The Day I Quit Loving You is an emotional short drama filled with heartbreak, betrayal, regret, and personal growth. After years of sacrifice and disappointment, she finally decides to walk away from the man she once loved. But when he realizes what he has lost, it may already be too late. A powerful story of self-worth, second chances, and moving on. Similar dramas are often distributed under titles such as "When I Stop Loving You."
#TheDayIQuitLovingYou #BillionaireRegret #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #ENGSUB #LoveAndBetrayal #EmotionalDrama #SecondChanceRomance #FamilyDrama #FullEpisode #ShortFilm #ShortMovie
#TheDayIQuitLovingYou #BillionaireRegret #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #ENGSUB #LoveAndBetrayal #EmotionalDrama #SecondChanceRomance #FamilyDrama #FullEpisode #ShortFilm #ShortMovie
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Short filmTranscript
00:00My ex-husband asked me to remarry him. I said yes. Not because I loved him, but because my
00:06daughter needed stability. I stopped fighting for his attention. I stopped competing with the woman
00:11he always prioritized. I stopped caring, and that was when he fell apart. Honey. Honey, why aren't
00:18you angry? Kara, why don't you cling to me like you used to? I looked at him calmly, because the
00:23answer was simple. We had simply stopped loving him. After completing the remarriage procedures,
00:28Kara and I followed Rodney O'Connor home. Rodney came up behind us as we stood at
00:34the door. Why aren't you going in? The passcode has been changed. I kept my voice
00:40calm. Just then, the door opened from inside. Wearing an apron, Lindsay Mons said in a
00:48playful, complaining tone. Rod, why are you back so late? Polly's been asking for you.
00:59Miss Wright? I nodded politely. She hurriedly explained. Miss Wright, please don't misunderstand.
01:07Rod has been swamped with work lately, so I just came over to make some soup for him. I
01:13kept forgetting the passcode, so he changed it to my birthday. I'll change it back right
01:19away. Despite her words, she didn't move. The glint of triumph in her eyes was unmistakable.
01:27Daddy!
01:28A small figure threw herself at Rodney's leg. Lindsay hastily covered her mouth, looking terrified
01:34of me.
01:37Polly, what did I say? Call him Rodney.
01:40Rodney looked at Kara and me, seeming embarrassed. But we didn't make a scene as we used to.
01:45A flicker of surprise crossed his face. Kara's room was now filled with unfamiliar items.
01:53Lindsay bit her lip gently.
01:58Polly sometimes stays the night here.
02:01I could feel Kara's hand, which I was holding, clenched tightly.
02:08Mommy, I can stay in a different room.
02:12Her voice was soft. I had remained numb through it all, but now, as she said this, a sudden,
02:18dull ache spread through my heart. In the past, when Kara saw Rodney taking care of Polly,
02:24she'd always pout and cry her eyes out, shouting.
02:30Daddy is mine! Only mine! Daddy is mine! Only mine!
02:35Every time, Rodney would scold me for failing to teach her properly. But now, seeing her room so
02:41changed, she just stared at it calmly. Children were sensitive. She might be young, but she already
02:47knew, only those who were loved and favored had the right to act spoiled.
02:52Rodney frowned. Lindsay quickly said,
02:56I'll pack up Polly's things. Mrs. Wright, Kara, please don't be upset with us.
03:02Lindsay and Polly huddled together, trembling slightly, looking pitiful. In the past, her
03:08suggestive words always set me off, leading to arguments with Rodney. But today, I just looked
03:15at them without a word or change in expression. Just then, Rodney turned to Lindsay.
03:24It's probably best if you don't come and go so freely here anymore. You're a single mother,
03:29and you can't afford gossip. After packing her things, Polly said in a teary voice,
03:35Daddy, walk us out. Hesitating, Rodney looked at me. I smiled.
03:43You and Ms. Mann go way back. It's only right that you see them off.
03:47He opened his mouth to say something, but I had already turned to fill the kettle.
03:51Let's talk when I get back.
03:53He left hastily. Only after they left did Kara and I finally relax completely.
03:58Soon, a new message appeared on my phone. It was from Lindsay.
04:05I'm sorry, Ms. Wright. Polly is used to watching cartoons with Rod. He'll be home later.
04:10I'm sorry again.
04:12All right. A humorless smile formed on my lips.
04:17Rodney didn't return until the next day.
04:20I was reading Kara a story before her nap when he pushed the door open and entered.
04:30I didn't question why he was back so late.
04:34If I acted jealous and made a scene like before, he'd be displeased with me, and Kara would be dragged
04:39into the mess.
04:40After Kara fell asleep, Rodney handed me a box. It was the black diamond necklace I once wanted but lost
04:47to another bidder.
04:49If this were before, I would have probably thrown myself into his arms, overjoyed. But now, I felt nothing but
04:56calm. I used to adore jewelry. But after I moved to the shantytown with Kara, one day, a thief yanked
05:02the necklace from around my neck.
05:08I fell down the stairs and hit my head hard enough to open a gash. Blood trickled down. From that
05:14day on, I realized jewelry was fancy but useless. It could even be fatal sometimes.
05:19His expression shifted subtly, his tone inscrutable.
05:25Let me put it on for you.
05:26I smiled, avoiding his hands.
05:29Thank you. But I'm no longer into jewelry.
05:32He froze slightly.
05:33Finally, I went to the kitchen to cut fruit. When I returned, he had already left.
05:39And I didn't care. That was new in the afternoon. I took Kara out.
05:48Money had been tight these past few years, and Kara often wore hand-me-downs from the landlord's daughter.
05:56Finally, I could afford to buy her properly fitting clothes.
06:08As we entered a children's clothing store, we saw Lindsay and Polly, and Rodney, who was with them.
06:22Mr. O'Connell, Mrs. O'Connell, this just arrived yesterday!
06:26A clerk introduced eagerly.
06:28It would look perfect on Polly. She's such an absolute darling.
06:34I want it!
06:36With a smile, Rodney paid for it with his card.
06:44Another clerk came up to me.
06:46Ma'am, how may I help you?
06:49I'd like to buy something mine my daughter can wear now.
