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- #short_drama
مشاهدة مسلسل ادعوني ملكة براءات الاختراع مترجم كامل جميع الحلقات
#Shorts
#Short_Drama
#Shorts
#Short_Drama
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:02A message lights up the phone with six photos attached.
00:00:06Tangled lingerie, interlocked fingers, wrinkled bedsheets, blurry reflections in the bathroom mirror.
00:00:14This isn't the first time I've received a provocation.
00:00:16I look at the large hand gripping another woman's wrist in the photo.
00:00:20I recognize it at a glance. It's my husband, Mark.
00:00:23The date on the photo is our wedding anniversary.
00:00:28Three months ago, Lainey offered me a chance to disappear.
00:00:31I never thought I'd use it.
00:00:33But after tonight, I had nothing left to stay for.
00:00:37I dial a number.
00:00:39Don't be ridiculous.
00:00:41Once you join the closed research project, you'll be declared missing, all your records wiped.
00:00:48Are you willing to give up your family, give up Mark?
00:00:52I look at the wedding photo on the wall.
00:00:54The more my heart once raced, the more nauseated I feel now.
00:00:58I've made up my mind.
00:00:59I'll come fill out the forms tomorrow.
00:01:02I hang up.
00:01:05A car breaks outside.
00:01:07Mark is back.
00:01:13Mark enters and heads straight to the bathroom.
00:01:27Mark comes out in a bathrobe and lazily wraps his arm around my waist.
00:01:32Daydreaming?
00:01:33Am I that handsome?
00:01:35I sidestep to avoid him.
00:01:37What's wrong?
00:01:38Are you mad?
00:01:39I take a locked box from the drawer and hand it to him.
00:01:47A gift for you.
00:01:48You have to guess the password to open it.
00:01:51Mark tosses it onto the table and pulls me back into his arms.
00:01:57You're the only gift I want.
00:01:59Mark kisses me, but all I can think about were those photos.
00:02:06He takes a small box from his coat and opens it.
00:02:11I especially got this for you.
00:02:13It's one of a kind.
00:02:15Try it on.
00:02:16I look at the jade hairpin.
00:02:18A flash of an image crosses my mind.
00:02:21The same hairpin pinned in another woman's hair.
00:02:24If it really is one of a kind, then I must love it.
00:02:29I close the box.
00:02:32I still have work to do tonight.
00:02:34Go to sleep first.
00:02:37I grip the box and leave without looking back.
00:02:44No one knows better than me.
00:02:46She would never leave me.
00:02:48The next morning, I am already dressed.
00:02:56Come here.
00:02:57Give me a hug.
00:02:58Something urgent came up at the Institute.
00:03:00No time to make breakfast.
00:03:02Handle it yourself.
00:03:04I turn to leave without a backward glance.
00:03:08Stella!
00:03:10I stop.
00:03:11Once work settles down,
00:03:13I'll take you to Midstream Isle to make up for the honeymoon we missed.
00:03:17We once promised to spend every anniversary at a new honeymoon destination.
00:03:21But just days ago,
00:03:23he went there with another woman.
00:03:25Sure, once things settle down,
00:03:27I walk out the door,
00:03:28all warmth gone from my eyes.
00:03:32Too bad, Mark.
00:03:33This time,
00:03:34you'll never get that chance.
00:03:36As soon as I enter the office,
00:03:39Lainey grabs me.
00:03:43You're really here to submit the application?
00:03:45What's going on?
00:03:47I take out my phone and hand it over.
00:03:57That bastard!
00:03:58If it weren't for your pretence,
00:03:59his company wouldn't be where it is today.
00:04:01Come on, let me go tear him apart!
00:04:05No need.
00:04:07Fighting openly would be too easy for him.
00:04:11I want him to pay.
00:04:163.30 p.m.
00:04:18I leave a seminar and head toward the parking lot.
00:04:21A familiar low laugh reaches my ear.
00:04:27Stop it. Be good.
00:04:31I look up and see Mark
00:04:33with his arm around a woman
00:04:35heading into the hotel.
00:04:38Tu manques. Tu manques tellement.
00:04:41She wraps her arms around his neck
00:04:43and kisses him.
00:04:50Through the revolving door,
00:04:52our eyes meet.
00:04:54Hayley notices me
00:04:55and kisses him even deeper.
00:05:00I laugh coldly
00:05:01and turn away.
00:05:11The car door is held open.
00:05:16Mark catches up
00:05:17and squeezes into the back seat.
00:05:19Stella, let me explain.
00:05:24Wipe the lipstick off your mouth first.
00:05:28Mark instinctively touches his lips.
00:05:31She's the daughter of a board member
00:05:33from our partner company.
00:05:34She'd been drinking.
00:05:35I was just seeing her back to the hotel.
00:05:38Is that how you secure investments
00:05:40by being that attentive?
00:05:42It's for work.
00:05:43Can you not make a scene?
00:05:47If you're tired of me,
00:05:49just tell me.
00:05:50We can divorce.
00:05:53Mark grabs my shoulders.
00:05:55Don't ever mention divorce!
00:05:57We agreed.
00:05:58No one gets to bring it up.
00:06:01A phone rings.
00:06:05Mark glances at it
00:06:08and declines.
00:06:10The screen lights up again.
00:06:12Contact name.
00:06:13Hot baby.
00:06:18Mark replies on my way
00:06:20and turns off the screen.
00:06:25Stella,
00:06:26I have something urgent.
00:06:28If you can't help,
00:06:29at least don't make things harder.
00:06:32He pats my head
00:06:36and quickly leaves.
00:06:38I watch his back coldly.
00:06:41I am shopping at the mall.
00:06:45Coming down the S-a-skater.
00:06:47I see a scene at the jewelry counter.
00:06:57Jaslyn is warmly holding Haley's arm.
00:07:00Mark is helping her try on a diamond bracelet.
00:07:03Jaslyn takes out a black card to pay.
00:07:07That card is mine.
00:07:15Now she's using it
00:07:16to please the other woman.
00:07:19I stride forward
00:07:20and snatch the card.
00:07:24Sorry.
00:07:25This card is invalid.
00:07:27Ma'am,
00:07:27this is our brand's premium card.
00:07:29It doesn't go invalid.
00:07:31I snap the card in half
00:07:32and toss it into the trash.
00:07:38Is it invalid now?
00:07:44Jaslyn slaps me in anger.
00:07:46What do you think you're doing?
00:07:48Such an embarrassment!
00:07:50I take the slap without flinching.
00:07:53The next second,
00:07:54I deliver two hard slaps
00:07:56to Mark's face.
00:08:02Stella!
00:08:03Jaslyn rolls up her sleeves
00:08:05to strike back.
00:08:06You hit me once,
00:08:07I'll hit him twice.
00:08:10Wanna try?
00:08:16Did I deserve to hit you?
00:08:18Stella,
00:08:19if you've calmed down,
00:08:20don't make a scene.
00:08:22Hayley throws herself
00:08:23into Mark's arms,
00:08:25complaining in French.
00:08:26Chérie,
00:08:26elle est tellement grossèse!
00:08:28I suddenly speak
00:08:29in fluent French.
00:08:31Puisque tu t'es rabaissée
00:08:32en devinant la troisième
00:08:32ne fait pas semblant
00:08:33d'être innocente.
00:08:34Je comprends si d'alors.
00:08:35Si je ne peux pas te réprimer,
00:08:37je considérais que j'ai perdu.
00:08:38Hayley's face
00:08:38turns crimson.
00:08:40Stella,
00:08:41when did you learn French?
00:08:44Oh honey,
00:08:45you really do love me.
00:08:49I turn and walk away.
00:08:51Mark stops me
00:08:52before I can get in my car.
00:08:54Stella.
00:08:58I shake off his hand
00:08:59in disgust.
00:09:02Aren't you busy
00:09:03with your affair?
00:09:04Hayley is just a friend.
00:09:06Why do you have to be so petty?
00:09:09So even if I catch you
00:09:10in bed together,
00:09:11I should close the curtains
00:09:12and stand guard outside?
00:09:14I said she's just a friend!
00:09:17A friend?
00:09:18A mocking glint
00:09:19appears in my eyes.
00:09:20Then I'll find one too
00:09:22and do everything
00:09:23you and Hayley have done.
00:09:26And don't you dare
00:09:27be jealous about it,
00:09:28okay honey?
00:09:29Don't you dare!
00:09:31You'll see.
00:09:35I get in the car.
00:09:42Mark pounds on the window,
00:09:43but Jazlyn and Hayley
00:09:45catch up and hold him back.
00:09:57I step on the gas
00:09:58and roar away.
00:10:02The bar is drenched
00:10:04in neon lights
00:10:05and thick smoke.
00:10:07I slouch in a corner booth,
00:10:09already tipsy.
00:10:10I saw the betrayal
00:10:11with my own eyes.
00:10:13Now every bitter truth
00:10:15crashes into me.
00:10:17A deep, smooth voice
00:10:19pulls me back.
00:10:22Excuse me.
00:10:24I look up
00:10:25and meet a pair
00:10:26of sharp,
00:10:27penetrating eyes.
00:10:29This man
00:10:30is dangerously attractive.
00:10:32I've never been very good
00:10:33at playing it cool.
00:10:34I pull him down
00:10:35onto the sofa,
00:10:36climb onto his lap,
00:10:37and play with his tie.
00:10:39Want to be my one-night stand?
