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Short filmTranscript
00:00My intended fiance, Sebastian, got caught in bed with another woman.
00:03He said in front of everyone, the woman was me.
00:05I tried to defend myself, nobody believed me.
00:07To protect my family, I drank wolfsbane wine and died.
00:10Maybe the moon goddess took pity on me.
00:12I woke up.
00:14Back at the gala, the day everything fell apart.
00:16It's time just to expose him in front of everyone.
00:18Seraphine, you're here, then who is that?
00:21Sebastian's face turned to ash.
00:22Why are you slandering me in front of everyone?
00:24You would have pinned this whole disgusting mess on me.
00:26I walked up and slapped him hard across the face.
00:29My intended fiance, Sebastian, got caught in bed with another woman at his mother's birthday party.
00:34He said in front of everyone, the woman was me.
00:36Everyone was utterly stunned.
00:37Then, they spat curses at me.
00:39Because I was the maiden chosen to serve the moon goddess,
00:41if I lost my purity before marriage, disaster would befall the pack.
00:44I tried to defend myself, nobody believed me.
00:47The elders stripped my family of our territory overnight.
00:49My father was cast out of the council.
00:51My mother was humiliated and fell ill, bedridden ever since.
00:54To protect my family, I drank wolfsbane wine and died.
00:56He granted his mistress a new identity and married her.
00:59Living happily ever after.
01:00But my parents grieved themselves to death within three years.
01:03Maybe the moon goddess took pity on me.
01:04I woke up.
01:06Back at the gala, the day everything fell apart.
01:09The guests celebrated joyfully, offering their blessings to the South Bank past Luna,
01:12Luna Thornwood.
01:13Then suddenly, a soft moan echoed through the hall.
01:17Luna Thornwood was the first to walk over.
01:20Two people are coupling on the bed.
01:23Mother, this is my fault.
01:25Sarah had nothing to do with this.
01:27We're about to seal our bond.
01:28We love each other.
01:29That's the only reason it happened.
01:30Please give us your blessing.
01:31Sarah, don't be scared.
01:33I'll go to your father tomorrow and make it official.
01:34No way.
01:35He's talking about Seraphine, the high council head's daughter?
01:38Her father will never recover from this.
01:40What kind of girl did he raise?
01:41She was the maiden chosen to serve the moon goddess.
01:44How dare she?
01:45She insulted the moon goddess.
01:46She will bring disaster upon us.
01:48If she has the nerve to spread her legs at a gala, she should have the nerve to face us.
01:53What's everyone looking at?
01:55Seraphine, you're here.
01:56Then who is that?
01:58Everybody looked at the woman in Sebastian's arms.
02:00I looked up too.
02:01Sebastian's face turned to ash.
02:03He had no idea how I was standing in front of him.
02:05Yesterday, I'd sent word that I had a fever and couldn't make the gala.
02:08In my last life, I really hadn't come.
02:10I'd been sick in bed for days.
02:12By the time I heard what happened, every pack in the country had already condemned me.
02:16There was no clearing my name.
02:17This time, I dragged myself out of bed and came to the gala,
02:21just to expose him in front of everyone, and see how he could lie his way out of it.
02:25Sebastian, what are you doing?
02:26Who is this girl?
02:28Sebastian just said the woman in his arms is you.
02:30He said her name is Seraphine.
02:33He said he's sending people to your father tomorrow to ask for the bond.
02:36Her name's Seraphine too?
02:38Sebastian, what is this?
02:39Why are you slandering me in front of everyone?
02:41I am a handmaid chosen by the moon goddess!
02:43You know how important my chastity is to me!
02:45If I hadn't shown up tonight, you would have pinned this whole disgusting mess on me.
02:48What did I ever do to you?
02:50Why would you destroy me like this?
02:51Sarah, didn't you say you weren't feeling well and you weren't coming?
02:54So because you knew I wouldn't come, you picked tonight on purpose to ruin my name?
02:57You two planned this together.
02:59What were you trying to do to me?
03:00If Princess Aurelia hadn't picked me up this morning and dragged me out,
03:03I would already be ruined.
03:04No, Sarah.
03:05I just said your name without thinking.
03:07I didn't mean it.
03:08Luna Thornwood, you've watched me grow up since I was a child.
03:10Please stand up for me.
03:12My parents are still in the south visiting my grandmother.
03:14There's no elder here to speak for me.
03:15Please, for my mother's sake, help me.
03:18I started to sink to my knees.
03:19The other lunas rushed to lift me up.
03:21Don't kneel, sweetheart.
03:22Your mother isn't here, but we are.
03:24We're your elders, too.
03:26We won't let them get away with this.
03:28Your son did something like this.
03:29Don't you owe us an explanation?
03:31Sneaking around with a woman at his own mother's gala is bad enough.
03:33But framing another girl on top of it?
03:35What kind of cruelty is this?
03:37Sarah, don't be scared.
03:38I'm calling my mother tonight.
03:40The queen will hear about this herself.
03:41I'll get you justice.
03:42What a shameless pair.
03:44A cheating alpha and his little slut.
03:47Sweetie, tonight has truly wronged you.
03:49This is all Sebastian's fault.
03:50I'll make sure he apologizes to you properly.
03:52He must have been drawn in by that vix.
03:54Sebastian has wanted you since he was a boy.
03:56He would never do something like this on his own.
03:58Drag her out and beat her until she can't stand.
04:01Two heavy security guards stepped forward and yanked the woman off the bed.
04:04She screamed.
04:05Her dress half torn, she hit the floor.
04:09Lyra, Sebastian's cousin.
04:11The crowd gasped even louder.
04:15Sebastian, save me!
04:18Aunt, save me!
04:19I didn't seduce him, I swear.
04:21He and I love each other, please.
04:23Let me serve him.
04:25I don't need a title.
04:26Even a mistress would be enough.
04:28Please, don't hurt me.
04:30Don't let them take me away.
04:31Don't call me Aunt.
04:32You're a distant relative.
04:34I took pity on you and brought you in.
04:36And this is how you repay me?
04:39From now on, you are no relative of mine.
04:41Mom, please.
04:42If we throw her out, where will she go?
04:44It's my fault.
04:45I had too much to drink and lost control.
04:47Just let her stay as a mistress.
04:49Seraphine, you're going to be the future Luna of this pack.
04:52You decide.
04:52If you can't tolerate her, I'll throw her out tonight.
04:55If you have a kind heart and want to give her a place to stay, we'll listen to you.
04:58I laughed coldly in my head.
04:59Great.
05:00They wanted to dump the whole mess on me.
05:02Last life, they snuck around.
05:03I died for it.
05:04They lived happily ever after.
05:06This time, they'd pay in blood.
05:07I gently pulled my hand back and stepped away.
05:10Luna Thornwood, watch your words.
05:12I have nothing to do with the Southfanger.
05:14Laia is your son's cousin.
05:15Your niece.
05:15She's already shared his bed.
05:17Where she goes from here is for you and your family to decide.
05:19Or for the future Luna, whoever she ends up being.
05:21I'm just a guest at your gala.
05:22It's not my place.
05:24Sarah.
05:25I'm sorry I used your name.
05:27I panicked.
05:28I figured we'd be mated soon anyway, so it wouldn't matter if people heard.
05:30I was always going to mate you.
05:31But Lyra is different.
05:32She has no one.
05:33If her name gets ruined, how will she live?
05:35I walked up and slapped him hard across the face.
05:41My intended fiancé, Sebastian, got caught in bed with another woman.
05:45He sat in front of everyone.
05:46The woman was me.
05:47I tried to defend myself.
05:48Nobody believed me.
05:49To protect my family, I drank Wolfsbane wine and died.
05:52Maybe the moon goddess took pity on me.
05:53I woke up.