06:53Hearing my voice, the three looked over.
06:56Taking Kara's hand, I walked further inside as if I didn't see them.
07:09When we walked out of the fitting room, Lindsay and Polly were gone.
07:13Rodney looked at me, his expression complicated.
07:24It's Polly's birthday today. I bought her a dress as a gift.
07:28All right.
07:29Please pass along my birthday wishes to her.
07:35Then I turned to the puzzled clerk.
07:37We'll take both sets.
07:41As I went to pay, Rodney grabbed my wrist.
07:44I quickly pulled it away.
07:50The clerk's gaze shifted between us.
07:55Ma'am, you and Mr. O'Connell are...
07:58I smiled.
08:00We're acquaintances.
08:01A clattering sound came from behind.
08:05Mr. O'Connor, you dropped your phone.
08:07A clerk reminded Rodney.
08:09I turned to see him staring at me intently.
08:14What are you talking about?
08:15I looked puzzled.
08:19Aren't you gonna be with them?
08:20It's Polly's birthday.
08:22He just glared at me, not saying a word, his chest heaving.
08:25Though I still didn't understand his anger, I didn't dare provoke him.
08:29Taking Kara's hand, I walked out.
08:31I could feel his eyes on my back.
08:36Outside the store, Rodney grabbed my wrist again.
08:43You just let them miss a minute or stand our relationship?
08:46Aren't you gonna clarify?
08:47His voice was deep.
08:49You care about Lindsay's reputation more than anything, don't you?
08:54I smiled.
08:55My words left him speechless.
08:57He fell silent for a long moment before finally asking, his voice low.
09:02Why are you so different now?
09:04I used to bicker with him over things like this.
09:08And he'd snap impatiently every time.
09:12Don't be unreasonable.
09:13Life isn't easy for Lynn as it is.
09:16A single mother with a young daughter.
09:18Having the title Mrs. O'Connor at least means she won't be picked on.
09:23Now, I felt nothing.
09:25What was the point of fighting with Lindsay over these things?
09:28I just wanted to raise Kara well and let her have the carefree, comfortable life she deserved.
09:34This is how you've always wanted me to be, isn't it?
09:40With a livid face, Rodney turned and left angrily.
09:43But I didn't care.
09:45I took Kara to eat, drink, and buy many things.
09:48I no longer had to sweat for a living.
09:51It almost felt like I was back in the days before the divorce.
09:54But the scars of those years never really faded.
09:57They were just waiting to be remembered.
10:02It hadn't always been this cold between us.
10:05I remembered how it started.
10:06After marrying Rodney, I became a full-time homemaker.
10:10Everyone envied me, a daughter from a wealthy family who had married a self-made man with a bright future.
10:15I believed my fairy tale life would go on forever.
10:20That illusion was shattered when Lindsay got divorced.
10:24The first time Rodney missed Valentine's Day, he claimed he had to work overtime.
10:39But the moment he came home, Lindsay showed up at our door holding his tie.
10:55Confused, I looked at him.
10:59He merely pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.
11:03Lynn was working late, too.
11:05She just returned it on her way home.
11:07Though questions swirled in my mind, his exhausted expression made me swallow them.
11:11I had lived a sheltered life while he had worked so hard.
11:17Perhaps I was being unfair.
11:19He didn't deserve my suspicion.
11:21But deep down, the doubt had already taken root.
11:29I reminded myself that trust was the bedrock of marriage.
11:32And jealousy was a poison.
11:37But such coincidences began piling up, and I kept making excuses for every single one.
11:44On our wedding anniversary, Rodney left me sitting alone at the restaurant because Lindsay's landlord was giving her a hard
11:51time.
11:55Kara and I got stranded at the early learning center during a sudden downpour, while Rodney drove Lindsay and Polly
12:01home.
12:10I stood in the rain with my daughter, watching their car pass by.
12:14When Kara came down with influenza A, spiking a fever and seizing, I couldn't reach Rodney.
12:21I rushed her to the hospital alone, only to find him directing a team of specialists, to examine a minor
12:28scratch on Polly's hand.
12:30Every time, Lindsay would text me, reporting his whereabouts.
12:35I'm sorry, Ms. Wright.
12:37Rod insisted I shouldn't stay here and arranged for Polly and me to move to his apartment.
12:48I'm sorry, Ms. Wright.
12:50I felt dizzy.
12:51It was all my fault.
12:52After dropping us off, Rod will come to pick you up.
12:59I'm sorry, Mrs. Wright.
13:02Rod was so worried about Polly.
13:05Please don't blame him, alright?
13:07I'll talk to him.
13:09I couldn't hold back anymore.
13:10The dam of patience I'd built was finally breaking.
13:17Time and again, I confronted Rodney, questioning.
13:21Who are your real wife and daughter?
13:24At first, Rodney was patient enough to explain.
13:29Lynn and I go way back.
13:31Of course I should help when I can.
13:33But gradually, his patience were thin.
13:36You come from money.
13:37You have no idea how ordinary people struggle.
13:41Is a little empathy too much to ask?
13:43Lynn is raising Polly all by herself.
13:46That's hard enough.
13:47Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:50Why do you keep making things hard for her?
13:55Can't you handle things yourself?
13:56I'm swamped at work.
13:59I can't drop everything for you and Kara every single time.
14:03If you can't teach Kara properly, get someone who can.
14:06She's bullying Polly already.
14:11At her age, what does that say about her future?
14:17Kara and I stopped waiting for him with hopeful hearts.
14:21Because every time he came home, it ended in a fight.
14:28And every fight left scars.
14:30Kara grew quieter and quieter.
14:37She stopped asking when daddy was coming home.
14:41Even her kindergarten teacher asked me if everything was alright at home.
14:48What finally made me decide on divorce was the day of Rodney's company's annual gala.
14:53Rodney told me he had to work overtime.
14:56At the time, I was often exhausted and drowsy.
14:58So the dinner slipped my mind.
15:00Until I stumbled upon a local tweet.
15:03The CEO of Phoenix Tech and his wife are absolute couple goals.
15:07Are we sure they're not straight out of a TV drama?