00:10:41I sit up
00:10:42and sway slightly,
00:10:44tempting like a flame.
00:10:51I want to do
00:10:52everything with you.
00:10:53The man just stares at me
00:10:55with an unreadable expression,
00:10:56not even slightly tempted.
00:10:58I feel ridiculous,
00:11:00like I'm performing
00:11:01alone on a stage.
00:11:02I let out a bitter smile
00:11:04and rest my head
00:11:05against his chest.
00:11:07Sorry.
00:11:09I drank too much.
00:11:11The next morning,
00:11:13I arrive at the institute.
00:11:19I heard a big name
00:11:21is joining this project.
00:11:23Super rich,
00:11:24powerful family,
00:11:25still single.
00:11:30Why would I care?
00:11:32Once the research starts,
00:11:34your records will vanish,
00:11:36your marriage to Mark
00:11:37wiped clean.
00:11:39Imagine walking in
00:11:40with someone powerful
00:11:41and gorgeous,
00:11:43letting Mark see
00:11:44what he lost.
00:11:45That's not enough.
00:11:47Mark will lose
00:11:50much more.
00:11:58In the meeting room,
00:12:00everyone takes their seats.
00:12:09Applause erupts.
00:12:10I look up
00:12:11and lock eyes
00:12:13with the man on stage.
00:12:16It's him?
00:12:20The man from the bar
00:12:22last night.
00:12:23Good morning, everyone.
00:12:25I'm William Briggs.
00:12:26It's an honor
00:12:27to join this project.
00:12:29I quickly lower my head,
00:12:30cheeks burning.
00:12:32After the meeting,
00:12:34I realize my period
00:12:35has started.
00:12:36There's a stain
00:12:36on my white pants.
00:12:40I step out
00:12:41of the restroom
00:12:42and find William
00:12:43washing his hands
00:12:44at the sink.
00:12:45I freeze against the wall,
00:12:48unable to go forward
00:12:49nor back.
00:12:55How long are you
00:12:56planning to stand there,
00:12:57Miss Russell?
00:12:58You go ahead.
00:12:59William glances
00:13:00at the folder
00:13:01I'm using
00:13:01to hide my pants.
00:13:03He takes off
00:13:03his suit jacket
00:13:04and hands it to me.
00:13:05Would this help?
00:13:06I stare in shock,
00:13:08my face flushing deeper.
00:13:10I quickly accept
00:13:11the jacket
00:13:11and tie it
00:13:12around my waist.
00:13:14Thank you,
00:13:15Mr. Briggs,
00:13:16and sorry.
00:13:17This is kind
00:13:18of embarrassing.
00:13:22William steps closer,
00:13:24his tall frame
00:13:26surrounding me.
00:13:27Last night,
00:13:28when you were
00:13:28pulling on my tie
00:13:29and inviting me
00:13:30to your bed,
00:13:31you didn't seem
00:13:32this shy.
00:13:32I flush with irritation
00:13:34and embarrassment.
00:13:37Mr. Briggs,
00:13:38I already apologized
00:13:39for that.
00:13:41William chuckles softly
00:13:43and walks away.
00:13:44Still out clubbing
00:13:45at a time like this,
00:13:46Miss Russell?
00:13:47You really ought to start
00:13:48taking better care
00:13:48of yourself.
00:13:51I return home.
00:13:53Mark sits on the sofa,
00:13:54his expression stormy.
00:13:56Why weren't you
00:13:56answering my calls?
00:13:58Weren't you busy
00:13:59charming your friend?
00:14:00I wouldn't dare interrupt.
00:14:03Mark stands and
00:14:04approaches me.
00:14:06His eyes land
00:14:07on the men's coat
00:14:08in my hand.
00:14:09Who does that coat
00:14:10belong to?
00:14:11Why does it matter?
00:14:12You have your woman,
00:14:13so I can have my man.
00:14:15Stella!
00:14:16Don't you dare say that
00:14:17just to provoke me!
00:14:18I'm being serious.
00:14:20Whatever you did with Haley,
00:14:21I've done with someone else too.
00:14:22Mark grabs my wrist
00:14:23and yanks me onto the sofa,
00:14:25pressing me down.
00:14:27Did that man kiss you?
00:14:29Touch you?
00:14:31You're mine.
00:14:33The sharp clink
00:14:34of a belt buckle
00:14:35being unfastened
00:14:36rings in my ears.
00:14:37I bring my knee up sharply,
00:14:39landing a brutal blow
00:14:40between Mark's legs.
00:14:46Mark groans
00:14:47and folds onto the carpet.
00:14:48I scrub my lips
00:14:49with a tissue
00:14:50and look down at him.
00:14:51Didn't you say
00:14:52nothing happened?
00:14:54Then why are you
00:14:55getting so worked up?
00:14:56The coat slips
00:14:57from my grasp,
00:14:58landing in front of him
00:14:59with the tag still dangling,
00:15:00brand new.
00:15:02Mark freezes,
00:15:03then lets out
00:15:04a dark laugh.
00:15:05He gets up
00:15:06and slides his arms
00:15:07around my waist.
00:15:09This is all an act
00:15:10to make me jealous, right?
00:15:11You bought a new coat
00:15:13and pretended
00:15:14it was another man's.
00:15:15I know you too well.
00:15:17He buries his face
00:15:18against my neck.
00:15:20Don't pull something
00:15:20like this again.
00:15:21You're everything to me.
00:15:23If I lost you,
00:15:25I'd lose my mind.
00:15:26I am silent
00:15:27for a long moment.
00:15:29Do you remember
00:15:30the consequences
00:15:30of breaking that vow?
00:15:32Mark tenses.
00:15:35If you break this vow,
00:15:36may you be cursed
00:15:38with infertility,
00:15:39die a painful death,
00:15:41lose everything you love.
00:15:44If it means
00:15:45you'll stop being angry,
00:15:46I'll agree
00:15:47to whatever you say.
00:15:49I pull my hand away,
00:15:50my voice flat.
00:15:51Let's go to Midstream Isle
00:15:53next weekend.
00:15:55Okay.
00:15:56I'll plan everything.
00:15:58I bury my revulsion
00:15:59deep down,
00:16:00my eyes turning to frost.
00:16:08Mark comes out
00:16:09of the bathroom,
00:16:10towel around his waist
00:16:11and climbs into bed.
00:16:19Stella, a friend
00:16:20brought back a box
00:16:21of ultra-thin condoms
00:16:22from Raskett.
00:16:22Mark's voice is gentle.
00:16:24Want to give him
00:16:24a try tonight?
00:16:25His damp hair brushing
00:16:26against my cheek.
00:16:27I used to think
00:16:28this was love.
00:16:29Now I understand
00:16:30when he didn't get
00:16:30what he wanted,
00:16:31he simply turned
00:16:32to someone else.
00:16:33Let me freshen up first.
00:16:35No need.
00:16:36I don't mind.
00:16:39I want tonight
00:16:40to feel special.
00:16:45I go into the bathroom
00:16:46and lock the door.
00:16:48I turn on my camera
00:16:49and snap a mirror shot
00:16:50of the kiss mark
00:16:51on my neck.
00:16:56I send the photo,
00:16:57along with the earlier bed shots,
00:16:59to Haley.
00:17:02A few seconds later,
00:17:04Mark's phone rings outside.
00:17:07I turn on the faucet.
00:17:11Minutes later,
00:17:12Mark knocks on the bathroom door.
00:17:16Stella,
00:17:17something urgent
00:17:17came up at the office.
00:17:18I've got to go.
00:17:19Don't wait up.
00:17:24I listen as the bedroom door
00:17:26clicks shut.
00:17:27A faint, ironic smile
00:17:29tugs at my lips.
00:17:33I come out of the bathroom.
00:17:35The room is empty.
00:17:40I look at the wedding photo
00:17:41on the wall.
00:17:42The smiles in it
00:17:44once made me feel warm.
00:17:50I once thought
00:17:51marrying Mark
00:17:52was the best thing
00:17:53that ever happened to me.
00:17:57Now I know
00:17:57how badly I was mistaken.
00:18:06I take the photo
00:18:07out of its frame
00:18:09and walk to the backyard.
00:18:14I find an old metal basin,
00:18:17place the photo inside,
00:18:19douse it in gasoline,
00:18:22and light a march.
00:18:25The flames flare up,
00:18:27lighting my face.
00:18:29Just as the photo
00:18:30burns halfway through,
00:18:31I hear the front door
00:18:33creak open.
00:18:36I turn and see
00:18:37Mark walking in.
00:18:38I instinctively shift
00:18:40to block the basin
00:18:41from Mark's view.
00:18:43What are you burning?
00:18:46Nothing important.
00:18:47Just tossing out
00:18:48some old junk.
00:18:49What brings you back?
00:18:51Forgot something.
00:18:57Mark goes upstairs
00:18:58and returns moments later,
00:19:00his phone buzzing constantly.
00:19:01I've got to run.
00:19:03He leaves
00:19:04without looking back.
00:19:12I go upstairs
00:19:13and open the bedside drawer.
00:19:15The box of
00:19:16ultra-thin condoms
00:19:18is gone.
00:19:19I never agreed
00:19:20to use them,
00:19:21but he found
00:19:22someone who would.
00:19:27I go to
00:19:28William's office
00:19:28to return the jacket,
00:19:30but the room is empty.
00:19:32He's in meetings all day.
