- 37 minutes ago
mit after heartbreak
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:00My name is Catherine Brown, the real heiress who was lost for 18 years.
00:00:05Today, my family pushed me into hell.
00:00:07The fake heiress Jolene and I were kidnapped.
00:00:09The kidnappers say the Browns can only save one of us.
00:00:15Jolene!
00:00:16Let Jolene go! Do whatever you want with Catherine!
00:00:18If you touch Jolene again, I'll make sure you die here.
00:00:21Release Jolene first.
00:00:22Tied to a pillar, I listened to my three brothers abandon me without hesitation.
00:00:26I look toward my fiancé, Declan Fulton, hoping he will save me.
00:00:30But he doesn't even glance my way.
00:00:32I choose Jolene too.
00:00:34This is the man I loved for three years.
00:00:37Code-blooded.
00:00:38Roofless.
00:00:47I know, once I nearly died saving him.
00:00:50But now he doesn't spare me an extra glance.
00:01:00Poor girl.
00:01:02Jolene paid us to get rid of you.
00:01:04No need to hurry.
00:01:05One at a time, boys.
00:01:07Everyone gets their turn.
00:01:10No!
00:01:12Suddenly, a deafening gunshot tears through the silence.
00:01:15A dozen figures dressed in black storm inside.
00:01:19If you want to live,
00:01:23stop right now.
00:01:24I recognize the man.
00:01:26He is Liam Warren.
00:01:27The most powerful man in Artwell.
00:01:29Who commands a massive empire.
00:01:31Ruthless, formidable, and feared by everyone.
00:01:35Mr. Warren.
00:01:36Please spare us.
00:01:53Who are you?
00:01:55I'm the one sending you to hell.
00:01:57Suddenly, the warehouse echoed with screams,
00:02:00desperate pleas,
00:02:01and the sickening cracks of breaking bones.
00:02:07How much did Jolene pay you?
00:02:10Five million.
00:02:11She wanted you ruined.
00:02:16Thank you for saving me.
00:02:21You've been poisoned for over a month.
00:02:24I can cure it.
00:02:26Do you trust me?
00:02:29I trust you.
00:02:30I draw a small blade,
00:02:31make a precise cut on his finger,
00:02:33and let out some blackened blood.
00:02:35Until it's fully out of my system,
00:02:36you're gonna have to stick close to me.
00:02:39First,
00:02:41I need to end things with the Browns.
00:02:43I will settle things with the Browns once and for all.
00:02:46When I return home,
00:02:48I find my biological parents and three brothers
00:02:50gathered around Jolana,
00:02:52showering her with care.
00:02:53I close the distance,
00:02:54grab a handful of Jolene's hair across the face.
00:02:58Catherine, have you completely lost it?
00:03:00Catherine, you come home and start hitting Jolene?
00:03:03You better apologize right now.
00:03:06Catherine,
00:03:07what kind of trouble are you stirring up this time?
00:03:10Maybe we never should have taken you in.
00:03:13Me causing trouble?
00:03:15Why don't you ask Jolene what she's really done?
00:03:19She's the one who set up that whole kidnapping to get rid of me.
00:03:22I pull out my phone and play the recording.
00:03:24Jolene paid us to get rid of you.
00:03:27The Browns stare at Jolene in stunned disbelief.
00:03:31No!
00:03:32It must be fake!
00:03:34Do you want me to send this to a professional for verification?
00:03:37Or maybe call the police?
00:03:38No! No!
00:03:39You can't call the cops, Catherine!
00:03:41I'm sorry!
00:03:42I'm the one who should leave this place!
00:03:45Catherine, Jolene's apologized.
00:03:47Just drop it!
00:03:48It's either her or me.
00:03:51Since you've chosen her, I'm out of here.
00:03:53In their eyes, I'll never measure up to Jolene.
00:03:56So why should I hold on to them?
00:03:58Just as I step outside,
00:04:00a sleek Maybach rolls up right in front of me.
00:04:05Excuse me, are you Miss Catherine Brown?
00:04:07Mr. Warren sent me to pick you up.
00:04:10I spot Austin coming out and get into the car without hesitation.
00:04:16The car glides into the Warren estate.
00:04:20The most powerful family in Ardwell.
00:04:26Liam is seated on a sofa, with a document resting in his hand.
00:04:33Is everything settled?
00:04:34Yes, I've cut ties.
00:04:35From this moment on, you're my personal doctor.
00:04:38Until I'm fully healed, you are to stay within my reach.
00:04:40All right.
00:04:41But I have two conditions.
00:04:43First, I need a complete medical lab.
00:04:45Second, our relationship is strictly professional.
00:04:48Besides that, neither of us interferes in the other's life.
00:04:52All right.
00:04:54But keep this in mind.
00:04:57If your medical skills don't live up to that confidence of yours.
00:05:01My medical skills won't disappoint you.
00:05:03Liam pulls out a sleek black card and hands it to me.
00:05:06Buy whatever you need.
00:05:07Don't hold back.
00:05:08I take the black card.
00:05:10A fully equipped medical lab doesn't come cheap.
00:05:12Since Liam offered this, I'm not about to pinch pennies for him.
00:05:15Once the poison leaves his system, we'll go our separate ways.
00:05:18I enter the room Liam arranges for me.
00:05:20This room is twice the size of my bedroom at the Browns.
00:05:24Ironic, isn't it?
00:05:25A stranger gives me better lodging than my own family.
00:05:29I sit at the desk, open my laptop, and log into my social media.
00:05:34Soon, dozens of notifications flood the screen.
00:05:37Where did you run off to?
00:05:38Come back.
00:05:39Jolene isn't holding a grudge about you hitting her.
00:05:42Why are you still throwing a tantrum?
00:05:43Who picked you up?
00:05:45Stop making everything difficult.
00:05:47Just return home.
00:05:49If you walk out now, you better not come crawling back.
00:05:53What kind of stupid stunt are you pulling?
00:05:59Catherine, you're not seriously thinking of leaving forever, right?
00:06:03I stare at these messages and let out a cold laugh.
00:06:08I quickly type one simple, satisfying reply to each one.
00:06:12Get lost.
00:06:13Then I block them all without hesitation.
00:06:15That feels even better.
00:06:17This is how life should be.
00:06:18Logging out.
00:06:19I switch to another browser and types in a hidden URL.
00:06:24A metallic door slowly creaks open on screen, with a blood-red skull on it.
00:06:30Welcome back.
00:06:31Quietus.
00:06:32I'm one of the most legendary figures on the dark net.
00:06:35The genius hacker Quietus.
00:06:38My phone rings.
00:06:40It's Jeral Douglas, my loyal admirer.
00:06:43Catherine, you're actually back?
00:06:44I can't believe it.
00:06:45I'll line up the highest paying jobs for you.
00:06:48Good.
00:06:49Oh, someone has been digging into your digital records.
00:06:51The trace leads back to the Warren Group headquarters.
00:06:54It seems Liam is already investigating me.
00:06:57Let them dig.
00:06:58Make sure the only information they find is exactly what I want them to see.
00:07:05The next day, the driver takes me shopping downtown.
00:07:15Miss, these are new arrivals, and each costs over $100,000.
00:07:22Miss Brown, you're here just in time.
00:07:25I'll bring out the new styles for you.
00:07:30Catherine?
00:07:31What brings you here?
00:07:32The clothes here are quite expensive.
00:07:34Jolene, is this your sister?
00:07:36Should we tell her the fast fashion store next door is having a sale?
00:07:44Ring up everything I selected.
00:07:46The sales assistant's face goes pale.
00:07:48That's an unlimited credit card from a top global bank.
00:07:52Catherine, did you find someone to support you?
00:07:55Watch out.
00:07:57Not everyone's as trustworthy as they seem.
00:08:01I'll take the new dresses you were just showing Jolene to.
00:08:04What?
00:08:05I saw those first.
00:08:06Saw them first, but can't afford them?
00:08:09Maybe?
00:08:11Isn't the Brown family's monthly allowance only $100,000?
00:08:14Jolene trembles with fury.
00:08:16I pay and walk out.
00:08:19I watch Jolene tremble with rage, unable to get a word out, and a fierce satisfaction courses through me.
00:08:25After all the humiliation I endured in the Brown family, this is just a small payback.
00:08:29The charity gala that weekend is nothing short of spectacular.
00:08:33I enter the hall on Liam's arm.
00:08:35I'm dressed in a wine-red gown, my makeup refined but understated.
00:08:39Tonight, I am not the abandoned daughter of the Brown family.
00:08:43I am Liam Warren's date.
00:08:46The most powerful man in Ardwell.
00:08:48All eyes are drawn to us.
00:08:52Is that Mr. Warren?
00:08:54He actually showed up.
00:08:56Who's that woman with him?
00:08:58I've never seen her before.
00:09:00She's stunning.
00:09:01Is she from some notable family?
00:09:04I ignore the whispers.
00:09:06My eyes sweep across the hall and land on the Browns.
00:09:09Jolene is dressed to perfection, hanging on Austin's arm.
00:09:13Playing the part of a cherished woman.
00:09:15But the moment she sees me, her face drains of color.
00:09:18Austin freezes too.
00:09:20He stares at me, unable to believe his eyes.
00:09:26Catherine, what are you doing here?
00:09:28And with Mr. Warren.
00:09:30Where I go isn't any of your business.
00:09:32Who do you think you are to me?
00:09:37I'm your brother.
00:09:41I let out a cold laugh.
00:09:43Brother?
00:09:44When you abandoned me to the kidnappers, did you remember you were my brother then?
00:09:50Catherine.
00:09:52Is with me.
00:09:55His words are dripping with authority.
00:09:59Jolene approaches, her expression dark.
00:10:02Catherine, when did you start seeing Mr. Warren?
00:10:05You never mentioned anything.
00:10:07And didn't I just see you shopping with another man two days ago?
00:10:11I look coldly at Jolene's face, trying to imply I'm a two-timer.
00:10:16Jolene, your tricks are way too amateur.
00:10:19Who Liam is, what my relationship is with him.
00:10:22None of that is any of your business.
00:10:25Why exactly should I update you about my personal life?
00:10:29Jolene's expression falters, her eyes glistening with tears.
00:10:33Here she goes again.
00:10:36Catherine, that's not what I meant.
00:10:40Catherine, where have you been?
00:10:42Mr. Fulton, wherever I go has nothing to do with you.
00:10:45We're not that familiar.
00:10:48Do you have any idea what kind of man Liam is?
00:10:51Are you doing this just to retaliate against the Brown family?
00:10:58Do you honestly think I'd waste that kind of energy on you?
00:11:05I cut ties with the Browns, and I meant every word.
00:11:09Excuse me.
00:11:16I hear whispers rising behind me.
00:11:19Did you catch that?
00:11:21Liam said it himself.
00:11:22She's with him.
00:11:24This has never happened before, has it?
00:11:29Wait, Catherine?
00:11:31Isn't that the Brown daughter who was swapped at birth?
00:11:34And brought back from some remote place?
00:11:37Judging by Jolene's little comments,
00:11:39the Brown family drama might be more complicated than we thought.
00:11:43Look at Deccan's face.
00:11:45Is he starting to regret dumping her?
00:11:49I don't look back.
00:11:51But I know Jolene's expression must be priceless right now.
00:11:54The auction begins.
00:11:56One luxurious item after another is presented on stage.
00:12:00Beautiful work of art.
00:12:01A piece of history.
00:12:03A masterpiece.
00:12:10Dazzling.
00:12:12Priceless.
00:12:14But I've never been interested in jewelry.
00:12:16No matter how valuable, they're just stones.
00:12:19Just then, I hear a familiar voice.
00:12:22It's Jolene.
00:12:24Austin, this necklace is stunning.
00:12:26I really like it.
00:12:30Austin understands immediately.
00:12:32His eyes grow determined.
00:12:35Same as always.
00:12:36Whatever Jolene wants, Austin gives her.
00:12:43Once I was jealous.
00:12:45Now, I just find it ridiculous.
00:12:50Going once.
00:12:51Going twice.
00:12:53Just as the host prepares to declare it sold,
00:12:55a deep voice echoes from the back.
00:12:5850 million.
00:13:0050 million.
00:13:01Sold.
00:13:02Congratulations, Mr. Warren.
00:13:05Liam walks up to the stage and claims the necklace.