15:10The attached photo showed Rodney and Lindsay, standing side by side.
15:14I called him at least five or six times, but he didn't answer.
15:18On the seventh try, it finally connected, only for Lindsay's voice to come through.
15:26Mrs. Wright?
15:28Mrs. Wright?
15:29Rod is tied up at the moment.
15:31If it's important, you can relay it through me.
15:33I demanded to speak to Rodney directly.
15:35But she only gave a light, knowing laugh.
15:38Her voice dripping with syrup.
15:41Ms. Wright?
15:42I'm Rod's personal secretary.
15:45He keeps no secrets from me.
15:48You know, so many people today have said,
15:51I'd make a far better Mrs. O'Connor.
15:54Trembling from head to toe, I slammed the phone down and rushed out the door in my slippers.
15:58Straight to the annual gala venue.
16:05When I arrived, I saw Lindsay's arms wrapped around Rodney's waist as she leaned into him.
16:10I yanked them apart and glared at him.
16:14So this is your overtime?
16:17Hugging and cuddling with your secretary?
16:19Lindsay hurried over to pull me aside.
16:25Mrs. Wright, I had a bit too much to drink.
16:31Please don't misunderstand.
16:33I shoved her hands away and shot a furious glance at her.
16:36Don't touch me, you shameless homewrecker!
16:39I hadn't pushed her hard, but she let out a delicate cry and crumpled to the floor.
16:44Beneath Wright!
16:46Have you lost your mind?
16:48Rodney shoved me aside roughly before crouching to help Lindsay up.
16:51His eyes filled with concern as he checked her for possible injuries.
16:56My lower back slammed into the sharp corner of a table.
17:00A bolt of pain shot through me, bringing instant tears to my eyes.
17:04Eyes reddening, Lindsay stifled her tears.
17:07Her performance was flawless.
17:09And Rodney, as always, was her perfect audience.
17:13It's all my fault.
17:15Please don't fight because of me.
17:19Rodney immediately comforted her.
17:23This has nothing to do with you.
17:25Bernice just being paranoid again.
17:27When Rodney turned back to me, his voice had turned to ice.
17:31How many times do I have to tell you, Bernice?
17:35Before Lynn's mother passed, she entrusted Lynn to my care.
17:42Do you have any idea how difficult her life has been?
17:48Lindsay Lynn's?
17:49Raising Polly alone?
17:50You're a woman too!
17:52How can you be so vicious?
17:53Calling her a homewrecker?
17:55How dare you?
17:56His gaze as it fell upon me was cold, laced with disgust.
17:59My patience has its limits.
18:01Don't push me.
18:03Don't make me regret the day I married you.
18:05My ears were ringing.
18:06I stared at Rodney in utter disbelief.
18:09He was my husband.
18:10How could he take another woman's side?
18:12Lindsay kept flaunting their closeness.
18:14Rubbing my face in it.
18:16Did he truly not know?
18:17The urge to expose her true colors on that call rose in my throat.
18:21But all the words stuck there.
18:23After a long moment I simply said.
18:28Let's get a divorce.
18:29The moment I said that I felt a profound relief.
18:32I couldn't even be bothered to care about the gloating look on Lindsay's face.
18:38After a stunned pause, Rodney let out a derisive scoff.
18:46A divorce?
18:48Bernice?
18:49Seriously?
18:50That's your master stroke?
18:51Stop it.
18:52Don't you have anything better to do than getting jealous and competing for attention?
18:58With that, he helped Lindsay to her feet and led her away.
19:03That night, I sat in the living room until dawn.
19:08Only when Kara burst into tears did I realize there was blood all over my legs.
19:13The second baby had quietly arrived and it had slipped away just as quietly.
19:17A week later, Rodney and I finalized the divorce.
19:21I was granted full custody of Kara.
19:24Soon after, my father's company ran into serious trouble.
19:30Several key projects were maliciously poached.
19:33And within half a year, he was forced to file for bankruptcy.
19:36He suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized.
19:39Despite several attempts to save him, he passed away.
19:42I used what was left of the assets to pay the employees their final wages.
19:46From a sheltered, wealthy heiress, I became a single mother struggling to make ends meet in a shantytown.
19:52Kara suffered alongside me.
19:58Countless nights, I woke up crying from dreams, filled with regret for dragging her into this mess.
20:03This time, I wouldn't get jealous.
20:06I wouldn't compete for attention.
20:09I just wanted a decent life for myself and Kara.
20:12For that, I could overlook Lynn.
20:14I'd even turn a blind eye if Rodney had 10, 20 other women.
20:18That was why, when Rodney asked me to remarry, I said yes.
20:22Without hesitation.
20:27After leaving that day, Rodney never came home.
20:30Three days later, Kara started at her new kindergarten, and I began setting up my online store.
20:35Back when I was selling on the streets, I'd made pet clothes and accessories by hand and built up a
20:40loyal following.
20:42Many customers had encouraged me to open a proper shop.
20:45But at the time, I was working day shifts as a waitress and could only sell at night.
20:49Besides, I couldn't produce enough inventory.
20:54Now, with a bit of capital saved, I could finally launch it.
21:01I hadn't worked during my marriage to Rodney, but my family had kept a room for me as a sewing
21:06space.
21:08It now became my studio.
21:10I bought some basic equipment to live stream my crafting process.
21:15I was eating when Rodney came back.
21:17He walked into the kitchen and looked around.
21:21You didn't make a portion for me?
21:23I didn't think you were coming back.
21:25He fell silent for a moment.
21:27I quickly stood up.
21:30I'll make something now.
21:32It won't take long.
21:33It felt like playing house.
21:34Going through the motions of a marriage that no longer existed.
21:41While washing vegetables, it suddenly hit me.
21:44In the past, I used to cook and wait for Rodney every night.
21:50Whether he came home or not.
21:55I kept up the habit even when Rodney didn't show.
21:58Usually ending up throwing the food away.
22:03But today, I'd genuinely forgotten.
22:06I sighed.
22:06This couldn't happen again.
22:08We ate in silence.
22:09Rodney was the one who broke the silence.
22:12One of the projects ran into issues, so I've been staying at the office these days.
