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Short filmTranscript
00:00My husband bet on my womb. He drugged me, let his friend sleep with me, and laughed about how I'd
00:06never know I was carrying another man's baby.
00:08I was carrying another man's baby.
00:12When the DNA results came back, by paternal twins, he threw a party.
00:17A sip and see where I was forced into a red dress, drugged again, and made to dance while my
00:23infants were carried away crying.
00:27My mother overheard the truth and collapsed dead at my feet.
00:31Dominic's response.
00:34Stop crying. It's pathetic.
00:38I escaped that night with my newborns. Changed everything.
00:43Years later, when he found us begging for a second chance, I handed him a folder thick enough to put
00:50him in prison for ten years.
00:54Weak and trembling after the birth of my twins, I lay in the hospital bed.
00:59A conversation drifted in from the hallway outside my room.
01:03My husband, Dominic Kestel, was speaking to his childhood sweetheart, Jasleen Hatcliffe.
01:10You called it. The elder one looks like me.
01:15And the younger one is the spitting image of Lissy.
01:23The DNA test results confirmed they're biopaternal twins.
01:27I guess we both come out on top in this bed, right?
01:32Jasleen nestled against him with a coy smile.
01:36You're really something, Dom.
01:40I was just joking about whether a woman could carry babies from two different men at once.
01:44But you actually went and used your own wife as the labyrinth.
01:48My blood ran cold.
01:51That stupid woman didn't even realize she slept with Litte.
01:55She thought it was me.
01:56The drink I gave her that night?
01:58A man's voice cut in, laced with amusement.
02:00Oh, I can't wait to hear this.
02:04Gotta hand it to you, Dom.
02:07Cassie's got such an amazing body, yet you still went through with it.
02:10But aren't you worried she'll realize the younger twin isn't her?
02:14She might cause a scene.
02:16Dominic chuckled.
02:18His eyes were cold.
02:21She wouldn't dare.
02:23Right now, she's too busy being grateful for those two little bushes to even think of anything else.
02:28If she does cause trouble, I'll throw her and those brats onto the streets with nothing to their names.
02:34I clung to the wall.
02:36My vision swam with tears.
02:40Acting on instinct, I turned to flee.
02:43I ran straight into my mom around the corner.
02:47Cassie, where have you been?
02:48I've been looking everywhere for you.
02:50Her face was etched with worry.
02:52I opened my mouth, but no words came out.
02:56Tears poured down my face.
03:00Mom.
03:01The sound of Dominic and Jasleen's footsteps grew closer.
03:05I pulled mom back with me.
03:07But mom had already heard what they were saying.
03:10We need to keep an eye on that bitch, Cassandra.
03:13Make sure she never finds out her babies have different fathers.
03:17Jasleen's voice carried clearly down the hall.
03:19Mom's face turned deathly pale in an instant.
03:23Mom clutched her chest.
03:25Mom stumbled backward.
03:28Mom!
03:29I cried out in terror, lunging to steady her.
03:33Cassie, you're babies.
03:35Mom stammered, her eyes fixed on Dominic around the corner.
03:38The next second, mom collapsed heavily.
03:41Her head struck the floor with a sickening crack.
03:43Blood welled from her forehead.
03:47Help!
03:48Doctor!
03:49Medics!
03:50She's passed out!
03:52The hallway was empty.
03:54No one came to our aid.
03:56Fear washed over me.
03:59I dropped to my knees.
04:01I held mom in my arms.
04:03I stared at Dominic as he walked over.
04:06I met his gaze.
04:09Silently, I begged him to call for a doctor.
04:12If only for what we once had.
04:14But he just stood there, his face twisted with impatience.
04:18Jasleen whispered in his ear.
04:21Did she hear us?
04:23So what if she did?
04:27She'll still have to do exactly what I say.
04:31Dominic leaned in and murmured something in her ear.
04:33They let out a soft chuckle at the same time.
04:36The medics finally showed up.
04:38Panic on their faces.
04:39But their pace felt painfully delayed.
04:42They swarmed around mom.
04:45They immediately began resuscitation efforts.
04:48In the end, a doctor shook his head.
04:52Sudden heart attack.
04:58We were too late before we even started.
05:00My knees went numb from kneeling on the cold floor.
05:03My tears had run dry.
05:06My heart hollowed out.
05:08Dominic walked over.
05:09For a split second,
05:11I thought he might offer some shred of comfort.
05:14Stop crying.
05:16It's pathetic.
05:17The children still need you.
05:18I looked up.
05:20Only to be met with his disgusted glare.
05:22Then he turned and walked away.
05:25Arm in arm with Jasleen.
05:27Jasleen glanced back and flashed me a triumphant smile.
05:33Leaning against the wall for support,
05:35I made my way back to the hospital room.
05:38The sound of my babies crying filled the air.
05:41The woman eyed me with concern.
05:43Are you okay?
05:44I nodded and walked blankly over to the crib.
05:47The babies turned out to be nothing more than the product of a vile bet.
05:51But they were also my flesh and blood.
05:54The ones I had carried for nine long months.