00:13:13Then, to everyone's astonishment,
00:13:16he returns to me and fastens the necklace around my neck.
00:13:24It looks good on you.
00:13:28I really like it.
00:13:30The sight stings Jolene's eyes.
00:13:33Even Declan can't seem to look away from me.
00:13:36I reach up and touch the cool gem against my neck.
00:13:4250 million for a necklace.
00:13:44Liam really doesn't hold back.
00:13:47After the auction wraps up,
00:13:48I wander to the dessert table alone.
00:13:51Catherine, you really are something.
00:13:53A few days away and you've already hooked onto Liam.
00:13:56Nothing as impressive as your lifelong mastery of acting sweet and pitiful.
00:14:00Why do you always target me?
00:14:02Cut it out.
00:14:03There's no audience here, so no need to pretend.
00:14:05Jolene spots Declan approaching
00:14:07and intentionally bumps onto me,
00:14:09splashing juice onto her own dress.
00:14:11Catherine, even if you dislike me,
00:14:13isn't this too much?
00:14:15Throwing juice on me?
00:14:17What happened?
00:14:18Declan, it's okay.
00:14:19I must have upset Catherine.
00:14:22Catherine, you still haven't grown up.
00:14:24Jolene is your sister.
00:14:28I pick up a glass of red wine
00:14:30and flick my wrist,
00:14:31sending the whole glass onto Jolene's dress.
00:14:34There.
00:14:35That's something I actually did.
00:14:37And I only take responsibility for my own actions.
00:14:40Jolene is stunned.
00:14:42Declan freezes.
00:14:44Seems I arrived just after all the excitement ended.
00:14:48Quite the lesson in the Brown family's manners today.
00:14:51Mr. Warren, this is a misunderstanding.
00:14:55Misunderstanding?
00:14:57There are security cameras here.
00:15:00Review them if clarity is needed.
00:15:03Whispers erupt around them.
00:15:10Jolene's face goes from scarlet to ghostly pale.
00:15:14Let's go.
00:15:15The atmosphere here is suffocating.
00:15:18A fierce satisfaction rising in my chest.
00:15:20This time, I don't have to hold back anymore.
00:15:23Back in the Brown family,
00:15:24I always tried to keep the peace.
00:15:26And all it got me was them pushing harder every time.
00:15:28Now, no one could step on me again.
00:15:36The following morning,
00:15:37I walk into the living area
00:15:39and notice Liam is already awake.
00:15:53Good morning.
00:15:56Morning.
00:15:57I head to the kitchen to prepare the herbal mix.
00:16:05Just then, Liam's friend arrives.
00:16:14Is she the mysterious beauty who stunned everyone last night?
00:16:18That's Catherine Brown, my new personal doctor.
00:16:22You're serious?
00:16:24His skepticism is loud enough that I can't ignore it.
00:16:28Mr. Moreno, perhaps you should take things easy.
00:16:31Your dark under eyes and shortness of breath
00:16:34suggest your vitality is running low.
00:16:36Winfred's face flushes immediately.
00:16:38This touches on a man's pride.
00:16:40What nonsense are you spouting?
00:16:42Miss Brown, I'm not one to judge by appearances.
00:16:44But Liam's condition is severe.
00:16:46Many top experts have been stumped.
00:16:48And you?
00:16:49I'm not bothered.
00:16:51I've faced this kind of doubt many times before.
00:16:54We'll see soon enough.
00:16:57Winred, maybe you ought to let Dr. Brown give you a prescription.
00:17:02Liam, are you kidding me?
00:17:03This girl is not just some girl.
00:17:05She's Dr. Brown.
00:17:07Right now, she's the one keeping me alive.
00:17:09He then turns to me.
00:17:11Can you really fix me?
00:17:15Yes.
00:17:1630 minutes later, I begin the first acupuncture session.
00:17:21Liam pulls his shirt up, exposing his toned chest.
00:17:26I pull out the silver needles and insert them with speed and precision.
00:17:34When the last needle is inserted, Liam's body shivers.
00:17:39And he spits out dark red clotted blood.
00:17:46What did you just do to him, Dr. Brown?
00:17:48How are you feeling now?
00:17:55I feel great.
00:17:56Lighter than I have in a long time.
00:17:59Don't let yourself get too stressed.
00:18:01And most importantly, you'll need to prioritize rest and abstinence.
00:18:07Understood, Dr. Brown.
00:18:08I'll take your advice seriously.
00:18:10Winfred leans in and quietly asks if I can help with his health.
00:18:16I go back to my room and return with a bottle of pills.
00:18:21These are pills for male vitality.
00:18:23One bottle costs $100,000.
00:18:25$100,000?
00:18:27Are these pills made of solid gold?
00:18:30The ingredients are rare, and the process is complicated.
00:18:33Quality always demands a premium price.
00:18:36Winfred reluctantly pays.
00:18:38A sports car can be repaired, but if your health fails,
00:18:42no sum of money will grant you a second chance.
00:18:45The following morning, just as I prepare to leave,
00:18:48my phone buzzles with a call from Austin.
00:18:52Catherine, come back here right now.
00:18:54What is it?
00:18:55You'll find out when you get here.
00:18:56I realize that for the sake of my own peace,
00:18:59cutting all connections with the Brown family is necessary.
00:19:03The mood in the living room is thick with tension.
00:19:10Look who's back.
00:19:12How did you sink so low at your age,
00:19:15becoming someone's mistress?
00:19:18Catherine, I'm only trying to help you.
00:19:20I'm afraid you're being misled.
00:19:23Who I decide to be with is my own business.
00:19:27It doesn't concern your family.
00:19:29You're a Brown!
00:19:32Everything you do stains our family's name!
00:19:37Catherine, seriously,
00:19:38do you think Liam would ever give you the time of day?
00:19:41Are you all finished?
00:19:43First, Liam and I have a strictly doctor-patient relationship.
00:19:47Second, even if there were something else,
00:19:50it's none of your business.
00:19:52And don't forget that I am no longer part of your family.
00:19:55You said you cut ties,
00:19:57so give back the Brown group's shares.
00:20:02Those shares came from Grandpa.
00:20:05You don't have a single right to any of it.
00:20:08I pull out my phone and show them the screen.
00:20:11Since I stepped in,
00:20:12I've been recording all your insults,
00:20:15threats, and schemes to grab the shares.
00:20:17Keep pushing me,
00:20:19and I won't hesitate to hand this over to the press and the law.
00:20:24I put my phone away,
00:20:26feeling nothing.
00:20:28I used to put up with everything you threw at me.
00:20:32Now it's your turn to taste
00:20:34what it feels like to be on the other end of a threat.
00:20:39I leave the Brown family home and prepare to go back.
00:20:46Suddenly, a voice calls out.
00:20:48Catherine, is that really you?
00:20:50Where have you been hiding?
00:20:51I look at the woman before me.
00:20:54She's nearly 50.
00:20:56Her face lined with wrinkles.
00:20:58Her expression mean and petty.
00:21:00What do you want?
00:21:01You must have money if you're surviving this well.
00:21:04My son needs school fees,
00:21:06and you owe me half a million.
00:21:08If you don't pay up,
00:21:09I'll make a scene outside your place every single day.
00:21:12If you need cash,
00:21:14ask your real daughter, Jolene.
00:21:16I raised you all those years,
00:21:18so you should compensate me.
00:21:20You ungrateful brat!
00:21:22Stay out of my way.
00:21:23Otherwise, I won't hesitate to involve the police
00:21:26and reopening the case about you switching infants.
00:21:29You...
00:21:29Don't do anything, Rash.
00:21:31I'll be going now.
00:21:32Bridget scurries off in panic.
00:21:38Just then,
00:21:39a sleek black Rolls Royce glides to a stop beside me.
00:21:44The window lowers,
00:21:45revealing Liam's handsome face.
00:21:48Do you need a hand?
00:21:49No, it's nothing serious.
00:21:51I've already taken care of it.
00:21:54Get in.
00:21:55It's nearly impossible to catch a taxi here.
00:21:57I hesitate, but eventually get into the car.
00:22:01Bridget's appearance reminds me of one thing.
00:22:03The Brown family's troubles aren't over.
00:22:06That woman's greed is bottomless.
00:22:08She won't let this go.
00:22:09But that's fine.
00:22:11I'm no longer that little girl who
00:22:13let others push her around.
00:22:16Anyone who wants to come after me
00:22:18had better think twice.
00:22:21On the weekend,
00:22:23Gerard asks to meet me at Harborview Genie,
00:22:26a popular restaurant.
00:22:31Catherine?
00:22:32I turn around,
00:22:33and my eyes fall on Jalene,
00:22:35standing with the Browns and the Fultons.
00:22:38Did you hear we'd be here
00:22:39and decide to show up just to cause a scene?
00:22:42Mr. Brown,
00:22:43I'm here for the food.
00:22:46Just then,
00:22:47a clear voice cuts through the tension.
00:22:51Ms. Catherine Brown,
00:22:52you're here.
00:22:53Welcome.
00:22:54Please follow me.
00:22:55Everyone stares in shock
00:22:56as I walk toward the most private,
00:22:58rarely accessible suite in the entire restaurant.
00:23:01How is she getting in there?
00:23:03There must be some mistake.
00:23:06I push open the suite door,
00:23:08and Gerard immediately rises from his seat.
00:23:12Catherine, you made it.
00:23:13Gerard tells me his uncle
00:23:15has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.
00:23:17He says the required surgery
00:23:18carries an extremely high risk.
00:23:25Start with this medication.
00:23:27Come back in a week for a follow-up.
00:23:28We'll reassess then.
00:23:34Thank you, Catherine.
00:23:35I was sure you'd have a solution.
00:23:38After the meal,
00:23:39Gerard leans forward
00:23:40and asks if I need help with anything.
00:23:43I want to buy a house.
00:23:45It doesn't have to be big,
00:23:47but it must be extremely quiet and private,
00:23:49with top-tier security.
00:23:51I'll handle it.
00:23:51I'll find something perfect for you.
00:23:53Oh, and you're starting at
00:23:54Aurelis University next Monday, right?
00:23:56I'm going to study.
00:23:58Medical school.
00:23:59You need to study medicine?
00:24:01You've got to be kidding me!
00:24:02I'm getting a formal degree
00:24:04and taking care of some personal business.
00:24:06Campus life isn't a bad experience, after all.
00:24:11The manager hands me
00:24:12an exclusive premium membership card,
00:24:14saying all my expenses here
00:24:16will be on the house from now on.
00:24:19I glance over at Gerard,
00:24:20and he breaks into a grin.
00:24:22Don't refuse it.
00:24:24This is our business,
00:24:25so just enjoy it.
00:24:29Fine.
00:24:30After being chased away
00:24:31from my private suite,
00:24:32Jolene drags herself
00:24:34to her family's box.
00:24:46Jolene, are you okay?
00:24:49Mom, I'm fine.
00:24:50I just stepped out
00:24:51to see who Catherine was meeting.
00:24:53I was worried about her,
00:24:55but she had me pushed away.
00:24:57What?
00:24:59How dare she treat you that way?
00:25:01That ungrateful girl!
00:25:04Don't jump to conclusions, Mom.
00:25:07I saw it too.
00:25:08The manager was treating Catherine
00:25:10with a lot of respect.
00:25:12Yes.
00:25:13That man had an aura
00:25:14you can't fake.
00:25:16Catherine is clearly
00:25:17in the high circles.
00:25:18No wonder she's trying
00:25:20to distance herself from us.
00:25:28Pathetic and disgraceful.
00:25:32Who knows what kind of company
00:25:34she's keeping now?
00:25:36Jolene's heart swells
00:25:37with secret satisfaction.
00:25:39I have burned my bridges
00:25:40with the family for good.
00:25:43She is the Brown family's
00:25:44one and only daughter now.
00:25:47The dinner finally ends
00:25:49and the two families part way
00:25:51at the restaurant entrance.
00:25:53When an unexpected grating voice
00:25:55rings out behind Jolene,
00:25:57she turn around
00:25:58and her smile freezes.
00:26:00It's her.
00:26:01Jolene!
00:26:03My dear daughter!
00:26:05Finally!
00:26:06I've found you!
00:26:07Her blood runs cold.
00:26:10Jolene,
00:26:11your younger brother
00:26:13needs money for school.
00:26:15Maybe you could help us out?
