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We curate and upload the most addictive short drama clips that are dominating global trends right now: passionate romance, intense revenge stories, emotional family sagas, billionaire twists, heart-breaking betrayals and powerful thrillers from around the world. All content comes with perfect multi-language support (English, Spanish, Arabic and more) so every viewer can enjoy without barriers.
Daily fresh uploads of the latest and most talked-about short dramas – the exact clips everyone is searching for and sharing. Whether you have 5 minutes or want to binge the hottest new releases, Titan Drama delivers non-stop, high-energy entertainment that keeps you coming back for more.
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Short filmTranscript
00:00Memento's fingers traced my cheek after we made love.
00:03Warm. Gentle.
00:05The same touch I'd craved for five years of marriage.
00:08You did well.
00:09I smiled against his pillow, believed every word.
00:12My period was two weeks late, and for the first time in my hollow life,
00:16I felt hope blooming inside me.
00:17A child. His child. Ours.
00:20Then the study door stood a jive.
00:22Just a crack, maybe an inch.
00:24And I heard his voice from the other side.
00:26Cold. Clinical.
00:28Like he was reading a lab report.
00:30The antibodies are almost mature.
00:3297%.
00:33His brother Enrique laughed.
00:35Low. Cruel.
00:36All those nights in bed, I almost thought you were starting to enjoy it.
00:41Memento's response cut through me like glass.
00:45I can barely stand her.
00:47Every time I touch her, I feel like scrubbing my skin raw.
00:50If her blood didn't have the antibodies Sile needs, I wouldn't even look at her.
00:55My hand flew to my mouth.
00:56I was just a stand-in.
00:58A blood bag with a pulse.
01:00For five years, I wasn't even real to him.
01:02The man who called me his only star had been counting down the days until he could throw me away.
01:07Night had settled in.
01:08The bedroom still held the scent of skin and shared heat.
01:11I lay curled on the bed, my wrist bandage stained with blood.
01:14Clemente traced my cheek, his eyes full of tenderness.
01:17You did well.
01:18He murmured.
01:19I don't know what I'd do without you.
01:21I managed a weak smile.
01:23Anything for you.
01:24I'd married him five years ago to save my crumbling family.
01:28My father arrested, mother bedridden, sister in a vegetative state.
01:32In business, Clemente was cold and merciless.
01:35But with me, he was gentle, caring, loving.
01:38Or so I thought.
01:39400 milliliters tomorrow.
01:41He said.
01:42He pressed a kiss to my forehead.
01:44The host personality has been getting more unstable.
01:46But my mind had already drifted elsewhere.
01:49My period was two weeks late.
01:51The nausea that morning stirred a fragile hope inside me.
01:54I might be pregnant.
01:55The idea both thrilled and frightened me.
01:58Donating that much blood would be dangerous for a pregnant woman.
02:01I ventured carefully.
02:03Clem.
02:03Do you think we could take a little less tomorrow?
02:06His eyes flickered, then soft again.
02:09Probably just a cold.
02:10I lied.
02:11I needed to be sure first.
02:12If it were true, I'd tell him as a surprise.
02:15The best kind.
02:15Just see how you feel tomorrow.
02:17He said.
02:18I'll be in the study for a bit.
02:19Get some rest.
02:20The door closed softly behind him.
02:22I lay still for a moment.
02:24Excitement bubbled up inside me.
02:25I wanted to tell him.
02:27I wanted to see his face when he found out.
02:31The study door stood ajar.
02:32I stepped closer.
02:33Then stopped short at the sound of voices inside.
02:36Clemente's.
02:37And another I recognized instantly.
02:39Enrique Tate.
02:40His closest friend.
02:42My younger sister Sylvia Ritter's fiance.
02:44The antibodies are almost fully mature.
02:47Clemente's voice was clinical.
02:5097%.
02:50Two more draws at most.
02:52And we can extract everything.
02:55Sylvia's really going to pull through.
02:57Enrique said.
02:58I heard him let out a breath.
02:59You've been at this for a year.
03:01Playing along every day.
03:02Seeing her face.
03:03That had to be rough.
03:06I froze outside the door.
03:08My hand was halfway to the knob.
03:10It's nothing.
03:11Clemente said.
03:12I heard the scoff in his voice.
03:14She's just a stand-in.
03:15Every time I see a hint of Sel in her face.
03:18I remember what she did to Sylve.
03:20All the pretending is worth it.
03:22You really threw yourself into it.
03:23Enrique said.
03:24I could hear the grin in his voice.
03:28All those nights in bed.
03:29He chuckled.
03:30I almost thought you were starting to enjoy it.
03:34Enjoy it?
03:35Clemente barked aloud.
03:36I can barely stand her.
03:37Every time I touch her.
03:38I feel like scrubbing my skin raw.
03:41If her blood didn't have the antibodies Syl needs.
03:44I wouldn't even look at her.
03:45I clapped a hand over my mouth.
03:47Before a sound could escape.
03:50When Syl wakes up.
03:52What happens to Marcella?
03:54Enrique asked.
03:55Fall for her?
03:56Enrique scoffed.
03:58Sylve's the only one I care about.
04:00Marcella's just a look-alike.
04:01Do what you want.
04:02Clemente said.
04:04Clemente had told me there were two versions of him.
04:07Clemente and Enrique stepped out.
04:08Watching me flee with cold eyes.
04:11Get her.
04:12Clemente demanded.
04:14Dwayne Hickman the hitman I'd saved by accident three years ago.
04:17Ella.
04:18Where are you going at this hour?
04:19Clemente and Enrique sat on the couch.
04:22Relaxed.
04:22Almost amused.
04:24In a robe?
04:25Enrique raised a brow.
04:27Did you hear something?
04:28I backed up until my shoulders hit the door.
04:31Clemente stepped forward.
04:32Eyes sharp and icy.
04:35Stop lying.
04:36Well, well.
04:38Our stand-in's not behaving.
04:40You've been using me this whole time?
04:42My voice cracked.
04:43The blood?
04:44The marriage?
04:44The marriage?
04:46All of it was fake?
04:49What else would it be?
04:50He gripped my chin.
04:52You really thought I'd fall for the woman who ruined Sile?
04:55Sylve saw you last.
04:56Enrique said flatly.
04:57The final message on her phone.
04:59Ella needs me.
05:00It's urgent.
05:01Then she crashed into a coma.
05:03And somehow you ended up in Clem's bed.
05:07I didn't send that message.
05:08I realized.
05:09It was you.
05:10You set me up.
05:12Clemente's grip tightened.
05:13Sharp enough to make me gasp.
05:15You figured it out too late.
05:17His voice soft in a way that made my skin crawl.
05:19Your dad's company.
05:20Your mom's illness.
05:22The crash.
05:23All arranged.
05:24We needed you desperate enough to give blood willingly.
05:29Clemente and Enrique closed in.
05:31So you can't bring yourself to do it, can you?
