
34:53Carve a mark into my chains with this bone shard
34:56If you can cut deep enough
34:58I'll teach you
35:02Teach me what?
35:04How to walk out of this cage alive
35:10Barely a passing grade
35:12You faked madness
35:14To get into this forgotten spire
35:16What is your true endgame?
35:17I want to stand above everyone
35:18It's the only way I can truly avenge Hayden
35:21If you learn my ways
35:23Aren't you afraid of being loathed by both races?
35:26I don't give a damn what they call me
35:27As long as I get my revenge
35:31Strip
35:34Snap out of it
35:35Do you see?
35:39If you want to burn the entire court down
35:42Your body, your eyes, and your hatred
35:44They will be your sharpest blades
35:49Tomorrow
35:50Lesson 2
35:51The Voice
35:52The Voice?
35:54How to make a man forget his own name
35:56Just by hearing you speak
36:00Today
36:00We master the voice
36:02The second rule of the blood charm
36:05Your voice isn't for begging
36:07It's for commanding
36:10Come here
36:11Better
36:12Again
36:15Come here
36:22The twin voice
36:23You've awakened the twin voice
36:25Even under the suppression of the silencing stone collar
36:27Peace, my lady
36:29Islat may be the queen
36:30But she's only given him daughters
36:32She can't hold a candle to you
36:34True
36:34Now that the filthy hybrids bab is gone
36:36Theron is the king's only son
36:38It's only a matter of time
36:39Before I take the crown for myself
36:41Precisely, my lady
36:44You've learned everything I have to give
36:46Take this
36:47And find Alara Moon Whisper
36:50She's of the Frosthal tribe
36:51She'll be an ally to you
36:54No one has ever left this forgotten spire
36:56Do you truly have a way to get me out?
37:00In ten days
37:01The king will hold the moon prayer ceremony at the moon temple
37:04What will happen then?
37:05That is the day you walk free
37:15Seraphina
37:18Help me
37:24Morgana
37:25I've passed everything I know to you
37:28From here on
37:29The path is yours to walk alone
37:32No!
37:34We're leaving together!
37:36Remember
37:37Never fall in love with anyone
37:39This is my final lesson
37:41Guard your heart
37:45Morgana!
37:50Now Morgana!
38:03The forgotten spire is on fire!
38:05Put it out!
38:05Hurry!
38:05The spire is lost!
38:07Get the water here!
38:08Morgana
38:09I will keep your words in my heart
38:11Into the Senken Fury
38:27Morgana
38:36This crest?
38:37You serve Chieftain Morgana?
38:39Morgana She sent me to find you
38:42the chief is she she remained in the tower of oblivion if this was her will then from this
38:48moment on i answer to you i'm going back to his majesty you already have a plan everything's in
38:53place i'm just missing one thing what is it
38:58luck the moon goddess has manifest who is she your majesty she is a handmaiden seraphina
39:05night silver after the fire at the tower of oblivion all exiled moon bound were relocated
39:09to the hall of everlight your majesty this woman is pretending she
39:19your majesty i know i am guilty i dare got stand before you again i will return at once
39:25and answer with my life guilty you brought the rain that makes you a hero of the court
39:29seraphina night silver for her service in invoking the moon is hereby elevated to countess
39:34and granted residence at moontime court
39:54your majesty's here and not a word i was wondering that dance you gave at the altar was it meant
40:01for me
40:01what do you think three years you kept up the act for three whole years
40:08why stop now because i don't want to anymore does your majesty disapprove
40:14no i like it your majesty lady carmela has sent word the second prince won't stop crying she
40:20requests your presence go the child comes first you're sending me away i'm only passing along the
40:25second prince's request for your majesty's presence tell carmela the second prince is crying bring a
40:32blood healer i'm not needed what did he say his majesty said the second prince won't stop crying
40:37a blood here is needed he said he's not required that hort what did she do to have him so
40:43completely
40:44under her spell please calm yourself my lady it's probably just a passing fascination passing
40:48fascination he has never once spent the night with another woman not once three years locked away in
40:52the tower and the moment she's out she goes straight for his majesty fine very well my lady
40:58shall i find an opportunity not yet let her enjoy her moment did you find what i asked for yes
41:02she
41:02was in prison with a wolf named morgana morgana wolf faith the last of the broken moon tribe
41:06morgana wolf faith no wonder no woman can learn that kind of dance alone she had a teacher morgana is
41:11dead she died in the tower then let her rot the student is still alive
41:19keep watch on moon time court i want to know everything she does yes my lady seraphina night
41:25silver let's see how long you can stay in favor what's carmela doing strangely quiet she skipped both
41:32blood moon councils claiming illness she's not recovering she's waiting waiting for what for me to
41:37make a mistake we don't need to find her she will come to us my lady the sealer requests an
41:47audience
41:49the sora such a late visit what brings you here by lady carmala's order i've come to retrieve your
41:56title seal you are not worthy of it the seal was granted by his majesty if she wants it she
42:01can come
42:01take it herself then don't blame me for what happens next
42:06next
42:08oh
42:08oh
42:08oh
42:08oh
42:09oh
42:11oh
42:13oh
42:13oh
42:14oh
42:34Blood charm.