22:16I nodded.
22:18You must be tired.
22:20I'll run a bath for you.
22:26He looked at me for a long moment, then wiped his face, his voice somewhat weary.
22:33You didn't reach out to me once, these past few days.
22:40I used to be unable to resist sharing every little thing with him.
22:44Afraid of disturbing his work, I never called, just texted.
22:48I sent him dozens of messages a day, even though he rarely replied.
22:52But I wasn't that foolish woman anymore, the one whose world revolved only around him.
22:57I didn't want to bother you, I explained.
23:00Rodney kept his eyes on me, his tone layered with something I couldn't decipher.
23:05Bother me?
23:05What did you think I was doing?
23:07I smiled.
23:09Whatever you were doing, I hated to interrupt.
23:11This time, he said nothing.
23:13The silence stretched again.
23:15In that silence, something was breaking.
23:18And I wasn't the one breaking it.
23:22I cleared the table and went to the kitchen.
23:24Rodney followed.
23:34What's with all the delivery boxes in the living room?
23:42What did you buy?
23:44After a brief hesitation, I answered truthfully.
23:49I opened an online store.
23:51They're just materials.
23:53He nodded, not saying anything.
23:55A few minutes later, my phone buzzed with a notification.
23:57He had transferred a large sum to my account.
24:03Rodney's hand, reaching for the fruit plate, stilled.
24:06You're my wife.
24:07My money is yours.
24:09No need to thank me.
24:11I smiled but said nothing.
24:13Just then, his phone rang.
24:16My eyes inadvertently caught the name on the screen, Lindsay.
24:19He glanced at me and answered right there, but I wasn't interested.
24:29I tactfully slipped out to the balcony to gather the dried laundry.
24:33Lynn needs- Lynn, you go-
24:34I handed him his coat.
24:37Go.
24:38He glanced at me deeply.
24:40I'll be back soon.
24:42Not long after Rodney left, Kara's kindergarten teacher called.
24:52Mrs. O'Connor, Kara fell off the slide.
24:58As I rushed to the hospital, the teacher explained along the way.
25:04Kara had a disagreement with another child.
25:06Just as she finished, we reached the examination room door.
25:10The other child's parents were being led over as well.
25:15It was Lindsay, and Rodney.
25:18Rodney's expression changed.
25:21Kara was hurt?
25:23I ignored him and walked straight into the emergency room.
25:34Kara had a fractured arm and a mild concussion.
25:41Kara's little face was pale as she curled listlessly against me.
25:47The kindergarten director showed us the footage from the incident.
25:51Kara had gone onto the slide first.
25:53Seeing Polly behind her, she had politely offered to let Polly go ahead.
25:57Polly turned around, said something, and Kara stood back.
26:00But then Polly suddenly lurched forward, shoving into Kara's back.
26:03Kara lost her balance and tumbled from the top of the slide.
26:06Furious, I shot a cold glare at Polly.
26:11She shrank behind Lindsay and whimpered in a sobbing voice.
26:15Mommy!
26:18Both Lindsay and Polly had their shoulders hunched, eyes red.
26:22They looked almost like the victims.
26:33I'm so sorry, Miss Wright.
26:35I'll cover all of Kara's medical bills.
26:40Tears welled up in Lindsay's eyes as she glanced pleadingly at Rodney.
26:49And I'll make sure Polly learns her lesson.
26:53Please don't blame her.
26:58I'm sure she didn't mean to.
27:06Kara, who had been quiet the whole time, suddenly spoke up.
27:10Polly said Daddy didn't want me anymore and that he would kick Mommy and me out soon.
27:21Lindsay's expression changed drastically as she quickly pulled Polly close, stopping Polly from saying anything else.
27:29Kara, you mustn't make up stories like that.
27:33Lying is wrong.
27:34After a pause, she added meaningfully.
27:38Did someone tell you to say that?
27:43You used to.
27:45My slap cut her off.
27:46I lowered my hand.
27:48My goddess.
27:51That's to remind you to watch your mouth.
27:55Lindsay covered her cheek.
27:57Tears now glistening in her eyes, making her look even more pitiful.
28:07Mrs. Wright, I understand how you feel about me.
28:11But Polly has never done anything to you.
28:14Rod has watched her grow up.
28:16He knows her better than anyone.
28:18I let out a cold laugh and turned away, disgust twisting in my gut at her act.
28:27Kara seemed to want to say more, but after glancing at Rodney, she bit her lip and stayed quiet.
28:33Her teacher gently coaxed.
28:38Kara, is there anything else you want to tell us?
28:40She shook her head and buried her face in my chest.
28:43Her voice muffled.
28:44Only Mommy believes me.
28:46It's always been like that.
28:48My heart ached so fiercely my hands trembled.
28:52Rodney frowned.
28:55Kara?
28:56I looked at him coldly, unable to hold back my anger any longer.
29:02My daughter is hurt.
29:04You may not feel anything, but I do.
29:06It breaks my heart.
29:08Stunned, Rodney stepped closer to take my wrist.
29:12That's not what I meant.
29:14Instinctively, I stepped back, holding Kara tighter.
29:17His voice died abruptly as he stared at me.
29:20Disbelief etched across his face.
29:25You don't trust me?
29:30No.
29:31I didn't.
29:33Between Polly and Kara, he had always favored Polly.
29:38Just as he had always favored Lindsay over me.
29:44Polly said she liked Kara's birthday gift, so he gave it to her even as Kara cried her eyes out.
29:52Polly cut up her own dress and claimed that Kara wouldn't let her wear it.
29:57So he threw away all of Kara's favorite dresses.
30:03Polly fell down the stairs and blamed Kara for pushing her, so he locked Kara in her room without even
30:09asking for the truth.
30:10The list went on.
30:11There were too many instances to count.
30:17Truthfully, there was another reason I had asked for a divorce.
30:21I didn't want Kara to suffer anymore.
30:26It wasn't fair to her, Dot, with that thought.
30:28I turned my face away.
30:35I don't want my daughter to stay in the same kindergarten as that child.
30:39Either she leaves, or we do.
30:43Lindsay immediately pulled Polly into a deep bow.