05:33Enrique lounged on the couch.
05:35Clemente's face darkened.
05:37Enrique?
05:38Mind your words.
05:40Clemente grabbed Enrique by the collar.
05:42I saw it a flicker of hesitation in Clemente's eyes.
05:45I clutched my belly, voice shaking.
05:48I've been meaning to tell you.
05:50Please.
05:50For the sake of our child.
05:52Let me go.
05:54Enrique recovered from the shock.
05:56Pregnant?
05:56Perfect timing.
05:58Your other self never ceases to surprise.
06:00Then the butler burst in, face beaming.
06:02She passed out again.
06:03But the doctor says she needs antibodies urgently.
06:06Or else.
06:07Start the car.
06:08Clemente commanded.
06:10What about her?
06:11Enrique pointed at me.
06:13Clemente cast a cold glance.
06:15Bring her along.
06:16We need her blood now.
06:18No!
06:19Word ripped her.
06:19I'm pregnant!
06:21I can't!
06:22To bodyguards charged in, flanking me.
06:25I thrashed wildly.
06:26Clemente, that's your own flesh and blood!
06:28Enrique stepped forward, smirked.
06:31Before I could scream again, he seized my chin and twisted.
06:34I couldn't make a single coherent sound.
06:36Tears and blood ran together down my face.
06:38Much quieter.
06:40Enrique said.
06:41And she won't be running away now.
06:43I curled on the floor.
06:45Agony blurred my vision.
06:46With my last strength, I shot Clemente a beseeching glance.
06:49Those eyes once full of love and trust now held only despair.
06:52He shut his own eyes.
06:53When they opened again, nothing.
06:55His pant leg slipped from my grasp.
06:57I was dragged out.
06:59Shoved into the trunk.
07:01At the hospital, Enrique dragged me from the trunk into a wheelchair.
07:05What happened to her?
07:06My mother set down her teacup, voice dripping with disgust.
07:10She didn't cooperate.
07:11Enrique pushed the wheelchair forward.
07:13Even tried to threaten Clem by saying she was pregnant.
07:17Pregnant?
07:17My mother shot to her feet, slapped me across the face.
07:20I struggled to speak, jaw agony.
07:23Nothing came out.
07:23You know what?
07:25That you'd harm your own sister for a man?
07:28Sylvia is your own flesh and blood.
07:30Then the door swung open.
07:32A nurse wheeled Sylvia in.
07:33Enrique drove a sharp kick into my abdomen.
07:36My baby.
07:37I mouthed silently at Clemente.
07:40He stood beside Sylvia's bed.
07:42Holding her hand, sensing my gaze, he turned.
07:44Then looked away.
07:46Continue.
07:46Enrique said coldly.
07:48Stop.
07:48A doctor shouted.
07:49Her blood pressure is dropping.
07:51One more draw and she could die.
07:54Take the blood.
07:55Clemente ordered.
07:56Use drugs.
07:56Keep her alive.
07:58When the fifth bag was full, blood pooled beneath me.
08:01She had a miscarriage.
08:02The nurse exclaimed.
08:04Only then did Enrique notice.
08:06His gaze flickered.
08:07He sneered.
08:08Clem, go.
08:10Stay with Syl.
08:11Leave this to me.
08:12Clemente nodded.
08:13Walked away.
08:14After the door clicked shut, Enrique crouched down.
08:17Grabbed my chin.
08:19Think you can use a baby to level with Clem?
08:21Never gonna happen.
08:23He turned to the doctor.
08:25Perform the abortion.
08:27And remove her uterus.
08:28In case she tries again.
08:32Sylve, don't get upset.
08:34Enrique soothed her.
08:35No, I wanna talk to Marsky.
08:37Sylvia grabbed his hand.
08:39Enrique sighed.
08:40Kissed her forehead.
08:41Five minutes.
08:42I'll be waiting outside.
08:43The door clicked shut.
08:44He hadn't left.
08:45Turned back.
08:46Leaned close.
08:47Lips at my ear.
08:48If Sile sheds one tear, I'd break a bone.
08:52He pulled out his phone that held the screen in my face.
08:55A video.
08:56Me and Clemente.
08:57In our bedroom.
08:58My face visible.
08:59Clear as daylight.
09:00Dazed.
09:01Cooperate.
09:02Thumb hovered over the screen.
09:03Or this reeks.
09:04I stared at him.
09:05I stared at him.
09:06Hatred burning.
09:06Nodded.
09:07Understood.
09:08The door burst open.
09:09Clemente rushed in.
09:11Saw Enrique leaning over me.
09:13What's going on here?
09:15Sylvia called.
09:16Clem.
09:17Why are you here?
09:19Marcella.
09:20I'm talking to you.
09:21Play dumb.
09:22He sneered.
09:23Uncorked the bottle.
09:24Fill the syringe.
09:26Then never speak again.
09:28I spat one word.
09:30Sure.
09:31Xavier and my mother walked in with nurses.
09:34Phil, go back.
09:35My mother snapped.
09:37She's not worth it.
09:38While I lay there invisible.
09:40Clemente's hand quivered on the syringe.
09:45He remembered a year ago.
09:46Me in his arms.
09:49Clem.
09:49If I lose my voice.
09:51Will you remember how I sound?
09:53Give the injection.
09:55Or not.
09:56Enrique's voice snapped him back.
09:58Clemente gathered himself.
10:01Clem.
10:01Sylvia called weakly.
10:03He closed his eyes.
10:04Opened them nothing but ice remained.
10:06Silence fell like a shroud.
10:08I woke to pain.
10:10No sense of time passed.
10:11My throat burned like fire.
10:13The drug had taken effect.
10:14Sylvia sat beside my bed.
10:16Peeling an apple.
10:17Finally awake.
10:19How does it feel to lose your voice forever?
10:22She took a bite.
10:23Don't look at me like that.
10:25Blame yourself for taking what's mine.
10:27Clemente.
10:28Enrique.
10:29Our parents.
10:30Their love belongs to me.
10:32What makes you think you can claim even a fraction of it?
10:35I shakily wrote on paper.
10:37Did you plan the car crash?
10:39She glanced down.
10:40Grin widened.
10:41Bravo!
10:42Yes, it was me.
10:43I sent that message.
10:45Planned the crash.
10:46Severe but not fatal.
10:47She leaned in.
10:49Hissing like a snake.
10:50Why?
10:52Do you know what the funnest part was?
10:54I pretended to be sick.
10:56Said terrible things about you.
10:59Clemente believed I saved him.
11:01Enrique believed you bullied me.
11:04Even our parents believed it.
11:06I wrote, they are my family.
11:10Your family?
11:12In this family, there can only be one princess.
11:16Mom and dad chose me.
11:18From the first toy you gave me.
11:20Your birthday cake?
11:22They accepted everything yours should be mine.
11:24She smoothed her clothes gracefully.
11:25But don't worry.
11:27Once I'm well, I'll take good care of you.
