The Day I Quit Loving You is a deeply emotional romance drama about a woman who finally decides to walk away from the man she loved for years. After enduring heartbreak, betrayal, and endless disappointment, she chooses herself for the first time.
But as she begins a new chapter, the man who once took her love for granted is forced to confront the consequences of his choices. Now, regret becomes his greatest punishment as he desperately tries to win back the woman who no longer belongs to him.
Watch the Full Episode filled with heartbreak, healing, redemption, emotional twists, and a powerful story of self-worth and moving on.
#TheDayIQuitLovingYou #HeartbreakRomance #SecondChanceLove #LoveAndRegret #RomanticDrama #EmotionalDrama #DramaSeries #DramaUrbano #ShortDrama #ShortFilm #ShortMovie #FullEP #ENGSUB #BetrayalDrama #RedemptionStory #MovingOn #LoveStory #ViralDrama #TrendingDrama #RomanceSeries
But as she begins a new chapter, the man who once took her love for granted is forced to confront the consequences of his choices. Now, regret becomes his greatest punishment as he desperately tries to win back the woman who no longer belongs to him.
Watch the Full Episode filled with heartbreak, healing, redemption, emotional twists, and a powerful story of self-worth and moving on.
#TheDayIQuitLovingYou #HeartbreakRomance #SecondChanceLove #LoveAndRegret #RomanticDrama #EmotionalDrama #DramaSeries #DramaUrbano #ShortDrama #ShortFilm #ShortMovie #FullEP #ENGSUB #BetrayalDrama #RedemptionStory #MovingOn #LoveStory #ViralDrama #TrendingDrama #RomanceSeries
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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
00:48in a playful, complaining tone. Rod, why are you back so late? Polly's been asking
00:55for you. Miss Wright? I nodded politely. She hurriedly explained. Miss Wright, please don't
01:06misunderstand. Rod has been swamped with work lately, so I just came over to make some soup
01:11for him. I kept forgetting the passcode, so he changed it to my birthday. I'll change
01:18it back right away. Despite her words, she didn't move. The glint of triumph in her eyes
01:24was unmistakable. Daddy! A small figure threw herself at Rodney's leg. Lindsay hastily covered
01:33her mouth, looking terrified of me. Polly, what did I say? Call him Rodney. Rodney looked
01:41at Kara and me, seeming embarrassed. But we didn't make a scene as we used to. A flicker
01:46of surprise crossed his face. Kara's room was now filled with unfamiliar items. Lindsay
01:53bit her lip gently.
01:58Polly sometimes stays the night here. I could feel Kara's hand, which I was holding, clenched
02:03tightly.
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.
02:21In the past, when Kara saw Rodney taking care of Polly, she'd always pout and cry her eyes
02:26out, 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
02:40room so changed, she just stared at it calmly. Children were sensitive. She might be young,
02:46but she already knew, 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
03:15looked at 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.
03:52He 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.
04:04I'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.
04:13A 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,
04:38and Kara would be dragged into the mess.
04:40After Kara fell asleep, Rodney handed me a box.
04:44It was the black diamond necklace I once wanted but lost to another bidder.
04:49If this were before, I would have probably thrown myself into his arms, overjoyed.
04:54But now, I felt nothing but calm.
04:56I used to adore jewelry.
04:58But after I moved to the shantytown with Kara, one day, a thief yanked the necklace from around my neck.
05:08I fell down the stairs and hit my head hard enough to open a gash.
05:12Blood trickled down.
05:13From that day on, I realized jewelry was fancy but useless.
05:16It 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.
05:30But I'm no longer into jewelry.
05:32He froze slightly.
05:33I went to the kitchen to cut fruit.
05:35When I returned, he had already left.
05:39And I didn't care.
05:41That was new.
05:42In the afternoon, I took Kara out.
05:48Money had been tight these past few years.
05:51And 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.
06:12And 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.
06:30She'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.
06:51Mine my daughter can wear now.
06:53Hearing my voice.
06:55The 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.
07:25I 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 misunderstand 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,
09:00his 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.
09:14Life 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?
13:54Can'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.
14:22Because 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.
14:49What 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?
15:27Mrs. 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.
15:41Mrs. Wright?