30:46Her voice choked with tears.
30:48Every word out of her mouth felt calculated.
30:50Every tear seemed like a weapon.
30:52Mrs. Wright, I'm so sorry.
30:56I know you don't like Polly and me.
31:01But Polly has grown to this kindergarten.
31:03She loves it here.
31:05She turned to Rodney, her eyes leading.
31:07I promise I'll discipline her.
31:09She'll never bother Kara again.
31:13Please, don't make us leave.
31:15Rodney looked away, making no move to help her up as he usually would.
31:19For once, he wasn't rushing to her rescue.
31:22Lindsay's eyes widened.
31:23This time, her panic seemed real.
31:25She clutched at the hem of his shirt.
31:28Rod.
31:29I was so fed up with the farce.
31:32The years of patience, the swallowing of pride.
31:34It all shattered in that instant.
31:37Enough, Lindsay.
31:38I'm tired of your lame act.
31:40Just admit it.
31:42You want Rodney, don't you?
31:45Fine.
31:46You can have him.
31:47I don't care anymore.
31:49I looked at Rodney.
31:50I want a divorce.
31:52And this time, I meant it.
31:54His face went pale.
31:59Rodney roughly shook off Lindsay's hand and walked over to me, his voice urgent.
32:03Bernie, I'll fix this.
32:04I know you're speaking out of anger.
32:06You don't mean it.
32:07Rodney reached out to stroke Kara's hair.
32:09Kara, I will make it up to you.
32:11But Kara turned her face away, avoiding his touch.
32:14His hand froze in midter.
32:16I spoke calmly.
32:18Rodney, I mean every word.
32:20I remarried you because I wanted to give Kara a stable life.
32:24But now, I glance toward Lindsay and Polly.
32:29It seems our lives can't be peaceful with you in the picture.
32:33Lindsay put on a remorseful expression.
32:36It's all Polly's fault.
32:38And mine.
32:40Please, just don't fight because of us.
32:42Despite her words, the gloat in her eyes was unmistakable.
32:45Suddenly, Rodney barked.
32:46Shut up!
32:47He had never spoken to her in that tone before.
32:50Her eyes widened in shock.
32:52Rod!
32:53But he didn't look at her again.
32:55His chest rose and fell heavily as he stared silently at me.
32:58The kindergarten director tried to mediate,
33:00suggesting we return to the kindergarten to discuss the matter further.
33:04I shook my head.
33:06My decision is made.
33:09Kara and Polly, only one stays at that kindergarten.
33:14The rest is up to you.
33:17After returning home to pack a bag for Kara's hospital stay,
33:20I contacted a lowyer.
33:22This time, I wouldn't walk away empty-handed like a fool again.
33:25Soon, Rodney came back to the hospital too.
33:29Bernie?
33:33I found what's airy then, Wisconsin-Cue.
33:37I've transferred Polly to another kindergarten.
33:40Kara won't see her again.
33:43My tone remained even.
33:45I see.
33:46And does that heal Kara's arm?
33:51He fell silent for a moment before saying,
33:59I'm Kara's father.
34:04It hurts me to see her hurt too.
34:07I know you're upset,
34:08but that doesn't mean you can say whatever comes to mind in the heat of the moment.
34:12I cut him off, my calm finally cracking.
34:14Rodney, this isn't heat of the moment.
34:16I could live with you keeping Lindsley and her daughter.
34:22But I will never tolerate them hurting Kara under the shelter of your favoritism.
34:27Looking agitated, Rodney insisted.
34:30I haven't favored them.
34:32You and Kara are my family.
34:35Why would I-
34:36A cold laugh escaped me.
34:41Oh, really?
34:42A wave of weariness washed over me,
34:45and I closed my eyes briefly.
34:48Rodney,
34:50do you remember why we divorced the first time?
34:52He fell silent.
34:54After a long pause,
34:55he answered with difficulty,
34:57his voice rough.
35:00Yes.
35:03Before I could speak,
35:05he continued urgently.
35:07But I only agreed to that divorce.
35:11Because I was angry you didn't trust me.
35:14Later, when your family fell on hard times,
35:20I waited for you to come back to me.
35:22I smiled sarcastically.
35:26So you knew exactly how hard things were for Kara and me.
35:31Yet he had chosen to sit back and do nothing,
35:33just to force me to surrender.
35:36Rodney shifted his gaze uneasily.
35:39I came to you.
35:41I looked straight at him,
35:42each word deliberate.
35:43I came to you when Kara had appendicitis,
35:45but your company's security guards threw me out.
35:49I had been truly desperate then.
35:51After paying rent,
35:52I only had $50 left.
35:55After rushing Kara to the hospital,
35:57I realized my bag had been slashed open.
36:00The money was gone.
36:01That day,
36:02I waited outside the Phoenix Tech building
36:04for over an hour,
36:05only to be dragged away by security.
36:09They'd said with contempt,
36:11Mr. O'Connor said he never wants to see you again
36:13in this lifetime.
36:18Rodney was visibly shaken.
36:21He blurted out his hands trembling.
36:25That's impossible.
36:26I would never say something like that.
36:28I lowered my gaze.
36:29It doesn't matter now.
36:31I used to think that if Kara and I
36:33were just understanding enough,
36:34we could have a stable life with you.
36:43But I was wrong.
36:46Rodney,
36:47you're not fit to be my husband
36:49or Kara's father.
36:51This remarriage
36:52was a mistake.
36:54From the very beginning,
36:56Rodney stood frozen,
36:57staring at me intently.
36:59His lips parted,
37:00but for a long time,
37:01no sound came out.
37:02Rodney turned to leave.
37:10Pausing at the door,
37:11his back still to me.
37:20I didn't feel anxious.
37:22I knew.
37:23He just couldn't accept me
37:24leaving him again.
37:26It was only a matter of time
37:27before he agreed.
37:29The next day,
37:29Rodney returned to the hospital.
37:33Bernie,
37:34I brought the cupcakes you like
37:36and the macaroons Kara loves.
37:38I accepted them naturally
37:40and shared them with Kara.