11:30A mute girl with mental issues gets shipped off to a far-flung asylum.
11:36Makes perfect sense, doesn't it?
11:38And now, it's time to become the rightful Mrs. McNeil.
11:42Suddenly my gaze fell on the family portrait by the bedside, taken on my 18th birthday.
11:46I pointed at it with a shaking finger.
11:48Sylvia followed.
11:49Smile deepened.
11:52Oh, that?
11:53Mom and dad know everything.
11:55They support every decision I make.
11:57Dad cooked the books to bankrupt the company.
11:59Mom played sick to drive you to the wall.
12:02We pulled it off flawlessly, didn't we?
12:05Her voice sweet yet cruel.
12:06Marcy?
12:07In fact, you were never meant to exist.
12:10If only I were the only twin to survive in my mom's womb, everything would have been perfect.
12:15The last flicker of light died in my eyes.
12:17I closed them.
12:18Tears fell silently.
12:20Sylvia chuckled.
12:21Are you crying?
12:23Save it.
12:24No one is gonna pity you.
12:25Just then faint footsteps outside.
12:27Clemente and Enrique came back.
12:30Sylvia's eyes flashed.
12:31She grabbed the knife.
12:33Slashed at her own neck.
12:34Blood gushed out.
12:35Sylvia screamed.
12:37Slumped to the door.
12:40Door banged open.
12:41Syl!
12:42Clemente charged in first.
12:44Saw the blood.
12:44Face darkened.
12:45Enrique followed.
12:46Eyes burning with rage.
12:47Syl!
12:48What the hell is going on?
12:49Sylvia lifted a trembling hand.
12:51Pointed at me.
12:54Marcy, why?
12:55I just wanted to peel an apple for you.
12:57Marcella!
12:58What have you done to her?
13:00Enrique yanked me off the bed.
13:01How dare you hurt Syl!
13:03I'll make you pay!
13:05My right leg, in a cast, slammed into the bed.
13:08Pain darkened my vision.
13:09I wanted to defend myself, yet only broken gurgles came out.
13:13Drop the ass.
13:14Enrique raised his leg to kick.
13:15Clemente shouted.
13:16Enough!
13:17Save Syl first!
13:20Locked in the hospital room.
13:22No food.
13:23No water.
13:24I curled in the corner.
13:26Watching light brighten and fade outside the window.
13:29Clemente stopped in front of me.
13:31Syl woke up.
13:32But psychological trauma is severe.
13:34She screams when she sees red.
13:37Doctor says extreme fear.
13:39He squatted down.
13:41Marcella, how could you do it?
13:42She's your sister.
13:44I was in too much pain to respond.
13:46But it doesn't matter anymore.
13:48He stood.
13:49Antivite extraction complete.
13:50We don't need you.
13:51A doctor handed him a psychiatric evaluation report.
13:56Severe depression.
13:58Schizophrenic tendencies.
14:00Violent behavior.
14:02Recommendation, immediate transfer to specialized institution.
14:06As for Mrs. Mcnail, that position belongs to Syl.
14:09She saved my life.
14:11Eight years ago.
14:13Rushed into a fire to pull me out.
14:14That summer, I was sketching near an abandoned factory.
14:19Sylve got a permanent scar saving me.
14:21Clemente's eyes grew complicated.
14:23So I promised to marry her.
14:25Take care of her forever.
14:27Marrying you was only to keep you stable.
14:29Make blood draws easier.
14:31From beginning to end.
14:34The only one I love is Sylve.
14:36Enrique walked in, eyes filled with disgust.
14:39Sylve is kind-hearted.
14:41Like a little son since childhood.
14:43If she hadn't played with me back then.
14:46As an illegitimate child, I'd have been bullied to death.
14:48She even saved my life.
14:50Fell into water once.
14:51She jumped in and pulled me out.
14:53They stood shoulder to shoulder.
14:54You shouldn't stand in Syl's way.
14:57Enrique said coldly.
14:59I began to tremble all over.
15:01It's not like this.
15:03It's not like this.
15:04Eight years ago.
15:06The one who rushed into the fire was me.
15:09I carried unconscious Clemente from the flames.
15:11My left arm struck by a falling beam.
15:13Still aches on rainy days.
15:16And when Enrico fell into the water, it was me who jumped in.
15:19Dragged the drowning boy ashore.
15:22Nearly developed pneumonia afterward.
15:25Sylvia Hu always looked down on everyone.
15:27Who wouldn't spare Enrico a glance since childhood?
15:32How could Esiji have saved them?
15:34I screamed in utter collapse.
15:36I wanted to speak.
15:37Wanted to tear apart every lie.
15:41Still making a scene?
15:43Enrique frowned.
15:44Bodyguards.
15:45Four burly men rushed in.
15:47Surrounded me.
15:48Beating.
15:49Kicking.
15:49I protected my head.
15:51Curled on the ground.
15:54Enough.
15:55Clemente finally spoke.
15:56Take her away.
15:57I was dragged out through the corridor.
15:59Saw Sylvia being coaxed by our parents to take medicine.
16:02Seeing me, she silently mouthed, farewell forever.
16:04I closed my eyes.
16:06Gave up all resistance.
16:08The car drove out of the hospital onto winding mountain roads in the suburbs.
16:12Night did.
16:13Roads twisted.
16:15Suddenly dashed blinding high beams from the high.
16:17Another car sped up from behind.
16:18Both cars crashed into mine simultaneously.
16:22Deafening collision echoing through mountains.
16:24Trapped in the deformed back seat.
16:26Blood blurring my vision.
16:28Gasoline spilled everywhere.
16:29Pungent smell.
16:30A figure stepped from the opposite car.
16:33Enrique's personal subordinate.
16:34Staring at me with a sinister look.
16:36Throat slitting gesture.
16:38It was Enrique.
16:39He wanted me dead.
16:41Gasoline met electric spark.
16:42Boom dash flames engulfed the car.
16:44Wave of heat.
16:45I pounded on the window.
16:47Useless.
16:47I turned saw cars parked in the distance.
16:50Clemente's people.
16:51Watching coldly.
16:53No intention of rescuing.
16:54Fire grew fiercer.
16:56Smoke choking my lungs.
16:58Consciousness fading.
16:59Just when I thought I was doomed a dark figure rushed into the flames like a ghost.
17:03Car window smashed.
17:04A face appeared outside.
17:06Familiar somehow.
17:07Strong hands reached in.
17:09Unlocked the door.
17:10Dragged me from the sea of fire.
17:12Hold on tight.
17:13Hoisted onto his back.
17:14Knife in one hand.
17:15Shielding me with the other.
17:17Blade carved bloody path through it.
17:19Bullets whizzed.
17:21New wounds appeared on his body.
17:22But he didn't retreat a single step.
17:24Ahead only cliff's edge.
17:25Below.
17:26Surging turbulent river.
17:28Hold on.
17:28With me on his back he leaped into the void.