00:19:34Don't think you'll
00:19:34catch him around here.
00:19:35I borrow a sticky note
00:19:37and scribble a message.
00:19:42Mr. Briggs,
00:19:43the jacket you lent me
00:19:44was custom made,
00:19:45so I bought another
00:19:46of equal value to return.
00:19:48If you're not satisfied,
00:19:50feel free to contact me.
00:19:53I hesitate briefly
00:19:54before adding my number.
00:19:57I place the note
00:19:59in the shopping bag,
00:20:00set it on his desk,
00:20:01and quietly leave.
00:20:07I have just left the office
00:20:09when my phone buzzes.
00:20:15Mrs. Walsh,
00:20:16the patent contract
00:20:17has expired.
00:20:18We'll send someone
00:20:19to the villa
00:20:20with the new documents
00:20:21for you to sign.
00:20:22For years,
00:20:23I let Mark use my patents
00:20:24without asking for a cent.
00:20:26He probably assumed
00:20:28that being married
00:20:29gave him ownership
00:20:30over everything I had.
00:20:32There's no need.
00:20:33I'm free today.
00:20:34I'll come to the company myself.
00:20:56I walk into the building.
00:20:59The receptionist
00:21:00looks surprised.
00:21:01Mrs. Walsh,
00:21:02what brings you in today?
00:21:05Just here to sign
00:21:07a contract.
00:21:08Is Mark in?
00:21:10The receptionist
00:21:11opens her mouth
00:21:12but ultimately
00:21:13says nothing.
00:21:20I step in the elevator.
00:21:26The doors open.
00:21:28I head towards
00:21:29the legal department.
00:21:31Mark's assistant,
00:21:32Cody,
00:21:33rushes over,
00:21:34trying to block my view.
00:21:35I catch a glimpse
00:21:36inside Mark's office.
00:21:38Haley is sitting
00:21:39on his desk,
00:21:40leaning close to him.
00:21:44They're whispering
00:21:45and smiling.
00:21:48I let out a quiet scoff
00:21:50and walk straight forward.
00:21:53I sit on the leather sofa.
00:21:57I'm done selling that patent.
00:21:59The contract has expired.
00:22:02Our partnership is over.
00:22:05Mrs. Walsh,
00:22:06is there a problem
00:22:07with the contract?
00:22:12No issues.
00:22:14I've simply found
00:22:15a new buyer.
00:22:16Mark rushes in.
00:22:21Stella,
00:22:22if you're upset,
00:22:23take it out on me.
00:22:24But don't mess around
00:22:25with the patent.
00:22:27Let's talk about this
00:22:29at home.
00:22:33I'm not joking.
00:22:34The deal is off.
00:22:35And if your company
00:22:37continues using my patent
00:22:38without permission,
00:22:39I'll have my lawyer
00:22:41file for compensation.
00:22:42I pick up my bag
00:22:43and walk out
00:22:43without sparing him a glance.
00:22:52I leave the legal department.
00:22:54Mark rushes after me.
00:23:00Stella,
00:23:01wait.
00:23:01Let me explain.
00:23:02I don't want to know
00:23:04about you and Haley.
00:23:04Haley comes out
00:23:06of the office,
00:23:06sees us confronting
00:23:08each other,
00:23:08and smirks.
00:23:13Chérie,
00:23:14tu as été incroyable
00:23:15hier soir.
00:23:16Je n'ai pas arrêté
00:23:17de penser à toi.
00:23:18I let out
00:23:19a cold laugh
00:23:20and respond
00:23:21in fluent French.
00:23:23Quelle maître
00:23:24dégustante.
00:23:25Tu me rendes malade.
00:23:28Haley's face
00:23:28changes dramatically.
00:23:30Enraged,
00:23:31she charges at me
00:23:32to slap me.
00:23:35I grab Haley's wrist
00:23:37and slap her back.
00:23:39Then grab her hair
00:23:40and hit her repeatedly.
00:23:45Mark rushes over
00:23:46and shoves me hard.
00:23:49My head slams
00:23:51into the wall.
00:23:52Pain explodes
00:23:53through my skull.
00:23:57Cody studies me.
00:24:00Mrs. Walsh,
00:24:01are you okay?
00:24:10Regret flashes
00:24:11in Mark's eyes,
00:24:12but Haley clings
00:24:14to him.
00:24:14Stella,
00:24:16go home first.
00:24:27I give Mark
00:24:28a cold look
00:24:29and turn away.
00:24:34I wait by the curb
00:24:35for my driver.
00:24:41A black car
00:24:42pulls up.
00:24:44I open the door
00:24:45and get in.
00:24:49Only to realize
00:24:50someone is in the back seat.
00:24:53In the rear view mirror,
00:24:55I meet a pair of deep eyes.
00:24:57William.
00:25:08Mr. Briggs?
00:25:10What are you doing here?
00:25:12Miss Russell,
00:25:13shouldn't you check the license plate
00:25:14before getting into a car?
00:25:19I realize I got into the wrong car.
00:25:22My cheeks burn.
00:25:25Sorry,
00:25:25I got the wrong car.
00:25:27I'll get out.
00:25:27Wait.
00:25:29William's eyes land on the coat
00:25:30in my hand.
00:25:31I saw the jacket.
00:25:33Since I gave it to you,
00:25:34I didn't expect it back.
00:25:36Focus on your work.
00:25:41He orders the driver
00:25:42to send me home
00:25:43before opening the door
00:25:44and leaving.
00:25:46Lainey accidentally
00:25:48touches my head wound.
00:25:52Did Mark do this?
00:25:54That bastard!
00:25:57It's fine.
00:25:59It'll heal in a few days.
00:26:03My phone rings.
00:26:05Mark's name appears
00:26:06on the screen.
00:26:11Let me.
00:26:13Lainey grabs the phone
00:26:14and answers.
00:26:15How dare you call her?
00:26:17She doesn't want to hear your voice.
00:26:19This is between me and Stella.
00:26:21I take the phone back.
00:26:23Mark,
00:26:24you disgust me.
00:26:26You want both women?
00:26:28Don't you see how shameless that is?
00:26:30Stella,
00:26:31come home.
00:26:32Let's talk.
00:26:33You don't want me to cause a scene
00:26:35at your institute,
00:26:36do you?
00:26:37I pause for a moment.
00:26:41Fine.
00:26:42I'll come back after work.
00:26:45I return home.
00:26:47Mark has dinner ready.
00:26:53I had the chef
00:26:54make your favorites.
00:26:59I eat in silence.
00:27:13Stella,
00:27:14it's all for our company.
00:27:17Don't be mad.
00:27:21So you still want to use my patent for free?
00:27:24Stella,
00:27:24let's have a baby.
00:27:26Then you'll always be Mrs. Walsh.
00:27:30I used to want a child.
00:27:31But now,
00:27:32after what he did with Haley,
00:27:34he still dares to talk about having a baby?
00:27:40I have a headache.
00:27:41Maybe another time.
00:27:57Stella,
00:27:58the project list changed.
00:28:00William is personally reviewing everyone.
00:28:02What?
00:28:03I might lose my spot?
00:28:05But if you win over William,
00:28:06wouldn't that drive your pathetic husband crazy?
00:28:10I don't have time for that.
00:28:14help me arrange a private meeting with him.
00:28:17I return home.
00:28:18Mark is sitting on the sofa.
00:28:29Stella,
00:28:29you're back.
00:28:30Hungry?
00:28:33Looking at you ruins my appetite.
00:28:40I'm free next month.
00:28:46I don't want to go anymore.
00:28:51You can take Haley.
00:29:00I don't like it when you talk like that.
00:29:02Then how do you want me to talk?
00:29:04Stella,
00:29:04there's nothing between me and Haley.
00:29:06The Smith family wants her to gain experience here.
00:29:09I'm putting her in legal.
00:29:12What does that have to do with me?
00:29:16If you renew your patent,
00:29:18it'll be her first project.
00:29:20If she's happy,
00:29:21the Smith family will be happy.
00:29:29So you want to use my patent to make Haley happy?
00:29:32A strong company benefits us both.
00:29:34We're married.
00:29:36Isn't it normal for you to help me?
00:29:40This is my patent.
00:29:42I'm not selling.
00:29:43No one can force me.
00:29:45Go to the office tomorrow and sign.
00:29:48Don't act like a child.
00:29:58Late at night,
00:30:00I am wakened by the sound of someone trying to open the door.
00:30:05Mark is trying to open the door.
00:30:06Good thing I locked it.
00:30:17I checked the security footage.
00:30:20It really is Mark.
00:30:33I get a call from Allegra from the legal department.
00:30:36Miss Russell,
00:30:38Mr. Walsh said if you don't come to renew the contract,
00:30:41it'll be considered my mistake.
00:30:43I'll lose my job.
00:30:48I'll come.
00:30:51Don't worry.
00:30:52I won't let you lose your job.
00:30:57I approach the legal department and hear Haley yelling inside.
00:31:00How dare you?
00:31:04Mrs. Walsh, don't go in.
00:31:06Haley is clearly targeting you.
00:31:09I smile and walk in.
00:31:18Well, look who finally showed up.
00:31:22Weren't you so proud yesterday?
00:31:26If Mark hadn't threatened me with innocent people, I wouldn't be here.
00:31:35Just sign the contract.
00:31:43I won't sign.
00:31:45Theo, the vice head of legal, tries to mediate.