00:26:19I don't have time
00:26:21for this ridiculous farce.
00:26:22Take this
00:26:23and never show your face
00:26:24around me again.
00:26:25Jolene,
00:26:26this isn't nearly enough.
00:26:28The tuition alone
00:26:29is a hundred thousand.
00:26:30Her hands tremble
00:26:31with unbridled rage.
00:26:33This wretched woman
00:26:34just won't know her place.
00:26:35I don't know you!
00:26:37My parents already
00:26:38paid you enough
00:26:38to cut ties
00:26:39all those years ago!
00:26:45I can't let this go on.
00:26:47I need to find a way
00:26:48to get rid of this problem
00:26:49for good.
00:26:50The day I've been waiting for
00:26:52has finally arrived.
00:26:53My first day
00:26:54reporting to
00:26:55Aurarius University.
00:27:09Jolene,
00:27:10is this your sister?
00:27:11Since when
00:27:12does Avalius University
00:27:13let random nobodies
00:27:14walk in?
00:27:15Well,
00:27:15isn't this a lovely
00:27:16coincidence,
00:27:17Jolene?
00:27:18Looks like we're going
00:27:19to be classmates.
00:27:20Classmates?
00:27:20You and me?
00:27:21Don't be ridiculous!
00:27:24The lecture bell
00:27:26chimes sharp and clear
00:27:27and Professor Lambert Carter
00:27:29steps through the door.
00:27:30He's a living legend
00:27:32in the global medical field,
00:27:33the heart of this school's
00:27:35medical program.
00:27:36He turns to the class
00:27:37and poses an extremely complex
00:27:39peer-reviewed
00:27:40medical question.
00:27:43The entire lecture hall
00:27:44falls dead silent,
00:27:46not a single student
00:27:47daring to speak up.
00:27:51Young lady,
00:27:52please tell us
00:27:53what you think.
00:27:54I shut my notebook calmly,
00:27:56no trace of panic
00:27:57in my movements,
00:27:58and stand up.
00:27:59I lay out my analysis
00:28:00clearly and concisely,
00:28:02citing cutting-edge research,
00:28:04clinical data,
00:28:04and real surgical cases
00:28:06effortlessly.
00:28:09She's incredible!
00:28:10Total beauty and brains!
00:28:12Who even is she?
00:28:14Jolene's face burns
00:28:16with jealousy,
00:28:17her grip tight on her pen.
00:28:20When the final bell rings,
00:28:22I walk out of the lecture hall.
00:28:24Jolene steps in front of me
00:28:26with Paige and Brenna.
00:28:28Catherine,
00:28:28just a few days away,
00:28:30and suddenly you're the one
00:28:32catching everyone's attention.
00:28:33Jolene,
00:28:34she's probably pulling stunts
00:28:36she'd never admit out loud.
00:28:37Exactly!
00:28:38Everyone whispers
00:28:40she knows how to charm
00:28:41the right people.
00:28:42Is that all?
00:28:44Now,
00:28:45move aside, mutt.
00:28:48What did you just say?
00:28:50Paige steps forward
00:28:51to push me.
00:28:53I'm not going to
00:28:54warn you twice.
00:28:55Hands to yourselves.
00:28:59Catherine!
00:29:00You can't just touch
00:29:01people like that!
00:29:02Jolene,
00:29:03keep your little gang
00:29:04in check.
00:29:05If they open their mouths
00:29:06like that again,
00:29:07next time won't be so friendly.
00:29:09Watch your tone.
00:29:10you're messing
00:29:11with the Brown family's
00:29:12reputation.
00:29:14The Brown family?
00:29:16That's your problem,
00:29:18not mine.
00:29:20Stop pretending.
00:29:21It's pathetic.
00:29:23I turn and walk away.
00:29:31I return to the Warren mansion
00:29:33and find Liam
00:29:34in the living room.
00:29:37You were out?
00:29:39Yeah.
00:29:40I stopped by
00:29:41Aurelius University
00:29:42to check in.
00:29:43Also took a look
00:29:44at a new place
00:29:44while I was out.
00:29:46You're moving out?
00:29:47Yeah.
00:29:48Staying here long term
00:29:49isn't practical.
00:29:50Your treatment
00:29:51has leveled out.
00:29:52It won't interfere
00:29:52with your progress.
00:29:53Where's the new place?
00:29:55I offer the building
00:29:56and unit number
00:29:57of Sterling Haven
00:29:58without hesitation.
00:29:59Then I prepare
00:30:00a medicinal shower.
00:30:01The water warmed perfectly.
00:30:04A thin mist
00:30:05curling through the room.
00:30:08It's ready?
00:30:10Liam walks toward
00:30:11the treatment area
00:30:12unbuttoning his shirt
00:30:13as he moves.
00:30:15His long fingers
00:30:16loosen the fabric
00:30:17revealing toned muscles
00:30:19and defined contours.
00:30:22Take the pants off too.
00:30:27What's the matter?
00:30:29Feeling shy now?
00:30:29After some hesitation
00:30:31Liam strips down
00:30:32to his briefs
00:30:33and eases himself
00:30:34into the steaming water.
00:30:36Though composed
00:30:37moments ago
00:30:38my eyes flicker briefly.
00:30:40It's not like
00:30:41this is the first time
00:30:42I've treated him.
00:30:44Why am I so flustered?
00:30:46Get it together Catherine.
00:30:48You're a doctor.
00:30:49Stay professional.
00:30:50Don't let a handsome face
00:30:52and a good body
00:30:52throw you off.
00:30:54The next day
00:30:55I head to the lab
00:30:57to find Lambert.
00:30:59Perfect timing.
00:31:00I've been wrestling
00:31:01with this data all morning.
00:31:02Come check this out.
00:31:07The two of us
00:31:08slip effortlessly
00:31:09into a heated discussion.
00:31:19Professor Carter
00:31:20sorry to interrupt
00:31:21but there's something
00:31:22I'm unsure about saying.
00:31:23If you have something
00:31:24to say
00:31:24just say it.
00:31:26Professor
00:31:27I know you prize
00:31:28real skill
00:31:29but Kathleen
00:31:30is not who you think
00:31:31she is.
00:31:32She never attended
00:31:33a proper university.
00:31:34How could she grasp
00:31:35complex medical research?
00:31:36I'm afraid
00:31:37you're being deceived.
00:31:38Enough!
00:31:40Jolene
00:31:40I don't know
00:31:41what you're trying
00:31:41to do with these accusations
00:31:43but I've seen enough
00:31:44to know true talent
00:31:45when it's in front of me.
00:31:47Catherine identified
00:31:48the error
00:31:48the moment she looked at it.
00:31:50Most PhD candidates
00:31:51wouldn't even catch
00:31:52this mistake
00:31:52the first time around.
00:31:54Tell me
00:31:54how could anyone
00:31:56possibly fake
00:31:57that level of understanding?
00:32:03Professor Carter
00:32:04I...
00:32:04I know true talent
00:32:06when I see it
00:32:06I don't need
00:32:08your commentary.
00:32:09Now
00:32:10please
00:32:11step outside.
00:32:19In that moment
00:32:20I knew
00:32:21I'd found someone
00:32:22who saw me
00:32:23not the lies
00:32:24they spread about me.
00:32:32Hey
00:32:33I'm Catherine Brown
00:32:35Just as I walked
00:32:36into the classroom
00:32:37and took my seat
00:32:38I noticed the girl
00:32:39next to me
00:32:40her cheek
00:32:41marked by a dark
00:32:42birthmark.
00:32:44Hi
00:32:45I'm
00:32:45Claudia Norris
00:32:51Well, well
00:32:52what do we have here?
00:32:53One caught attention
00:32:54by pure chance
00:32:55and the other
00:32:56well
00:32:57the problem's
00:32:58pretty obvious.
00:32:59The snickling spread
00:33:00through the classroom
00:33:00in an instant.
00:33:01Every gaze
00:33:02nailed onto the two of us.
00:33:04Oh, come on everyone
00:33:05don't be so harsh.
00:33:08Professor Carter
00:33:08thinks the world
00:33:09of Catherine.
00:33:13So she's really
00:33:13riding Professor Carter's
00:33:14coattails
00:33:15to get into med school?
00:33:16How pathetic.
00:33:18Oh wow
00:33:19Catherine, your shoes
00:33:20they're the exact
00:33:21same as Jolene's.
00:33:23Come on Catherine
00:33:24you actually showed up
00:33:25wearing fake shoes?
00:33:27That's bold.
00:33:30Still
00:33:31it's embarrassing
00:33:32as hell.
00:33:38All eyes
00:33:39in that instant
00:33:40were pinned
00:33:41on my feet.
00:33:43I feel like
00:33:44being judged
00:33:45in a high society party.
00:33:47The murmur
00:33:48in the room
00:33:49quickly grows
00:33:50into a loud buzz.
00:33:52Most of them
00:33:53were convinced
00:33:54the shoes on my feet
00:33:55were fake.
00:33:56Hey Catherine
00:33:57if you like those shoes
00:33:59I don't mind
00:33:59lending you mine.
00:34:01Wearing fakes
00:34:02is bad.
00:34:03Thanks
00:34:04but I'm pretty selective.
00:34:06I don't wear
00:34:07other people's shoes.
00:34:08Besides
00:34:09we still don't actually know
00:34:11who's rocking the fakes
00:34:12do we?
00:34:14I slowed my movements
00:34:15deliberately
00:34:16lifted my foot
00:34:17and aimed the heel
00:34:18straight at the crowd.
00:34:20Is that
00:34:21real?
00:34:22Of course.
00:34:23Here's what I know.
00:34:24Every pair designed
00:34:25by Futures Lead Designer
00:34:26Alan Lewis
00:34:28comes with a unique
00:34:30serial number
00:34:31and the designer's initials.
00:34:33AL engraved
00:34:35on the inside heel.
00:34:35It can't be.
00:34:37But it is.
00:34:41Jolene
00:34:42why don't you have a look
00:34:43inside your own heel?
00:34:45I'm not scared!
00:34:46She raises her foot
00:34:47and turns the inside
00:34:48of the heel
00:34:48toward everyone.
00:34:49It's empty.
00:34:54Impossible!
00:34:55My shoes are real!
00:34:57The marks are just
00:34:57worn down from use!
00:34:59You can barely
00:35:00see it now!
00:35:01Oh really?
00:35:02Futures Anti-Counterfeit
00:35:04system is one of the most
00:35:05advanced in the world.
00:35:06Unless the shoes
00:35:07are completely wrecked,
00:35:08the serial number
00:35:09doesn't just disappear.
00:35:11Want to check right now?
00:35:12No!
00:35:13That won't be necessary!
00:35:14I must have just
00:35:15made a mistake!
00:35:17You wanted to embarrass
00:35:18me in front of everyone?
00:35:20Jolene,
00:35:21you seem to forget.
00:35:22What I do best
00:35:23is tear apart
00:35:24cheap facades
00:35:25like yours.
00:35:26After school,
00:35:27Jolene storms out
00:35:28of campus,
00:35:29fuming.
00:35:30Austin is there
00:35:31to pick her up.
00:35:36Jolene,
00:35:37what's going on?
00:35:38Did someone
00:35:38mess with you?
00:35:39Austin!
00:35:40Those limited edition
00:35:42shoes you got for me?
00:35:45Catherine showed up
00:35:46wearing the exact
00:35:46same pair
00:35:47and accused mine
00:35:48of being fake.
00:35:50Showtime.
00:35:57Catherine,
00:35:58wait!
00:36:04What gives you
00:36:04the right
00:36:05to accuse
00:36:05Jolene's shoes
00:36:06of be fake?
00:36:11Just take the shoes
00:36:12to the store
00:36:13for verification.
00:36:14Verify them?
00:36:15Who do you think
00:36:16you are?
00:36:25Lucky for me,
00:36:26Future's Black Gold
00:36:27members get
00:36:28priority verification.
00:36:30The Future Black
00:36:32card?
00:36:32How the hell
00:36:33does she have that?
00:36:34Austin,
00:36:35let's just get
00:36:35this over with!
00:36:42No,
00:36:43forget it.
00:36:43This isn't worth
00:36:44the headache.
00:36:45Let's just go home.
00:37:01What's going on here?
00:37:04Liam gets out
00:37:05of the car,
00:37:06moving with authority.