05:55Back at the gala, the day everything fell apart.
05:58It was time just to expose him in front of everyone.
06:00Seraphine, you're here.
06:01Then who is that?
06:02Sebastian's face turned to ash.
06:04Why are you slandering me in front of everyone?
06:06You would have pinned this whole disgusting mess on me.
06:08I walked up and slapped him hard across the face.
06:11My intended fiancé, Sebastian, got caught in bed with another woman at his mother's birthday party.
06:15He sat in front of everyone.
06:16The woman was me.
06:17Everyone was utterly stunned.
06:18Then, they spat curses at me.
06:20Because I was the maiden chosen to serve the moon goddess, if I lost my purity before marriage, disaster would
06:25befall the pack.
06:26I tried to defend myself.
06:27Nobody believed me.
06:28The elders stripped my family of our territory overnight.
06:31My father was cast out of the council.
06:32My mother was humiliated and fell ill, bedridden ever since.
06:35To protect my family, I drank Wolfsbane wine and died.
06:38He granted his mistress a new identity and married her, living happily ever after.
06:42But my parents grieved themselves to death within three years.
06:44Maybe the moon goddess took pity on me.
06:46I woke up.
06:48Back at the gala, the day everything fell apart.
06:50The guests celebrated joyfully, offering their blessings to the South Bank's act Luna, Luna Thornwood.
06:55Then suddenly, a soft moan echoed through the hall.
06:59Luna Thornwood was the first to walk over.
07:01Two people are coupling on the bed.
07:05Mother, this is my fault.
07:06Sarah had nothing to do with this.
07:08We're about to seal our bond.
07:10We love each other.
07:10That's the only reason it happened.
07:12Please give us your blessing.
07:13Sarah, don't be scared.
07:14I'll go to your father tomorrow and make it official.
07:16No way.
07:17He's talking about Seraphine, the High Council Head's daughter?
07:19Her father will never recover from this.
07:21What kind of girl did he raise?
07:23She was the maiden chosen to serve the moon goddess.
07:25How dare she?
07:26She insulted the moon goddess.
07:28She will bring disaster upon us.
07:30If she has the nerve to spread her legs at a gala, she should have the nerve to face us.
07:34What's everyone looking at?
07:37Seraphine, you're here.
07:38Then who is that?
07:39Everybody looked at the woman in Sebastian's arms.
07:41I looked up too.
07:42Sebastian's face turned to ash.
07:44He had no idea how I was standing in front of him.
07:47Yesterday, I'd sent word that I had a fever and couldn't make the gala.
07:50In my last life, I really hadn't come.
07:52I'd been sick in bed for days.
07:53By the time I heard what happened, every pack in the country had already condemned me.
07:57There was no clearing my name.
07:59This time, I dragged myself out of bed and came to the gala, just to expose him in front
08:03of everyone and see how he could lie his way out of it.
08:07Sebastian, what are you doing?
08:08Who is this girl?
08:10Sebastian just said the woman in his arms is you.
08:12He said her name is Seraphine.
08:15He said he's sending people to your father tomorrow to ask for the bond.
08:18Her name's Seraphine too?
08:19Sebastian, what is this?
08:20Why are you slandering me in front of everyone?
08:22I am a handmaid chosen by the moon goddess.
08:24You know how important my chastity is to me.
08:26If I hadn't shown up tonight, you would have pinned this whole disgusting mess on me.
08:30What did I ever do to you?
08:31Why would you destroy me like this?
08:33Sarah, didn't you say you weren't feeling well and you weren't coming?
08:36So because you knew I wouldn't come, you picked tonight on purpose to ruin my name?
08:39You two planned this together.
08:40What were you trying to do to me?
08:42If Princess Aurelia hadn't picked me up this morning and dragged me out, I would already
08:45be ruined.
08:46No, Sarah.
08:47I just said your name without thinking.
08:48I didn't mean it.
08:49Luna Thornwood, you've watched me grow up since I was a child.
08:52Please stand up for me.
08:53My parents are still in the south visiting my grandmother.
08:55There's no elder here to speak for me.
08:57Please, for my mother's sake, help me.
08:59I started to sink to my knees.
09:01The other Lunas rushed to lift me up.
09:03Don't kneel, sweetheart.
09:04Your mother isn't here, but we are.
09:06We're your elders, too.
09:07We won't let them get away with this.
09:09Your son did something like this.
09:11Don't you owe us an explanation?
09:12Sneaking around with a woman at his own mother's gala is bad enough.
09:15But framing another girl on top of it?
09:17What kind of cruelty is this?
09:18Sarah, don't be scared.
09:20I'm calling my mother tonight.
09:21The Queen will hear about this herself.
09:23I'll get you justice.
09:24What a shameless pair.
09:25A cheating alpha and his little slut.
09:28Sweetie, tonight has truly wronged you.
09:30This is all Sebastian's fault.
09:32I'll make sure he apologizes to you properly.
09:34He must have been drawn in by that Vix.
09:36Sebastian has wanted you since he was a boy.
09:38He would never do something like this on his own.
09:40Drag her out and beat her until she can't stand.
09:42Two heavy security guards stepped forward and yanked the woman off the bed.
09:46She screamed, her dress half torn.
09:48She hit the floor.
09:51Lyra, Sebastian's cousin.
09:52The crowd gasped even louder.
09:56Sebastian, save me!
09:59Aunt, save me!
10:01I didn't seduce him, I swear.
10:03He and I love each other, please.
10:05Let me serve him.
10:06I don't need a title.
10:08Even a mistress would be enough.
10:09Please, don't hurt me.
10:11Don't let them take me away.
10:13Don't call me, Aunt.
10:14You're a distant relative.
10:15I took pity on you and brought you in.
10:17And this is how you repay me?
10:20From now on, you are no relative of mine.
10:23Mom, please.
10:24If we throw her out, where will she go?
10:25It's my fault.
10:26I had too much to drink and lost control.
10:29Just let her stay as a mistress.
10:31Seraphine, you're gonna be the future Luna of this pack.
10:33You decide.
10:34If you can't tolerate her, I'll throw her out tonight.
10:36If you have a kind heart and want to give her a place to stay, we'll listen to you.
10:39I laughed coldly in my head.
10:41Great.
10:41They wanted to dump the whole mess on me.
10:43Last life, they snuck around.
10:45I died for it.
10:46They lived happily ever after.
10:47This time, they'd pay in blood.
10:49I gently pulled my hand back and stepped away.
10:52Luna Thornwood, watch your words.
10:54I have nothing to do with the Southfanger pack.
10:55Lyra is your son's cousin.
10:56Your niece.
10:57She's already shared his bed.
10:58Where she goes from here is for you and your family to decide.
11:00Or for the future Luna, whoever she ends up being.
11:02I'm just a guest at your gala.
11:04It's not my place.
11:07Sarah, I'm sorry I used your name.
11:08I panicked.
11:09I figured we'd be mated soon anyway, so it wouldn't matter if people heard.
11:12I was always gonna mate you.
11:13But Lyra is different.
11:14She has no one.
11:15If her name gets ruined, how will she live?
11:17I walked up and slapped him hard across the face.
11:20Something inside me cracked wide open.
11:22I grabbed the ashtray off the nearest surface and hurled it at his head.
11:26Chloe screamed.
11:27The night before our wedding, Ethan entered Chloe's elite husband selection.
11:30He won.
11:31He slid our engagement ring onto her finger and held her hand up so she'd just won a lottery.
11:35This is the kind of woman I deserve!
11:37After the livestream cut, he called me.
11:40Chloe's willing to overlook our engagement.
11:41You can stay on as my mistress.
11:43Play it smart.
11:45Once she's pregnant, I'll bring you in for her recovery.
11:49My jaw locked.
11:50Not a single word came out.