17:31I keep aim chilling river swallowed us both.
17:34River swallowed me whole.
17:36Icy water rushed into nose.
17:37Mouth.
17:38Lungs.
17:39Couldn't breathe.
17:40Couldn't scream.
17:41Dwayne's arm around my waist.
17:42Dwayne Hickman the hitman I'd saved three years ago.
17:45The one I'd texted from the storage room.
17:48Help me.
17:49He'd come.
17:49Too late to stop them but not too late to save my life.
17:52Current tearing at us.
17:53Pulling apart.
17:54Broken leg throbbed.
17:55Burned forearms stung.
17:56Every wound screaming at once.
17:58Darkness crept from edges of vision.
17:59Fought to keep eyes open.
18:00Surface grew farther and farther away.
18:03Voices above.
18:03Muffled distant.
18:05Jumped into the river.
18:06Find them.
18:06Alive or dead.
18:08Even here.
18:08Even drowning.
18:09I recognized his voice.
18:10Of course he did.
18:11I'd outlived my usefulness.
18:13Blood drained.
18:14Child taken.
18:15Voice silenced.
18:16What was left?
18:17I was nothing to them.
18:18Current spun me like a rag doll.
18:20Sank.
18:20Rose.
18:21Sank again.
18:22Each time I surfaced.
18:23Gasped for air.
18:25That wasn't there.
18:26Fingers numb.
18:28Couldn't feel Dwan's grip anymore.
18:31Had I lost him?
18:32He'd saved me once.
18:34He wouldn't let go.
18:35Another fragment of sound.
18:38Organize a rescue team.
18:40Search upstream and downstream.
18:42That voice.
18:43Clemente.
18:45Was he looking for me?
18:46Should have brought relief.
18:48Instead tasted like ash.
18:50He'd watched me burn.
18:51Ordered me dragged.
18:53Seen nothing worth saving.
18:55Now he wanted to play hero?
18:57I laughed underwater.
18:59Bubbles escaped.
19:01Last breath wasted on mockery.
19:04Let them search.
19:06Let them argue.
19:08Because I was gone.
19:10Could feel it.
19:12Cold.
19:12Spreading through veins.
19:14Reaching for my heart.
19:16Sometime later consciousness flickered back.
19:18Damp sand beneath my cheek.
19:20Small fire crackling nearby.
19:22Dwayne's jacket wrapped around me.
19:24He knelt beside me.
19:25Checking my injuries.
19:26Cast on right leg loose.
19:28Forehead wounds still bleeding.
19:30Worst problems.
19:31Hypothermia.
19:32Lack of oxygen.
19:34His voice low.
19:35Hold on.
19:37We have to out of here.
19:38I nodded.
19:39Trembling.
19:40He seemed to read my thoughts.
19:45Don't talk.
19:46You saved me once.
19:47I owe you my life.
19:49Now paying my debt.
19:51He lifted me onto his back.
19:53Walked downstream along the bank.
19:54As dawn broke a remote fishing village appeared.
19:58Rest there.
19:59You need clean clothes.
20:00Food.
20:01But as we approached.
20:02Dwayne stopped.
20:03Muscles tensed.
20:05What's wrong?
20:07I mouthed.
20:08He didn't answer.
20:10Quickly hid me under an abandoned fishing boat.
20:13Stay here.
20:14No matter what happens.
20:16Don't come out.
20:17I tried to grab him.
20:18Already gone.
20:19Running opposite direction.
20:21Then I saw them.
20:22Three men in black.
20:23Emerging like wolves.
20:24Movements to smooth.
20:25Two trained.
20:25Professional killers.
20:26It was Enrique.
20:27He hadn't just wanted me dead.
20:29He wanted Dwayne's life too.
20:31Twenty million dollars worth of dead.
20:32I clenched my jaw until it hurt.
20:34Couldn't hide here while Dwayne fought alone.
20:36This was my mess.
20:37Should end with me.
20:38I dragged myself out from under the boat.
20:40Broken legs screamed.
20:44The assassin grinned.
20:45Come here first.
20:46I took a step forward.
20:48His hand reached for my arm.
20:49I drove my elbow hard into his throat.
20:51He staggered back.
20:52Coughing.
20:53Choking.
20:54Recovered the fist.
20:55Eyes vicious.
20:57You refuse a toast.
20:59You drink a 40.
21:01My hand moved on its own.
21:03Snatched second gun from his waist.
21:05Pressed to his temple.
21:06Frozen.
21:07Him staring at my trembling finger.
21:08Me staring down barrel of my own cowardice.
21:10You don't have the guts.
21:11My blood went...
21:12A pampered young lady.
21:14Ever killed a chicken?
21:15He was right.
21:17Finger on trigger.
21:19Couldn't make it move.
21:23Gunshot split the air.
21:24Killer's eyes went wide.
21:27Red hole in forehead.
21:28Collapsed like puppet with strings cut.
21:30Dwayne stood behind him.
21:32Smoke curling from gun barrel.
21:34Other to lay dead at his feet.
21:36I lowered gun.
21:37Hands shaking.
21:39I told you not to come out.
21:41Voice like ice.
21:43Moved fast checking bodice.
21:44Cleaning evidence.
21:46Professional.
21:47Efficient.
21:47Cold.
21:48Then I remembered something.
21:49Hand to neck.
21:50Amulet hanging there.
21:51Rico's name engraved on gold.
21:53Enrique's nickname.
21:54Birthday gift from years ago.
21:56One of a pair.
21:57He wore the other.
21:57I tore chain off.
21:59Hesitated one second.
22:01Tossed amulet beside the corpse.
22:03He deserves it.
22:04I mouthed.
22:05Dwayne saw.
22:06Frowned slightly.
22:07Didn't object.
22:07Police coming soon.
22:08We need to move.
22:10Disappeared into bamboo forest.
22:13Days later.
22:15Hiding in shack on village edge.
22:17Dwayne finally spoke.
22:20Enrique found your amulet at the scene.
22:22Showed Sylvie a photo.
22:24Asked how it ended up with you.
22:26She said couldn't remember.
22:28Played amnesia card.
22:29Same act for years.
22:30But something shifted in him after that.
22:33I see it in how he looks at her now.
22:36Like seeing a stranger.
22:38What question?
22:40My voice barely a whisper.
22:42Dwayne met my eyes.
22:44He asked Clementis.
22:45That fire eight years ago.
22:47The person who saved you.
22:49Are you sure it was Syl?
22:51Clemento froze.
22:52Said of course.
22:53Parents told him so.
22:55Syl showed Scar on her back.
22:57But Enrico pressed.
22:59Did you see it with your own eyes?
23:01When you woke.
23:02Who was by your bed?
23:04Clementa was in coma three days.
23:06Woke.
23:07Syl was there.
23:08Showed Scar.
23:09Believed her.
23:12But Enrico asked something else.
23:15Can you really tell difference?
23:17Between a burn scar and any other scar?