00:37:11They look at him
00:37:12nervously,
00:37:13like rats
00:37:13looking at a cat.
00:37:16Mr. Warren.
00:37:17Is everything
00:37:18all right?
00:37:20Mr. Warren,
00:37:21it's nothing serious.
00:37:23Catherine just
00:37:24insisted my shoes
00:37:25weren't real.
00:37:30Do you need
00:37:30any help?
00:37:31No,
00:37:32it's fine.
00:37:33Nothing to worry
00:37:33about.
00:37:34Mr. Warren,
00:37:36this is a private
00:37:37family matter.
00:37:38Family matter?
00:37:39if Catherine's
00:37:40involved.
00:37:42It's my business
00:37:43too.
00:37:47Let's go.
00:37:48Dinner's waiting.
00:37:55Your turn is over.
00:37:57Fake shoes
00:37:58always end up
00:37:59rubbing the heel
00:38:00raw.
00:38:01You might want
00:38:02to change yours.
00:38:04Yes.
00:38:11I feel a quiet
00:38:12thrill of satisfaction.
00:38:14You thought you
00:38:15could humiliate me
00:38:15with fake shoes?
00:38:16Look how that
00:38:17backfired.
00:38:20Back in the
00:38:20Brown family,
00:38:21I always had to
00:38:22bite my tongue
00:38:23and step aside.
00:38:25Now,
00:38:26with Liam backing
00:38:26me up,
00:38:28I have nothing
00:38:29to fear.
00:38:31I have nothing to fear.
00:38:33I have nothing to fear.
00:38:34I have nothing to fear.
00:38:40The next afternoon,
00:38:41I wheel a small
00:38:43suitcase to my
00:38:44new home,
00:38:44Sterling Haven.
00:38:46Just as I step
00:38:47out of the car,
00:38:48Catherine?
00:38:49a familiar voice
00:38:50calls out behind me.
00:38:52I turn and see
00:38:54Declan and Jolene
00:38:55standing not far away.
00:38:57What's going on here?
00:38:59Why are you
00:38:59at this place?
00:39:01Catherine,
00:39:01why are you
00:39:02hauling a suitcase
00:39:03here?
00:39:04Are you sure
00:39:05you haven't
00:39:05gotten the wrong
00:39:06place?
00:39:07This is Sterling Haven.
00:39:08If you don't want
00:39:09the security guards
00:39:10kicking you out,
00:39:11you better leave.
00:39:12I live here.
00:39:13So yeah,
00:39:14I'm pretty sure
00:39:14I know my own
00:39:15address.
00:39:16Your home?
00:39:17Wait,
00:39:18are you working
00:39:19here?
00:39:19Like on the staff?
00:39:20I can't help
00:39:21but laugh.
00:39:22Jolene,
00:39:23your imagination
00:39:23is wild.
00:39:24So tell me,
00:39:25what about you two?
00:39:27Are you here
00:39:28to apply for janitor
00:39:29or security jobs?
00:39:30Declan and I
00:39:31are here
00:39:31looking for a place
00:39:33to settle down.
00:39:34Our wedding apartment,
00:39:35actually.
00:39:37I calmly reach
00:39:38into my bag
00:39:39and pull out
00:39:39an access card,
00:39:43tapping it
00:39:43against the reader.
00:39:47A beep confirms
00:39:48access.
00:39:52Declan and Jolene
00:39:53freeze in shock.
00:39:57Just moved
00:39:58into Sterling Haven
00:39:59and the silence
00:40:00of the night
00:40:00was shattered.
00:40:03There's a race
00:40:04tomorrow evening.
00:40:05The prize is huge.
00:40:07Feeling the itch?
00:40:09Who's racing?
00:40:10The same arrogant
00:40:12group of wealthy
00:40:12young men.
00:40:14They've been
00:40:14throwing challenges
00:40:15at Evora.
00:40:17Oh,
00:40:18and the Brown family
00:40:20will be there too.
00:40:21What's the prize?
00:40:23A million dollars
00:40:24plus a limited edition
00:40:26sports car.
00:40:27Send me the details.
00:40:30Since they're throwing
00:40:31themselves at me,
00:40:32I see no reason
00:40:33to refuse.
00:40:37Four in the afternoon,
00:40:39I drive towards
00:40:40the racetrack
00:40:41in the suburb.
00:40:56I sign that name.
00:40:58The one they both dread
00:40:59and go mad over.
00:41:05Oh, it's Evora!
00:41:07Our idol,
00:41:07Evora,
00:41:08has arrived!
00:41:11Evora?
00:41:12It's probably
00:41:13just someone pretending.
00:41:18She wouldn't show up
00:41:19for a small race
00:41:20like this.
00:41:28just then,
00:41:30that flashy blue
00:41:31GT-R
00:41:31pulled up
00:41:32right in front of me.
00:41:36Catherine?
00:41:37What are you doing here?
00:41:40This isn't a playground
00:41:41for careless drivers.
00:41:44If trash like you
00:41:46is allowed here,
00:41:47why shouldn't I be?
00:41:52Explain yourself.
00:41:57As if I'm going to.
00:42:01As expected,
00:42:02he got angry
00:42:03out of embarrassment,
00:42:04resorting to such
00:42:05underhanded,
00:42:06pathetic tactics.
00:42:07But he can't touch me.
00:42:10Laying hands
00:42:10on someone in public?
00:42:12That's a bad look.
00:42:13Let go!
00:42:14Don't you know
00:42:14who I am?
00:42:19Whoever you are,
00:42:20if you touch
00:42:20Catherine again,
00:42:22you'll regret it.
00:42:26We'll settle this
00:42:27on the race course.
00:42:29Hopefully,
00:42:30you don't crash out
00:42:30in the first round.
00:42:33The signal light
00:42:34blinks on
00:42:35and the five engines
00:42:36roar to life.
00:42:37The green light flashes
00:42:38and Jaxton's GT-R
00:42:39shoots forward.
00:42:40At the first corner,
00:42:41I execute a drift
00:42:43unlike anything
00:42:43he's ever seen
00:42:44and pull ahead.
00:42:45The next stretch
00:42:46of the track
00:42:47turns into a full-on
00:42:48display of my skill.
00:42:55I flow through
00:42:55every bed
00:42:56as if I designed
00:42:57them myself.
00:42:59It's Yvera!
00:43:01She's really
00:43:02the legendary Yvera!
00:43:10My gray car
00:43:11shoots through
00:43:12the final stretch
00:43:13and crosses
00:43:14the finish line first.
00:43:27I push open the door
00:43:29and pull off my helmet.
00:43:30my ponytail
00:43:31swinging in the breeze.
00:43:35My face stays calm,
00:43:37showing no excitement.
00:43:48You...
00:43:48You're really Yvera?
00:43:54Tell me...
00:43:55Who's the idiot now?
00:43:59So you were tricking us
00:44:00this whole time?
00:44:02On the day I returned,
00:44:03I told all of you
00:44:04I liked racing.
00:44:06But not a single one of you
00:44:07ever bothered to listen.
00:44:11I step around Jaxton
00:44:12and walk off
00:44:13without looking back.
00:44:18I never wanted to flaunt
00:44:20being Yvera.
00:44:22But since you kept pushing,
00:44:24now you get to see
00:44:25who the real
00:44:25Catherine Brown
00:44:26really is.
00:44:41I never wanted to flaunt
00:44:50the video into the group chat
00:44:52and tags Liam directly.
00:44:58Liam, you have to see this.
00:45:00I swear it'll knock you sideways.
00:45:02Please.
00:45:02Nothing on earth surprises Liam.
00:45:05What nonsense
00:45:06are you stirring up now?
00:45:14Liam opens the video,
00:45:15sees me stepping out
00:45:17of the grey car,
00:45:18and a flicker of real shock
00:45:20crosses eyes.
00:45:21It's her.
00:45:27Okay,
00:45:27I'm genuinely blown away.
00:45:29Liam,
00:45:30what kind of divine helper
00:45:31do you have in your life?
00:45:32This woman is pure magic.
00:45:34Told you.
00:45:34I knew even Liam
00:45:36couldn't stay calm
00:45:37after this.
00:45:54Catherine,
00:45:55just how much
00:45:56are you still hiding?
00:46:01The next day,
00:46:03I walk into the classroom.
00:46:06Catherine,
00:46:07I got you your favorite coffee.
00:46:09I smile
00:46:09and pull out
00:46:10a delicate porcelain bottle
00:46:11from my bag.
00:46:13Apply this ointment
00:46:14to the spot before bed.
00:46:17You should see results
00:46:18in about a month.
00:46:19Thank you so much, Catherine.
00:46:21Do you really think
00:46:22it will work?
00:46:22A mocking laugh
00:46:23cuts through the air.
00:46:25Consistency is the key.
00:46:27I'm confident it'll heal.
00:46:31Seriously?
00:46:32You actually think
00:46:33a homemade cream
00:46:34will magically
00:46:35make you beautiful?
00:46:36My eyes darken
00:46:37as I fix Paige
00:46:38with a piercing stare.
00:46:41Apologize.
00:46:42Why should I apologize?
00:46:44I'm just speaking the truth.
00:46:46Catherine,
00:46:47Paige can be a bit blunt.
00:46:49She didn't mean
00:46:50to be hurtful.
00:46:51Paige was only
00:46:52trying to warn you.
00:46:54The ointments
00:46:54you're handing out
00:46:55aren't officially approved.
00:46:57If Claudian's condition
00:46:58gets worse,
00:46:59that could cause
00:47:01a big problem.
00:47:02It's to heal,
00:47:03not harm.
00:47:04Why do you jump
00:47:05to conclusions
00:47:06without a shred of proof?
00:47:11Tell me,
00:47:12have you ever actually
00:47:14tested these ointments yourself?
00:47:16Claudian,
00:47:17use your ointment
00:47:17without any worries.
00:47:19If anything happens,
00:47:20I will take
00:47:21full responsibility.
00:47:22Jolene Brown,
00:47:24my medical skills
00:47:25aren't something
00:47:25outers to question.
00:47:31Catherine,
00:47:32I believe in you.
00:47:34Just as the school day
00:47:35wraps up,
00:47:36rain suddenly begins
00:47:36pouring down
00:47:37in heavy sheets.
00:47:38I had anticipated this,
00:47:40so an umbrella
00:47:41is tucked safely
00:47:41in my bag.
00:47:42Pulling it out,
00:47:43I open it
00:47:44and step out
00:47:44into the downpour.
00:47:47Catherine, wait!
00:47:48Can I share
00:47:49your umbrella with you?
00:47:50No.
00:47:52I turn around
00:47:53and see Jolene
00:47:54and huddled
00:47:54beneath my umbrella.
00:47:56Without another word,
00:47:58I turn and walk away.
00:48:00Before long,
00:48:01the rain soaks her
00:48:02to the bone.
00:48:04Catherine,
00:48:05it's pouring out here.
00:48:07I just wanted
00:48:08to walk with you
00:48:09for a bit.
00:48:10Jolene is left
00:48:11standing there,
00:48:12stunned.
00:48:15I already said no.
00:48:17My umbrella's
00:48:18too small for two.
00:48:20And honestly,
00:48:21I'm not comfortable
00:48:22being that close
00:48:22to anyone.
00:48:24Jolene is furious.
00:48:25A sleek black car
00:48:27rolls to a slow stop
00:48:28at the gate.
00:48:28It's Austin's.
00:48:34Austin!
00:48:36Jolene?
00:48:36How did you get
00:48:38this soaked?
00:48:38Didn't you bring
00:48:39an umbrella?
00:48:40You'll catch a cold
00:48:40like this.
00:48:41He glances out
00:48:42the window
00:48:43just in time
00:48:43to see me
00:48:44walking past
00:48:45holding my umbrella.
00:48:47Catherine,
00:48:47you had an umbrella.
00:48:48Why didn't you
00:48:49share it with Jolene?
00:48:57Do you really think
00:48:58we're close enough
00:48:59for that?
00:49:01Catherine!
00:49:02Jolene is family.
00:49:04Look at her.
00:49:04She's drenched.
00:49:06You had an umbrella
00:49:06and didn't even
00:49:07think to help her?
00:49:11Do you have any idea
00:49:12how cruel that looks?
00:49:13Exactly!
00:49:14Jolene's soaked
00:49:15because Catherine
00:49:16abandoned her.