37:42She chatted with me
37:43the whole time,
37:44not once looking Rodney's way.
37:49The hurt in his eyes
37:50was unmistakable.
37:53After we finished,
37:54Rodney cleared the table
37:55and washed some fruit.
37:56While Kara watched cartoons,
37:58I worked quietly
37:59on a handmade accessory nearby.
38:01Rodney sat for a while
38:02before leaning toward Kara.
38:06What are you watching, Kara?
38:07She lifted her clear eyes
38:09to look at him,
38:10then silently looked back down.
38:11He couldn't keep the smile
38:13on his face any longer
38:14and left soon after,
38:15making up some excuse.
38:18He was trying,
38:19in his own clumsy way.
38:21But trying wasn't enough.
38:22Not anymore.
38:30Another evening,
38:32just before visiting hours ended,
38:34Rodney rushed into the hospital.
38:36I happened to step out
38:37to fetch water
38:37when Rodney pulled me
38:38into a tight embrace.
38:40I struggled
38:41but couldn't break free.
38:43His voice trembled
38:45with remorse.
38:46I found one of the security guards.
38:48He admitted Lindsay
38:49told them to kick you out.
38:52Bernie, I'm sorry.
38:53I didn't know
38:54she'd do something like that.
38:57I'm letting her go!
38:58I pushed him away
38:59expressionlessly.
39:00That was the least
39:01he should have done.
39:02Back then,
39:03a kind doctor
39:04had paid Kara's
39:05surgery deposit
39:06in advance.
39:07Otherwise,
39:08she wouldn't have gotten
39:09the appendectomy in time.
39:10Yet Rodney,
39:11her own father,
39:13had sat high
39:13and untouchable,
39:14waiting for us
39:15to crawl back to him.
39:21I walked back
39:22into the room
39:23and handed him
39:24the divorce papers.
39:27Kara stays with me.
39:31Look over the rest
39:32if acceptable,
39:33sign it.
39:37Rodney's hand went slack
39:38and the papers
39:39fluttered to the floor.
39:40He gripped my shoulders,
39:42pleading.
39:46Bernie, I swear.
39:49I'll cut Lindsay out
39:50completely.
39:51Let's start over.
39:52We can still build
39:53a good life together.
39:55Alright?
39:57I met his gaze evenly.
40:02Rodney,
40:03if you'd been like this
40:05three years ago,
40:05we wouldn't be here now.
40:13If you won't sign,
40:15fine.
40:15I'll take it to court.
40:20Phoenix Tech
40:21is about to go public,
40:22isn't it?
40:23He stumbled back
40:23a few steps,
40:25regret written
40:25across his face.
40:29But I didn't care anymore.
40:30I turned
40:31and went back inside.
40:35Rodney still didn't sign,
40:37so I emailed him
40:37the electronic version.
40:39Over the next few days,
40:41Rodney came to the hospital
40:42every day
40:42as if nothing had happened,
40:44checking on Kara
40:44and staying a while.
40:46After Kara was discharged,
40:47we moved to a new apartment.
40:49I didn't want the villa
40:50we'd shared before,
40:51it felt tainted now.
40:53Rodney's mother,
40:54Jeanette O'Connor,
40:55showed up at our door
40:56just as Kara and I
40:57were bathing the puppy
40:58we'd just adopted.
41:06Bernie,
41:07you and Rod
41:08have been through
41:08so much over the years.
41:11Now that you're back together,
41:13don't make waves.
41:15Kara's still little.
41:17Could you really let her grow up
41:19without a father?
41:20Seeing my calm expression,
41:22Jeanette seemed displeased.
41:23You young people
41:25make everything so dramatic.
41:28Lynn and Rod grew up together,
41:29so what if he looks out for her?
41:32If there were really anything
41:33between them
41:34they'd have married years ago,
41:35you wouldn't have even
41:37been in the picture.
41:39Realizing she'd gone too far,
41:41she cleared her throat softly.
41:43Anyway,
41:44just think about Kara
41:45before you decide.
41:47Besides,
41:48what decent man
41:50wants a divorced woman
41:51with a child?
41:54I listened with detached calm,
41:56neither arguing nor agreeing.
41:58So pretentious.
42:00Her voice was barely audible
42:01as she walked away.
42:02I texted Rodney afterward.
42:04Don't send anyone else
42:05to change my mind.
42:06It won't work.
42:07I want to divorce Rodney.
42:11He never replied.
42:13A few nights later,
42:14the doorbell rang unexpectedly.
42:17Rodney's assistant stood outside,
42:19panting slightly.
42:21Mrs. O'Connor.
42:22Mr. O'Connor is drunk.
42:24Could you open the door?
42:28I instinctively wanted to refuse,
42:30but at the sight of Kara's
42:31upturned face,
42:32I sighed.
42:33I didn't want to see Rodney,
42:35but the truth remained,
42:36he was Kara's father.
42:38Rodney's assistant left soon
42:39after putting him on the bed.
42:40I tossed a wet towel
42:42onto his face.
42:55Stop the act.
42:57I know how well
42:58you hold your liquor.
43:03After a moment of silence,
43:04he sat up and looked at me.
43:06His eyes rimmed red.
43:10If I hadn't pretended to be drunk,
43:12you wouldn't have let me in.
43:14I looked at him without a word.
43:16He ran a hand slowly
43:17through his hair,
43:18his voice suddenly rough
43:19with emotion.
43:20Bernie, I'm so sorry.
43:25I truly didn't know
43:26Lindsay would go against you
43:28like that.
43:29She used
43:32Phoenix Tech's name
43:33to contact several
43:34business partners
43:35and targeted your father
43:36all behind my back.
43:38Then she kept undermining
43:39your job hunt.
43:40I stood up, shocked.
43:42Everything made sense now.
43:44No wonder I'd been fired
43:45from every job
43:46for no real reason,
43:47even with a degree
43:48from a top university.
43:49Later,
43:50no company would even
43:51call me for an interview.
43:53In the end,
43:54I'd had to make a living
43:55selling my crafts
43:55on the street.
43:58Rodney looked at me,
44:00eyes bloodshot,
44:01his face etched
44:01with remorse.