23:20Silence stretched between us.
23:23Truth was right there.
23:24Waiting.
23:25If person who saved Clemente wasn't Syl.
23:28If person who saved Enrico wasn't Syl either.
23:31Then everything they'd done to me.
23:33Every drop of blood taken.
23:35Every bone broken.
23:37Built on a lie.
23:38A lie Sylvia had told.
23:41A lie they chose to believe.
23:44Dwayne's phone buzzed.
23:45He glanced at screen.
23:47Expression shifted.
23:48What is it?
23:51My contact inside Tate's organization.
23:54Lowered voice.
23:54Enrique got call while still in Clemento's office.
23:59From his assassinates.
24:01One's hunting us.
24:03They found us.
24:07Where?
24:09Westridge Hill.
24:10The cliff.
24:12My blood went cold.
24:14Dwayne seriously injured.
24:15You were shot too.
24:17Nowhere left to run.
24:18You jumped.
24:20Dwayne's voice flat.
24:21Reciting facts.
24:23Sheer drop.
24:25Rocks below.
24:26They're saying we shouldn't have survived.
24:29I stared at him.
24:31But then something happened.
24:33Enrico's contact said Enrique went completely still after hearing that report.
24:37Grabbed phone.
24:39Shouted one word.
24:40Stop!
24:42Ordered pursuit called off immediately.
24:44Send teams down to search.
24:45Wants us alive.
24:46Dwayne looked at me.
24:47If we're dead, he couldn't finish this.
24:51He needs answers.
24:52For first time, I think he's afraid those answers might destroy him.
24:57Outside, wind picked up.
25:02Somewhere across those mountains, a man who tried to kill me, now desperate to find me alive.
25:09Irony tasted like ash.
25:13But something shifted in Enrique after that.
25:16I could see it in his eyes when he looked at her like seeing her for the first time.
25:20Dwayne's hand rested on my shoulder.
25:24Ella.
25:25They want to see you.
25:26I looked up from my cot.
25:28Clemente and Enrique stood in doorway.
25:29Faces pale, hollow, gaunt, like men who hadn't slept in days.
25:34We found everything.
25:35Enrique said, voice rough.
25:37Medical records.
25:38The lies.
25:39All of it.
25:41Sylvia was never sick?
25:42I mouthed.
25:43Never.
25:44Clemente's jaw tightened.
25:45Not once.
25:46Every bag of blood taken from me.
25:48Every night lying weak in hospital bed while she played victim.
25:51All of it a performance.
25:57She's out of state now.
25:58Enrique said.
25:59Going to confront her.
26:02But you should be there too.
26:05You deserve to watch her fall.
26:09Sylvia stood straight.
26:10Mask shattering.
26:12Because I refuse to accept it!
26:15Ever since we were kids, whatever Markella had, I took from her.
26:21Eyes sweeping room.
26:22Moment toward my corner.
26:24She didn't see me.
26:25I saw everything.
26:26Toys.
26:28Clothes.
26:29Presents.
26:31Smile twisted.
26:31Why did you two revolve around her?
26:33Pointed at Enrique.
26:35You!
26:35Marcy protected you from bullies.
26:38Moment she turned away, you crawled after me!
26:40Turned on Clemente.
26:42And you?
26:43Her only starlight.
26:45Disgusting!
26:47If I hadn't...
26:49faked saving you from that fire...
26:52The Ryder family can only have one princess!
26:55Sylvia laughed.
26:56Me.
26:57Marcy is my shadow.
26:58Two idiots I've been playing for fools!
27:01I never wanted either of you!
27:04Marcy treasured you.
27:06So I took you.
27:07Enrique stepped forward.
27:09Smacked.
27:09Palm connected with her cheek so hard she hit floor.
27:12Blood circled from lip.
27:13Breath caught.
27:15This slap is for Ella.
27:18Clemente looked down at her.
27:20So Ella really saved me from the fire.
27:26Clem, no!
27:27It was me!
27:29Sylvia's face drained white.
27:30Enough.
27:31Clemente's eyes turned to cold steel.
27:33Biggest mistake of my life.
27:35Trusting you.
27:36Only person you love is yourself.
27:38You destroyed Ella.
27:40You destroyed me!
27:43Stepped back.
27:44I'm leaving her to you.
27:47What are you doing?
27:49Rico!
27:50Clem!
27:50I was wrong, I beg you!
27:53Enrique crouched.
27:54Gripped her chin.
27:56Remember what you said?
27:58After it's done?
27:59Ruin Ella's face?
28:01Throw her on black market.
28:05First slash opened her left cheek from eye to jaw.
28:08Screams filled the study.
28:10Faded to whimpers.
28:14When they released her, Sylvia collapsed.
28:16Bloody ruin on marble.
28:19Enrique looked down without pity.
28:22What she owes Ella, she'll repay for a lifetime.
28:26Then Clemente turned.
28:29For first time in months.
28:31I didn't feel like hiding.
28:34Justice.
28:35At long last.
28:38I didn't get rest days they promised.
28:41Third morning.
28:41Woke to Dwayne rigid by window.
28:43What?
28:44Before I finished I heard it engines.
28:46Multiple engines.
28:48Getting closer.
28:49Dwayne's hand already on my arm.
28:51They found us.
28:52Pulled me up.
28:53Leg buckled.
28:53He caught me.
28:55Slipped out through back of shack into gray dawn.
28:57Village still asleep around us.
28:59But past those hills cars coming.
29:01Dwayne moved fast half carrying me toward tree line.
29:04Behind.
29:05Doors slamming.
29:06Voices shouting.
29:07Already here.
29:08Plunged into coastal jungle.
29:10For three days ran.
29:11Hid by day.
29:13Moved by night.
29:14Dwayne set traps.
29:15Hunted food with bare hands.
29:17Always gave me bigger portion.
29:19This man had killed people for money.
29:21Now keeping me alive with everything he had.
29:23Never asked thanks.
29:25Never complained.
29:26Third night a cave.
29:27Deep enough.
29:28Dry enough.
29:29Dwayne built fire.
29:30Grilled fish.
29:31Handed me best piece.
29:32Ate almost nothing himself.
29:34I wanted to ask why.
29:36Why risk everything for me.
29:37My voice was gone.
29:39Somehow he already knew answer.
29:42I slept fitlessly that night.
29:47Sometime after midnight.
29:49Footsteps outside cave.
29:50Soft.
29:51Deliberate.
29:52Eyes snapped open.
29:54Dwayne already on feet.
29:56Moving silently toward entrance.
29:58Something in posture.
29:59Not danger.
30:00Not yet.
30:01But important.
30:03Pushed myself up.
30:04Followed.
30:06Legs screaming.
30:07Ignored.
30:08Outside.
30:09Moonlight painted jungle silver.
30:11Duan faced stranger.
30:13Man I'd never seen.
30:15Middle aged.
30:16Weathered eyes.
30:18Dwayne.