05:57A surge of uncontrollable anger burned inside me.
06:00All those gentle, caring moments from our four-year marriage now felt like a cruel, ironic joke.
06:07Those nights, the intimacy I'd believed I shared with my husband had been nothing but a meticulously orchestrated bet.
06:15I remembered how Dominic would hold my hand after dinner.
06:18How he would kiss my forehead goodnight.
06:20How he would tell me I was the only woman who ever mattered.
06:23Every single moment was a lie.
06:25Those occasional, apologetic looks from Felix finally made sense.
06:31Felix was there that night, too.
06:33He knew what Dominic had done.
06:35He felt guilty, but he never said a word.
06:39I now understood what Dominic's so-called friends had really meant by those drunken words.
06:47Cassie, you're just so compliant.
06:50That wasn't a compliment.
06:54It was a mockery of how easily I trusted him.
07:01I picked up my babies.
07:03Tears fell onto their little faces.
07:05No matter who their fathers were, they were still my children.
07:09I couldn't stay in this house any longer.
07:12Before I left, I couldn't show the slightest hint of what I knew, or the three of us would be
07:18left with nowhere to go.
07:20When we returned home from the hospital, Dominic stood at the doorway.
07:24His gentle smile almost convinced me that everything that happened at the hospital had just been a nightmare.
07:30Cassie?
07:31Are you feeling any better?
07:35His eyes drifted toward the crib.
07:38I lowered my head, unable to speak.
07:41The thought that mom was gone forever tore my heart apart.
07:44I know.
07:45Losing your mom right after giving birth must be incredibly hard.
07:49His voice was gentle, just like the loving husband he once pretended to be.
07:54But I knew now that it had all been a lie.
07:57I hired a nanny to help with the babies.
07:59She'll be here tomorrow.
08:03Dominic walked over to me.
08:05He placed a gentle hand on my shoulder.
08:09Dominic walked over to me.
08:11Don't worry about the children.
08:14Genmai heard me.
08:15Can this cow me's?
08:16I nodded, fighting back tears.
08:19While a cold laugh echoed inside me.
08:21Before he turned to leave, he pulled a piece of paper out of his suit pocket.
08:27He tossed it onto the knit stand.
08:30I had the sip-and-see invitations printed.
08:32Be on your best behavior when the time comes.
08:34I trust you know what to do.
08:37His smile was warm.
08:38But his eyes were cold enough to freeze my blood.
08:42I bit down on my lower lip and nodded.
08:44I let out a breath only after he closed the door behind him.
08:50At eleven o'clock that night,
08:52I quietly got out of bed.
08:54I started stuffing old clothes into a suitcase.
08:57I carefully wrapped the baby's birth certificates, our SSN cards, and my bank cards.
09:04Then I tucked them into the lining of the suitcase.
09:08As I packed, my racing heart slowly began to calm.
09:12The babies were sound asleep in their crib.
09:15Their cheeks flushed and innocent.
09:17I had to get them out of this hellhole, no matter what.
09:21I whispered the promise softly.
09:23My sweet babies.
09:25Mom will never let you grow up in a place like this.
09:28The sound of the doorknob turning made my heart skip a beat.
09:31Dominic leaned against the doorframe, his gaze thoughtful.
09:37What are you doing up so late?
09:38I fumbled to close the suitcase, lying through my teeth.
09:46Just organizing some clothes.
09:48He took a few steps closer, his gaze locking onto my trembling hands.
09:53Is that so?
09:56Looks more like you're planning a trip.
09:58I shook my head, forcing myself to stay calm.
10:02How so?
10:03Where would I even go?
10:07He laughed.
10:08He lifted a hand to caress my cheek gently.
10:12Smart choice, Casey.
10:14My stomach churned, but I had to smile back.
10:19The next day, Jasleen barged into the bedroom with an elaborately wrapped box.
10:25Cassie, I brought you a dress for the sip and see tomorrow.
10:29Jasleen unzipped the box.
10:31Jasleen pulled out a skimpy red spaghetti strap dress.
10:36Dom said if your figures bounce back nicely, this one will look perfect on you.
10:40I clenched my fists.
10:43My voice turned cold.
10:45Jasleen's?
10:48I have my own clothes.
10:51Her smile never faltered, but her eyes were full of defiance.
10:57Lame, seer-pretty intermeddled.
10:59Dom picked this out himself.
11:00The standoff was broken when Dominic walked through the door.
11:04What's wrong?
11:06Jasleen immediately pouted.
11:09Dom, Cassie doesn't like the dress you picked out.
11:12His eyes locked on mine.
11:14They turned cold in an instant.
11:16Put it on.
11:19It's too revealing.
11:21I know it, that we'll wexer itchanger.
11:24I just gave birth to a baby.
11:26I tried to protest.
11:27He grabbed my wrist.
11:29At the full-month fesky.
11:31I need to show everyone.
11:33What a happy family we are.
11:36What only have the know-iters.
11:37Do you understand?
11:41Tears filled my eyes as I nodded.
11:44Hatred simmered in my chest.