44:02I'm sorry.
44:04You never came to me
44:05and I was so angry.
44:08I just stopped
44:09paying attention.
44:10Rodney stepped closer,
44:11his lowered gaze
44:12full of sorrow.
44:13Will you
44:14never forgive me?
44:16Suddenly,
44:17fragments of memory
44:18washed over me.
44:19The Rodney who was
44:20at a loss when I first
44:21told him how I felt
44:22about him.
44:24The Rodney who skipped
44:26class to take me
44:26to the hospital
44:27after I sprained
44:28my ankle in gym.
44:29The Rodney who was
44:30so thrilled to learn
44:31I was pregnant
44:32that he drove
44:32the wrong way home.
44:33And the Rodney who
44:35looked at me with disgust
44:36and said he regretted
44:37marrying me.
44:39After the first divorce,
44:41I'd been too busy
44:42surviving to dwell
44:43on emotions.
44:44But now,
44:45I finally understood,
44:46I had completely
44:47let go.
44:48I shook my head.
44:49I don't hate you.
44:53So forgiveness
44:54doesn't even come
44:54into it.
44:55Rodney's eyes clouded
44:56instantly with moisture.
44:58Ashamed,
44:58he turned away
44:59to hide it.
45:00From now on,
45:01the only relationship
45:02we have is as
45:03Kara's co-parents.
45:04Then I returned
45:05to the bedroom.
45:06I didn't know
45:07how much time had
45:07passed before I heard
45:08the main door
45:09close softly.
45:10When I came out,
45:11the signed divorce
45:12papers lay on
45:13the coffee table.
45:14He had revised
45:15the terms.
45:15He gave me
45:16more assets.
45:17Now I was wealthier
45:18than he was.
45:21My lawyer
45:22had all the materials
45:23ready and filed
45:24a suit against Lindsay.
45:25Demanding she return
45:26the marital assets
45:27she'd received
45:28from Rodney.
45:29On the day of the hearing,
45:31Lindsay appeared,
45:32stripped of all luxury.
45:33The radiant aura
45:34she once had
45:35was gone.
45:36Dropping her delicate,
45:37harmless facade,
45:38she glared at me
45:39with naked hatred.
45:40With solid proof,
45:42transfer records
45:42and purchase receipts.
45:44The amount she was
45:45ordered to return
45:46exceeded $350,000.
45:48While I had struggled
45:49to put food
45:50on the table,
45:51Rodney had been
45:51lavishing a fortune
45:52on his friend.
45:53I felt a gaze
45:54fixed on me,
45:55but I pretended
45:56not to notice.
45:57Once the judgment
45:58was announced,
45:59I walked straight out.
46:00Lindsay charged
46:01after me,
46:02shouting furiously,
46:03Bernita,
46:04don't think you've won!
46:05I stopped and turned
46:07with a derisive scoff.
46:09Everything you fought
46:11so desperately for
46:12is something
46:12I no longer want.
46:13You?
46:16You're nothing
46:16but a trash collector.
46:22Furious,
46:23she stomped her foot
46:24and lunged to slap me,
46:25no longer caring
46:26about her image,
46:27only to be yanked back
46:28and shoved away
46:29by a strong hand.
46:30After a cold glance
46:31at her,
46:31Rodney walked toward me.
46:32Behind him,
46:33she shrieked miserably.
46:35Rodney!
46:36I've waited for you
46:37all these years!
46:40How could you
46:41do this to me?
46:43You promised my mom
46:45you'd take care of me
46:46forever!
46:46Have you forgotten?
46:53Rodney's expression
46:54darkened.
46:55He hurriedly
46:56explained to me,
46:58Bernie,
46:59nothing ever happened
47:00between Lindsay and me.
47:01I smiled indifferently
47:02and turned to leave.
47:04Now that we were divorcing,
47:06I didn't give a damn
47:07what had or hadn't
47:07happened between them.
47:09My heart was closed
47:11and no explanation
47:12could open it.
47:16Rodney sued Lindsay
47:17for leaking company secrets
47:19and embezzling funds.
47:20The evidence was solid.
47:22Lindsay was sentenced
47:23to three years in prison.
47:25Three years.
47:26It would never undo
47:27what she'd done.
47:28A month later,
47:29Rodney and I
47:30finalized our divorce.
47:31I had dressed up
47:32and had my hair done.
47:33When I walked out
47:34with the divorce certificate
47:35in hand,
47:36I felt lighter than ever.
47:38Even the air felt clearer,
47:39for the first time in years,
47:41I could breathe.
47:42Ernie,
47:43Rodney's voice
47:44came from behind me.
47:46Could we have
47:47one last meal together?
47:49I turned these days.
47:51Rodney had looked
47:51worn down.
47:52He looked like a man
47:53who'd lost everything
47:54because he had.
47:55His hair was untidy,
47:57bangs falling
47:58across his eyes.
47:59Dark circles
48:00shadowed his cheeks.
48:01His beard was unshaven
48:02and his face
48:03seemed thinner.
48:04The second divorce
48:05seemed to have
48:06hit him hard.
48:07Good.
48:07It was about time
48:09he felt something.
48:10I smiled.
48:11I'll pass.
48:13I have things to do.
48:14With that,
48:15I drove away.
48:16I didn't look back.
48:17Not even once
48:18it was over.
48:20Back when I was
48:21at the hospital,
48:22a nurse had bought
48:23a few pet clothes
48:24from me.
48:26The nurse posted
48:28photos of her cat
48:28wearing them online
48:29and they unexpectedly
48:30went viral.
48:32Orders for my online shop
48:33flooded in within days.
48:35The apartment
48:36was overrun
48:36by my work materials.
48:38After looking around,
48:39I rented a studio.
48:40The renovation
48:41was nearly done
48:42and we were airing it out.
48:44Standing before
48:44the tidy work tables
48:45and neatly organized materials.
48:48I couldn't help
48:48recording a short clip
48:49and posting it
48:50on my social account.
48:51Every piece I made
48:52carried a story.
48:53My story.
48:54Not anyone else's.
48:55For the first time,
48:56I was building something
48:56that couldn't be taken away.