30:19Stranger's voice low.
30:20Urgent.
30:21Your debt has been repaid.
30:24I froze behind tree.
30:26McNeil's and Tatev's.
30:28Both hunting her now.
30:29Words hit like stones.
30:31She goes back.
30:32She's fine.
30:33They'll forgive everything.
30:36But keep hiding her.
30:38Offending two most powerful families in country.
30:41Dwayne said nothing.
30:43Stranger stepped closer.
30:46Are you crazy?
30:48Worth dying for a woman who has nothing to do with you?
30:51Send her back, Dwayne.
30:53Walk away clean.
30:54Today.
30:55I leaned against Bark.
30:57Chest aching.
30:59He was right.
31:00Going back meant another cage.
31:02Another round of games.
31:05But at least Dwarnt wouldn't be dragged down.
31:08At least one survives.
31:10Turned quietly.
31:11Prepared to slip back.
31:12Leave before hearing expected answer.
31:15Then Dwayne spoke.
31:16One word.
31:17Clear as bell.
31:19No.
31:22She saved my life.
31:23Dwayne's voice resolute.
31:25When I was at my most desperate.
31:27She reached out.
31:28Now she needs me.
31:30Won't abandon her.
31:32You'll die!
31:34Then let me die.
31:35Palm.
31:36Won't hand her over to people who don't deserve her.
31:39He pulled package from Jacket.
31:42Pressed into stranger's hands.
31:44ID papers inside.
31:46Both of us.
31:47Money.
31:48Enough to start somewhere new.
31:50Head south.
31:51Town called Clearwater.
31:52Small.
31:53Quiet.
31:54Nobody asks questions.
31:56Don't thank me.
31:57Clapped shoulder.
32:00You're my brother.
32:01Take care.
32:02Don't contact me again.
32:04If tracked through me, we're both done.
32:10I slipped under blanket before he returned.
32:13Pretended sleep.
32:14Ella.
32:15Taking you away from here.
32:16Somewhere no one knows us.
32:18Start over.
32:19Just two of us.
32:20Tears soaked into dry grass beneath my head.
32:26Next day chaotic footsteps from deep within jungle.
32:29Surrounded Doc Clemente and Enrique emerged from woods.
32:32Both gaunt.
32:33Former confidence gone.
32:35Only defeat and anxiety.
32:37Moment they saw me both men's eyes turned red.
32:40Ella.
32:40Clemente's voice broken.
32:42Finally found you.
32:43Tried step forward.
32:45Dwayne blocked him with blade.
32:46Enrique fell to knees.
32:48Thud.
32:48This crowd man now kneeling in mud.
32:51Ella.
32:51I was wrong.
32:52So wrong.
32:53Please.
32:54Come back.
32:56Begging you.
32:57Hit me.
32:58Curse me.
33:00Kill me if you want.
33:01Just don't leave again.
33:03Same man who kicked me until I couldn't scream.
33:05Who ordered my uterus removed.
33:06Who laughed while I bled out child on hospital floor.
33:09Not a flicker of emotion in my chest.
33:11Nothing.
33:15You don't believe me.
33:16Voice shook and Enrique's hand went to waste.
33:18Dwayne tensed.
33:19Blade ready.
33:20Not reaching for gun.
33:22Pulled dagger.
33:23Drove into Oma shoulder.
33:25Clemente shouted.
33:27Rico!
33:28Blood beamed across shirt.
33:29Yanked blade out.
33:31Stabbed into right shoulder.
33:33Is this enough?
33:34Horse.
33:34Steady despite blood.
33:35If still not satisfied.
33:37Raised blade again.
33:38Aimed for chest.
33:39Disgust curdled in stomach.
33:41My voice came out flat cold.
33:43Stop putting on a show.
33:44It's sickening.
33:46Stepped back.
33:47Not an act.
33:48Voice fractured.
33:50Ella, I really-
33:51Really regret it?
33:52I looked at him.
33:53My child can come back?
33:55My voice?
33:56My leg?
33:58Can any of it be undone?
33:59Each question their faces grew paler.
34:01Tears burned behind eyes.
34:03Refused to fall.
34:04Stop pretending.
34:05All I want.
34:07Leave with Duani.
34:09Step aside.
34:11Clemente's gaze dropped to my hand clutching Duane's sleeve.
34:14Pain-twisted expression.
34:16Raw, ugly.
34:17Ella.
34:17Calm.
34:18Know you hate us.
34:19But at least give us chance.
34:22Word tasted like poison.
34:24How many chances did I give you?
34:27Every single time you had to choose.
34:30You chose her.
34:31Name hung between us.
34:33Done begging.
34:35Done hoping.
34:36Done being your stand-in.
34:37Clemente and Enrique exchanged glance.
34:39Something shifted in Enrique's eyes.
34:41Pleading died.
34:42Cold calculation replaced it.
34:44Ella.
34:45Voice hardened.
34:46Can't let you leave with him.
34:47Raised hand.
34:48From surrounding woods they poured out.
34:50Dozens of bodyguards armed, encircling from every side.
34:54Duane pulled tighter behind him.
34:56Blade up.
34:56If want her, step over my dead body first.
35:00Enrique's lip curled.
35:01Think I won't dare?
35:03Circle tightened.
35:04Blades drawn.
35:05Guns raised.
35:06Duane's body tense in front of mine.
35:08Could feel wounds, hidden ones from saving me.
35:10Protecting me.
35:11Carrying through three days of jungle.
35:13Running on nothing but will.
35:15About to tear him apart.
35:17Dwayne, don't.
35:19Grabbed his arm.
35:21Go.
35:22They're after me.
35:23You don't have to-
35:24Told you.
35:25Cut me off.
35:26Firm.
35:27Final.
35:28Won't leave you behind.
35:29Face to men who destroyed my life.
35:31Gaze sharp as hawk.
35:34If want to take her.
35:36Kill me first.
35:38He walks free.
35:40Never trouble him again.
35:42Not today.
35:43Not ever.
35:44Clemente didn't hesitate.
35:46I swear.
35:46Voice cracking.
35:47As long as Duane leaves, never hunt him again.
35:51On my life.
35:55Enrique's jaw worked.
35:57Wounded shoulders trembling.
35:58Didn't matter.
35:59What mattered?
36:00Getting Duane out alive.
36:02Cut him off.
36:03You're injured.
36:04Forcing yourself for days.
36:06See it?
36:07Hands tightened.
36:08Covered them.
36:09Pulled away.
36:10Turned.
36:11Walked toward them step by step.
36:14From behind another group surged forward.
36:17More men.
36:18Far more than either side brought.
36:20Leading them one-eyed man I didn't recognize.
36:23Well, well.
36:26Arms wide.
36:27Never thought I'd see you both this desperate.
36:29Everyone's here.
36:31Settle this together.
36:33Today.
36:37Short blade carved through first attacker's throat.
36:41Spun.
36:42Elbow into second jaw.