42:37Let me see what Morgana taught you.
42:58My lady!
43:20Sicily has a savage tradition known as the claiming, rooted in old honor codes and mafia control.
43:25It demands the groom steal his bride away at midnight, fighting through her family's guards to prove his power and
43:29right to her.
43:30I waited three years for Dominic. At last, he and his men slipped into my courtyard.
43:34I was ready to run to him until I heard his hushed order.
43:37Grab Bianca in the chaos. She's fragile.
43:39If she's sold off to the don of the Valentino family to settle the debt, she won't survive the night.
43:43As for Elena, she'll fight like hell. She'll keep herself safe.
43:46The men hesitated.
43:47Dominic, you and Elena are already married.
43:49If she finds out, she'll burn this place to the ground.
43:52Let her. It's dark enough.
43:54A case of mistaken identity during the claiming will be easy to explain.
43:57I'll calm her down later.
43:58He paused, his voice turning icy.
44:01Besides, the marriage license she signed was forgery.
44:04I promised Bianca a safe life in Palermo. She's my priority.
44:07I heard every word from behind the door. I didn't scream. I didn't cry. I just slipped back into the
44:13room.
44:13They'd expected me to fight. To hurt anyone who tried to take me.
44:17Instead, I silently climbed onto the back of the man who'd broken into my chamber.
44:22Elena, my contact at the registry checked.
44:24You... you aren't actually Dominic's legal wife.
44:28Something inside my chest shattered.
44:30I'd lived as Dominic's wife for five years.
44:32All that time, the Russo family never accepted me.
44:35His mother never used my name.
44:37Only ever referring to me as, that girl.
44:39At family galas, I was always seated at the farthest table.
44:42In official portraits, I was placed at the edge so I could be easily cropped out.
44:46Dominic said his mother wouldn't let up until I broke.
44:49So he sent me back to the Moretti estate.
44:51He promised he'd follow our traditions and complete the formal claiming ritual to bring me back as his daughter.
44:56Then, the Russo family would have no choice but to accept me.
44:59I waited.
45:00For three years, I'd held my time.
45:02Longing for this night.
45:03But he'd come for another woman.
45:05He'd kept me deceived for years with a forged marriage license.
45:08All to hide the truth.
45:09The one he truly meant to claim was my half-sister, Bianca.
45:13I stared at my reflection.
45:14My face was empty.
45:16Shouts exploded in the courtyard.
45:18The ritual had begun.
45:20Laughter rang out.
45:21Boots thudded against stone.
45:22And guards put on a show of resisting.
45:24Ritual torches painted half the sky red.
45:26All the excitement was for them.
45:28The celebration was for Bianca.
45:30The other group of men had come from the Valentino family.
45:33They'd originally come for Bianca.
45:34By the rules of the ritual, if a woman didn't want to be taken, she could hide and send them
45:38away empty-handed.
45:39But Bianca didn't hide.
45:41She waited in her room to be taken.
45:43And the man she waited for was my husband.
45:45The room I was in wasn't mine.
45:47It was Bianca's.
45:48That afternoon, my stepmother pulled me aside.
45:50For once, her voice was gentle.
45:52Elena, stay in Bianca's room tonight.