00:31:50Mrs. Walsh, if something's bothering you, let's talk it through.
00:31:56The reason I'm not renewing is her.
00:31:58If you want my signature, tell Mark to kick her out.
00:32:02Who do you think you are?
00:32:04It's just a patent.
00:32:05I'm not going anywhere.
00:32:10I turn and leave.
00:32:12Mrs. Walsh, let me walk you out.
00:32:20Mrs. Walsh, could you talk to Mr. Walsh?
00:32:22Haley isn't fit for this role.
00:32:25I say nothing.
00:32:41Just five more days, Stella.
00:32:43Just five more.
00:32:55I return home and collapse onto the couch.
00:32:58My phone rings.
00:33:06Stella, there's a party tonight.
00:33:08William is going.
00:33:09William is going?
00:33:10All right, I'll be there.
00:33:13I get ready.
00:33:15My phone receives a voice message.
00:33:19I press play.
00:33:21A sultry voice spills from the speaker.
00:33:28Oh, you're incredible.
00:33:35I rush to the sink and vomit.
00:33:45Disgusting.
00:33:46I should have known he would sink this low.
00:33:55Lainey waits outside in a stunning gown.
00:34:03Stella, this is your choice?
00:34:04It's too conservative.
00:34:08Lainey forces me into a dark red slip dress.
00:34:14Tonight is William's childhood friend's birthday party.
00:34:18Seize the opportunity.
00:34:19Cheers.
00:34:21Cheers.
00:34:31Lainey guides me towards William.
00:34:39Mr. Briggs, this is Stella.
00:34:41She has some questions about the project.
00:34:44Lainey gives me a light nudge.
00:34:50I lose my balance and land squarely in William's lap.
00:34:55Gasps echo around the room.
00:34:58Sorry.
00:35:00How long are you planning to sit there?
00:35:03I'm sorry.
00:35:04My dress is caught.
00:35:07Ms. Russell, that's quite a low move.
00:35:11Is this how you earn a spot on the team?
00:35:14I didn't mean to.
00:35:17I've published papers.
00:35:18I have patents.
00:35:19I've done research on this project.
00:35:29I do see your skills.
00:35:34William leaves the private box.
00:35:41I chase after him.
00:35:43Mr. Briggs, those were all misunderstandings.
00:35:45I just want a chance.
00:35:49William stops suddenly.
00:35:50I crash into his arm.
00:35:52You threw yourself at me in front of everyone.
00:35:55If I put you on the team, won't people assume I'm playing favorites?
00:36:00But I didn't.
00:36:02It was an accident.
00:36:05You're very skilled at getting a man's attention.
00:36:09But I don't like women who offer themselves.
00:36:13My hands curl into fists.
00:36:17Mr. Briggs, I take pride in my work.
00:36:20I rely on my skills.
00:36:22I'm not the kind of woman you're trying to make me out to be.
00:36:25I turn and walk away.
00:36:36I return home and receive an apology message from Lainey.
00:36:44Lainey, it's not your fault.
00:36:49The front door opens.
00:36:51Mark stumbles in, drunk.
00:36:58Stella, where were you today?
00:37:05The Institute.
00:37:06You smell terrible.
00:37:09I turn and walk upstairs.
00:37:20The next day, I arrive at the Institute.
00:37:25William's assistant, Luca, is waiting.
00:37:29Ms. Russell, we're looking for someone to assist Mr. Briggs with documents.
00:37:33I think you'd be great for it.
00:37:39Mr. Briggs, I think you'd be great for it.
00:37:40But I'd rather work with my peers.
00:37:45I turn and walk toward the other work groups.
00:37:54I spend the whole day working on project files with my colleagues.
00:37:58Stella, here's today's data.
00:38:01Can you drop it off with Mr. Briggs?
00:38:05Sure.
00:38:08I go to find William, only to realize he's already left.
00:38:12He's probably heading to the garage.
00:38:14If you hurry, you can catch him.
00:38:18I turn and race toward the elevator.
00:38:21I stand at the Institute's exit, where every car must pass.
00:38:25Moments later, William's sleek black Bentley rolls into view.
00:38:29I wave from the curb.
00:38:34The car keeps moving.
00:38:36I take a bold step forward and plant myself right in front of the car.
00:38:46Are you courting death?
00:38:48Mr. Briggs.
00:38:49These files need your review.
00:38:52Hand them over.
00:38:58I hand over the documents, then head back to the institution.
00:39:05I return home and start clearing out items related to Mark.
00:39:11The ceramic cups we made together.
00:39:13The wishing plaque from when we watched the shooting star.
00:39:18They all feel like jokes now.
00:39:24As I pack things away, I hear the front door open.
00:39:37I went to pick you up at the Institute, but I missed you.
00:39:40I got a ride with a colleague.
00:39:44Stella, work has settled down.
00:39:47I told you, I don't want a baby right now.
00:39:59I told you, I don't want a baby right now.
00:40:20Mark goes to the kitchen to cook and make peace.
00:40:27He notices the capsule coffee maker is missing.
00:40:36Mark knocks on the door.
00:40:38Stella, what happened to the coffee maker?
00:40:42It broke.
00:40:43I sent it for repairs.
00:40:45Stella, I really messed up.
00:40:46Come down and have something to eat?
00:40:49Not hungry.
00:40:51What about that coat you bought me?
00:40:52I couldn't find it in the closet.
00:40:54Wrong size.
00:40:55I returned it.
00:40:58I'm tired.
00:40:59I'm going to sleep.
00:41:05Stella, don't work yourself to death.
00:41:08I'm fine.
00:41:09I know my limits.
00:41:10The list is out.
00:41:11Let's go see.
00:41:16I rush to the bulletin board and scan the list again and again.
00:41:25My name isn't there.
00:41:27I didn't make it.
00:41:33I sit at my desk, staring blankly.
00:41:36Stella, it's okay.
00:41:37There will be other projects.
00:41:42I'm fine.
00:41:44I go to the break room and run into Luca.
00:41:47Miss Russell, don't take the list too hard.
00:41:51Mr. Briggs is hosting a dinner at the Voyage Hotel tonight.
00:41:54Maybe you should come?
00:41:55No need.
00:41:56Mr. Briggs must have his reasons.
00:42:05I look at flight options.
00:42:06Mark will search everywhere for me once he finds the divorce agreement.
00:42:11I need to leave Coria.
00:42:13The farther, the better.
00:42:19Mark waits outside the institute.
00:42:22Stella, why haven't you come home?
00:42:25I've been busy.
00:42:26Busy moving your things out?
00:42:28Half the house is empty.
00:42:31I needed money.
00:42:32I pawned them.
00:42:33Why didn't you tell me?
00:42:35Here, take these cards.
00:42:37No need.
00:42:38I've sorted it out.
00:42:43Stella, what are you hiding from me?
00:42:48Nothing.
00:42:48I have a business trip.
00:42:50I'll be out of town for a while.
00:42:55I turn and leave.
00:43:03I get into a taxi and notice Mark following.
00:43:11Driver, take me to the mall.
00:43:16I enter a cafe and head straight to the restroom.
00:43:25Mark follows and waits outside.
00:43:43I climb out through the restroom window.
00:43:50I find a cleaning lady.
00:43:53Ma'am, dump your bucket of water on the man waiting outside the restroom.
00:43:58I'll give you $500.
00:43:59The cleaning lady looked at the money in my hand, her expression doubtful.
00:44:04That person is a stalker who has been following me all the way.
00:44:09And I had no choice but to resort to such drastic measures.
00:44:14The cleaning lady hesitated for a moment but ultimately accepted the money from my hand.
00:44:20I exit the mall.
00:44:26My phone rings.
00:44:32Stella, how much longer will you cling to Mark?
00:44:36Mark and I are still legally married.
00:44:39Who gave you the right to call me?
00:44:41Stella, how dare you speak to her like that?
00:44:43Get to the Voyage Hotel now!
00:44:47I enter the hotel and see Jazlyn and Haley sitting together.
00:45:00Divorce my son right now.
00:45:03You can't even give us a child.
00:45:06Useless.
00:45:07Fine.
00:45:08I'll divorce him.
00:45:10Jazlyn and Haley freeze in shock.
00:45:12But Jazlyn, you need to pay me back for your beauty appointments and supplement.
00:45:17My friend owns that salon.
00:45:18I got you a 90% discount.
00:45:21And those supplements?
00:45:23Ask Mark who's really been paying for them.
00:45:25And as for the casino,
00:45:27you know how many toes you've stepped on.
00:45:34You won't be stepping foot in there again.
00:45:38Jazlyn's face twists with fury.
00:45:41Stella, don't you dare get greedy with me.
00:45:44Those supplements were paid for by my son.
00:45:46I have my own membership for the salon.
00:45:51Stella, are you just making excuses to keep this marriage?
00:45:55I laugh.
00:45:57I'm just laying out the truth.
00:45:59Divorce is fine by me.
00:46:00But get Mark here in person.
00:46:02If you can convince him,
00:46:04I won't stand in your way.
00:46:07Neither Jazlyn nor Haley can respond.
00:46:10They know Mark refuses to even discuss divorce.
00:46:14I head for the door.
00:46:17Stop right there!
00:46:20I don't look back.
00:46:22I've said what I needed to say.
00:46:31I step into the elevator.
00:46:33A man is standing inside.
00:46:39The man suddenly covers my mouth and nose with a cloth.