00:49:17She went way too far!
00:49:19Before I speak,
00:49:20a nearby student
00:49:21steps in.
00:49:22Please.
00:49:22I saw Jolene
00:49:23give her umbrella
00:49:23to someone else
00:49:24just to look noble
00:49:25and then she tried
00:49:26to free float it
00:49:26off Catherine.
00:49:27Catherine didn't
00:49:28want to share,
00:49:28so what?
00:49:29Stop trying to
00:49:30guilt trip her.
00:49:31So what?
00:49:32The rain was pouring.
00:49:34Sharing wouldn't
00:49:35kill her.
00:49:36Catherine's.
00:49:37Catherine's just
00:49:37being selfish.
00:49:38Paige, please.
00:49:39You don't even
00:49:39know what happened.
00:49:40Jolene gave her
00:49:41umbrella away
00:49:41just to look generous.
00:49:42Austin,
00:49:43that's not what
00:49:44happened.
00:49:45I only wanted
00:49:46to get closer
00:49:46to her.
00:49:47I didn't realize
00:49:48she disliked me
00:49:49so much.
00:49:50Keep your little
00:49:51performances away
00:49:52from me.
00:49:52Don't test me.
00:50:06In the classroom,
00:50:07I sit quietly
00:50:08at my desk,
00:50:09flipping through
00:50:09my notes.
00:50:10Catherine,
00:50:11I heard Jolene's
00:50:11really sick today.
00:50:12She didn't come
00:50:13to class.
00:50:13Rain and cold.
00:50:14It's pretty normal
00:50:15to feel under
00:50:15the weather afterward.
00:50:16A loud commotion
00:50:17erupts at the
00:50:18classroom entrance.
00:50:20Feel satisfied
00:50:21now, Catherine?
00:50:22Jolene's in the
00:50:23hospital with a
00:50:23high fever,
00:50:24all because you
00:50:25wouldn't share
00:50:25your stupid umbrella.
00:50:26I calmly shut
00:50:27my notebook
00:50:28and rise to my
00:50:29feet.
00:50:29A chilly,
00:50:31razor-thin smile
00:50:32forms on my lips.
00:50:33She's sick,
00:50:35and that's supposed
00:50:35to be my
00:50:36responsibility?
00:50:37Is this seriously
00:50:38your reaction?
00:50:39Jolene's hospitalized,
00:50:40and you're standing
00:50:41here tossing out
00:50:41sarcastic comments?
00:50:42And what exactly
00:50:43does her hospital
00:50:44stale have to do
00:50:44with me?
00:50:45Did I make her
00:50:46give away her
00:50:46umbrella,
00:50:46or did I
00:50:47physically send her
00:50:48into the storm?
00:50:49You!
00:50:51And honestly,
00:50:51if she were
00:50:52sick enough
00:50:52to be hospitalized,
00:50:53would she really
00:50:54have the energy
00:50:55to publicize it
00:50:56to the entire school?
00:50:57I asked her
00:50:58personally.
00:50:59Great.
00:51:00Tell me which
00:51:01hospital she's at.
00:51:02I'll arrange
00:51:03for top-tier
00:51:03specialists to
00:51:04check on her.
00:51:06I begin dialing,
00:51:07and Paige
00:51:08immediately panics.
00:51:09No!
00:51:10You don't have
00:51:11to do that!
00:51:12Jolene said
00:51:12she only needs
00:51:13rest.
00:51:16How did you
00:51:17figure out
00:51:17she was faking?
00:51:19I've watched
00:51:19her pull the
00:51:20same act
00:51:20more times
00:51:21than I can
00:51:21count.
00:51:23On the weekend,
00:51:25Claudian asks
00:51:25me to go
00:51:26shopping with
00:51:27her.
00:51:28We pause
00:51:29in front of
00:51:29dessert shop,
00:51:31across from
00:51:32a famous
00:51:32brand boutique.
00:51:33Jolene is
00:51:34there, too.
00:51:38Oh, look
00:51:39who it is,
00:51:39Catherine!
00:51:40Fancy seeing
00:51:41you here!
00:51:42Shopping, too,
00:51:42huh?
00:51:43What's the matter?
00:51:44Didn't expect
00:51:45to see you in a
00:51:46place like this?
00:51:46This isn't
00:51:47some place
00:51:47for just
00:51:48anyone.
00:51:49Bet that ice
00:51:50cream cost you
00:51:50half a day's
00:51:51wages?
00:51:52Jolene steps
00:51:53forward,
00:51:53and accidentally
00:51:54splashes her
00:51:55coffee onto
00:51:56my white dress.
00:51:58Oh, no,
00:51:59Catherine!
00:51:59I'm so sorry!
00:52:00I tripped!
00:52:01I didn't mean
00:52:02to!
00:52:03I look down
00:52:04at the stains
00:52:04on my dress,
00:52:06my eyes
00:52:06turning cold.
00:52:11Do you even
00:52:11know how much
00:52:12this dress costs?
00:52:13It's just a dress.
00:52:14I can buy
00:52:15you a new
00:52:15one.
00:52:18She pulls
00:52:19$200 and
00:52:20tosses them
00:52:21at me.
00:52:23Use this
00:52:23to get yourself
00:52:24a new one.
00:52:25I look at
00:52:26the ice cream
00:52:26in my hand
00:52:32and press it
00:52:33onto Jolene's
00:52:34face.
00:52:36Oops!
00:52:37Sorry,
00:52:38my hand
00:52:38just slipped.
00:52:39It's just a
00:52:40little mess.
00:52:41A quick wipe
00:52:42and you'll be
00:52:42fine.
00:52:43Jolene
00:52:44screams.
00:52:46Catherine.
00:52:47What on earth
00:52:48are you doing?
00:52:49Are you crazy?
00:52:50Anne steps
00:52:51out of the
00:52:51fitting room
00:52:52and gasps
00:52:53at Jolene's
00:52:53appearance.
00:52:59Jolene!
00:53:00What on earth
00:53:01happened to you?
00:53:03Mom,
00:53:04it's all
00:53:04my fault.
00:53:05I accidentally
00:53:06spilled coffee
00:53:07on Catherine's
00:53:08dress.
00:53:09I've already
00:53:10paid her back,
00:53:11but she's
00:53:12acting like
00:53:12it's not
00:53:13enough.
00:53:18Catherine,
00:53:19why are you
00:53:20picking on
00:53:20Jolene again?
00:53:23Anne pulls
00:53:24a thick
00:53:25wad of cash
00:53:26from her purse.
00:53:28Catherine,
00:53:29don't push
00:53:29this further.
00:53:30If it's money
00:53:31you want,
00:53:32apologize to
00:53:32Jolene.
00:53:33Not nearly
00:53:34enough.
00:53:36Yes,
00:53:37this is our
00:53:38anniversary edition.
00:53:39It retails for
00:53:40$180,000
00:53:41and is
00:53:41completely
00:53:42sold out.
00:53:43Either pay me
00:53:44three times
00:53:44its value,
00:53:46or I'll report
00:53:47this as
00:53:48intentional
00:53:48property damage
00:53:49to the police.
00:53:51Who said we
00:53:51wouldn't compensate?
00:53:53She reluctantly
00:53:53writes a check.
00:53:56Take it.
00:53:57This is like
00:53:58burning money.
00:54:00Next time,
00:54:00I won't bother
00:54:01negotiating.
00:54:02I'll go straight
00:54:03to the police.
00:54:03I feel a deep
00:54:04satisfying pleasure.
00:54:06$540,000.
00:54:07That's going to
00:54:08sting for a while.
00:54:10Back in the
00:54:10Brown family,
00:54:11I let you walk
00:54:12all over me.
00:54:13I swallowed
00:54:13every insult.
00:54:15Not anymore.
00:54:16From now on,
00:54:17every single debt
00:54:18gets paid back
00:54:19with interest.
00:54:20After the meal,
00:54:21I wave goodbye
00:54:22to Claudian
00:54:23at the restaurant's
00:54:24entrance.
00:54:29I've only
00:54:29walked a short
00:54:30distance when
00:54:31a terrified
00:54:31scream cuts
00:54:32through the air.
00:54:35Someone help!
00:54:36Is there a doctor
00:54:37here?
00:54:38I turn towards
00:54:39the commotion
00:54:39and see a
00:54:40well-dressed woman
00:54:41kneeling beside
00:54:42an elderly woman
00:54:43who has collapsed.
00:54:44I push through
00:54:45the crowd
00:54:46and kneel down
00:54:46to examine her.
00:54:51Ma'am,
00:54:52don't panic.
00:54:53Does she have
00:54:54a history
00:54:54of heart disease?
00:54:55Yes.
00:54:56She has
00:54:57coronary heart disease.
00:55:00I reach into
00:55:02my bag
00:55:02and pull out
00:55:03a small bottle
00:55:04of nitroglycerin pills.
00:55:06I slide a tablet
00:55:07under her tongue
00:55:08and begin CPR.
00:55:22After several
00:55:23long minutes,
00:55:24the elderly woman
00:55:25lets out a faint
00:55:26groan.
00:55:28Paramedics arrive
00:55:29and take over.
00:55:32Very professional.
00:55:33You've brought us
00:55:34precious time.
00:55:36Which hospital
00:55:37do you work at?
00:55:38I have to thank you
00:55:39properly.
00:55:44I'm still a student.
00:55:46Helping people
00:55:46is just something
00:55:47I have to do.
00:55:54I quietly gather
00:55:55my things
00:55:56and slip away
00:55:57while the crowd
00:55:57watches with admiration.
00:55:59The next morning,
00:56:00I intentionally
00:56:01leave home early,
00:56:02but the Browns
00:56:03are already lying
00:56:04in wait at the school
00:56:05entrance.
00:56:07Catherine!
00:56:10Jolene plunges
00:56:11to hug me,
00:56:12but I smoothly
00:56:13dodge her.
00:56:15Catherine,
00:56:15come home with me.
00:56:17Your grandmother's
00:56:18back and wants
00:56:19to see you.
00:56:23Sorry,
00:56:24but I don't really
00:56:24know you people.
00:56:25We don't have time
00:56:26for your nonsense.
00:56:27You're coming home
00:56:28with us today.
00:56:32Since it's the busiest
00:56:33time for students
00:56:34arriving,
00:56:35a bunch of curious
00:56:36students have already
00:56:37stopped to watch.
00:56:40A sleek black Bentley
00:56:42eases to a stop
00:56:43right beside us.
00:56:45The window lowers
00:56:46smoothly,
00:56:46and Liam's sharply
00:56:48contoured face
00:56:49comes into view.
00:56:52Catherine,
00:56:53get in the car.
00:56:59I've got class
00:57:00in a few minutes.
00:57:01What brings you
00:57:01here so early?
00:57:04They didn't bother
00:57:05you, did they?
00:57:06No.
00:57:07They're irrelevant.
00:57:08I'm heading in.
00:57:12And without waiting
00:57:13for his response,
00:57:14I simply turn
00:57:15and leave.
00:57:19The Browns erupt
00:57:20the moment I brush
00:57:21past them like
00:57:22they're strangers
00:57:23on the street.
00:57:24Are we seriously
00:57:24letting that girl
00:57:25walk all over us?
00:57:28She might ignore us,
00:57:29but someone else
00:57:30can get through to her.
00:57:31She won't dare
00:57:32skip her grandmother's
00:57:33birthday banquet.
00:57:37She'll show up
00:57:38for that.
00:57:38After my classes
00:57:39wrap up,
00:57:40I head home,
00:57:41ready to relax,
00:57:42until my phone
00:57:43starts buzzing
00:57:43in my pocket.
00:57:48Catherine,
00:57:48I'm sending you
00:57:49an address.
00:57:49Come eat with us.
00:57:50They've got all
00:57:51your favorites,
00:57:52and there's a surprise
00:57:53for you too.
00:57:54I hop into a cab,
00:57:56take the elevator
00:57:56up,
00:57:57and text Jared.
00:58:00Which room
00:58:01are you guys in?
00:58:03The elevator doors
00:58:04slide open,
00:58:05and I walk out,
00:58:06my eyes glued
00:58:07to my phone.
00:58:10Before I can take
00:58:11two steps,
00:58:12a hand suddenly
00:58:12pulls me aside.
00:58:14So this is who
00:58:15you really are?