45:54Yours is too far back.
45:55Too quiet.
45:55They'll never find you.
45:56Men coming for Bianca are savages.
45:58We've always been tough.
46:00You can handle the wrong play.
46:01Bianca is fragile.
46:03If she gets caught in the crossfire, it'll be a disaster.
46:06I said nothing.
46:06I knew exactly what she meant.
46:08By the rules of the claiming, the groom's men would storm in.
46:10The woman was expected to fight and struggle.
46:12It was called the gauntlet.
46:14The harder she fought, the more valuable she was considered.
46:17The groom had to prove he could take her by force.
46:19Those punches and shoves were real.
46:21My stepmother studied my face, testing me.
46:23Besides, Dominic has never been to the Meredi estate at night.
46:26The front room?
46:27He'll find you faster.
46:28Back then, I'd only wanted to make things easier for Dominic.
46:31I agreed.
46:32Even texted him my room location.
46:33A roar of celebration erupted outside.
46:36We got her! The bride is ours!
46:37Laughter and cheering rang out, followed by the sharp crack of celebratory gunfire.
46:41I listened, but didn't move.
46:43I knew exactly who they'd taken.
46:45I could picture Dominic carrying Bianca through the crowd,
46:47his men shielding them as guests hurled objects and blocked their path.
46:51Bianca would hide her face against his back, pretending to struggle.
46:54How perfect.
46:55I lowered my gaze.
46:57Moments later, my door was kicked in.
46:58A group of men flooded into the dark room, their footsteps heavy and chaotic.
47:03Someone seized my arm.
47:04Hands began shoving and striking me.
47:06I felt fists slam into my shoulders and back.
47:09This was the gauntlet.
47:10The harder the beating, the more the family valued the bride.
47:12I didn't flinch or resist.
47:14I let them yank me from my chair and drag me towards the door.
47:17At first, it felt like a formality, but the violence quickly turned ugly.
47:22Someone slammed my arm against the stone wall.
47:25Fists began hammering my ribs with real, cruel force.
47:29This was intentional.
47:30The pain was excruciating, but I didn't make a sound.
47:34I should have known you were tough, Elena.
47:36I finally understood what my stepmother had meant by calling me tough.
47:39Just when I thought it would never end, someone stepped in to shield me.
47:44Enough!
47:45It was a stranger's voice, sharp with fury.
47:49He blocked the others, shoving the attacker's back with his arms.
47:53That's the way it works.
47:55The harder we hit, the more she's worth.
47:57What rule?
47:59His voice dropped to a dangerous growl.
48:01This isn't your wife!
48:03If someone was beating your woman like a dog, would you just stand there and watch?
48:07The room went silent.
48:09He glanced back at me.
48:11In the shadows, I could only make out the sharp line of his jaw.
48:15Then he bent down and hoisted me onto his back.
48:18Who is he?
48:19He's taking this ritual way too seriously.
48:20He carried me out in long, steady strides.
48:23People chased after us, throwing things and blocking the way, but his grip on my legs never wavered.
48:28When he finally carried me out of my private courtyard, he paused to catch his breath.
48:36In the distance, the faint glow of ritual torches moved.
48:39That was the other group.
48:40Through the bushes, I heard their laughter.
48:43Dominic was at the front, sweat soaked but wearing a triumphant smile.
48:47Bianca was on his back, her arms wrapped tight around his neck.
48:51His men were cheering.
48:54I lay silent on the stranger's back as they drew near.
48:58Torchlight flickered across my face.
49:00Dominic's eyes flicked over me and the two of the Mormony for a split second.
49:04Then his gaze moved on, turning back to his men as he joked and laughed.
49:08He didn't recognize me.
49:10Bianca whispered something in his ear, and he leaned in with a soft smile.
49:15I suddenly thought back to three years ago, when I'd returned to the Moretti estate to visit my father and
49:19stayed for a while.
49:20The first time Dominic came to find me there, he'd worn that exact same smile.
49:24That day, my father's men put him to the test.
49:26They blocked him at the gates and roughed him up, just to see if a Russo truly cared for a
49:31Moretti girl.
49:31He'd shown up at my door with a split lip and bruised ribs.
49:34I asked if it hurt.