00:46:43I struggle, kick the man,
00:46:45and bolt out when the doors open.
00:46:49Somebody help me!
00:46:51Somebody help me!
00:47:00I run into the stairwell,
00:47:02but is blocked by several men.
00:47:06I am dragged into a hotel room.
00:47:09Quit fighting.
00:47:10We just need a few pictures.
00:47:13They force me onto the bed.
00:47:14Hands crawl at my clothing.
00:47:17Cold air brushes over my skin.
00:47:22I begin to shake uncontrollably.
00:47:35These are your props.
00:47:37Use them however you want.
00:47:39And don't bother with condoms.
00:47:42Haley, this is illegal!
00:47:45So what?
00:47:47No one will know.
00:47:49Here.
00:47:54Haley pulls out a contract
00:47:56and forces my fingerprint onto it.
00:47:59This contract is permanent.
00:48:02The patent now belongs to Walsh Group.
00:48:04Free of charge.
00:48:05She's all yours.
00:48:07Enjoy.
00:48:08Haley leaves.
00:48:14The men close in.
00:48:19The door is kicked open.
00:48:21Luca storms in with bodyguards.
00:48:25Get these bastards out of here.
00:48:35William enters the room.
00:48:38Are you alright?
00:48:40I wrap myself in a bed sheet
00:48:42and say nothing.
00:48:46The doctor examines me.
00:48:49I need an IV to flush out the drugs.
00:48:57Mr. Briggs,
00:48:58thank you for everything.
00:49:00But from here on out,
00:49:01I'll handle it myself.
00:49:04William nods and then leaves.
00:49:18Lainey sees my condition
00:49:19and hugs me tightly.
00:49:21What happened?
00:49:22Who did this to you?
00:49:24I'll handle them.
00:49:27It was Mark and Haley.
00:49:30I tell Lainey everything.
00:49:34Don't worry about the patent.
00:49:36I found another buyer for you.
00:49:39But Haley already took the contract.
00:49:41The buyer I found is trustworthy.
00:49:43He'll take care of it.
00:49:46I hand Lainey a small object.
00:49:51Lainey, can you help me with this?
00:49:54Beatrix enters the hall.
00:49:57Mr. Walsh,
00:49:58Haley has chosen you.
00:49:59We won't stand in the way.
00:50:00Just resolve things
00:50:01with your ex-wife properly.
00:50:03I approach with a glass of champagne.
00:50:12Mark,
00:50:13what did I do wrong in this marriage?
00:50:16Why are you humiliating me?
00:50:18You have the nerve to ask?
00:50:19You were sleeping around while married.
00:50:21Isn't that reason enough?
00:50:23Miss Russell,
00:50:24I thought you refused to divorce
00:50:26because you loved Mark.
00:50:28But how could you take such vulgar pictures
00:50:30with other men?
00:50:31The crowd starts whispering.
00:50:38You're accusing me of sleeping around?
00:50:40Do you have proof?
00:50:41If not, it's slander.
00:50:44Someone saw it and told me!
00:50:47Then show us the evidence.
00:50:49Let's see it.
00:50:52Haley looks at Jaslyn for help.
00:50:54Haley, show them the proof!
00:50:56Didn't you say you saw everything?
00:50:59Both assumed the other had the photos.
00:51:06What's wrong?
00:51:07Can't find it?
00:51:08That's fine.
00:51:13I'll show us something else.
00:51:15Evidence that reveals your affair with Mark.
00:51:17People turn their eyes to Mark and Haley.
00:51:22Stella, wait.
00:51:24Please, let me explain.
00:51:30I splash champagne in Mark's face.
00:51:35Don't touch me!
00:51:37I feel sick looking at you!
00:51:46This is your idea of love?
00:51:49Loving two people at once?
00:51:52Pathetic.
00:51:57Mark stands frozen.
00:51:59Then reaches out and grips my arm.
00:52:02Not tightly, but firm enough to hold me still.
00:52:07You're hurting me!
00:52:09He immediately lets go, startled,
00:52:12and only then notices the bruises and marks
00:52:15scattered across my skin.
00:52:17Stella, what happened to you?
00:52:21Haley's face lights up with an idea.
00:52:24She releases her mother's arm and declares loudly,
00:52:27Stella, you keep insisting you're innocent.
00:52:31But what about those bruises?
00:52:33Isn't that the aftermath of your night?
00:52:36With those men?
00:52:39Gasps ripple through the crowd.
00:52:41You only signed the patent renewal yesterday
00:52:43because we caught you.
00:52:45Weren't you scared we'd expose everything?
00:52:48Haley snatches the contract from Mark
00:52:51and holds it up in front of me like a trophy.
00:52:54You could barely stand straight
00:52:56and yet you were still begging them not to stop.
00:53:00You kept saying how much you liked it.
00:53:06And now you want to act like you're the victim?
00:53:09My brow froze.
00:53:10I grab Haley's wrist hard.
00:53:12You know what you did is a crime, right?
00:53:15You could go to prison for this.
00:53:17Mark stands frozen,
00:53:19Haley's words echoing in his head.
00:53:21Could Stella really have done something like that?
00:53:24But the moment he meets my icy stare,
00:53:26reality strikes him.
00:53:28Haley, what did you do?
00:53:29Haley's body shakes.
00:53:31She lowers her head and doesn't dare to face him.
00:53:35Mark, don't believe her.
00:53:37She's accusing me because I uncovered the truth.
00:53:40Now she's trying to make me the villain.
00:53:44Beatrice steps forward protectively,
00:53:46positioning herself in front of Haley.
00:53:48Miss Russell, you can't just spout lies like that.
00:53:50Your accusation is completely out of line.
00:53:53She turns to Mark.
00:53:55Mr. Walsh,
00:53:56I only agreed to work with you
00:53:57because of Haley's feelings for you.
00:53:59But after this baseless and slander against my daughter,
00:54:02I see no reason to continue our partnership.
00:54:05She signals for Haley to follow.
00:54:08Haley drags her feet,
00:54:10watching Mark out of the corner of her eye,
00:54:12hoping he'll stop her.
00:54:16Wait, you haven't said what you did to Stella.
00:54:20Haley's heart pounds.
00:54:23Mark, I haven't done anything.
00:54:26Stella's been ignoring you lately, right?
00:54:28If she's innocent, why hasn't she come back?
00:54:35Mark glances at me,
00:54:36suspicion clouding his gaze.
00:54:39He's been swayed by Haley again.
00:54:42I give him a frosty smile,
00:54:44pull a recorder from my bag,
00:54:45and press play.
00:54:47This contract is permanent.
00:54:49The patent now belongs to Walsh Group,
00:54:51free of charge.
00:54:54She's all yours.
00:54:55Enjoy.
00:54:57Haley's face drains of color.
00:55:00Jaslyn, standing beside Mark,
00:55:02is also stunned after hearing the recording.
00:55:05What?
00:55:06You actually sent people to rape Stella?
00:55:12Haley, our plan was just to take some photos.
00:55:15That was it!
00:55:17The room explodes with shocked whispers
00:55:19and raised voices.
00:55:23How could you do something like that?
00:55:25Jaslyn takes a quick step back,
00:55:27putting space between herself and Haley.
00:55:30Haley clenches her teeth
00:55:31and points straight at Jaslyn.
00:55:33Your mother told me to do it!
00:55:35She said she didn't like Stella
00:55:38and wanted me to find a way
00:55:39to make her leave!
00:55:40This was all her idea!
00:55:42Jaslyn trembles with rage.
00:55:45You're lying!
00:55:47I never told you to do anything like that!
00:55:50I stand quietly,
00:55:52watching them tear each other apart.
00:55:54Not long ago,
00:55:56they were pretending to be
00:55:57one big happy family.
00:55:59Now,
00:56:00they're crumbling from the inside
00:56:02and I haven't lifted a finger.
00:56:05I hold the recorder tightly in my hand,
00:56:08quietly taking in the chaos.
00:56:13Realizing she's losing ground with Jaslyn,
00:56:16Haley suddenly switches gears.
00:56:18With tears in her eyes,
00:56:19she turns toward me.
00:56:21Miss Russell,
00:56:22I'm so sorry.
00:56:23This is all on me.
00:56:25I was tricked by Mark's mom.
00:56:28I swear,
00:56:29I never meant to hurt you.
00:56:30Whatever compensation you want,
00:56:32money,
00:56:32anything,
00:56:33just say the word.
00:56:34My family will pay.
00:56:36Please,
00:56:37forgive me.
00:56:39I let out a soft scoff.
00:56:43Oh?
00:56:44And how much exactly
00:56:45were you planning to offer me?
00:56:49Haley's face lights up,
00:56:50thinking I'm willing to settle.
00:56:52Whatever amount you want,
00:56:54just name it!
00:56:55My family can afford it!
00:56:56Mark's brow furrows.
00:56:58He doesn't understand
00:56:59why I'm entertaining this.
00:57:00Haley watches me with hopeful eyes,
00:57:03desperate for a number.
00:57:05I look at her and smile.
00:57:07Haley,
00:57:07not everything in life
00:57:09can be solved
00:57:09by throwing money at it.
00:57:11I don't want your money.
00:57:12I'm taking the evidence
00:57:14to the police.
00:57:15Let them handle it.
00:57:18Haley's face falls in an instant.
00:57:20She opens her mouth
00:57:20to say something else,
00:57:22but I cut her off.