11:51Then came the sound of rustling fabric through the phone.
11:54I listened.
11:54Then I laughed.
11:56Ethan's voice turned to ice.
11:57What's funny?
11:58Everyone in this city knows you are but my plaything.
12:01You have no other choice.
12:04He had no idea I would never be his mistress.
12:08An even less idea that just yesterday, Chloe's older brother had come to find me himself.
12:13With a betrothal gift ten times anything the Harringtons could offer.
12:16The living room.
12:17The kitchen.
12:18The balcony.
12:19Every surface bore the mounds from the bedroom continued.
12:22Ethan, five years with Elena.
12:23Can you really just let that go?
12:25Ethan held Chloe steady.
12:26Each word deliberate.
12:27If you hadn't made me wait five years for your stupid lottery,
12:30I never would have agreed to be with her in the first place.
12:32Chloe's eyes curved.
12:33Really, I don't believe you felt nothing for her.
12:35Ethan laughed.
12:36You don't know.
12:37Every time I held her, I kept her facing away from me.
12:39The moment I saw her face, I couldn't even get hard.
12:40He kissed her smoothly, his gaze going warm.
12:42She is at most a doll.
12:44I pressed my lips together, tilted my head back, blinked furiously.
12:48I had believed, foolishly, that he'd loved me.
12:51At least a little.
12:52I never imagined I was just a sex doll for the five years he spent waiting for her.
12:57I pushed the door open.
12:58And met Ethan's eyes directly.
13:03Deliberate.
13:04Almost daring.
13:05As he moved with exaggerated intent.
13:08Finally came to your senses?
13:09He was breathing hard.
13:11Smug.
13:12Getting back in isn't going to be easy anymore.
13:15Get on your knees.
13:17You can get up when we're done.
13:18I kept my voice steady.
13:20Ethan, I'm here to collect my things.
13:22We're done.
13:23Ethan pulled away and looked at me like I'd told a joke.
13:26Everyone in this city knows you've been chasing me for years.
13:29Begging me to be with you.
13:31Begging me to want you.
13:32Begging me to marry you.
13:34And now you're done, Elena.
13:35Do you even believe that yourself?
13:37I didn't want to argue.
13:38I started quietly gathering my things.
13:40When he saw I wasn't performing, something in his face went hard.
13:43He crossed the room and grabbed my wrist.
13:45What is this?
13:47Do you have any idea who you are?
13:49How could you ever compare to Chloe?
13:53Your family's entire net worth doesn't cover two of her handbags.
13:56What's wrong with me choosing her?
13:58Blame your parents for being useless.
14:00Blame yourself for being born into the wrong family.
14:03I'm getting married and I still offered you a spot as my mistress.
14:06What more do you want?
14:07My eyes burned.
14:08I wrenched my wrist free.
14:09I told you.
14:10We're done.
14:12Ethan laughed.
14:13Sharp and short.
14:14Fine.
14:15Have it your way.
14:17He turned back to Chloe, deliberately rocking the bed until it roamed.
14:21I drew a long breath and held it.
14:22One last look at the room that was supposed to be our future.
14:25I picked up my suitcase and walked out.
14:28I hadn't figured out what to tell my parents.
14:30My mother had hand-embroidered a wedding handkerchief for us.
14:32Tiny, careful stitches, meant to carry a lifetime of blessing.
14:36Whatever happened to me, I could take.
14:38But the moment I thought of them, grief came like a wave, and I couldn't stop it.
14:42I crouched on the sidewalk and cried.
14:44A black Bentley rolled to a stop in front of me.
14:47The window slid down.
14:49Julian's sharp profile came into view.
14:51Get in.
14:53I sat stiffly beside him, hyper-aware of every inch between us.
14:58Out of the corner of my eye, his injured leg.
15:01Rumor had it Julian was cold, volatile, borderline unhinged.
15:05That the disability had made him dangerous.
15:10Have you made your decision?
15:12His voice was low.
15:13The quiet authority of someone who expected to be obeyed.
15:17Truthfully, I hadn't let myself think about it.
15:20Thirty percent of the Ashford group's shares as a betrothal gift.
15:23It was an absurd number.
15:25I bit my lip.
15:27Why me?
15:28He could have any woman he wanted.
15:30Why spend half his fortune on me?
15:32Julian let out a soft laugh.
15:34His slender fingers gently stroked my hair.
15:38Have you considered that it could only ever be you?
15:41He turned, and I was forced to meet his gaze fully.
15:44What lived in his eyes startled me.
15:46A depth of possession that made my breath catch.
15:49Something overtook my better judgment.
15:51I nodded.
15:52I'll do it.
15:55The Harrington family had already informed my parents,
15:58with all the arrogance in the world, that the engagement was off.
16:01When I walked through the door intact, the relief on their faces was plain.
16:05I was still working out how to explain Julian when my parents exchanged a look and handed me a small
16:09box.
16:10The Ashford family sent this.
16:12I opened it.
16:13Inside was the Ashford matriarch's signet ring, passed down through every generation.
16:18Sweetheart.
16:19My mother's eyes went red.
16:20Whoever you choose to marry, your father and I only want you to be happy.
16:24I looked at her and nodded hard.
16:26Though the engagement hadn't been made public, Julian still invited me to his birthday family dinner.
16:32I'd had a custom Patek Philippe watch made as a gift.
16:35I never expected to walk through the Ashford front doors and find Ethan already inside.
16:41The moment he saw me, his feet so shrink.
16:43He lunged forward and yanked me into a corner.
16:45Elena, are you out of your mind?
16:47This is Julian Ashford's birthday dinner and you snuck in here.
16:50Chloe and I already announced our engagement.
16:52Making a scene at the Ashford estate isn't going to change anything.
16:55It'll just make me hate you more.
16:57Do you understand?
16:57His self-importance was almost impressive.
16:59I was about to correct him when his eyes dropped to the gift in my hands.
17:02He rolled them with theatrical exhaustion.
17:05Here we go again.
17:06You do the same thing every time we fight.
17:08You cry, you apologize, you show up with a gift.
17:12Then you strip and lie on the bed like a dog.
17:15Can't you try something new?
17:17I know marrying me has always been your dream, but you can't live in a fantasy, Elena.
17:23Getting you a spot as my mace is genuinely generous of me.
17:27Learn to be grateful.
17:27And once Chloe's pregnant, you can come help with her postpartum care.
17:31If Chloe likes you, the Ashford family might throw you enough to set your family up for life.
17:36I had heard enough.
17:39Ethan, I am not here to be your mistress.
17:41And that gift is not for you.
17:43His expression shifted.
17:44Before I could react, he tore the box from my hands and ripped it open.
17:48Give it back!
17:49I told you it's not for you!
17:51I lunged.
17:51He shoved me to the ground with one foot and lifted the watch into the light.
17:55Huh.
17:56The size is perfect.
17:58Still claiming it's not for me, playing hard to get now.
18:01My eyes burned as I scrambled up.
18:03Give it back!
18:04Ethan raised his arm high.
18:06Cold amusement all over his face.
18:08Keep throwing your little tantrums, Elena, and you can kiss the mistress off for goodbye.
18:12What exactly is going on here?
18:15Chloe's voice, directly behind me.
18:19Ethan's arm dropped.
18:20A flicker of panic crossed his face.
18:23Chloe, what are you doing down here?
18:26My brother came down to meet someone personally.
18:30Chloe's eyes moved between us, sharp and cold.
18:33Of course I followed.
18:34I didn't expect to find you two flirting.
18:37Ethan moved quickly to her side.
18:38She showed up, begging me to take her back.
18:40She even brought a watch as a peace offering.
18:42I was the only thing stopping her from burging into the party and causing a scene.
18:45To prove it, he unclasped the watch and held it out.