15:42I'm Rod's personal secretary.
15:44He 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,
15:55I 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.
16:47Her 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.
17:08And 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?
17:47It's you to 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, rubbing 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, seriously?
18:50That's your masterstroke?
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.
19:12The 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, and within half a year, he was forced to file
19:35for 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
19:51in a shantytown.
19:52Kara suffered alongside me.
19:58Countless nights, I woke up crying from dreams, filled with regret for dragging her into this
20:03mess.
20:04This 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
20:40built up a loyal 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.
20:50Besides, 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.
21:14I 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.
21:42While 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.
22:10Rodney 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, and 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.
23:54A 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.
24:41Not long after Rodney left, Kara's kindergarten teacher called.
24:51Mrs. 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?
25:24I 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.
26:07I 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.
26:50And 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.
28:37Kara, 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.
28:53Rodney 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, disbelief etched across his face.
29:26You 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.
29:51Polly 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,
30:07so he locked Kara in her room without even asking 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 groans 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.
31:12Please, 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.
31:29I was so fed up with the farce.
31:32The years of patience.
31:33The swallowing of pride.
31:34It all shattered in that instant.
31:37Enough, Lindsay.
31:38I'm tired of your lame act.
31:41Just 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 glanced 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.
32:47Shut 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, suggesting 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, I 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?
33:52He 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, but that doesn't mean you can say whatever comes to mind in the heat of the
34:11moment.
34:12I cut him off, my calm finally cracking.
34:14Rodney, this isn't heat of the moment.
34:17I 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.
34:33You and Kara are my family.
34:35Why would I-
34:36A cold laugh escaped me.
34:41Oh, really?
34:43A wave of weariness washed over me, and 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, he answered with difficulty, his voice rough.
35:00Yes.
35:03Before I could speak, he continued urgently.
35:07But I only agreed to that divorce.
35:11Because I was angry you didn't trust me.
35:13Later, 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, just to force me to surrender.
35:36Rodney shifted his gaze uneasily.
35:39I came to you.
35:41I looked straight at him, each word deliberate.
35:43I came to you when Kara had appendicitis.
35:46But your company's security guards threw me out.
35:49I had been truly desperate then.
35:51After paying rent, I only had $50 left.
35:55After rushing Kara to the hospital, I realized my bag had been slashed open.
36:00The money was gone.
36:01That day, I waited outside the Phoenix Tech building for 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 in 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 were just understanding enough, we could have a stable life with
36:35you.
36:43But I was wrong.
36:47Rodney, you're not fit to be my husband or Kara's father.
36:50This remarriage was a mistake.
36:54From the very beginning, Rodney stood frozen, staring at me intently.
36:59His lips parted, but for a long time, no sound came out.
37:02Rodney turned to leave.
37:10Pausing at the door, his back still to me.
37:14Bernie, I'll make things right.
37:17I'm not signing the divorce papers.
37:20I didn't feel anxious.
37:22I knew.
37:23He just couldn't accept me leaving him again.
37:26It was only a matter of time before he agreed.
37:29The next day, Rodney returned to the hospital.
37:34Bernie, I brought the cupcakes you like, and the macaroons Kara loves.
37:38I accepted them naturally and shared them with Kara.
37:42She chatted with me the whole time, not once looking Rodney's way.
37:49The hurt in his eyes was unmistakable.
37:53After we finished, Rodney cleared the table and washed some fruit.
37:56While Kara watched cartoons, I worked quietly on a handmade accessory nearby.
38:01Rodney sat for a while before leaning toward Kara.
38:06What are you watching, Kara?
38:07She lifted her clear eyes to look at him,
38:09then silently looked back down.
38:11He couldn't keep the smile on his face any longer
38:14and left soon after, making up some excuse.
38:18He was trying, in his own clumsy way.
38:21But trying wasn't enough.
38:22Not anymore.
38:30Another evening, just before visiting hours ended,
38:34Rodney rushed into the hospital.
38:35I happened to step out to fetch water
38:37when Rodney pulled me into a tight embrace.
38:40I struggled but couldn't break free.
38:43His voice trembled with remorse.
38:46I found one of the security guards.
38:48He admitted Lindsay told them to kick you out.
38:52Bernie, I'm sorry.