36:45Clemente fought beside him.
36:47No gun.
36:48Fists in desperation.
36:50Didn't flinch.
36:52Threw attacker aside.
36:53Step back.
36:55Two fresh wounds.
36:57Bleeding through shirt.
36:58On top of shoulder wounds he gave himself.
37:07Dwayne's blade.
37:10Clemente's fist.
37:11Enrique's body throwing itself in front of mine.
37:16Dwayne dropped to one knee.
37:18Blood pouring from wounds I couldn't count.
37:20Clemente clutched chest.
37:22White-faced.
37:24Deeper than looked.
37:27Enrique collapsed onto hands and knees.
37:29Spat blood onto jungle floor.
37:37All three broken.
37:39Because of me.
37:42Staggered to Dwayne.
37:43Grabbed shoulders.
37:44Held him up.
37:49Dwayne.
37:50Voice cracked.
37:51Are you-
37:52Won't die.
37:53Sorry.
37:55Promise to get you out.
37:57Chore stripped from dress.
37:58Hands taken.
37:59Pressed against worst wound.
38:01Clemente and Enrique.
38:02Standing there.
38:03Watching me tend another man's wounds.
38:05Enrique couldn't hold himself up.
38:07Pitched forward.
38:08Mouthful of blood.
38:10Clemente gripped tree trunk.
38:11Chest heaving.
38:12Each breath shallow.
38:13Looked at both.
38:14Cold.
38:15Empty.
38:15Past anger.
38:16Past pain.
38:17Clemente's voice barely whisper.
38:19Ella.
38:22We.
38:23Enrique's bloody lips twisted.
38:25Not quite smile.
38:28Do oaths still count?
38:30They.
38:30They count.
38:32Pulled Dwayne's arm over shoulder.
38:34Helped stand.
38:35Supported Dwayne step by step into deepening jungle.
38:38Behind two men collapsed hands in mud.
38:40Watching only woman they ever loved walk away.
38:42Some people once lost are gone forever.
38:46Ungle came alive around us.
38:48Insects.
38:48Distant cries.
38:49Rustle of things moving in darkness.
38:51Dwayne's breathing only thing grounding me.
38:57Some time before dawn footsteps behind us.
39:01Pressed flat against hollow wall.
39:03Hand over Dwayne's mouth.
39:06Clemente Enrique.
39:07Stumbling through underbrush like wounded animals.
39:11Enrique went down hard against tree trunk.
39:13Didn't get up.
39:17Clemente stopped beside him.
39:20Tried pulling to feet.
39:24Enrique shoved him away.
39:27To broken men staring into darkness where I disappeared.
39:32Turned back to Dwayne.
39:34Held his hand until morning.
39:39Three days later.
39:41Arrived at Black Market.
39:43Air thick with smoke.
39:45Sweat.
39:45Blood.
39:46Been hiding and running for two weeks.
39:48Clemente and Enrique hunting like madmen.
39:51Bounty staggering.
39:53Underground auction tonight.
39:55Dwayne whispered.
39:56Sneak in.
39:57Leave city through secret passage.
39:59I nodded.
40:03Auction held underground.
40:05Dim yellow bulbs strung along ceiling.
40:07Crowd.
40:08Faces I never wanted to see again.
40:09Arms dealers.
40:10Traffickers.
40:11Dead eyes.
40:12Too much money.
40:14Dwayne found corner spot.
40:15Pulled me behind him.
40:17Hand on blade always.
40:18Auction crawled forward.
40:20Items I didn't want to know.
40:22Prices made me sick.
40:24Then host's voice changed.
40:26Next item.
40:27Very special.
40:28Excitement rippled through crowd.
40:30Once darling of Ryder family.
40:33Sylvia.
40:34Arms wide.
40:35Iron cage rolled onto stage.
40:37Inside woman in rags.
40:39Curled in ball.
40:40Hair matted.
40:41Skin gray with filth.
40:42Hineous jagged scars carved across both cheeks.
40:45Eye corners to jawline.
40:48Even like this.
40:49Even destroyed.
40:51Sylvia.
40:52Starting bid.
40:5320,000.
40:55Host grinned.
40:56Ha ha ha ha.
40:57Do whatever you want.
40:58Just don't kill her.
40:59Laughter erupted.
41:01Bids shouted from every direction.
41:02At girl who stole everything from me.
41:04Who lied about saving Clemente.
41:06Faked illnesses.
41:07Orchestrated my torture.
41:08Now sold like cattle.
41:10Knew whose work this was.
41:12Enrico.
41:13Promised.
41:14Ruin her face.
41:15Throw on black market.
41:16Done exactly that.
41:18Seeing it.
41:19Ice through veins.
41:22Let's go.
41:23Dwayne felt me trembling.
41:25Now.
41:25Before anyone notices.
41:28Every light in Venue died at once.
41:33Darkness.
41:34Total.
41:34Absolute.
41:35What's going on?
41:36Power cut.
41:37Don't push me.
41:38Panic erupted.
41:39Bottles crashing.
41:40Shouts.
41:41Curses.
41:42Reached for Dwayne's hand in blackness.
41:44Found nothing but air.
41:46Do I?
41:46Large hand clamped over mouth and behind.
41:49Another arm locked around waist.
41:51Yanked backward feet.
41:52Dragging across concrete doors somewhere couldn't see.
41:56Bit down hard.
41:57Tasted blood.
41:58Grip didn't loosen.
41:59Dwayne's voice sharp with terror.
42:01Ella!
42:03Then.
42:04Gunfire.
42:04Multiple shots.
42:06Deathly went in closed space.
42:07Muzzle flashes lit darkness and stroboscopic bursts.
42:12In one flash saw him.
42:14Dwayne.
42:15Running toward me.
42:16Blade drowning.
42:17Eyes wild.
42:20Another flash.
42:21Body jerked.
42:22Red bloomed across chest.
42:24He fell.
42:27No!
42:29Word ripped from throat.
42:30Vision tunneled.
42:31Darkened.
42:32Blasping registered Dwayne's body hidden concrete.
42:35Still.
42:35Not moving.
42:36Then nothing.
42:38Mattress beneath me.
42:40Clean sheets.
42:41Lavender scent.
42:42White ceiling.
42:43Curtains drawn halfway.
42:45Sunlight filtering through.
42:46Clemente.
42:47Enqui.
42:48Stood at foot of bed.
42:49Cautious.
42:50Watchful.
42:51Like men approaching wounded animal that might bite.
42:56Clemente's voice.
42:57Soft.
42:58Too soft.
42:59Ella.
43:00Are you feeling alright anywhere?
43:02Enrique half-step forward.
43:04Hesitated.
43:05Hungry?
43:06Kitchen made favorite porridge.
43:08Still warm.
43:09As if they hadn't broken leg.
43:10Forced mute drugs.
43:12Driven me off cliff into frozen river.
43:14Hand moved.
43:15Slowly.
43:16Silently.