18:48Chloe took it.
18:49She looked at it with open contempt.
18:51This is what you show up with, Elena?
18:53This quality?
18:53She flipped it over and let it fall.
18:56Then she drove her stiletto heel directly through the crystal face.
18:59It shattered like a spider's web.
19:01Tears broke free before I could stop them.
19:03You want to compete with me?
19:05Know your place.
19:06Something snapped.
19:06I flew at her and slapped her across it.
19:09You had no right!
19:11That was mine!
19:12Chloe screamed, hands flying to her cheek.
19:14You hit me!
19:15You actually hit me!
19:16Ethan shoved me backward and rushed to check her face.
19:19Chloe raised a hand.
19:20Her bodyguards pinned my arms behind me.
19:22She looked up at Ethan, slow and deliberate.
19:24Ethan, she hit me.
19:27What are you going to do about it?
19:30Before I could process what was happening,
19:32Ethan turned and slapped me across the face.
19:35My left cheek ignited.
19:36I tasted blood at the corner of my mouth.
19:39Let go of me, Ethan!
19:41That gift was never for you!
19:43I've been too lenient with you.
19:46This is what you've earned.
19:48And then he just kept going.
19:49One strike after another.
19:51At some point, I started losing track.
19:53The ringing in my ears swallowed every other sound.
19:56Through the blur, I could make out Chloe holding up her phone.
19:59Filming.
19:59Grinning.
20:00Ethan said.
20:01Last one.
20:02Get yourself under control, Elena.
20:04If you ever lay a hand on Chloe again, I will cut you off completely.
20:08You won't even have the mistress option to fall back, Don.
20:11The final blow landed.
20:12A tooth hit the floor.
20:14The room went black.
20:16When I opened my eyes, the air smelled of antiseptic.
20:19My mother was slumped over the edge of my hospital bed, hair disheveled.
20:22The moment she saw me wake, tears streamed down her face.
20:25Thank God.
20:27You're awake.
20:30I'll get the doctor!
20:31I watched her hurry out.
20:33Something didn't add up.
20:34She was always so put together.
20:36Why was there dried mud caked into her clothes?
20:38My phone was overwhelmed with missed calls and messages from Julian.
20:42All 99+.
20:43I didn't want him to worry.
20:45I sent a quick lie.
20:46That my period cramps had knocked me out after I'd taken some medicine.
20:49A pause.
20:50Then one message came back.
20:52A small, goofy cat sticker.
20:54Rest well.
20:55I stared at it.
20:56Julian's unreadable face sending something this soft.
20:59It made me smile despite myself.
21:01He was nothing like the rumors.
21:03The doctor came, ran through the checks, declared nothing permanently damaged.
21:07I waited until she left.
21:09Mom.
21:09My mother shook her head and pulled me into a hug, her voice breaking.
21:12You've been through enough.
21:14Did they know what had happened?
21:16Where's dad?
21:17I looked around.
21:18At that, she fell apart completely.
21:21Sweetheart.
21:22Your father and I, we failed you.
21:25We couldn't get justice for you.
21:28I gripped her hand.
21:29Mom.
21:31What happened?
21:32A cold dread was already rising up my spine.
21:34She held out her phone with trembling fingers.
21:37Someone sent us the video.
21:40You being beaten.
21:41Your father, he couldn't stand it.
21:43He went to Ethan, demanded an apology.
21:45But the Harrington family wanted it buried.
21:47They threatened him.
21:49Told him to delete the footage and keep his mouth shut.
21:52You know your father.
21:53He refused.
21:55And then...
21:56Her hands were shaking too badly to hold the phone steady.
21:59They broke his leg, Elena.
22:01Dragged him inside and they're holding him.
22:04They said they won't release him until Ethan and Chloe's wedding is over.
22:09The blood drained from my body.
22:11Call Julian!
22:12I was on my feet before the thought had fully formed.
22:14I told my mother to call Julian.
22:16Then I ran straight for the Harrington estate.
22:18I hammered the doorbell like I was trying to break it.
22:20My heart was slamming against my ribs.
22:22My father had a severe heart condition and high blood pressure.
22:25He could not survive this.
22:27The door swung open.
22:28Chloe stood in the frame, wearing a silk robe, watching me with lazy amusement.
22:32Oh, back again to...
22:34I shoved past her and walked straight in.
22:36Ethan was shirtless in the hallway, glaring at me.
22:39What is wrong with your family?
22:40You all just take turns showing up to harass me?
22:43Where is my father, Ethan?
22:45Ethan pulled Chloe into his side, entirely unbothered.
22:48Relax.
22:50He's my former father-in-law, technically.
22:53I got him a doctor.
22:54We'll let him go once Chloe and I are married.
22:58Release him now.
22:59Or I go straight to Julian.
23:01My hands were locked into fists.
23:03I didn't look away.
23:05Ethan's lip curled.
23:06Who do you think you are, threatening me with Julian Ashford?
23:09Chloe is the most beloved princess of the Ashford family.
23:12What exactly are you?
23:14Chloe nestled deeper into his arm and tilted her chin up.
23:17My brother doles on me.
23:20Who do you think he's going to believe?
23:22Tears were streaming before I could stop them.
23:24Ethan, your father never treated you badly.
23:26I never treated you badly.
23:28Not once in five years.
23:30Do you have any conscience left at all?
23:32Ethan's brow furrowed.
23:34The look of someone who thinks he's finally figured out the puzzle.
23:37I knew it.
23:37You still haven't given up on marrying me.
23:39And your father.
23:40He was trying to blow up my wedding so he could push you on me instead.
23:44Elena, honestly, if there were no Chloe, you might have moved me.
23:47Maybe.
23:48But you've completely disgusted me now.
23:50Have you no self-respect?
23:52Not even a shred of dignity?
23:53Why do you keep clinging to me?
23:55Something inside me cracked wide open.
23:57I grabbed the ashtray off the nearest surface and hurled it at his head.
24:01Chloe screamed.
24:02Ethan doubled forward, blood streaming from his temple.
24:05He whored, closed the gap in two steps, and wrapped his hands around my throat, slamming
24:09me against the wall.
24:10Then from the far corner, a figure dragged himself across the floor.
24:13My father.
24:14One leg bent at the wrong angle.
24:16Crawling toward us on sheer will alone.
24:18He threw himself into Ethan and broke his grip.
24:20You, you animal.
24:21The words died in his throat.
24:23His hand went to his chest.
24:25He fell.
24:31Congratulations, you two deserve each other.
24:36I turned and walked toward the door.
24:38My boyfriend had just won the F1 World Championship.
24:40At his victory party, I pushed open the hospitality suite door and walked right into him with a mirror
24:45to cross his mouth.
24:46Her fingers were tangled in his hair, ripping hard.
24:49A mechanic spotted me first.
24:52Shit.
24:53Avery's here.
24:54Tristan pulled back.
24:57Relax.
24:58It's just a game.
24:59Someone on the couch let out a nervous laugh.
25:01Dude, your girl just saw that.
25:03She won't care.
25:06A few guys chuckled.
25:07A few nodded along.
25:09No one met my eyes.
25:12Avery's not going anywhere.
25:13Exactly.
25:14She's too far in.
25:14Emma smoothed her hair and gave me a smile that was probably supposed to look apologetic.
25:19We were literally just playing truth or dare.
25:21If something was going on between us, it would have happened already.
25:24I set the jacket down on the nearest table.
25:31Congratulations.
25:32You two deserve each other.
25:35I turned and walked toward the door.
25:38His hand closed around my arm.
25:39Apologize to her.
25:41Apologize to her.
25:42His voice was flat.
25:43I looked at his hand, then at his face.
25:46We're done.
25:47Behind him, Emma stood there soaking wet.
25:50Tristan, it's fine.