00:58:16Waiting all this time
00:58:17just to pull this?
00:58:18You followed me here?
00:58:20Declan,
00:58:20of course.
00:58:22What?
00:58:23Touched a nerve?
00:58:24You show up
00:58:25where I hang out
00:58:25hoping I'll notice
00:58:26you again?
00:58:28Catherine,
00:58:29you really haven't
00:58:29changed.
00:58:30Still using the
00:58:31same desperate tricks.
00:58:32Isn't she that
00:58:33brown family daughter?
00:58:34The one they
00:58:34recently reclaimed?
00:58:35Yep.
00:58:36Looks like she's still
00:58:36running after Declan
00:58:37like always.
00:58:38Declan,
00:58:38drop the ego.
00:58:39I'm here for someone else.
00:58:40You don't even
00:58:40make the top hundred.
00:58:41Stop acting like
00:58:42the world revolves
00:58:43around you.
00:58:45Aha,
00:58:46so I got to you.
00:58:47That's why
00:58:47you're biting back?
00:58:49Do me a favor
00:58:50and stay away.
00:58:51I don't want anyone
00:58:52assuming we have
00:58:52this group.
00:58:55I stride toward
00:58:56the highest tier
00:58:57private suite
00:58:58without looking back.
00:59:07Whoa,
00:59:08what happened to you?
00:59:13I'm fine.
00:59:23Catherine,
00:59:24wait till you see this.
00:59:35Hold on.
00:59:36Is that...
00:59:37Yep.
00:59:38The one from the
00:59:39Veritas auction
00:59:40last month.
00:59:40You kept staring at it,
00:59:42so I figured I
00:59:43just buy the damn
00:59:44thing for you.
00:59:45Thanks,
00:59:46Gerald.
00:59:46Hey,
00:59:47don't go formal
00:59:48on me.
00:59:49Something like this
00:59:50deserves an owner
00:59:51who actually gets it.
00:59:5210 days later.
01:00:07What are you saying
01:00:07for your car?
01:00:07Oh,
01:00:08you're not supposed
01:00:08then I just'll go
01:00:08with the door.
01:00:09Don't be afraid,
01:00:12don't be afraid.
01:00:12Don't be afraid.
01:00:14Don't be afraid.
01:00:19I am not supposed to...
01:00:22Did the Browns push you too far again?
01:00:24I'm fine, Auntie. I left on my own terms.
01:00:28Your grandmother returned.
01:00:30You heard?
01:00:31Her birthday banquet is next week.
01:00:34She actually called me earlier and told me to ask you to come.
01:00:38Auntie, I'm no longer part of the Brown family.
01:00:42Catherine, please.
01:00:44She's getting older.
01:00:45Just give her this one courtesy.
01:00:48All right.
01:00:49I'll show up on time.
01:00:50I exhale slowly, so this is happening.
01:00:54No dodging it now.
01:00:55My eyes move back to the gemstone in its wooden box.
01:00:58It would make a clean, elegant birthday gift.
01:01:01The night of Analia's birthday banquet has come.
01:01:04The Brown estate glows with extravagant decorations.
01:01:10I stroll in wearing simple, casual clothes.
01:01:14Jolene drifts graciously through the guests in a blush-pink couture gown.
01:01:19Low whispers swirl around the gathered guests about how shabby I look.
01:01:23Lawrence's and Anna's expressions grow cold and tense.
01:01:27Isn't that the one who broke ties with the Browns?
01:01:29And she just shows up to Grandma's birthday like that?
01:01:35Wild or not, she's stunning.
01:01:38Those sharp features and that presence can't be ignored.
01:01:42Jolene steps forward, her smile dazzling and perfectly practiced.
01:01:47Grandma, happy birthday!
01:01:49I know how much you adore gemstones, so I asked the auction house to find something really special for you.
01:01:55A rare warm gem.
01:02:01And you, Catherine?
01:02:03What did you bring?
01:02:04I reach into my black bag and pull out a small wooden box.
01:02:09As I open the lid, the room falls deathly silent.
01:02:14Nestled inside is another gemstone.
01:02:19To give Grandma a fake?
01:02:21That's just disrespectful.
01:02:23Catherine?
01:02:24Fake?
01:02:25Catherine, don't you realize how humiliating this is for our family?
01:02:31Amid the crowd's murmurs and accusations, I stay composed.
01:02:41You say mine's a fake?
01:02:43On what proof?
01:02:44Maybe yours is the counterfeit.
01:02:47Isn't it obvious?
01:02:48This gem is incredibly rare.
01:02:51There can't be two exactly the same.
01:02:56Mine's been authenticated by several experts.
01:03:00It's the real deal.
01:03:01A knowing smile curbs my lips as I bring my gem up and lightly press it against an Aaliyah's wrist.
01:03:09This is it!
01:03:11They say a genuine warm gem changes color depending on its wearer's vitality.
01:03:15It's a unique, almost magical trait.
01:03:19Why don't we test Jolene's gem the same way?
01:03:23She tried to pin it on Catherine when it was her own gift that was false.
01:03:27That's impossible!
01:03:28I paid 10 million for this at the Luxurious Auction House!
01:03:32I even have the receipt and certificate to prove it!
01:03:34Pulling out her phone, she quickly dials the number.
01:03:37What she hears makes her eyes widened in shock.
01:03:40Just then, someone glances at their phone and blurts out,
01:03:43The Luxurious Auction House director got hooked on gambling!
01:03:48Jolene stumbles backward, dropping her phone with a loud clatter.
01:03:52Today is my birthday celebration.
01:03:54Let's put an end to this now.
01:03:56Jolene acted with good intentions, but was misled.
01:04:00For the very first time, Anala looks at me without that usual air of disappointment.
01:04:07You know, Catherine, I actually like this.
01:04:14Jolene bites down hard on her lower lip, her nails digging into her palm.
01:04:20Justine approaches me.
01:04:23Catherine, I'm sorry about everything that went down earlier.
01:04:27I'm okay.
01:04:29You only stop feeling hurt when you stop expecting anything from anyone.
01:04:35Not long after, friends call Justina away.
01:04:39A maid makes her way around, offering champagne.
01:04:42When she gets to me, I decline.
01:04:45The maid hurries away, and comes back moments later, holding a glass of juice.
01:04:50I study the juice for a moment.
01:04:52I lift the glass and drink it down in one steady guilt.
01:04:55A few minutes pass before the same maid shows up again.
01:05:00I'm so, so sorry.
01:05:02I didn't mean for this to happen.
01:05:04She slips, and the entire drink splashes across my outfit.
01:05:09Catherine, I'm really sorry.
01:05:11The staff can be a bit careless.
01:05:12Why don't you slip into one of my dresses?
01:05:14I've got tons upstairs.
01:05:15You can use the guest room to change.
01:05:17Wow.
01:05:17The rules in this house are intriguing, to say the least.
01:05:20I hear every bit of the sarcasm.
01:05:22Sophia is practically mocking Jolene, who acts like she owns the place.
01:05:26The maid exhales, relieved beyond measure, and hurries forward.
01:05:30I start after her, but pause to throw Jolene one last look.
01:05:34The maid leads me far inside the mansion, to a guest room.
01:05:38As soon as she leaves, the door shuts quietly,
01:05:42into place.
01:05:44I go over to check the window, but it's stuck tight,
01:05:48probably locked from the outside.
01:05:50A strange warmth begins spreading under my skin.
01:05:53I take a steady breath, pull a small ceramic file from my pocket,
01:05:58and swallow an antidote.
01:06:00I had drunk the tampered juice,
01:06:02simply because I wanted to see the full extent of Jolene's trap.
01:06:09A few moments later, I hear faint, uneven footsteps outside the door.
01:06:15I lay down on the bed, completely still and quiet.
01:06:19The door creaks open slowly.
01:06:24Getting impatient, huh?
01:06:26Don't worry, sweetheart.
01:06:28I'll take real good care of you.
01:06:31But suddenly, my eyes snap wide open.
01:06:36The scream tears from him.
01:06:38He crumples to the floor in an instant,
01:06:41folding over and wrigling on the carpet.
01:06:45I calmly step over him and shut the door behind me.
01:06:48I ease into the corner just outside, ready to watch.
01:06:52Not long after, Jolene appears,
01:06:55sneaking cautiously down the hall.
01:06:59She presses her ear against the door,
01:07:01then pulls it wide open.
01:07:11She barely has time to register it
01:07:13before the man lunges at her.
01:07:18Stay away!
01:07:19Get off me!
01:07:20Man, pretty girl.
01:07:22The other one took a heap,
01:07:24but you?
01:07:25You'll do just fine.
01:07:26Don't you dare touch me!
01:07:28I'm a brown.
01:07:29Touch me and you're dead.
01:07:33Oh, man, yeah?
01:07:35That just makes it way more interesting.
01:07:38Ah! Ah!
01:07:40Help! Help!
01:07:42Let me go!
01:07:44After closing the door behind me,
01:07:47I calmly make my way back to the banquet hall.
01:07:50Sophia, who had earlier stood by my side,
01:07:53approaches with a warm smile and extends her hand.
01:07:55I'm Sophia Flynn.
01:07:57How about we get better acquainted?
01:07:59Catherine Brown, it's a pleasure to meet you.
01:08:01About 15 minutes later,
01:08:03a sudden disturbance breaks out outside the banquet hall.
01:08:06The crowd moves towards the guest room.
01:08:10As they get closer,
01:08:12heavy breathing and a woman's desperate screams reach their ears.
01:08:19Anne's face drains of color.
01:08:21What are you waiting for?
01:08:22Get that door down now!
01:08:24A few strong servants step up and smash the door open.
01:08:28Inside, the shocking scene unfolds for everyone to see.
01:08:33Jolene, her hair mussy and clothes rumpled,
01:08:36is pinned down by an unfamiliar man.
01:08:39Seeing the crowd at the doorway,
01:08:41she breaks down in tears.
01:08:43Mom!
01:08:43It was Catherine!
01:08:44She tricked me!
01:08:45She planned all of this!
01:08:50Despite the accusations,
01:08:51I don't flinch.
01:08:53Jolene, where are you getting this from?
01:08:55The maid ruined my dress,
01:08:56and you sent her to fetch me some clothes.
01:08:58But I waited ages,
01:09:00and no one came,
01:09:00so I left.
01:09:01When I left,
01:09:02the room was empty.
01:09:04I have no idea how you ended up here.
01:09:06How could you be so heartless?
01:09:09Jolene is your sister!
01:09:11I was with Miss Flynn in the banquet hall the entire time.
01:09:14Many guests can vouch for that.
01:09:16How can you stoop to such tactics?
01:09:20Regarding Jolene,
01:09:22we'll have a chance to question the man soon enough.
01:09:27What happened today was a private family matter.
01:09:30Anyone who breathes a word of it
01:09:31will be making an enemy of the Brown family.
01:09:34Anne grabs her trembling daughter
01:09:35and practically drags Jolene out.
01:09:37The man is also hauled away.
01:09:45What a night.
01:09:46You handled that like a pro.
01:09:51It was simply responding to what she started.
01:09:54If she had stayed in her lane,
01:09:55none of this would have happened.
01:09:57Time after time,
01:09:58Jolene tried to set me up.
01:10:00Did she really think I was still the same Catherine
01:10:02who'd just take it lying down?
01:10:05What happened tonight?
01:10:06She brought it on herself.
01:10:09Morning sunlight pours in through the large window,
01:10:11casting soft highlights across his sharp jawline.
01:10:15Mr. Warren.
01:10:16Morning. Let's get started.
01:10:17Without hesitation,
01:10:18he reaches for the buttons of his shirt and pulls it up,
01:10:21exposing his bare chest.
01:10:23I slip into professional mode,
01:10:25pick up my medical kit,
01:10:26and move to his side.
01:10:28Need a hand handling the Browns?
01:10:30My hands work with practiced confidence.
01:10:34Not right now.
01:10:35I've got it covered.
01:10:37Once the session wraps up,
01:10:39I'm packing away my tools
01:10:41when Liam slowly pushes off the sofa.
01:10:44He stands steady,
01:10:46clear-headed.
01:10:46You're healing well.
01:10:48You're really skilled at this.
01:10:50Thanks.
01:10:51Keep this up,
01:10:52and one more session and you'll be good as new.
01:10:54Once I'm fully better,
01:10:55what do you want in exchange?