00:57:23Oh, and by the way,
00:57:23all that effort you put in,
00:57:24it was a waste.
00:57:26Your guys failed.
00:57:28There are no pictures.
00:57:29I just walked away
00:57:30with a few scratches.
00:57:32Haley is completely undone.
00:57:34What?
00:57:35Mark,
00:57:36standing just a few steps away,
00:57:39lets out a long,
00:57:40quiet breath.
00:57:41He moves towards me,
00:57:42wanting to say something.
00:57:44I slap him hard
00:57:45across the face.
00:57:49Didn't I tell you
00:57:50to stay away from me?
00:57:51You make me sick.
00:57:53Everyone around
00:57:54gasps in shock.
00:58:00Stella.
00:58:02I'm not done with you yet.
00:58:04That patent has been under
00:58:05a different company
00:58:06for a while now.
00:58:09Your people forced me
00:58:11into a deal I didn't want,
00:58:13and they kept using my work
00:58:14after the deal expired.
00:58:16That's illegal.
00:58:17Mark's face pales.
00:58:18My new partners
00:58:19have already taken a hit
00:58:21because of your actions.
00:58:25Even if I wanted to spare you,
00:58:27they won't.
00:58:28So you'd better be ready
00:58:29for a huge payout.
00:58:31Oh, come on, Stella.
00:58:33Who'd ever dare
00:58:34Sue Walsh Group?
00:58:35That patent's been
00:58:36under their name for years.
00:58:37Everyone in the industry
00:58:38knows it.
00:58:39No one would even
00:58:40go near it.
00:58:42You're just trying
00:58:43to play the sympathy card
00:58:44so Mark won't divorce you.
00:58:46What do you even
00:58:47have to offer?
00:58:49I can bring him
00:58:50real deals,
00:58:52foreign investors,
00:58:54key partnerships.
00:58:57You've got nothing.
00:58:59What have you even done
00:59:00besides that one
00:59:01lucky patent?
00:59:02If Mark hadn't
00:59:04backed you up,
00:59:05you'd be out
00:59:06on the streets.
00:59:07You say my patent
00:59:08is worthless,
00:59:09yet Walsh Group's
00:59:10success over the years
00:59:11would suggest otherwise.
00:59:16The patent agreements
00:59:17clearly outline
00:59:18the monthly fees owed.
00:59:20Take a closer look
00:59:21and see whether
00:59:22Walsh Group's
00:59:22actually paid me.
00:59:26Haley smiles.
00:59:28You keep saying
00:59:29someone signed
00:59:30your patent deal,
00:59:31then prove it.
00:59:33Let's see who dares
00:59:34challenge the Walsh family.
00:59:36Go ahead.
00:59:37Bring it out.
00:59:40The contract
00:59:41is at the Institute.
00:59:42I don't have it with me.
00:59:43I reach for my phone
00:59:44to ask Lainey
00:59:45to send a copy.
00:59:46Just then,
00:59:47a voice rings out
00:59:48from beyond the crowd.
00:59:49I'm the one
00:59:50who signed her patent.
00:59:51Is there an issue
00:59:51with that?
00:59:52A hush
00:59:53falls over the gathering.
00:59:55Heads turn,
00:59:56and the crowd
00:59:56steps aside.
00:59:57William appears,
00:59:59walking in
01:00:00with confident strides.
01:00:09William walks over
01:00:10and stands beside me,
01:00:12turning to face
01:00:13Haley and Mark.
01:00:15I'm the one
01:00:16who signed the contract.
01:00:17Does anyone here
01:00:18have a problem with that?
01:00:19And who exactly
01:00:21do you think you are?
01:00:22Saying you signed
01:00:23a contract
01:00:23doesn't make it real.
01:00:25Did Stella hire you
01:00:26to play along?
01:00:28What matters is proof,
01:00:30not who can talk
01:00:31the biggest game.
01:00:32William doesn't
01:00:33lose his temper.
01:00:35Instead,
01:00:35he lets out
01:00:36an amused chuckle.
01:00:38William Briggs,
01:00:40heir to the Briggs family
01:00:41and Brissette.
01:00:42The MU project
01:00:43with the Ocary Royal family
01:00:45and the Hookwood
01:00:45Research Institute
01:00:46are all under my name.
01:00:48Is that enough
01:00:49to qualify
01:00:49for Ms. Russell's patent?
01:00:51Haley and Beatrice
01:00:51are stunned.
01:00:52Mark already knows
01:00:53who William is.
01:00:54Watching him
01:00:55stand beside me,
01:00:56jealousy burns
01:00:57in his eyes.
01:00:57Stella,
01:00:58come here.
01:00:59You're still my wife.
01:01:00Being seen beside
01:01:01someone like Mr. Briggs
01:01:01might cause rumors.
01:01:03Oh?
01:01:05So you do remember
01:01:06she's your wife?
01:01:08I thought the woman
01:01:09beside you
01:01:09was your true match.
01:01:11Mark's face
01:01:12flushes with embarrassment.
01:01:15I step away.
01:01:17Mark,
01:01:18stop the act.
01:01:20I was serious
01:01:21when I said
01:01:21I wanted a divorce.
01:01:23You betrayed me first.
01:01:24What did you expect?
01:01:27Stella,
01:01:27I know you're upset today.
01:01:29Let's talk
01:01:30when we get home.
01:01:32Whatever apology
01:01:33you want,
01:01:33I'll give it to you.
01:01:36Just don't make a scene.
01:01:39I let out
01:01:39a cold laugh.
01:01:41You think
01:01:42I'm being dramatic?
01:01:45Police sirens
01:01:46slice through the air.
01:01:49Moments later,
01:01:50officers walk in.
01:01:56We received a report
01:01:57of kidnapping and assault.
01:01:59Hayley Smith,
01:02:00Mark Walsh,
01:02:01and Jazlyn Walsh,
01:02:02please come with us.
01:02:06Hayley grabs
01:02:07her mother's hand
01:02:08in panic.
01:02:11Mom,
01:02:12I don't want to go!
01:02:17The police
01:02:18take the three away.
01:02:20The gala
01:02:21ends in scandal.
01:02:25I turn to leave.
01:02:28William follows.
01:02:34Where are you going?
01:02:35Back to the research center.
01:02:38That's on my way.
01:02:39I'll drop you.
01:02:50I get into William's car.
01:02:52Luca drives,
01:02:53and William and I
01:02:54sit in the back.
01:02:57The car makes a sharp turn
01:02:58and suddenly breaks hard.
01:03:00My body lurges sideways,
01:03:01and I crash right into William.
01:03:03A button on my blouse
01:03:04pops open,
01:03:05and my hair got caught
01:03:06on his belt buckle.
01:03:07I freeze,
01:03:08my face burning.
01:03:10I wish the ground
01:03:10would open up
01:03:11and swallow me whole.
01:03:12I'm so sorry.
01:03:13I didn't mean to.
01:03:15William glances down
01:03:16and calmly untangles
01:03:17my hair.
01:03:18Don't move.
01:03:19I scramble back,
01:03:20clutching my shirt closed.
01:03:24Mr. Briggs,
01:03:25I swear I have
01:03:26no improper intentions
01:03:27towards you whatsoever.
01:03:31William chuckles
01:03:31softly.
01:03:34I'm not blind.
01:03:35I saw what happened.
01:03:36It was the turn.
01:03:38I mutter under my breath.
01:03:41Well, you were basically
01:03:43blind last time.
01:03:45The car goes silent.
01:03:49Where'd that come from?
01:03:52I take a deep breath
01:03:53and decide to be honest.
01:03:55Mr. Briggs,
01:03:56I just feel like you've got
01:03:57a bit of a bias against me.
01:03:59It makes things really difficult
01:04:01whenever you're around.
01:04:03William holds my gaze,
01:04:04the corners of his mouth
01:04:06lifting.
01:04:07When have I ever made
01:04:09things difficult for you?
01:04:12I shrink back,
01:04:14eyes darting toward the window.
01:04:18Forget I said anything.
01:04:24The car stops at the dormitory entrance.
01:04:30I thank William
01:04:31and get out.
01:04:33Lainey is waiting for me.
01:04:38Stella!
01:04:39You're all over the internet.
01:04:41Everyone's talking about
01:04:42how Mark stole your patent.
01:04:43Briggs Group is taking legal action.
01:04:45The compensation alone
01:04:47might bankrupt him.
01:04:51And Hayley,
01:04:52she thought she could get away
01:04:54with anything just because
01:04:55she's not from him around here.
01:04:57She's probably headed to jail.
01:05:14I shower and lie in bed.
01:05:17The chaos and hurt I've been through
01:05:19finally ended today.
01:05:21I took my stand
01:05:22and won.
01:05:24The next day,
01:05:25the closed research project team departs.
01:05:29I watch them leave,
01:05:30disappointment heavy in my chest.
01:05:33To fresh up,
01:05:34I ask for a leave.
01:05:38I drag my suitcase
01:05:39towards the exit.
01:05:44Stella!
01:05:46Don't go out!
01:05:47Mark is at the gate
01:05:48making a scene!
01:05:49A strong hand grips
01:05:50the handle of my suitcase
01:05:52and yanks it back.
01:05:54It's William.
01:05:58Aren't you coming?
01:06:01William drives me away
01:06:02from the Institute.
01:06:06Mr. Briggs,
01:06:07weren't you supposed to leave
01:06:08with the project team?