25:52Just apologize to Avery.
25:53I don't want to cause problems.
25:54He laughed.
25:55Fine.
25:55But don't come crying to me when you realize you screwed up.
25:58I walked out.
25:59Something hit my back just before the door closed.
26:01Take your crap with you.
26:03Through the door.
26:04I could hear them.
26:05How long you giving it this time?
26:06A month.
26:07She looked pretty pissed.
26:08Nah, two weeks top.
26:09She'll be back in a week.
26:10Begging.
26:14I stood there frozen.
26:16Someone snorted nearby.
26:17You just gonna stand there all night?
26:18His team's number one driver, Tristan's former teammate, until he transferred last season.
26:24Now they were rivals.
26:25They hadn't spoken in months.
26:27He was the only guy on the grid who'd beaten Tristan head-to-head more than once.
26:30The lounge door swung open behind me.
26:33What's going on out here?
26:37I'm confessing to her.
26:38He took my hand and pulled me down the hallway before anyone could react.
26:41What are you doing?
26:43Is this some kind of joke?
26:45I was getting you out of an awkward situation.
26:47You're welcome.
26:49I stared at him.
26:50For the entire time I'd been with Tristan, Finn had been the one person who never pretended
26:54everything was fine.
26:56Every time he saw us together, his face would tighten.
26:59I always assumed he thought I wasn't good enough for his friend.
27:02I was about to reject the call when Finn snatched it.
27:08Tristan.
27:08Where'd she go?
27:09What's this about you confessing?
27:10I'd never heard him use that tone.
27:12He'd never needed to.
27:13I was always the one waiting.
27:15The one apologizing.
27:17The one convincing myself I was overreacting.
27:20So that's it, Avery.
27:21You already had someone lined up.
27:23I grabbed the phone back.
27:25Yeah, I like Finn.
27:27He's better than you at everything.
27:29I hung up before he could hear my voice crack.
27:32Then I remembered Finn was still standing there.
27:35He was leaning against the railing.
27:37You like me?
27:38Better than him at everything?
27:43Better how, exactly.
27:45I took a breath.
27:47The air smelled like him.
27:49You answered my phone.
27:50I never said I was better at everything.
27:53I announced.
27:56I'm hungry.
27:57Starving.
27:58We went to a diner near the circuit.
28:00I couldn't eat.
28:01I just drank.
28:03One glass.
28:04Then another.
28:05Then another.
28:05By the third, he reached across the table and put his hand over mine.
28:09Drowning your feelings?
28:11Tonight feels fake.
28:12Like a dream.
28:13It'd be a waste not to drink.
28:16I poured myself a fourth.
28:18I never drank.
28:19My head was already spinning.
28:21Later, out on the street, he was holding me upright.
28:24A couple walked past US, hand in hand, heading toward a hotel across the street.
28:29I watched them for a second.
28:31I looked up at him, solid beside me, patient, waiting.
28:35Want to?
28:37He followed my gaze to the hotel.
28:40I'm not that kind of guy.
28:42But you like me.
28:43Weren't you just about to confess?
28:45He stared at me for a long moment.
28:47Something shifted.
28:48You serious?
28:49You're so annoying.
28:50You're a grown man.
28:52He caught me.
28:53Pulled me against his chest.
28:55If I take you up on this, are you going to pretend it didn't happen tomorrow?
28:59Yes.
29:00I pressed my face into his shirt.
29:03You smell good.
29:05You know what you're saying?
29:06I'm not a child.
29:08You're drunk.
29:09I'm sober enough.
29:11That was a lie.
29:12Then he was pulling me toward the hotel.
29:14Then the door closed behind us.
29:16When his lips met mine, every sound in my head stopped.
29:18The doorbell started going crazy.
29:21Kasten stood outside.
29:23Eyes sharp with a predator's hunger.
29:25Moving like a wolf in the dark, he breached my space.
29:29He kissed me like a starving man.
29:31I knew he was drunk.
29:32I got a little too rough and ended up hurting myself down there with the little device.
29:37That's why I had to go to the clinic for an examination.
29:40Only to find out that my therapist is Kasten.
29:44Lie down, Sienna.
29:45The ex-boyfriend I dumped five years ago.
29:47Any recent sexual activity?
29:49My face burned.
29:51Yes.
29:52Confessing this to my ex took serious courage.
29:55I felt his fingers examining me, feather-light, almost like a caress.
29:59My body has always been dangerously sensitive.
30:03Even flat on the examination table, the slightest touch was enough to make me tremble.
30:08Multiple times?
30:11Yes, multiple times.
30:15Honestly, being a romance novelist is high-pressure work, and inspiration doesn't come cheap.
30:20Whenever I ran dry, I turned to a few trusty old friends.
30:23Not men, but those damn little toys.
30:27It's a minor abrasion.
30:28You need to apply the ointment daily, and no alcohol.
30:33And for one month, no sex or masturbation.
30:38Doctor's orders.
30:41That night, I went to a private alumni party, hosted by my college.
30:45Looking at them brought everything back.
30:47My college years with Kasten.
30:49Back then, Kasten was the team's quarterback, and I was the assistant.
30:53At first, we constantly clashed over strategy, but Kasten loved getting under my skin.
30:58His favourite prank?
30:59Switching my soda for vodka, just to watch me get tipsy.
31:03Unexpectedly, we went from rivals to lovers.
31:06He became my boyfriend, and I became the girl every woman on campus envied.
31:11But in the end, we broke up.
31:14I had assumed Kasten wouldn't show up tonight, but he did.
31:18He walked toward me.
31:20My nerves kicked in, and I reached for a drink to steady myself, only for the glass to be taken
31:26right out of my hand.
31:27Already forgot your doctor's orders?
31:29Or does your therapist need to give you some hands-on discipline?
31:37My cousin Jack picked me up right after practice.
31:40Every girl in the room immediately got curious about the new guy.
31:44Is that your new boyfriend, Sienna?
31:46Wait, is he a football player?
31:47Oh my god, introduce us right now!
31:49My ex and my new guy in the same room.
31:52To them, this was peak drama.
31:54A solid week of Instagram group chat gossip material.
31:57I glanced at Kasten.
31:59His jaw was locked.
32:01Eyes pitch black.
32:02He was gripping his glasses so hard, his knuckles were white.
32:06What was his problem?
32:07It had been five freaking years.
32:09There's no way he was actually jealous of the new guy, right?
32:12Alright ladies, show's over.
32:14I'm taking my favourite girl out of here.
32:16Come on, Sienna.
32:18Night everyone!
32:20In the car, Jack wouldn't shut up about Kasten.
32:23He'd already connected the dots.
32:25Kasten was the ex who wrecked me five years ago.
32:28Wait, how the hell did you know?
32:29He literally didn't say a word to you.
32:33Please.
32:33He looked ready to tear me apart.
32:35Trust me, Sienna.
32:36He's still in love with you.
32:40Back at my apartment, I had just slipped into my silk robe.
32:43The doorbells started going crazy.
32:46Kasten stood outside.
32:48Eyes sharp with a predator's hunger.
32:51Moving like a wolf in the dark, he breached my space.
32:54Pinning me against the wall with terrifying force.
32:57So your new guy just drops you off and disappears?
33:00Does he even give a shit that you're hurt?
33:02He doesn't fucking deserve to take care of you.
33:05Dr. Kasten.
33:07I killed it at his height.
33:08Chloe screamed.
33:09Ethan doubled forward, blood streaming from his temple.
33:12He whored, closed the gap in two steps,
33:14and wrapped his hands around my throat,
33:15slamming me against the wall.
33:17Then, from the far corner, a figure dragged himself across the floor.
33:20My father.
33:21One leg bent at the wrong angle,
33:22crawling toward us on sheer will alone.