01:10:57You've already paid for the treatments,
01:10:59but if I ever need help down the road,
01:11:01I hope you'll remember the understanding we have today.
01:11:04Sounds fair.
01:11:05Just then,
01:11:06a knock comes at the door,
01:11:07and a maid enters.
01:11:08Sir,
01:11:08Mr. Cassius Warren has arrived.
01:11:10His tone turns icy in an instant.
01:11:12The smile that had just been there disappears completely.
01:11:14Tell him to wait for me in the living room.
01:11:17When I enter the living room,
01:11:18a man in a dark gray suit glances my way.
01:11:22He appears to be in his 50s,
01:11:24sharing some resemblance with Liam.
01:11:31Our eyes lock for a moment.
01:11:33I simply give a small nod and exit smoothly.
01:11:38The intense,
01:11:39almost threatening look from that middle-aged man
01:11:42has set off warning bells in my mind.
01:11:46I let out a soft sigh.
01:11:49I deliberately instruct my driver
01:11:50to take several detours
01:11:52just to make sure no one is tailing me
01:11:54before finally heading back to my apartment.
01:12:00No sooner have I settled in than my phone rings.
01:12:03It's Sophia.
01:12:05Hey, Catherine,
01:12:06got a minute?
01:12:07There's this socialite gala happening next week.
01:12:10Want to come along and just have some fun?
01:12:12Sounds good.
01:12:13When is it exactly?
01:12:14Do I need to prepare anything special?
01:12:15It's next Saturday evening at Vantage Oasis.
01:12:18Just wear a cocktail dress.
01:12:20I'll come pick you up,
01:12:21and we can go together.
01:12:22Okay,
01:12:23that would work.
01:12:23Thank you so much.
01:12:27I'll go park the car.
01:12:29Sophia goes off to find a parking spot,
01:12:31leaving me to make my way into the building.
01:12:40Just as I step into the lobby,
01:12:42ready to catch the elevator up,
01:12:44I bump on Jalene.
01:12:54Catherine?
01:12:55What are you doing here?
01:12:57So,
01:12:58you're here for the gala?
01:12:59You have an invitation,
01:13:00I hope?
01:13:01Whose little lapdog are you?
01:13:03Running wild and barking at everyone
01:13:05without a care.
01:13:08Excuse me?
01:13:09Who exactly are you insulting?
01:13:11Listen, Catherine,
01:13:12you can't just waltz
01:13:14into this kind of event
01:13:15wearing a dress.
01:13:16Without a real invite,
01:13:18you'll end up humiliated
01:13:19when security shows you the door.
01:13:22Come on, Catherine.
01:13:23Ready to head up?
01:13:25Let's not keep the others waiting.
01:13:37Don't pay her any mind.
01:13:39The organizers gave me
01:13:40two invitations this year.
01:13:42I smile back,
01:13:44appreciating Sophia's subtle way
01:13:45of handling things.
01:14:00Everyone,
01:14:01meet my friend Catherine Brown.
01:14:03I hope you'll look out for her
01:14:05from now on.
01:14:05This gala really is slipping.
01:14:07Apparently just anyone
01:14:08can walk in now.
01:14:09Some people really try too hard,
01:14:12as if showing up here
01:14:13will magically upgrade
01:14:14their pleas in society.
01:14:16Watch your mouth.
01:14:18Catherine is a brown.
01:14:19Have some respect.
01:14:21Please don't be harsh.
01:14:22My sister doesn't attend events
01:14:24like this often.
01:14:25She's just here
01:14:25to get some exposure.
01:14:27Don't go snapping photos
01:14:29willy-nilly.
01:14:30If I see you flooding
01:14:31social media with our images
01:14:32just to boost your status,
01:14:34I won't hesitate to sue-
01:14:45If you want to play dirty,
01:14:46I'll give you a front row seat.
01:14:49Your status comes
01:14:50from flaunting fake jewelries?
01:14:53And what would a country girl
01:14:54like you possibly understand
01:14:56about jewelry?
01:14:58That's Maris Core,
01:15:00an iconic design
01:15:01by Davina Gemma
01:15:02from the 60s
01:15:03centered around
01:15:04a rare cushion-cut diamond
01:15:05framed by a dozen emeralds.
01:15:08The real necklace
01:15:09was sold at last year's
01:15:10Veritas auction
01:15:11for $36 million,
01:15:12bought anonymously.
01:15:15I have to admit,
01:15:16you've got an eye for quality.
01:15:18It is lovely,
01:15:19I'll give you that,
01:15:20but the issue is
01:15:21that yours isn't authentic.
01:15:22Yes, the center stone
01:15:23is about the right size,
01:15:24but it's missing the clarity
01:15:26a genuine one would have.
01:15:27They look like
01:15:28fresh lab-made pieces.
01:15:29You're talking nonsense!
01:15:31My father gave this to me
01:15:32for my birthday!
01:15:33Janice,
01:15:34don't let my sister get to you.
01:15:36She's been out of touch
01:15:37for years,
01:15:37she probably hasn't even seen
01:15:38jewelry of this caliber.
01:15:40It's easy for her to misjudge.
01:15:41I stay calm,
01:15:43shifting my gaze
01:15:44to the other woman's wrist.
01:15:45Your bracelet actually
01:15:46has decent translucency,
01:15:48but it's been chemically treated
01:15:50and filled with resin.
01:15:51Wearing that too long
01:15:52isn't good for your health.
01:15:54Just so you know,
01:15:55the woman snatches
01:15:56her hand back,
01:15:57going pale.
01:16:00I turn to Jolene.
01:16:02Your necklace is no better,
01:16:04Jolene.
01:16:05Those diamonds look fake too.
01:16:08Jolene's fingers
01:16:09shoot toward her ear
01:16:10but stop halfway.
01:16:12The whole hall
01:16:12goes completely still.
01:16:15That was savage.
01:16:17You nailed that comeback perfectly.
01:16:22I take a sip from my glass
01:16:23and feel not a trace of guilt.
01:16:26Fake jewelry?
01:16:27Fine.
01:16:28Wear it quietly
01:16:29and no one will say a word.
01:16:30But you had to step on me
01:16:32to feel taller.
01:16:33So don't blame me
01:16:34for exposing your fake jewelry.
01:16:36Just you wait!
01:16:38I'm calling in
01:16:39a top jewelry expert
01:16:41right now!
01:16:43Be my guest.
01:16:45Relax, Janice.
01:16:46It's a beautiful day.
01:16:48There's no need
01:16:49to let some petty nonsense
01:16:50spoil it.
01:16:51Petty?
01:16:51This isn't just about me
01:16:53wearing a fake!
01:16:55She's insulting the honor
01:16:56of the whole Lopez family!
01:17:08The craftsmanship
01:17:09is extraordinary
01:17:09but something is off.
01:17:11The cut
01:17:12and the color
01:17:13don't match
01:17:13the authentic Maris core.
01:17:16Miss Lopez
01:17:17I'm afraid this necklace
01:17:19is indeed a replica.
01:17:22What?
01:17:23That can't be!
01:17:24The craftsmanship
01:17:25is exceptionally convincing
01:17:27almost flawless.
01:17:28But as Miss Brown
01:17:29pointed out
01:17:30the cutting style
01:17:30and the emerald shade
01:17:31reveal subtle differences.
01:17:33Impressive eye, Miss Brown.
01:17:35Only the most skilled experts
01:17:36can detect such subtle distinctions.
01:17:38May I ask
01:17:39who has been your teacher?
01:17:41My mentor
01:17:42is Langston Moore.
01:17:45So,
01:17:45you are the esteemed
01:17:46protege of Mr. Moore.
01:17:48An honor
01:17:48to meet you at last.
01:17:50Your championship
01:17:51at the last international competition
01:17:52was truly well deserved.
01:17:54No wonder
01:17:54she spotted the fake
01:17:55so easily.
01:17:56she's Langston Moore's student.
01:18:00That's the world's
01:18:01top jewelry appraiser.
01:18:03The Lopez family
01:18:04really embarrassed
01:18:05themselves today.
01:18:06I can't stay here.
01:18:07I can't let them
01:18:08see me like this.
01:18:17Catherine,
01:18:19when did you pick
01:18:20all this up?
01:18:21You never said
01:18:22a word about it
01:18:23to any of us.
01:18:25There's a lot
01:18:26you don't know,
01:18:27mostly because
01:18:28you never bothered
01:18:28to ask.
01:18:33Catherine,
01:18:33what have you done
01:18:34to Jolaine now?
01:18:35I don't know
01:18:35what you're talking about,
01:18:36Austin.
01:18:36I've been sitting here
01:18:37all night
01:18:37and Jolaine
01:18:38hasn't said a word
01:18:38to me.
01:18:39And I'm not the one
01:18:39who's been sending her
01:18:40all those blue roses.
01:18:43Austin,
01:18:44shouldn't you find out
01:18:45what really happened
01:18:45first?
01:18:46It's Catherine
01:18:47who got wrong today.
01:18:48What about Miss Lopez?
01:18:49How could you upset her
01:18:50and make her cry?
01:18:51You're going to the Lopez residence
01:18:53right now to apologize.
01:18:55Apologize?
01:18:55For what?
01:18:56Telling the truth
01:18:58and exposing Janice
01:18:59fake jewelry
01:19:00in front of everyone?
01:19:01What nonsense?
01:19:03Miss Lopez
01:19:03wouldn't be caught
01:19:04dead wearing fakes.
01:19:05You're just making up
01:19:06lies to slander her.
01:19:07Mr. Brown,
01:19:08Miss Brown's assessment
01:19:09is absolutely right.
01:19:10This Mari's core necklace
01:19:12is a very well-maked replica
01:19:13and her appraisal skills
01:19:14surpass even mine.
01:19:16Isn't Austin being
01:19:17way too biased?
01:19:18He's not even listening
01:19:19to the expert.
01:19:20I heard the Browns
01:19:20kicked out their own
01:19:21biological daughter
01:19:22to make room
01:19:23for that adopted girl
01:19:24Jolene.
01:19:25How ridiculous.
01:19:26Still,
01:19:27you had no right
01:19:28to humiliate Miss Lopez
01:19:29like that in public.
01:19:30Our families have shared
01:19:31a close bond
01:19:32for generations.
01:19:33Did you ever stop
01:19:34to think about
01:19:34how damaging this could be
01:19:35for the Brown group?
01:19:37But what about
01:19:37when Janice openly mocked me
01:19:38for being from the countryside?
01:19:40When they all schemed together
01:19:41to humiliate me
01:19:42in front of everyone?
01:19:42Did anyone ever care
01:19:43how that felt?
01:19:44Have any of you
01:19:45truly treated me
01:19:46like family at all?
01:19:47If not,
01:19:47then I, Catherine,
01:19:48and the Browns
01:19:49are better off
01:19:49going our separate ways
01:19:50from this day forward.
01:19:52Sorry for the disruption
01:19:53and ruining everyone's
01:19:54good time.
01:19:55I'll be taking my leave now.
01:19:59The days passed quietly
01:20:01with nothing but
01:20:02my regular school routine
01:20:03and lab work.
01:20:04Jolene had kept
01:20:05an unusually low profile
01:20:07ever since the banquet,
01:20:08not daring to provoke me again.
01:20:14So many missed calls.
01:20:15What's going on?
01:20:20Why are you answering
01:20:21Aunt Justina's phone?
01:20:22What happened to her?
01:20:23Watch your tone with me,
01:20:25you ungrateful brat!
01:20:26I haven't even dealt
01:20:27with the mess you made!
01:20:28Thanks to you offending
01:20:29Miss Lopez,
01:20:30the Lopez group
01:20:30has just terminated
01:20:31all their cooperation
01:20:32with us.
01:20:33You will find time
01:20:34to go to the Lopez residence
01:20:35and apologize
01:20:35to Miss Lopez immediately!
01:20:37Keep dreaming.
01:20:38You ungrateful little wolf.
01:20:40If you refuse
01:20:41to listen to me,
01:20:42are you planning
01:20:43to ignore your aunt's
01:20:45life and death situation too?
01:20:46What happened
01:20:47to Aunt Justina?
01:20:48Brain tumor.
01:20:49It's pressing
01:20:50directly on the nerves.
01:20:52Surgery is extremely risky.
01:20:54I'm on my way.