38:53I didn't know she'd do something like that.
38:57I'm letting her go.
38:58I pushed him away expressionlessly.
39:00That was the least he should have done.
39:02Back then, a kind doctor had paid Kara's surgery deposit in advance.
39:07Otherwise, she wouldn't have gotten the appendectomy in time.
39:10Yet Rodney, her own father, had sat high and untouchable,
39:14waiting for us to crawl back to him.
39:21I walked back into the room and handed him the divorce papers.
39:27Kara stays with me.
39:31Look over the rest if acceptable, sign it.
39:37Rodney's hand went slack and the papers fluttered to the floor.
39:40He gripped my shoulders, pleading.
39:46Bernie, I swear...
39:49I'll cut Lindsay out completely.
39:51Let's start over.
39:52We can still build a good life together, alright?
39:56I met his gaze evenly.
40:03Rodney, if you'd been like this three years ago, we wouldn't be here now.
40:13If you won't sign, fine.
40:15I'll take it to court.
40:20Phoenix Tech is about to go public, isn't it?
40:23He stumbled back a few steps, regret written across his face.
40:29But I didn't care anymore.
40:30I turned and went back inside.
40:35Rodney still didn't sign, so I emailed him the electronic version.
40:39Over the next few days, Rodney came to the hospital every day as if nothing had happened,
40:44checking on Kara and staying a while.
40:46After Kara was discharged, we moved to a new apartment.
40:49I didn't want the villa we'd shared before, it felt tainted now.
40:53Rodney's mother, Jeanette O'Connor,
40:55showed up at our door just as Kara and I were bathing the puppy we'd just adopted.
41:06Bernie,
41:07you and Rod have been through so 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.
41:24You young people make everything so dramatic.
41:27Lynn and Rod grew up together,
41:29so what if he looks out for her?
41:32If there were really anything between them,
41:34they'd have married years ago.
41:35You wouldn't have even been in the picture.
41:39Realizing she'd gone too far,
41:41she cleared her throat softly.
41:43Anyway,
41:44just think about Kara before you decide.
41:47Besides,
41:48what decent man wants a divorced woman with a child?
41:54I listened with detached calm,
41:56neither arguing nor agreeing.
41:58So pretentious.
42:00Her voice was barely audible as she walked away.
42:02I texted Rodney afterward.
42:04Don't send anyone else to change my mind.
42:06It won't work.
42:07I want to divorce Rodney.
42:12He 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 upturned 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 after putting him on the bed.
42:41I tossed a wet towel onto his face.
42:55Stop the act.
42:57I know how well you hold your liquor.
43:02After 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,
43:13you wouldn't have let me in.
43:14I looked at him without a word.
43:16He ran a hand slowly through his hair,
43:18his voice suddenly rough with emotion.
43:20Bernie,
43:21I'm so sorry.
43:25I truly didn't know Lindsay would go against you like that.
43:29She used
43:32Phoenix Tech's name to contact several business partners and targeted your father all behind my back.
43:38Then she kept undermining your job hunt.
43:40I stood up, shocked.
43:42Everything made sense now.
43:44No wonder I'd been fired from every job for no real reason,
43:47even with a degree from a top university.
43:49Later,
43:50no company would even call me for an interview.
43:53In the end,
43:54I'd had to make a living selling my crafts on the street.
43:58Rodney looked at me,
44:00eyes bloodshot,
44:01his face etched with remorse.
44:02I'm sorry.
44:04You never came to me,
44:05and I was so angry.
44:08I just stopped paying attention.
44:10Rodney stepped closer,
44:11his lowered gaze full of sorrow.
44:13Will you
44:14never forgive me?
44:16Suddenly,
44:17fragments of memory washed over me.
44:19The Rodney who was at a loss when I first told him how I felt about him.
44:24The Rodney who skipped class to take me to the hospital after I sprained my ankle in gym.
44:29The Rodney who was so thrilled to learn I was pregnant that he drove the wrong way home.
44:34And the Rodney who looked at me with disgust and said he regretted marrying me.
44:39After the first divorce,
44:41I'd been too busy surviving to dwell on emotions.
44:44But now,
44:45I finally understood,
44:46I had completely let go.
44:48I shook my head.