33:24He threw himself into Ethan and broke his grip.
33:27You, you animal.
33:28The words died in his throat.
33:30His hand went to his chest.
33:31He fell.
33:34The night before our wedding,
33:35Ethan entered Chloe's elite husband selection.
33:37He won.
33:38He slid our engagement ring onto her finger
33:39and held her hand up to just won a lottery.
33:42This is the kind of woman I deserve!
33:44After the live stream cut, he called me.
33:47Chloe's willing to overlook our engagement.
33:48You can stay on as my mistress.
33:50Play it smart.
33:52Once she's pregnant, I'll bring you in for her recovery.
33:56My jaw locked.
33:57Not a single word came out.
33:58Then came the sound of rustling fabric through the phone.
34:01I listened.
34:02Then I laughed.
34:03Ethan's voice turned to ice.
34:04What's funny?
34:05Everyone in this city knows you are but my plaything.
34:08You have no other choice.
34:11He had no idea I would never be his mistress.
34:15An even less idea that just yesterday,
34:17Chloe's older brother had come to find me himself
34:19with a betrothal gift ten times anything the Harringtons could offer.
34:23The living room.
34:24The kitchen.
34:25The balcony.
34:26Every surface bore the mounds from the bedroom continued.
34:29Ethan, five years with Elena.
34:30Can you really just let that go?
34:32Ethan held Chloe steady, each word deliberate.
34:34If you hadn't made me wait five years for your stupid lottery,
34:37I never would have agreed to be with her in the first place.
34:39Chloe's eyes curved.
34:40Really, I don't believe you felt nothing for her.
34:42Ethan laughed.
34:43You don't know.
34:44Every time I held her, I kept her facing away from me.
34:46The moment I saw her face, I couldn't even get hard.
34:47He kissed her smoothly, his gaze going warm.
34:49She is at most a doll.
34:51I pressed my lips together, tilted my head back, blinked furiously.
34:55I had believed, foolishly, that he'd loved me.
34:58At least a little.
34:59I never imagined I was just a sex doll for the five years he spent waiting for her.
35:04I pushed the door open.
35:05And met Ethan's eyes directly.
35:10Deliberate.
35:11Almost daring.
35:12As he moved with exaggerated intent.
35:15Finally came to your senses?
35:16He was breathing hard.
35:18Smug.
35:19Getting back in isn't going to be easy anymore.
35:22Get on your knees.
35:24You can get up when we're done.
35:25I kept my voice steady.
35:27Ethan, I'm here to collect my things.
35:29We're done.
35:30Ethan pulled away and looked at me like I'd told a joke.
35:33Everyone in this city knows you've been chasing me for years.
35:36Begging me to be with you.
35:38Begging me to want you.
35:39Begging me to marry you.
35:41And now you're done, Elena.
35:42Do you even believe that yourself?
35:44I didn't want to argue.
35:45I started quietly gathering my things.
35:47When he saw I wasn't performing, something in his face went hard.
35:50He crossed the room and grabbed my wrist.
35:52What is this?
35:54Do you have any idea who you are?
35:56How could you ever compare to Chloe?
36:00Your family's entire net worth doesn't cover two of her handbags.
36:03What's wrong with me choosing her?
36:05Blame your parents for being useless.
36:07Blame yourself for being born into the wrong family.
36:10I'm getting married and I still offered you a spot as my mistress.
36:13What more do you want?
36:14My eyes burned.
36:15I wrenched my wrist free.
36:16I told you.
36:17We're done.
36:19Ethan laughed.
36:20Sharp and short.
36:21Fine.
36:22Have it your way.
36:24He turned back to Chloe, deliberately rocking the bed until it groaned.
36:28I drew a long breath and held it.
36:30One last look at the room that was supposed to be our future.
36:32I picked up my suitcase and walked out.
36:35I hadn't figured out what to tell my parents.
36:37My mother had hand-embroidered a wedding handkerchief for us.
36:39Tiny, careful stitches, meant to carry a lifetime of blessing.
36:43Whatever happened to me, I could take.
36:45But the moment I thought of them, grief came like a wave, and I couldn't stop it.
36:49I crouched on the sidewalk and cried.
36:51A black Bentley rolled to a stop in front of me.
36:54The window slid down.
36:56Julian's sharp profile came into view.
36:58Get in.
37:00I sat stiffly beside him, hyper-aware of every inch between us.
37:05Out of the corner of my eye, his injured leg.
37:08Rumor had it Julian was cold, volatile, borderline unhinged.
37:12That the disability had made him dangerous.
37:17Have you made your decision?
37:19His voice was low.
37:20The quiet authority of someone who expected to be obeyed.
37:24Truthfully, I hadn't let myself think about it.
37:27Thirty percent of the Ashford group's shares as a betrothal gift.
37:30It was an absurd number.
37:32I bit my lip.
37:34Why me?
37:35He could have any woman he wanted.
37:37Why spend half his fortune on me?
37:39Julian let out a soft laugh.
37:41His slender fingers gently stroked my hair.
37:45Have you considered that it could only ever be you?
37:48He turned, and I was forced to meet his gaze fully.
37:51What lived in his eyes startled me.
37:53A depth of possession that made my breath catch.
37:56Something overtook my better judgment.
37:58I nodded.
37:59I'll do it.
38:02The Harrington family had already informed my parents,
38:05with all the arrogance in the world, that the engagement was off.
38:08When I walked through the door intact, the relief on their faces was plain.
38:12I was still working out how to explain Julian when my parents exchanged a look and handed me a small
38:16box.
38:17The Ashford family sent this.
38:19I opened it.
38:20Inside was the Ashford matriarch's signet ring, passed down through every generation.
38:25Sweetheart.
38:26My mother's eyes went red.
38:27Whoever you choose to marry, your father and I only want you to be happy.
38:31I looked at her and nodded hard.
38:33Though the engagement hadn't been made public, Julian still invited me to his birthday family dinner.
38:39I'd had a custom Patek Philippe watch made as a gift.
38:42I never expected to walk through the Ashford front doors and find Ethan already inside.
38:48The moment he saw me, his peep so shrink.
38:50He lunged forward and yanked me into a corner.
38:53Elena, are you out of your mind?
38:54This is Julian Ashford's birthday dinner and you snuck in here.
38:57Chloe and I already announced our engagement.
38:59Making a scene at the Ashford estate isn't going to change anything.
39:02It'll just make me hate you more.
39:04Do you understand?
39:04His self-importance was almost impressive.
39:06I was about to correct him when his eyes dropped to the gift in my hands.
39:09He rolled then with theatrical exhaustion.
39:12Here we go again.
39:13You do the same thing every time we fight.
39:15You cry, you apologize, you show up with a gift.
39:19Then you strip and lie on the bed like a dog.
39:22Can't you try something new?
39:25I know marrying me has always been your dream, but you can't live in a fantasy, Elena.
39:30Getting you a spot as my mace is genuinely generous of me.
39:34Learn to be grateful.
39:35And once Chloe's pregnant, you can come help with her postpartum care.
39:38If Chloe likes you, the Ashford family might throw you enough to set your family up for life.
39:43I had heard enough.
39:46Ethan, I am not here to be your mistress.
39:48And that gift is not for you.
39:50His expression shifted.
39:51Before I could react, he tore the box from my hands and ripped it open.
39:55Give it back!
39:56I told you it's not for you!
39:58I lunged.
39:58He shoved me to the ground with one foot and lifted the watch into the light.
40:02Huh.
40:03The size is perfect.
40:05Still claiming it's not for me, playing hard to get now.
40:08My eyes burned as I scrambled up.
40:10Give it back!
40:11Ethan raised his arm behind me.
40:13Cold amusement all over his face.
40:15Keep throwing your little tantrums, Elena, and you can kiss the mistress off her goodbye.