01:20:59Out of my way.
01:21:01Sign this!
01:21:02Sign the share transfer agreement
01:21:03and I'll let you inside
01:21:04to see her.
01:21:06How dare they use
01:21:08Justina's life
01:21:09as a bargaining chip?
01:21:10They have no bottom line.
01:21:11You crazy girl.
01:21:13If you dare lay a hand on me,
01:21:15you'll be condemned
01:21:15for your unfailed behavior.
01:21:17Heaven will strike you down!
01:21:18Then move.
01:21:20Before I actually decide
01:21:21to follow through.
01:21:23Lawrence?
01:21:24Austin?
01:21:26Is that Catherine out there?
01:21:28Let her in.
01:21:38My poor little Catherine.
01:21:40They must have given her
01:21:41a hard time again.
01:21:46It's just the same old
01:21:47health problems.
01:21:48Nothing to worry about.
01:21:49But were they bothering
01:21:51you out there just now?
01:21:52Don't worry about me.
01:21:54I'm perfectly fine.
01:21:55How are you feeling
01:21:56right now, really?
01:21:57Be honest with me.
01:21:58Justina,
01:21:58don't push yourself
01:21:59too hard.
01:22:00The doctors made it clear
01:22:01this condition
01:22:01can't wait any longer.
01:22:02Only Dr. Huxley-Jones
01:22:03can perform this surgery
01:22:04with the highest success rate.
01:22:06Jolaine practically
01:22:06bent over back
01:22:07to get him to agree
01:22:08to take the case.
01:22:09Show me her complete
01:22:10medical records
01:22:10and all the scan images
01:22:11right now.
01:22:12Justina has been
01:22:12nothing but kind to you
01:22:13your whole life,
01:22:14hasn't she?
01:22:14Now that she's gravely ill,
01:22:15you won't just sit back
01:22:16and let her die,
01:22:17will you?
01:22:17Here's the deal.
01:22:18Sign over the brown group
01:22:19shares to the family
01:22:19and Jolaine will convince
01:22:20Dr. Huxley to perform
01:22:21the surgery immediately.
01:22:22We're also willing
01:22:23to overlook the whole
01:22:24Miss Lopez incident
01:22:24and not hold it against you.
01:22:26After all,
01:22:26we're still family,
01:22:27aren't we?
01:22:28Lawrence,
01:22:28Austin,
01:22:29how can you stoop so low
01:22:30as to use my sickness
01:22:30as a weapon against Catherine?
01:22:32This is absolutely shameless.
01:22:33I won't stand for this.
01:22:34Stop it right now.
01:22:35Aunt Justina,
01:22:36please don't be angry.
01:22:38Dad's just worried
01:22:38about all those brown group
01:22:39shares Catherine holds.
01:22:40If she's not careful,
01:22:42she could be taken
01:22:43advantage of,
01:22:44which would cause
01:22:44huge problems.
01:22:46That's why he wants
01:22:47to take this chance
01:22:48to get the shares
01:22:48back into the family's hands.
01:22:51Catherine,
01:22:52my condition is severe
01:22:54and it probably
01:22:55may get better.
01:22:57Even if you sign,
01:22:58the surgery might not work.
01:23:00I come to accept that.
01:23:02You should leave
01:23:03while you still can.
01:23:05Aunt Justina,
01:23:06I'll be the one
01:23:07to perform your surgery.
01:23:09What could you possibly
01:23:09have to back that up
01:23:10with those so-called skills
01:23:11you picked up from nowhere?
01:23:13Catherine,
01:23:13don't make a fool of yourself
01:23:14and promise more
01:23:15than you can deliver.
01:23:15If Justina's condition
01:23:16worsens because of your arrogance,
01:23:18can you really bear
01:23:18the consequences?
01:23:19Can you live with that guilt?
01:23:20Then we'll just have
01:23:21to wait and see.
01:23:22And don't you ever dare
01:23:24use Aunt Justina
01:23:25as a pawn against me again.
01:23:26The next time you try,
01:23:27I won't hesitate
01:23:28to prove exactly
01:23:29what I am capable of.
01:23:30And you won't like the outcome.
01:23:32I'm not giving up on you.
01:23:35Aunt Justina,
01:23:36trust me.
01:23:37Leave everything to me.
01:23:38I promise I'll make you better.
01:23:41Catherine,
01:23:42I trust you.
01:23:43Completely.
01:23:44Fine!
01:23:45Have it your way, Catherine.
01:23:47Let's see how you handle this.
01:23:49Without Dr. Huxley,
01:23:50I don't think Justina
01:23:50has much time left.
01:23:51When this fails,
01:23:53and it will,
01:23:54you better not come
01:23:55crawling back to us
01:23:56to us on your knees
01:23:56begging for help!
01:24:07It's Zephira.
01:24:09Arrange for the highest-grade
01:24:10operating theater
01:24:10at Central Hospital immediately
01:24:11with a full leading
01:24:12neurosurgery team on standby.
01:24:14I'll send over the full
01:24:15equipment list
01:24:15and surgical plan shortly.
01:24:17Understood,
01:24:17Dr. Zephira.
01:24:18We'll handle all the
01:24:19arrangements immediately.
01:24:20Everything will be ready
01:24:21before your scheduled
01:24:22surgery time.
01:24:27An internationally
01:24:28renowned surgeon,
01:24:29Dr. Zephira?
01:24:31That's the legendary
01:24:31neurosurgeon that even
01:24:32royal families can't book?
01:24:34No!
01:24:34No way!
01:24:35That's impossible!
01:24:36Catherine?
01:24:37That good-for-nothing girl
01:24:38who grew up in the countryside?
01:24:39How could she possibly
01:24:40have connections to someone
01:24:41of Dr. Zephira's caliber?
01:24:42It must be a coincidence!
01:24:43No,
01:24:44it can't be.
01:24:45She's just a worthless
01:24:46country girl.
01:24:47How could she know
01:24:47Dr. Zephira?
01:24:50Dad, Austin,
01:24:51don't jump to conclusions.
01:24:52It has to be a coincidence.
01:24:53There's no way Catherine
01:24:54has anything to do with this.
01:24:56She probably doesn't even
01:24:56know who Dr. Zephira is.
01:25:00Justina,
01:25:00I won't let anything
01:25:01happen to you.
01:25:02This surgery will be
01:25:03a success.
01:25:06Aunt Justina,
01:25:07it's me.
01:25:08I'll be the operatic
01:25:09surgeon for your
01:25:10procedure today.
01:25:11Don't be afraid.
01:25:12Just close your eyes
01:25:13and rest.
01:25:13When you wake up,
01:25:14this ailment
01:25:15will be gone completely.
01:25:17The patient is under
01:25:18general anesthesia.
01:25:19Vitals are stable.
01:25:20Let's begin the operation.
01:25:29My God,
01:25:30that surgical approach angle.
01:25:31It's so bold
01:25:32and intricate,
01:25:33yet it completely avoids
01:25:34all the critical functional
01:25:35areas of the brain.
01:25:36I've never seen anything
01:25:37like it.
01:25:37Look at that section technique.
01:25:38It's so steady.
01:25:39It's terrifying.
01:25:39Not a single tremor.
01:25:40Even when working so close
01:25:42to the nerve buns.
01:25:42This is beyond masterful.
01:25:45The patient's vital assigns
01:25:47remain stable
01:25:47throughout the procedure.
01:25:49The operation
01:25:49is a complete success.
01:25:54Please pay close attention
01:25:55to the patient's
01:25:56post-operative monitoring
01:25:57and care.
01:25:58Call me immediately
01:25:58if there are any changes
01:25:59in her condition.
01:26:00Absolutely,
01:26:01Dr. Zafia.
01:26:02We will strictly follow
01:26:03your post-operative care plan.
01:26:04It was the greatest honor
01:26:05of our careers
01:26:06to assist you
01:26:06in this surgery today.
01:26:29Dr. Zafia's surgical skills
01:26:30are absolutely extraordinary.
01:26:32God-like even.
01:26:32I have to say,
01:26:33your Brown family
01:26:34is truly full
01:26:35of hidden talents.
01:26:36It's almost impossible
01:26:37to book Dr. Zafia
01:26:38for a surgery
01:26:39anywhere in the world
01:26:40yet you managed
01:26:40to get her
01:26:41to come here personally.
01:26:42I'm genuinely curious.
01:26:43How did you manage
01:26:44to connect with her?
01:26:45How is this possible?
01:26:46How could that country girl
01:26:46have anything to do
01:26:47with Dr. Zafira?
01:26:48This can't be happening.
01:26:49We threatened her.
01:26:50We accused her.
01:26:50We tried to force her
01:26:51to sign away her shares
01:26:51and she just saved
01:26:52Aunt Justina's life?
01:26:53Dr. Watts,
01:26:54thank you for your hard work today.
01:26:56It was our honor
01:26:56to work with you,
01:26:57Dr. Zafira.
01:26:58You have my word.
01:26:59We will monitor
01:27:00Ms. Brown's condition
01:27:0124-7
01:27:01and strictly follow
01:27:02your post-operative care
01:27:03instructions.
01:27:05Could it be?
01:27:07Is Catherine actually
01:27:08Dr. Zafira herself?
01:27:10What kind of ridiculous nonsense
01:27:12are you spouting?
01:27:13That ungrateful fool
01:27:14knows nothing.
01:27:15She's just a worthless
01:27:16waste of space.
01:27:17There's no way
01:27:17she could be
01:27:18the world famous
01:27:19Dr. Zafira.
01:27:20Are you done
01:27:20running your mouth?
01:27:21If you're finished,
01:27:22step aside.
01:27:23I don't have time
01:27:23to waste on the likes of you.
01:27:25You?
01:27:25You ungrateful,
01:27:26rebellious girl?
01:27:27You think knowing
01:27:28that Dr. Zafira
01:27:29makes you something special?
01:27:30You probably spent
01:27:31all your money
01:27:31to beg her to come here.
01:27:32It's not like you have
01:27:33any real skill.
01:27:34I am Dr. Zafira.
01:27:36Aunt Justina's surgery
01:27:37was performed
01:27:38by my own hands
01:27:39from start to finish.
01:27:44No.
01:27:45Impossible.
01:27:45How could you possibly
01:27:46be Dr. Zafira?
01:27:47You're just a worthless,
01:27:48uneducated girl
01:27:48from the countryside.
01:27:49You're nothing.
01:27:50You're lying.
01:27:51Worthless.
01:27:51I'm the one who saved
01:27:52Aunt Justina's life.
01:27:53What have you done
01:27:54besides using her sickness
01:27:54as a weapon
01:27:55to try and steal from me?
01:27:57Catherine,
01:27:57why...
01:27:58why didn't you tell us sooner?
01:28:00If you had told us
01:28:01who you were earlier,
01:28:01we wouldn't have...
01:28:02we wouldn't have
01:28:03treated you like that.
01:28:04We wouldn't have
01:28:05made so many mistakes.
01:28:07Wouldn't have what?
01:28:08Wouldn't have treated me
01:28:09like an outsider?
01:28:10Wouldn't have helped
01:28:11Jolaine bully me
01:28:12time and time again?
01:28:13Wouldn't have used
01:28:13my only family member's
01:28:14life to threaten me?
01:28:16Austin,
01:28:16do you even believe
01:28:17a single word
01:28:17you just said?
01:28:19Catherine doesn't need
01:28:20your fake
01:28:20last-minute regrets.
01:28:21From this day forward,
01:28:22I will be the one
01:28:23to take care of her.
01:28:24You will never get the chance
01:28:25to hurt her again.
01:28:26Mr. Warren,
01:28:27this is just a private
01:28:28family matter
01:28:29of the Brown family.
01:28:30There's no need
01:28:30for you to get involved.
01:28:31Family matter?
01:28:32When you kicked her
01:28:33out of the house
01:28:33and left her homeless,
01:28:34did you ever think
01:28:35of her as family?
01:28:35You even used her aunt's
01:28:37life as a threat
01:28:37against her.
01:28:38When she was in danger,
01:28:39where were you?
01:28:40When she was bullied
01:28:41and even kidnapped,
01:28:42did you ever stood up
01:28:42for her even once?
01:28:43Enough, Liam.
01:28:45Talking to these people
01:28:46is just a waste of time.
01:28:47Let's go.
01:28:49Nah, I'll be right back to the
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