43:17Under pillow.
43:18Yanked knife out.
43:19Enrique staggered.
43:21Stayed standing.
43:22Turned toward Clemente.
43:24He saw bloodied knife in my hand.
43:27Saw a look in my eyes.
43:29Did unthinkable.
43:30Stepped forward.
43:32Closer.
43:33Into range.
43:35Here.
43:36Pressed hand to own chest.
43:37Over heart.
43:38Stab me here.
43:39Voice steady.
43:40Calm.
43:41Like waiting for this.
43:42Like wanting it.
43:43I stabbed him.
43:44Second stab.
43:45Third.
43:46Fourth.
43:47Lost count.
43:47Arm rose and fell like machine.
43:49Each thrust punctuated by wet sound of steel entering flesh.
43:53Neither moved.
43:54Not once.
43:57They let me.
43:58Stood there.
43:59Let me bury knife over and over.
44:01Blood soaking clothes.
44:03Dripping to floor.
44:05Clemente's face grew paler with each wound.
44:10Enrico clutched stomach.
44:13Swaying.
44:14Wouldn't fall.
44:15Wouldn't give satisfaction of making me stop.
44:18At last legs gave out.
44:20Both collapsed.
44:21Pool of blood spread beneath them.
44:22Dark.
44:23Spreading.
44:24Stood over them.
44:25Knife in hand.
44:27Dipping red.
44:29Started laughing.
44:31Broken horse.
44:32Torn deep in chest.
44:33Tears streamed as I laughed.
44:35Knife slipped from fingers.
44:36Could barely speak.
44:37Throat burned.
44:40Name cracked like glass.
44:42You think this enough?
44:43Few stabs make us even?
44:46He's dead!
44:47Because of you!
44:49Enrique clutched wound.
44:51Voice thin, ragged.
44:53Ella.
44:54Dwan was killer.
44:56Wanted by half underworld.
44:59Laugh turned sharper.
45:01Being with you peaceful?
45:03Blood drained until collapse?
45:05Legs shattered?
45:06Mute drugs forced?
45:07Chased off cliff into river?
45:09That is peace you gave me?
45:13Clemente spoke from floor.
45:14Each word struggle.
45:15We're wrong.
45:17Give us a chance.
45:19Looked down.
45:20Two powerful men bleeding on bedroom floor.
45:23Give me back Dwayne.
45:25Give him back.
45:28And forgive you.
45:29No answer.
45:31We'll never live alone again.
45:33Keep locked here forever.
45:35Can't imprison corpse.
45:36Exchanged glance across blood.
45:38Eyes held something new.
45:39Understanding.
45:40Woman before them didn't love anymore.
45:42Didn't hate either not leaving room for redemption.
45:45Only emptiness.
45:46Complete.
45:47Years of warmth and pretence burned to ash.
45:49Nothing but hatred carved into bone.
45:52Enrique's voice shook.
45:53Pale.
45:54Losing blood.
45:56What if told you Dwayne isn't dead?
46:00Clemente pushed up on one elbow.
46:02Wincing blood on lips.
46:03A shootout planned.
46:05By us.
46:06Wanted force him to leave you.
46:08Never meant actually kill.
46:10Seriously injured.
46:11But alive Ella.
46:13Still alive.
46:13For one heartbeat endless.
46:15Suspended everything stopped.
46:17Saw both men flinch at sight of it.
46:19Burned more than any knife ever could.
46:21Already on feet.
46:22Stepping over blood.
46:23Toward door.
46:25Take me to him.
46:26Now.
46:27Half hour later.
46:28Secluded clinic on outskirts.
46:30Dwayne lay on hospital bed.
46:32Body wrapped in bandages.
46:34Still alive.
46:36Dwayne.
46:37Rushed to bedside.
46:38Grasped hand.
46:39Tears fell onto back of his hand.
46:41Dwayne opened eyes.
46:42Saw me.
46:43Weak smile.
46:46Ella.
46:47Safe.
46:48I'm fine.
46:50Really fine.
46:51I stared.
46:52Sorry.
46:53All because of me.
46:56Clemente and Enrique stood at doorway.
46:58Watching.
46:59Hearts torn apart.
47:00Long silence.
47:01Take him away.
47:02Both turned.
47:03Then Enrique spoke hoarse.
47:05Ruined.
47:08Cancelled every warrant.
47:10Every.
47:15Each word cost something.
47:17Prepared new identities.
47:20Passports.
47:21Accounts.
47:23Enough money to disappear completely.
47:27Jaw tightened.
47:29Go.
47:30Far away.
47:32Somewhere can never find you.
47:34Stared at them.
47:34Weak smile bitter.
47:36Broken.
47:36This last time.
47:38Truly letting go.
47:40Real this time.
47:41Walked to bedside.
47:43Looked at Dwayne.
47:44Expression complicated grief.
47:46Regret.
47:46Respect.
47:47Treat her well.
47:48Voice dropped low.
47:49Dangerous.
47:50If suffers.
47:51Even little.
47:52No matter where go.
47:54We'll find you.
47:55Dwayne nodded.
47:56Without flinching.
47:58We'll protect her with my life.
48:00Go.
48:02Clemente turned away.
48:03Voice caught.
48:05Before change minds.
48:08Helped Dwayne up.
48:10Arm draped over shoulder.
48:11Mine wrapped around waist.
48:13Step by step toward door.
48:18Clemente and Enrique stood on either side of frame.
48:21Passed between them.
48:22For single moment footsteps faltered.
48:25One second.
48:25Maybe less.
48:27Kept walking.
48:28Didn't look back.
48:29Not once.
48:30Door clicked shut.
48:31Never looked back again.
48:33In that room two men stood motionless long time.
48:36Sunlight poured through window.
48:38Bright.
48:38Warm.
48:39Indifferent.
48:39All they felt was cold dot.
48:41Cold with nothing to do with temperature.
48:43He watched me eat it.
48:44Look on face.
48:45Tender.
48:46Quiet.
48:46Complete.
48:47Afternoon.
48:48Lound in reading chair.
48:49Dwayne trimmed flowers at work table.
48:51Old television hummed in corner.
48:53Midday news.
48:54Group president Enrique Tate.
48:56Serious car accident last night.
48:58ICU condition critical.
49:03Enrique's former McNeil group president Clemente McNeil.
49:06A coma three years after cerebral hemorrhage.
49:09Enrique's confident portrait.
49:11Clemente's gentle profile from years ago.
49:13Waited for something.
49:14Anger.
49:14Grief.
49:15Anything.
49:16Like watching strangers stories on evening news.
49:18Nothing came.
49:19Dwayne came over.
49:20Turned off TV.
49:22Boring news.
49:23Don't watch.
49:24Nodded.
49:25Continued reading.
49:26Some mistakes cannot be undone.
49:28Some people, once lost are gone forever.
49:30But ahead simple life.
49:32Countless tomorrows.
49:33Hand in hand.
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