40:18What exactly is going on here?
40:22Chloe's voice.
40:23Directly behind me.
40:26Ethan's arm dropped.
40:27A flicker of panic crossed his face.
40:31Chloe, what are you doing down here?
40:33My brother came down to meet someone personally.
40:37Chloe's eyes moved between us, sharp and cold.
40:40Of course I followed.
40:42I didn't expect to find you two flirting.
40:44Ethan moved quickly to her side.
40:45She showed up, begging me to take her back.
40:47She even brought a watch as a peace offering.
40:49I was the only thing stopping her from burging into the party and causing a scene.
40:52To prove it, he unclasped the watch and held it out.
40:55Chloe took it.
40:56She looked at it with open contempt.
40:58This is what you show up with, Elena?
41:00This quality?
41:01She flipped it over and let it fall.
41:03Then she drove her stiletto heel directly through the crystal face.
41:06It shattered like a spider's web.
41:08Tears broke free before I could stop them.
41:10You want to compete with me?
41:12Know your place.
41:13Something snapped.
41:14I flew at her and snapped her across.
41:16You had no right!
41:18That was mine!
41:19Chloe screamed, hands flying to her cheek.
41:21You hit me!
41:22You actually hit me!
41:23Ethan shoved me backward and rushed to check her face.
41:25Chloe raised a hand.
41:27Her bodyguards pinned my arms behind me.
41:29She looked up at Ethan, slow and deliberate.
41:31Ethan, she hit me.
41:34What are you going to do about it?
41:37Before I could process what was happening,
41:39Ethan turned and slapped me across the face.
41:41My left cheek ignited.
41:43I tasted blood at the corner of my mouth.
41:46Let go of me, Ethan!
41:48That gift was never for you!
41:50I've been too lenient with you.
41:53This is what you've earned.
41:55And then he just kept going.
41:56One strike after another.
41:58At some point, I started losing track.
42:00The ringing in my ears swallowed every other sound.
42:03Through the blur, I could make out Chloe holding up her phone.
42:05Thinning, thinning, grinning, Ethan said.
42:09Last one.
42:09Get yourself under control, Elena.
42:11If you ever lay a hand on Chloe again, I will cut you off completely.
42:15You won't even have the mistress option to fall back, Don.
42:18The final blow landed.
42:19A tooth hit the floor.
42:21The room went black.
42:23When I opened my eyes, the air smelled of antiseptic.
42:26My mother was slumped over the edge of my hospital bed, hair disheveled.
42:29The moment she saw me wake, tears streamed down her face.
42:32Thank God.
42:34You're awake.
42:37I'll get the doctor!
42:38I watched her hurry out.
42:40Something didn't add up.
42:41She was always so put together.
42:43Why was there dried mud caked into her clothes?
42:45My phone was overwhelmed with missed calls and messages from Julian.
42:49All 99 plus.
42:50I didn't want him to worry.
42:52I sent a quick lie.
42:53That my period cramps had knocked me out after I'd taken some medicine.
42:56A pause.
42:57Then one message came back.
42:59A small, goofy cat sticker.
43:01Rest well.
43:02I stared at it.
43:03Julian's unreadable face sending something this soft.
43:06It made me smile despite myself.
43:08He was nothing like the rumors.
43:10The doctor came, ran through the checks, declared nothing permanently damaged.
43:14I waited until she left.
43:16Mom.
43:16My mother shook her head and pulled me into a hug, her voice breaking.
43:19You've been through enough.
43:21Did they know what had happened?
43:23Where's dad?
43:24I looked around.
43:25At that, she fell apart completely.
43:28Sweetheart, your father and I, we failed you.
43:32We couldn't get justice for you.
43:35I gripped her hand.
43:36Mom.
43:38What happened?
43:39A cold dread was already rising up my spine.
43:42She held out her phone with trembling fingers.
43:44Someone sent us the video.
43:47You being beaten.
43:48Your father.
43:49He couldn't stand it.
43:50He went to Ethan, demanded an apology.
43:52But the Harrington family wanted it buried.
43:54They threatened him.
43:56Told him to delete the footage and keep his mouth shut.
43:59You know your father.
44:00He refused.
44:02And then...
44:03Her hands were shaking too badly to hold the phone steady.
44:06They broke his leg, Elena.
44:08Dragged him inside and they're holding him.
44:11They said they won't release him until Ethan and Chloe's wedding is over.
44:17The blood drained from my body.
44:18Call Julian!
44:19I was on my feet before the thought had fully formed.
44:21I told my mother to call Julian.
44:23Then I ran straight for the Harrington estate.
44:25I hammered the doorbell like I was trying to break it.
44:27My heart was slamming against my ribs.
44:29My father had a severe heart condition and high blood pressure.
44:32He could not survive this.
44:34The door swung open.
44:35Chloe stood in the frame, wearing a silk robe, watching me with lazy amusement.
44:40Oh, back again to...
44:41I shoved past her and walked straight in.
44:43Ethan was shirtless in the hallway, glaring at me.
44:46What is wrong with your family?
44:47You all just take turns showing up to harass me?
44:50Where is my father, Ethan?
44:52Ethan pulled Chloe into his side, entirely unbothered.
44:55Relax.
44:57He's my former father-in-law, technically.
45:00I got him a doctor.
45:01We'll let him go once Chloe and I are married.
45:05Release him now.
45:06Or I go straight to Julian.
45:08My hands were locked into fists.
45:10I didn't look away.
45:12Ethan's lip curled.
45:13Who do you think you are, threatening me with Julian Ashford?
45:16Chloe is the most beloved princess of the Ashford family.
45:20What exactly are you?
45:21Chloe nestled deeper into his arm and tilted her chin up.
45:24My brother doles on me.
45:27Who do you think he's going to believe?
45:29Tears were streaming before I could stop them.
45:31Ethan, your father never treated you badly.
45:33I never treated you badly.
45:35Not once in five years.
45:36Do you have any conscience left at all?
45:39Ethan's brow furrowed.
45:41The look of someone who thinks he's finally figured out the puzzle.
45:43I knew it.
45:44You still haven't given up on marrying me.
45:46And your father.
45:47He was trying to blow up my wedding so he could push you on me instead.
45:51Elena, honestly, if there were no Chloe, you might have moved me.
45:54Maybe.
45:55But you've completely disgusted me now.
45:57Have you no self-respect?
45:59Not even a shred of dignity?
46:00Why do you keep clinging to me?
46:02Something inside me cracked wide open.
46:04I grabbed the ashtray off the nearest surface and hurled it at his head.
46:08Chloe screamed.
46:09Ethan doubled forward, blood streaming from his temple.
46:12He whore, closed the gap in two steps, and wrapped his hands around my throat, slamming
46:16me against the wall.
46:17Then from the far corner, a figure dragged himself across the floor.
46:20My father.
46:21One leg bent at the wrong angle, crawling toward us on sheer will alone.
46:25He threw himself into Ethan and broke his grip.
46:27You, you animal.
46:28The words died in his throat.
46:30His hand went to his chest.
46:32He fell.
46:34I met a pair of dark, deep eyes.
46:37Julian.
46:38He looked at me.
46:40Get up.
46:41The ground is cold.
46:42I reached out.
46:43He pulled me to my feet.
46:44Then my vision suddenly went black.
46:46I fainted.
46:47I braved the rain to deliver a birthday gift to my fiancé Christian, only to find him kissing
46:52a rising actress.
46:53Being the good girl I was, I didn't cry or make a scene.
46:57Christian, we're calling off the engagement.
46:59I announced the engagement was off, and walked away without looking back.
47:02The next time we met, I was wrapped in Julian's arms.
47:05Christian's mortal enemy, the most powerful man in the city.
47:08Our fingers interlocked.