44:49I don't hate you.
44:53So forgiveness doesn't even come into it.
44:55Rodney's eyes clouded instantly with moisture.
44:58Ashamed,
44:58he turned away to hide it.
45:00From now on,
45:01the only relationship we have is as Kara's co-parents.
45:04Then I returned to the bedroom.
45:06I didn't know how much time had passed before I heard the main door close softly.
45:10When I came out,
45:11the signed divorce papers lay on the coffee table.
45:14He had revised the terms.
45:15He gave me more assets.
45:17Now I was wealthier than he was.
45:21My lawyer had all the materials ready and filed a suit against Lindsay.
45:25Demanding she returned the marital assets she'd received from Rodney.
45:29On the day of the hearing,
45:31Lindsay appeared,
45:32stripped of all luxury.
45:33The radiant aura she once had was gone.
45:36Dropping her delicate,
45:37harmless facade,
45:38she glared at me with naked hatred.
45:40With solid proof,
45:42transfer records and purchase receipts.
45:44The amount she was ordered to return exceeded $350,000.
45:48While I had struggled to put food on the table,
45:51Rodney had been lavishing a fortune on his friend.
45:53I felt a gaze fixed on me.
45:55But I pretended not to notice.
45:57Once the judgment was announced,
45:59I walked straight out.
46:00Lindsay charged after me,
46:02shouting furiously.
46:03Bernina,
46:04I don't think you've won!
46:05I stopped and turned with a derisive scoff.
46:09Everything you fought so desperately for is something I no longer want.
46:14You?
46:16You're nothing but a trash collector.
46:22Furious,
46:23she stomped her foot and lunged to slap me,
46:25no longer caring about her image,
46:27only to be yanked back and shoved away by a strong hand.
46:30After a cold glance at her,
46:31Rodney walked toward me.
46:32Behind him,
46:33she shrieked miserably.
46:35Rodney!
46:36I've,
46:36I've waited for you all these years!
46:40How could you do this to me?
46:43You promised my mom you'd take care of me forever!
46:47Have you forgotten?
46:53Rodney's expression darkened.
46:55He hurriedly explained to me.
47:00I smiled indifferently and turned to leave.
47:04Now that we were divorcing,
47:06I didn't give a damn what had or hadn't happened between them.
47:09My heart was closed,
47:11and no explanation could open it.
47:16Rodney sued Lindsay for leaking company secrets and embezzling funds.
47:20The evidence was solid.
47:22Lindsay was sentenced to three years in prison.
47:25Three years.
47:25It would never undo what she'd done.
47:28A month later,
47:29Rodney and I finalized our divorce.
47:31I had dressed up and had my hair done.
47:33When I walked out with the divorce certificate in 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 came from behind me.
47:46Could we have one last meal together?
47:49I turned these days.
47:50Rodney had looked worn down.
47:52He looked like a man who'd lost everything,
47:54because he had.
47:56His hair was untidy,
47:57bangs falling across his eyes.
47:59Dark circles shadowed his cheeks.
48:01His beard was unshaven,
48:03and his face seemed thinner.
48:04The second divorce seemed to have hit him hard.
48:07Good.
48:08It was about time he felt something.
48:10I smiled.
48:11I'll pass.
48:12I 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.
48:21Back when I was at the hospital,
48:22a nurse had bought a few pet clothes from me.
48:26The nurse posted photos of her cat wearing them online,
48:29and they unexpectedly went viral.
48:32Orders for my online shop flooded in within days.
48:35The apartment was overrun by my work materials.
48:38After looking around,
48:39I rented a studio.
48:40The renovation was nearly done,
48:42and we were airing it out.
48:44Standing before the tidy work tables
48:45and neatly organized materials.
48:47I couldn't help recording a short clip
48:49and posting it on my social account.
48:51Every piece I made carried a story.
48:53My story.
48:54Not anyone else's.
48:55For the first time,
48:56I was building something that couldn't be taken away.
48:58I used to anchor my entire life to Rodney.
49:00Looking back now,
49:01I realized how foolish I had been.
49:03I should have shed the label of full-time homemaker long ago
49:06and found my own worth.
49:07This studio marked the beginning of a new chapter.
49:10Right after I posted,
49:11the video received a like from an account named Ro.