48:58I used to anchor
48:58my entire life to Rodney.
49:00Looking back now,
49:01I realized how foolish
49:02I had been.
49:03I should have shed the label
49:04of full-time homemaker
49:05long ago
49:06and found my own worth.
49:07This studio marked
49:08the beginning
49:08of a new chapter.
49:10Right after I posted,
49:11the video received a like
49:12from an account named Ro.
49:17Ro.
49:18Rodney O'Connor.
49:20Still watching,
49:21still too late.
49:22Children's bones healed quickly.
49:24Kara recovered well
49:25and after a final checkup
49:26was cleared
49:27to return to school.
49:28One day,
49:29I went to pick her up.
49:31The moment we returned
49:32to the car,
49:32we saw a boy
49:33sitting in the back seat.
49:36Lewis!
49:37What are you doing
49:38in my mommy's car?
49:40I almost laughed
49:41at the indignation
49:41in her voice.
49:43Lewis Blanchard
49:44covered her mouth.
49:51Shhh!
49:52If my uncle hears you,
49:54I'm dead!
49:55Just then,
49:56a deep voice
49:56sounded outside.
49:58Lewis.
49:58Out.
49:59I turned to see
50:00a tall,
50:01sharp-featured man
50:02standing beside the car.
50:03Lewis kicked and protested,
50:05but the man lifted him out
50:06effortlessly.
50:07After apologizing to me,
50:09he carried Lewis away
50:10by the collar.
50:14Lewis is the class bully
50:16from D2.
50:17Mrs. Bryant told us
50:18to stay away from him.
50:20She scrunched up
50:20her little brow.
50:28Mommy, what's a rich,
50:31eligible bachelor?
50:34At nap time,
50:35Miss Bryant said
50:36Lewis' uncle
50:38is a rich,
50:39eligible bachelor.
50:41I chuckled,
50:42gently pinching her cheek.
50:44Caught you.
50:45You weren't napping,
50:47were you?
50:47Life was slowly
50:49piecing itself back together
50:50over the next six months.
50:52My studio gained momentum.
50:55I partnered with a factory
50:56to add batch-produced lines
50:58alongside my handmade items.
51:00I wanted to build
51:01my own brand
51:01step-by-step.
51:03This brand was mine,
51:04every stitch,
51:05every design,
51:06every late night.
51:07Not as someone's wife,
51:09not as someone's mother,
51:11just me.
51:12One day,
51:12while at the factory
51:13to tweak a design detail,
51:14I saw the director
51:16seeing someone out.
51:17It was Lewis' uncle.
51:18We'd only met once,
51:20so I simply nodded
51:21and turned to leave.
51:22But he called out to me.
51:27Carlton Gilbert.
51:29He introduced himself.
51:31Executive director
51:31at Starlight Group.
51:33He had seen my studio's
51:34samples at the factory
51:35and was very interested.
51:36Starlight Group
51:37was preparing year-end gifts,
51:38small in quantity,
51:39but with high design standards.
51:41He hadn't yet found
51:42a design that clicked.
51:43Of course,
51:44I wouldn't miss
51:45a business opportunity.
51:46Not after everything
51:48I'd fought for.
51:49We exchanged contacts.
51:51Something about his directness
51:52was refreshing.
51:53No games.
51:54No hidden agendas.
51:56Just business.
51:57I had no idea
51:58that my past
51:59was already waiting
52:00for me at the studio.
52:03As soon as I returned
52:04to the studio,
52:05my newly hired assistant,
52:06Neil Hull,
52:07told me someone was waiting.
52:09It felt like a long time
52:10since I'd last seen Rodney.
52:12I hadn't wanted to.
52:14He looked even more haggard
52:16than on the day
52:17of the divorce.
52:18His suit hung loosely.
52:19His eyes lit up
52:20when he saw me,
52:21the joy on his face
52:22undisguised.
52:25That joy cut deeper
52:27than any accusation.
52:28Because I couldn't return it.
52:30Not anymore.
52:31He had set up
52:32a trust fund for Kara.
52:40I don't think I'll get
52:41to see her grow up.
52:43Stunned,
52:43I looked up at him.
52:44His eyes were rimmed red.
52:50Maybe this is karma.
52:52Last month,
52:53I was diagnosed
52:54with liver cancer.
52:57Late stage.
52:58I opened my mouth
52:59but didn't know
53:00what to say.
53:01What do you say
53:01to someone who's dying?
53:03Someone you used to love?
53:05Silence filled the room.
53:06The light in Rodney's eyes
53:07slowly faded
53:08and he smiled
53:09self-mockingly.
53:10Before leaving,
53:10he suddenly pulled me
53:11into his embrace.
53:12I felt the heat of tears
53:13against my neck.
53:14I'm sorry.
53:15His voice was choked.
53:17I stood frozen,
53:18my hands at my sides.
53:21Rodney died for months later.
53:23He had notarized
53:24his will in advance,
53:26dividing his company
53:27shares among me,
53:28Kara and Jeanette.
53:31At least your ex-husband
53:33did one decent thing
53:34before he died.
53:35Carlton swapped
53:35his neatly cut steak
53:36for mine.
53:40It's been a while
53:41since the divorce.
53:43Aren't you thinking
53:44of letting someone new
53:44into the picture?
53:45I met his gaze.
53:46Mr. Gilbert,
53:47is that someone new?
53:58I won't argue
53:59if that's what you think.
54:01We clinked glasses
54:01and smiled at each other.
54:03The seasons changed.
54:04My studio grew
54:05from a small workshop
54:06into a brand
54:07that people recognized.
54:08Kara started first grade,
54:09top of her class,
54:11with a smile
54:11that could light up
54:12any room.
54:13She still didn't talk
54:14much about Rodney.
54:16But sometimes,
54:17I'd catch her sitting quietly,
54:19looking at old photos,
54:20her small fingers
54:21tracing his face.
54:23Carlton was there,
54:24steady, undemanding,
54:25sure, never pushing,
54:27always present.
54:28For the first time in years,
54:29I wasn't looking back.
54:30I was just,
54:31here,
54:31and that was enough.
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