47:09Christian stared at my face, eyes bloodshot.
47:11Vivian, I forbid you from being with another man.
47:14Today was Christian's birthday.
47:16Last night I refused him in the final shot again, because I wanted to save our first time
47:19in our wedding night.
47:20Hope this gift will mend it.
47:21I was soaked to the bone, gift in hand.
47:23Just about to push open the private room door, when I stopped.
47:26Through the gap, I saw Christian kissing a woman, their tongues intertwining.
47:30Her bra almost falling off, and his lower part clearly...
47:33Mr. Blackwell really has it all.
47:34A beautiful fiancé at home, and never short of women when he's out.
47:37Christian lifted his head from her bustum.
47:39The woman in his arms flushed red.
47:40How could I ever compare to Miss Hartley?
47:43She's so beautiful.
47:44She lit a cigarette and kissed the first smoke into his mouth.
47:49Beautiful or not, I'm bored of that stupid prude.
47:51Laughter erupted inside the room.
47:53Exactly!
47:53A boring beauty who doesn't know how to please a man in bed.
47:56Christian bit down on his cigarette.
47:57Marrying her would just be keeping a display piece around.
47:59But she, she is different.
48:01Gosh, I can't get enough of her lips.
48:03I mean, down there.
48:03I tightened my grip on the gift box.
48:05The sharp edges cut into my skin.
48:07Blood beat it up.
48:07He was the one agreeing to us postponing the sex to our wedding night.
48:10He said I was the purest girl in the whole world.
48:13But turned out, I was just a laugh.
48:14My heart ached.
48:15I pushed the door open and walked in.
48:17Every pair of eyes turned to me.
48:18The air went still.
48:19I fixed my gaze on Christian, throat dry.
48:22Christian was at first taken back.
48:23But as that woman to look me in the eye.
48:25Christian, do you really not want to marry me that badly?
48:27He avoided my gaze.
48:28Vivian, whether I want to marry you or not, don't you already know the answer?
48:33You don't know about man.
48:35I lowered my eyes.
48:37I pointed at her.
48:38And she does?
48:39And about to come at the woman who just can't keep her hands off my man.
48:42Just then, Christian slapped me to the ground.
48:46Don't you dare touch her.
48:47Dirty rainwater dripped from the hem onto the floor.
48:49After a long silence, I wiped the tears from my face.
48:51Fine.
48:52I'll give you what you want.
48:53We're calling off the engagement.
48:55I turned.
48:56Someone asked.
48:56Blackwell, aren't you going after her?
48:58Go after her for what?
49:00In two days, she'll come crawling back.
49:03She's like a piece of tamphy.
49:04Impossible to shake off.
49:06My footsteps faltered at the door.
49:08I closed my eyes.
49:09Christian, rest assured.
49:10Not turning back.
49:11I will never bother you again.
49:12My words fell.
49:13Behind me came the sound of a glass shattering on the floor.
49:15In the past, the moment he lost his temper, I would rush to appease him.
49:19Not anymore.
49:19I was exhausted.
49:20Vivian, you dare take one step out of here and see what happens.
49:23I walked out without hesitation.
49:25My phone buzzed.
49:26It was Julian, the richest man in the city who just won't stop chasing after me since we met.
49:30Could you pick me up?
49:31I have thought about the contract marriage.
49:33And?
49:34I will do it.
49:35I stepped out of the club and looked down at the gift box in my hands.
49:39A Patek Philippe watch.
49:40Christian loved this model.
49:41I had gone out of my way to have someone buy it for me.
49:44Christian and I were childhood sweethearts.
49:46Our engagement had been set since we were young.
49:48One afternoon after school, I was nearly accosted by two delinquents.
49:52They had ripped my uniform.
49:53Christian was the one who saved me.
49:55After that, I was certain about him.
49:57Everyone knew I couldn't leave Christian.
49:59That I was devoted to him completely.
50:01I believed I would spend my whole life with him.
50:04I never thought a whole life could be so short.
50:07I dropped the watch into a trash can.
50:09The watch.
50:09I didn't want it anymore.
50:11Christian.
50:11I didn't want him anymore either.
50:13I took out my phone and posted a statement on social media.
50:17Declaring that Christian and I had broken up and the engagement was dissolved.
50:21The moment I posted it, a friend sent me a video.
50:24She said she had run into Christian cheating and told me to come confront him.
50:28In the video, Christian had been growing bolder.
50:31My wet dress clung to my skin.
50:33My entire body felt wrapped in bone-deep cold.
50:36Not a trace of warmth remained.
50:38I wandered down the street with no direction.
50:41The rain intensified.
50:42I hadn't opened an umbrella.
50:44I let the rain fall on me.
50:45I wasn't paying attention, and someone's shoulder clipped mine.
50:49I stumbled and fell to the ground.
50:51Utterly disheveled.
50:52Waves of grief surged up from somewhere deep inside.
50:55Then, out of nowhere, a large hand appeared before me.
50:59I looked up.
50:59I met a pair of dark, deep eyes.
51:02Julian.
51:03He looked at me.
51:05Get up.
51:06The ground is cold.
51:07I reached out.
51:08He pulled me to my feet.
51:09Then my vision suddenly went black.
51:11I fainted.
51:12When I came to, I was lying in a bed.
51:15I sat up and stared out the window at the pitch-black sky.
51:18Slightly dazed.
51:19The room was clean and tidy.
51:21Black and white decor.
51:22Julian had brought me to his home.
51:24I raised my hand and touched my forehead.
51:26A fever.
51:27You're awake.
51:28I turned.
51:28A low, measured voice cut through the silence.
51:31Julian stood in the doorway.
51:32Devastatingly handsome.
51:33Past life.
51:35Sister gave me cursed witch necklace.
51:37Stole my strength.
51:39Stole my health.
51:42Three days from now, moon god alter.
51:45Her position's yours.
51:49Last of all, they wanted my life.
51:51Rafe!
51:52You will regret this!
51:54The moon goddess will punish your betrayal!
52:00I'll watch you from the abyss forever, Rafe.
52:08Hello, Lennon.
52:09What's wrong with you?
52:11Looking around at everything, I know the moon goddess gave me a second chance.
52:16But she's here again.
52:17With that cursed necklace.
52:19This was my mom's.
52:21May it bless you and the Alpha King forever.
52:23Thanks for the gift.
52:25But rumor is shadow witches make luck-stealing necklaces out of their mom's souls.
52:31That witch reeks.
52:33You lowly lackey!
52:35How dare you slander me!
52:38Stop!
52:38Some Omega servant dares to defy me at my Anquite!
52:41Seize her!
52:42A hundred flaps, then throw her into the death cell!
52:44That familiar hatred in his eyes.
52:47I know.
52:48He's returned from hell, just like me.
52:53King.
52:54He's an elder council messenger.
52:56Insulting him defies the council.
52:58This matter must be brought before them.
53:02Your majesty!
53:03That's all lies!
53:05The council will find out.
53:07He lies, I hang him.
53:09But what if he's not?
53:15Tomorrow's my mom's death anniversary.
53:18Come pray with me at the Lunar Temple.
53:20The moonlight there's the purest.
53:22It washes away all the filth.
53:24Okay.
53:27Rafe.
53:29Rafe.
53:29Leela.
53:30The game begins.
53:36I replicated Leela's curse necklace.
53:38Every single detail.
53:40Who are you?
53:42Just like you, I dragged myself back from the cliff of broken souls.
53:46I remember it all.
53:48You tried to expose Leela, the shadow witch.
53:51She nailed you to the rack.
53:52Soul-eating curse.
53:54Day and night.
53:56The second you died.
53:57I was the only one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the
53:57one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the
53:57one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the
53:57one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the
53:57one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the one who was the
53:57one who was the one who had the two.
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