01:06:09The core project members'
01:06:10names aren't public.
01:06:11The list that went out
01:06:12was only partial.
01:06:13I freeze.
01:06:16You mean,
01:06:17I'm on the confidential list?
01:06:19Yes.
01:06:27I'm willing to join.
01:06:29Have you thought about
01:06:30what to do with your husband?
01:06:34I pause for a moment.
01:06:38I'm done with him.
01:06:40I've signed the divorce papers.
01:06:42Once I'm on the project team,
01:06:44I'll erase every trace of myself.
01:06:45Let him think I'm dead.
01:06:47Let him regret it
01:06:48for the rest of his life.
01:06:49The base is hidden
01:06:50in the mountains.
01:06:52I enter through the back entrance
01:06:54as a core team member.
01:06:57There are five core members
01:06:58in total.
01:06:59None of us know each other.
01:07:01Once you get to know each other,
01:07:02feel free to choose any dorm.
01:07:06I pick a bed
01:07:07and get settled.
01:07:08Our first task
01:07:09is to collect biological specimens
01:07:10in the mountains.
01:07:12The team leader informs me
01:07:14I have a partner.
01:07:15Men's dormitory,
01:07:16room 305.
01:07:21I push open the door
01:07:22and see William
01:07:23in the middle of a shower,
01:07:25the bathroom door wide open.
01:07:27I turn to leave,
01:07:28but he's already seen me.
01:07:31What brings you here?
01:07:33I...
01:07:33I am your partner.
01:07:35We need to collect some samples.
01:07:38William emerges
01:07:39with a towel
01:07:39tied around his waist.
01:07:40I slap both hands
01:07:42over my eyes.
01:07:43I'll wait for you outside.
01:07:45I bolt out of the room.
01:07:51William and I work together
01:07:52to find specimens.
01:07:54No one else can find it.
01:07:57I suggest checking
01:07:58the river bank.
01:07:59The river is far.
01:08:01Are you sure?
01:08:01We haven't checked
01:08:02the river yet.
01:08:03It's worth a look.
01:08:08I find a cave
01:08:09by the river
01:08:10and discover
01:08:11the specimen.
01:08:14It's here.
01:08:15I slip.
01:08:18William catches me.
01:08:29Nathalia steps out
01:08:30from the crowd.
01:08:31Mrs. Russell,
01:08:32you planned that fall,
01:08:34didn't you?
01:08:34Just so William
01:08:35would catch you.
01:08:38When I fell,
01:08:39he was all a good
01:08:39fifteen feet away.
01:08:41Nathalia has no response.
01:08:43Everyone be careful.
01:08:44Let's head back.
01:08:50Everyone chats
01:08:51during dinner.
01:08:55I heard there's
01:08:56someone at our team
01:08:57who had a thing
01:08:59with Mr. Briggs.
01:09:04I glance at William
01:09:05and find him
01:09:06leaving with his plate.
01:09:15On the way back
01:09:16to my room,
01:09:17I see William
01:09:18and Nathalia
01:09:18standing close together.
01:09:22From here,
01:09:23it looks like
01:09:24they're kissing.
01:09:26I quickly turn
01:09:28and take another path.
01:09:32The next morning,
01:09:33I arrive early
01:09:34for breakfast.
01:09:36William sees me
01:09:37and sits across
01:09:38from me.
01:09:41I soon see
01:09:42Nathalia enter.
01:09:47I grab my tray
01:09:48and choose
01:09:49another table.
01:09:52Nathalia sits
01:09:53across from me.
01:09:54Miss Russell,
01:09:56I hope you won't
01:09:56cling to William.
01:09:57Miss Fuller,
01:09:58I have no interest
01:10:00in William.
01:10:01I'm here to work.
01:10:02If you don't like
01:10:03seeing us talk,
01:10:04request a transfer
01:10:05for him.
01:10:07If it's not you
01:10:08chasing him,
01:10:09are you suggesting
01:10:09he's chasing you?
01:10:12Believe what you want.
01:10:16I then leave the canteen.
01:10:19I lie in bed
01:10:20looking at my phone.
01:10:21I receive a message
01:10:23from William.
01:10:23I'm in my room.
01:10:24Bring me something
01:10:25to eat.
01:10:26I hesitate,
01:10:27then go to the cafeteria
01:10:28and bring him noodles.
01:10:34I knock on the door.
01:10:36William opens it
01:10:37in his bathrobe.
01:10:41I hand him
01:10:42the noodles
01:10:42and turn to leave.
01:10:43He grabs my wrist.
01:10:46What's the hurry?
01:10:47Stay with me.
01:10:50I go inside
01:10:52and sit down.
01:10:56William takes
01:10:57a hair tie
01:10:58from the drawer.
01:11:00Is this yours?
01:11:02Why do you have this?
01:11:05You're so careless.
01:11:07That's not for you
01:11:07to judge.
01:11:08If I had known
01:11:09I would encounter you
01:11:10and your first love
01:11:11having a secret rendezvous,
01:11:12I would have taken
01:11:13a detour.
01:11:14What secret rendezvous?
01:11:15What did you see?
01:11:16What else?
01:11:17You and Nathalia kissing.
01:11:19I've never kissed
01:11:20a woman.
01:11:21I freeze.
01:11:24Then he only
01:11:25kisses men?
01:11:27Miss Russell,
01:11:28since you're working
01:11:29at the Institute,
01:11:30maybe try to stay
01:11:31in the loop
01:11:31with the outside world.
01:11:32Your husband
01:11:33seems rather restless.
01:11:34There's no need
01:11:35for you to worry
01:11:36about that,
01:11:37Mr. Briggs.
01:11:38I grab the empty bowl
01:11:39and leave.
01:11:41I lie in bed
01:11:42scrolling through my phone.
01:11:44The internet is full of news
01:11:45about Mark searching for me.
01:11:47He looks like a mess.
01:11:50Disheveled,
01:11:50hollow cheeks.
01:11:52Watching him fall apart
01:11:53is strangely satisfying.
01:12:02Six months pass.
01:12:04The project is a huge success.
01:12:07I sit on a plane
01:12:09bound for Coria.
01:12:13Have you decided
01:12:14what you'll do
01:12:14now that you're back?
01:12:19Stella died six months ago.
01:12:21I won't go back
01:12:22to that name.
01:12:24If you're interested,
01:12:25I could offer you
01:12:26a position at Briggs Group.
01:12:28Technical director.
01:12:30I stare at him
01:12:31in surprise.
01:12:34Mr. Briggs,
01:12:35are you finally admitting
01:12:37I'm good at what I do?
01:12:39Let's just say
01:12:40you passed.
01:12:44If I were you,
01:12:45Miss Russell,
01:12:45I'd have a little more
01:12:46self-awareness.
01:12:47Briggs Group doesn't hire
01:12:49through backdoor connections.
01:12:52I smile.
01:12:53You're absolutely right.
01:12:55I'm not good enough.
01:12:56You're the best match.
01:12:57I'll let you two bond.
01:12:59I stand and walk away.
01:13:01William follows me
01:13:02and sits beside me.
01:13:05There's an upcoming collaboration.
01:13:07You'll handle it.
01:13:09Is this a test?
01:13:12Yes.
01:13:14The plane lands in Brissett.
01:13:24William hands me
01:13:26a set of keys.
01:13:27What's this?
01:13:30Employee benefits.
01:13:36Do all your employees
01:13:38get a gift like this?
01:13:40You only have the right
01:13:41to reside there.
01:13:44And you're free
01:13:45to find your own place
01:13:46if you prefer.
01:13:53I attend a banquet
01:13:54representing Nebula
01:13:56to negotiate a partnership
01:13:57with Stephen Harrison
01:13:59of Summit Rise Group.
01:14:04Mr. Harrison,
01:14:06I'm representing Nebula.
01:14:07If you give us a chance,
01:14:08I'm confident
01:14:09our first proposal
01:14:10will meet your expectations.
01:14:12If it doesn't pass,
01:14:14Nebula will compensate
01:14:14you financially.
01:14:17Since you're that confident,
01:14:18I'll give you the opportunity.
01:14:22Mark and Haley approach.
01:14:27Mr. Harrison,
01:14:29long time no see.
01:14:30This is Mark Walsh
01:14:32from Walsh Group.
01:14:37Mark sees me
01:14:38and rushes over,
01:14:39grabbing my hand.
01:14:43Stella,
01:14:45it's really you.
01:14:47I knew you weren't dead.
01:14:51Sir,
01:14:52you've mistaken me
01:14:53for someone else.
01:14:54My name is Sylvia Gilbert.
01:14:56You are Stella.
01:14:57You're my wife!
01:14:58I pull out my ID.
01:15:01My name is Sylvia Gilbert.
01:15:03I don't know any Stella.
01:15:05Maybe get help
01:15:06for those delusions.
01:15:07If you're not Stella,
01:15:08why are you here?
01:15:09You knew I'd be
01:15:10at this banquet?
01:15:11Sir,
01:15:11what gives you
01:15:12such extraordinary confidence?
01:15:14I'm here to discuss
01:15:15business with Mr. Harrison.
01:15:17Stella,
01:15:17come home.
01:15:18Nebula has no stability.
01:15:20Come back to Walsh Group.
01:15:21It's your company too.
01:15:22First,
01:15:23I am not your wife.