49:35For my wife, I take a lot worse.
49:38He was a spoiled Russo heir who'd never been hurt before.
49:41Yet he'd taken a beating from my father's men, just for me.
49:44He always acted like it was nothing, but I knew the truth.
49:47My father's men didn't go easy on outsiders.
49:49Another time, it poured rain.
49:52He showed up soaked to the bone, his shirt torn, but the pastries tucked inside his jacket were still dry.
49:58I called him an idiot for coming out in weather like that.
50:01Didn't want you to wait too long.
50:03I held those pastries, staring at the cut on his cheek, and thought,
50:07This is the man I'll spend my life with.
50:09But now he carried Bianca with that exact same smile.
50:13Come on, Bianca.
50:14My vision blurred for a second, then sharpened again.
50:18Not gonna drop me, are you?
50:19No, never.
50:19Are you sure?
50:20When did it all start to change?
50:22Probably three years ago, when my father died.
50:25I felt completely hollow inside.
50:26I'll handle it.
50:27Dominic cancelled everything to stay at the Moretti estate with me for two weeks.
50:31The day he had to leave, he took my hand and spoke softly.
50:35Elena, you just got through the funeral and you look awful.
50:37If my mother sees you like this, she'll start on you again.
50:39I don't want you putting up with that.
50:40Just stay here at the estate and rest.
50:41You've always wanted to take over the family business, right?
50:44I'll go back and smooth things over at home, then come get you.
50:47I looked at him and nodded.
50:48I was truly exhausted from the constant fighting with his mother.
50:51Back then, I believed he was looking out for me, that he didn't want me to go back and face
50:55those cold stares.
50:56Only later did I realize, distance doesn't create beauty.
50:59It just makes it easier for him to love someone else.
51:01Last year, when Mrs. Russo turned 60, Dominic came to bring me back.
51:05The moment I stepped inside, I saw my stepsister, Bianca.
51:08She was supposed to be in Palermo for work, but there she was in the living room, arranging fruit.
51:13Her movements smooth and familiar.
51:14So, she lived here now.
51:16Dominic paused while taking off his shoes and explained,
51:18Bianca's workplace is near our house.
51:20She's staying here temporarily.
51:21There wasn't a trace of guilt in his voice, and I didn't push for more.
51:25My stepmother had married into the Moretti family long after Bianca and I were grown.
51:29We'd never been close.
51:30Over the years, we'd only seen each other during holidays.
51:33I couldn't quite put into words how I felt about her staying there.
51:35Hey sis!
51:37Don't worry, I'm just crashing here for a bit.
51:39I'll move out once I find a place.
51:41I nodded, but said nothing.
51:43Back then, I never could have imagined.
51:44For three years, I waited alone in the empty Moretti estate.
51:48And all that time, my little sister had been working in the Russo house.
51:51Now, watching Bianca on Dominic's back, it all suddenly clicked.
51:54I hadn't been waiting for him to bring me home at all.
51:57I'd been waiting for my heart to die.
51:59Bianca's voice drifted closer on the wind.
52:02What about Elena?
52:03If she finds out, she'll lose it.
52:04She's all barking, no biting.
52:06She'll get over it after throwing a fit.
52:07He paused, his voice lowering.
52:09It's pitch black during the claiming.
52:11I just made a mistake.
52:12She'll feel sorry for me before she even gets angry.
52:15Once she finds out, I'll just smooth it over.
52:18Bianca laughed softly.
52:20My knuckles whitened.
52:21One of his men spoke up suddenly.
52:23Kappa, what if someone else claimed Elena?
52:25The group fell quiet.
52:26Then Dominic laughed.
52:27You think she'd let anyone take her without a fight?
52:29With that temper of hers, she'll tear the place apart tonight.
52:32True.
52:32No way Elena goes quietly.
52:34Feel sorry for that poor bastard.
52:35I wonder what he looks like now.
52:37The laughter swelled.
52:38I looked down.
52:40Let's go.
52:40He must have heard everything.
52:42Heard them laughing about me.
52:44Heard how they thought I'd tear the roof off.
52:46But he said nothing.
52:47He just kept walking.
52:48But he said nothing.
52:48I'm the liar.
Comments