49:17R.O. Rodney O'Connor.
49:19Still watching,
49:21still too late.
49:22Children's bones healed quickly.
49:24Kara recovered well
49:25and after a final checkup
49:26was cleared to return to school.
49:28One day,
49:29I went to pick her up.
49:31The moment we returned to the car,
49:32we saw a boy sitting in the back seat.
49:36Lewis!
49:37What are you doing in my mommy's car?
49:40I almost laughed at the indignation in her voice.
49:43Lewis Blanchard covered her mouth.
49:52If my uncle hears you,
49:54I'm dead!
49:55Just then,
49:56a deep voice sounded outside.
49:58Lewis!
49:58Out!
49:59I turned to see a tall,
50:01sharp-featured man standing beside the car.
50:03Lewis kicked and protested,
50:05but the man lifted him out effortlessly.
50:07After apologizing to me,
50:09he carried Lewis away by the collar.
50:14Lewis is the class bully from D2.
50:17Mrs. Bryant told us to stay away from him.
50:20She scrunched up her little brow.
50:28Mommy,
50:29what's a rich, eligible bachelor?
50:34At nap time,
50:36Ms. Bryant said
50:36Lewis's 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?
50:48Life was slowly piecing itself back together
50:50over the next six months.
50:51My studio gained momentum.
50:55I partnered with a factory
50:56to add batch-produced lines
50:58alongside my handmade items.
50:59I wanted to build my own brand step-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,
51:15I saw the director seeing someone out.
51:17It was Lewis' uncle.
51:18We'd only met once,
51:20so I simply nodded and turned to leave.
51:22But he called out to me.
51:27Carlton Gilbert
51:28He introduced himself.
51:30Executive director at Starlight Group.
51:33He had seen my studio's samples at the factory
51:35and was very interested.
51:36Starlight Group was preparing year-end gifts,
51:38small in quantity,
51:39but with high design standards.
51:41He hadn't yet found a design that clicked.
51:43Of course,
51:44I wouldn't miss a business opportunity.
51:47Not after everything I'd fought for.
51:49We exchanged contacts.
51:51Something about his directness was refreshing.
51:53No games.
51:54No hidden agendas.
51:56Just business.
51:57I had no idea that my past
51:59was already waiting for me at the studio.
52:03As soon as I returned to 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 of the divorce.
52:18His suit hung loosely.
52:19His eyes lit up when he saw me,
52:21the joy on his face undisguised.
52:25That joy cut deeper than any accusation
52:28because I couldn't return it.
52:30Not anymore.
52:31He had set up a trust fund for Kara.
52:40I don't think I'll get to 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 with liver cancer.
52:57Late stage.
52:58I opened my mouth
52:59but didn't know what to say.
53:01What do you say to someone who's dying?
53:03Someone you used to love?
53:05Silence filled the room.
53:06The light in Rodney's eyes slowly faded
53:08and he smiled self-mockingly.
53:10Before leaving,
53:10he suddenly pulled me into his embrace.
53:12I felt the heat of tears against my neck.
53:14I'm sorry.
53:16His voice was choked.
53:17I stood frozen,
53:18my hands at my sides.
53:21Rodney died for months later.
53:23He had notarized his will in advance,
53:26dividing his company shares among me,
53:28Kara and Jeanette.
53:31At least your ex-husband
53:33did one decent thing before he died.
53:35Carlton swapped his neatly cut steak for mine.
53:40It's been a while since the divorce.
53:43Aren't you thinking of letting someone new into the picture?
53:45I met his gaze.
53:46Mr. Gilbert,
53:47is that someone you?
53:58I won't argue if that's what you think.
54:00We clinked glasses and smiled at each other.
54:03The seasons changed.
54:04My studio grew from a small workshop
54:06into a brand that people recognized.
54:08Kara started first grade,
54:10top of her class,
54:11with a smile that could light up any room.
54:13She still didn't talk much about Rodney.
54:16But sometimes,
54:17I'd catch her sitting quietly,
54:19looking at old photos,
54:20her small fingers tracing his face.
54:23Carlton was there,
54:24steady,
54:25undemanding,
54:25sure,
54:26never pushing,
54:27always present.
54:27For 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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