01:15:24Second,
01:15:25Nebula just beat your company
01:15:26in a fair bid,
01:15:27and you're clinging
01:15:28to outdated tech.
01:15:30Mr. Walsh,
01:15:31your wife disappeared
01:15:32six months ago.
01:15:33But that doesn't give you
01:15:35the right to claim
01:15:35a random woman
01:15:36as your spouse.
01:15:37That's harassment.
01:15:39Mr. Harrison,
01:15:40she's not Sylvia Gilbert.
01:15:41She's Stella Russell.
01:15:42She stole our core technology.
01:15:44Mr. Harrison,
01:15:45she's my wife.
01:15:47Six months ago,
01:15:47she stole confidential documents
01:15:49and disappeared.
01:15:50Mr. Harrison,
01:15:51Stephen has his analysts
01:15:51compare the technologies.
01:15:55Ms. Gilbert's technology
01:15:57is entirely original.
01:15:58No connection to Walsh Group.
01:16:00Mark and Haley are stunned.
01:16:02He storms out
01:16:03and Haley follows him.
01:16:07I update William on my work.
01:16:09Summit Rise Group
01:16:10has agreed to work with us.
01:16:12I promised the proposal
01:16:13would pass on the first round.
01:16:15You've done well.
01:16:17William hands me
01:16:18a black credit card.
01:16:19Early payment.
01:16:20Buy yourself something you like.
01:16:23Maybe clothes?
01:16:25I have plenty of clothes.
01:16:27You mean those
01:16:28washed-out outfits
01:16:29you wear to the lab?
01:16:31Now that you're officially
01:16:32part of Briggs Group,
01:16:33you'll be meeting clients often.
01:16:35Buy yourself a few new outfits.
01:16:37I fall silent.
01:16:38Are they really that bad?
01:16:41Aren't you worried
01:16:42I'll drain this card dry,
01:16:44Mr. Briggs?
01:16:45You know how much
01:16:46girls enjoy shopping.
01:16:47Relax.
01:16:48Your salary's decent
01:16:49and we'll just deduct it
01:16:50from that if needed.
01:16:54I shove the card
01:16:55into my bag
01:16:55and walk out.
01:16:59Alright,
01:16:59at least I have a villa
01:17:00and a black card.
01:17:01That's more than
01:17:02most companies offer.
01:17:06Sure,
01:17:06my boss is a little odd.
01:17:08But tolerable.
01:17:10I step out of the building
01:17:11and receive a message
01:17:12from William.
01:17:17You'll need to stop
01:17:18by Summit Rise Group
01:17:19in a couple of days
01:17:20to sign the contract.
01:17:21I send back
01:17:22an OK emoji
01:17:23and hail a taxi.
01:17:38I browse several stores
01:17:40with the black card
01:17:41and buys a few
01:17:42business suits.
01:17:45Any overspending
01:17:46will just be docked
01:17:47from my pay.
01:17:47It's my own money,
01:17:49no guilt.
01:17:51The day of the contract
01:17:53signing.
01:18:00I walk into
01:18:01the Summit Rise Group
01:18:02building
01:18:02in a sharp
01:18:03business suit.
01:18:08Just as the elevator
01:18:09doors begin
01:18:10to slide shut,
01:18:11someone presses
01:18:12the button
01:18:12from outside.
01:18:13Mark and Haley
01:18:14step inside.
01:18:15I shift to the side,
01:18:16pretending I haven't
01:18:17seen them.
01:18:18The elevator ride
01:18:19is tense and silent.
01:18:21The elevator stops
01:18:22on the conference room
01:18:23floor.
01:18:24I walk out.
01:18:25Mark and Haley
01:18:26follow behind me.
01:18:38Mr. Walsh,
01:18:39Mrs. Smith,
01:18:39I don't recall
01:18:41setting up a meeting
01:18:41with either of you.
01:18:42Mr. Harrison,
01:18:43we're here to tell
01:18:44you the truth.
01:18:45She's not Sylvia Gilbert.
01:18:47She's Stella Russell.
01:18:49She stole our
01:18:50core technology.
01:18:52Mr. Harrison,
01:18:54she's my wife.
01:18:56Six months ago,
01:18:57she stole classified
01:18:58documents and disappeared.
01:18:59I stand calmly,
01:19:01watching them.
01:19:02I'm not your wife.
01:19:04Show me your evidence.
01:19:06Your proposal
01:19:07is the evidence.
01:19:08Do you dare
01:19:09have it compared?
01:19:11Why wouldn't I dare?
01:19:13But if I prove
01:19:14I didn't steal anything,
01:19:16you both owe me
01:19:17a public apology
01:19:18and stay out
01:19:20of my life.
01:19:21Deal.
01:19:22You're the thief.
01:19:26Steven has his analysts
01:19:28compare the technologies.
01:19:32Miss Gilbert's technology
01:19:34is entirely original.
01:19:36No connection
01:19:37to Walsh Group.
01:19:38That's impossible.
01:19:40You must have cheated.
01:19:43Stella,
01:19:44what dirty trick
01:19:45did you use?
01:19:45I let out a light chuckle.
01:19:47I'm done wasting energy
01:19:48explaining myself.
01:19:50There's always someone
01:19:51better out there.
01:19:52What's the matter,
01:19:53Miss Smith?
01:19:54Can't accept defeat?
01:19:55Too proud to apologize?
01:19:57Then I'll have to take
01:19:58legal action for defamation.
01:20:00Steven's expression
01:20:01turns icy.
01:20:02Miss Smith,
01:20:02what exactly
01:20:03are you suggesting?
01:20:04That Summit Rise
01:20:06is rigging results?
01:20:07Miss Gilbert
01:20:08won this deal fairly.
01:20:09You and Mr. Walsh,
01:20:10on the other hand,
01:20:11stormed in without invasion
01:20:12and created chaos.
01:20:13I'd say it's your behavior
01:20:14that's out of line.
01:20:16Haley and Mark
01:20:17are too stunned
01:20:18to respond.
01:20:22There's a knock
01:20:23at the door.
01:20:27Mr. Harrison,
01:20:28Mr. Sampson
01:20:28has arrived.
01:20:30Mr. Harrison,
01:20:36Kevin Sampson
01:20:37enters and scans
01:20:38the room.
01:20:40Mr. Walsh,
01:20:41since fate has brought
01:20:42us together here today,
01:20:43I'll give you my answer now.
01:20:44I won't be pursuing
01:20:45the collaboration
01:20:46with Walsh Group.
01:20:47If the stars align
01:20:48in the future,
01:20:49we might revisit it.
01:20:50But for now,
01:20:51I'm out.
01:20:52Mark's face shifts.
01:20:54Mr. Sampson!
01:20:56Haley panics
01:20:57and steps forward.
01:20:58Mr. Sampson,
01:20:59don't let her fool you!
01:21:02We were supposed
01:21:03to collaborate.
01:21:05Remember?
01:21:06You promised
01:21:07my family!
01:21:09She's a fraud!
01:21:11Even her name's
01:21:12not real!
01:21:15I look at her coldly.
01:21:18Miss Smith,
01:21:20what exactly
01:21:21is your connection
01:21:21to Mr. Walsh?
01:21:23Why are you so invested
01:21:24in his problems?
01:21:26Mark and I
01:21:27are together.
01:21:28I'm his girlfriend!
01:21:31Of course,
01:21:32his business is mine, too.
01:21:33I turn to Mark
01:21:35with a look
01:21:35of mock surprise.
01:21:37Oh?
01:21:37So it's official now?
01:21:39Mark shoots
01:21:40a sharp glare
01:21:41at Haley,
01:21:41his displeasure obvious.
01:21:43Haley's confidence
01:21:44falters.
01:21:46I let out
01:21:46a soft,
01:21:47mocking laugh.
01:21:48I had no idea
01:21:49you two were a couple.
01:21:51But didn't you
01:21:52just tell me
01:21:52at the party
01:21:53a few days ago
01:21:53that your heart
01:21:54belonged to your wife,
01:21:55Mr. Walsh?
01:21:57And now,
01:21:58suddenly,
01:21:58you've fallen
01:21:59for someone else?
01:22:00That was quick.
01:22:02From the looks of it,
01:22:03this doesn't seem
01:22:03like a relationship.
01:22:04It seems more
01:22:05like an affair.
01:22:06I don't know this,
01:22:07Stella,
01:22:08but I feel bad for her.
01:22:09You two seem
01:22:10like a perfect match,
01:22:12both equally shameless.
01:22:14Mark's face twists,
01:22:15but then something
01:22:16flickers behind his eyes.
01:22:18Stella,
01:22:19you're jealous.
01:22:20You still care about me.
01:22:21Why else would you
01:22:22say all that?
01:22:24Stephen has had enough.
01:22:25Mr. Walsh,
01:22:27Miss Gilbert
01:22:27isn't anyone's substitute.
01:22:29Your wife deserves
01:22:30better than a man
01:22:31who two-timed her.
01:22:32Walsh Group
01:22:33and Summit Rise Group
01:22:34have no partnership now,
01:22:35and I can't see
01:22:36that changing.
01:22:37It's time for you to go.
01:22:39Mark looks at me
01:22:40one last time.
01:22:43Stella.
01:22:44I don't even glance
01:22:45in his direction.
01:22:48Mark shoves the door open
01:22:49and walks out.
01:22:51Haley follows.
01:22:52B
01:22:53B
01:22:53B
01:22:55E
01:22:55B
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