11:51On the day of the sip-and-see, the entire villa was decked out in opulent decorations.
11:58Crystal chandeliers, fresh flower arrangements, champagne towers.
12:04Everything screamed wealth and perfection.
12:07I was forced into that red dress.
12:10The fabric barely covered my body.
12:13I felt exposed, vulnerable, like meat on display.
12:19Dominic paraded me in front of the crowd like an animal.
12:24Everyone, this is my wife, Cassandra Pulfetter.
12:27He wrapped an arm around my waist.
12:29He beamed at the guests.
12:31The room filled with horrendous cries and curious stares.
12:36I could feel their eyes roaming over me.
12:41Over the dress that left almost nothing to imagination.
12:52Whispers rippled through the crowd.
12:56Is that... his wife?
12:59What kind of husband would let her dress like this?
13:02What kind of husband lets her wear something like that?
13:06I kept my head down.
13:08My fingers dug into my palms.
13:13His smile never wavered.
13:15Aidois the Shruli you see was at Anshin.
13:17But I could feel the warning in his touch behave.
13:26Or else, Jasleen appeared at my side.
13:35Jasleen appeared at my side.
13:38Her arm linked through mine like we were old friends.
13:43Cassie, come meet everyone.
13:45Jasleen pulled me deeper into the crowd.
13:49Faces blurred past me.
13:51Names I didn't recognize.
13:53Smiles I didn't trust.
13:55I caught snippets of conversation wherever we went.
13:58The Kester heir finally settled down.
14:01Lucky man.
14:02Beautiful wife.
14:03Twin boys.
14:04He really knows how to put on a show.
14:07A show.
14:08That's all this was.
14:10I glanced back at Dominic across the room.
14:13He was laughing at something one of his friends said.
14:16His hand rested casually on Jasleen's lower back.
14:20No one else seemed to notice.
14:22Or maybe they did.
14:23And they just didn't care.
14:26This wasn't a celebration of our family.
14:28This was a performance.
14:30And I was the prop.
14:33The trophy wife in the red dress.
14:35Smiling while my world crumbled around me.
14:38Jasleen leaned in close.
14:40Her lips nearly brudging my ear.
14:43You're doing great, Cassie.
14:45Just keep smiling.
14:46Don't ruin Dom's big day.
14:49Her voice was sweet as honey.
14:51But her words were poison.
14:54An hour into the party,
14:56one of Dominic's business associates approached us.
14:59He was already drunk.
15:00His tie loosened.
15:01His eyes unfocused.
15:03Kester!
15:04He sluttered, raising his glass.
15:07Congratulations on the twins!
15:09Dominic nodded politely.
15:11The man's gaze slid to me.
15:13He let out a low whistle.
15:14Damn, Dom.
15:15You weren't kidding about your wife's figure.
15:17Where'd you find this one again?
15:20Laughter erupted from the men around us.
15:22My face burned.
15:23I wanted to disappear.
15:25From somewhere in the villa,
15:26the sound of crying pierced through the noise.
15:29My babies.
15:30They were in the nursery has to be upstairs.
15:33The Nancy must not have calmed them yet.
15:36My instinct kicked in.
15:38I needed to go to them.
15:40I turned toward the staircase.
15:42Dominic's hand clamped around my arm.
15:45Where are you going?
15:46The babies are crying.
15:47I should check on them.
15:48They're fine.
15:49The nursery can handle it.
15:50Your place is here.
15:52With me.
15:53With our guests.
15:55His voice was pleasant.
15:56His grip was iron.
15:57Jasleen stepped forward,
15:59holding out a glass of champagne.
16:02Here, Cassie.
16:03Have a drink.
16:04Relax.
16:05Enjoy yourself.
16:06You've been so tense all day.
16:08The lit inside shimmered.
16:09Something about it made my stomach turn.
16:11I don't drink.
16:13I'm...
16:13I'm still breastfeeding.
16:16One glass won't hurt.
16:21Jasleen pushed the glass closer.
16:23Her smile didn't reach her eyes.
16:28I tried to step back.
16:29But Dominic was behind me now.
16:31His chest pressed against my back.
16:34Trapping me between him and Jasleen.
16:36His voice dropped low.
16:37Take the drink, Cassandra.
16:38It's rude to refuse.
16:40I looked around the room.
16:42Dozens of eyes on us.
16:44Smiles.
16:45Curiosity.
16:46No one was coming to help.
16:47No one ever did.
16:50My hand reached for the glass.
16:52The rim touched my lips.
16:55The liquid was cold.
16:58Bitter.
17:00It burned going down.
17:04Good girl.
17:05Someone behind me laughed.
17:07And another whistle cut through the room.
17:10More champagne glasses appeared in front of me.
17:13One after another.
17:15Like a game I hadn't agreed to play.
17:18Dominic's hand found the small of my back.
17:20He steered me toward the center of the room.
17:23Toward the circle of his friends.
17:29Their faces flushed with alcohol and amusement.
17:32Be a good wife.
17:34Show them what you're made of.
17:36The room started to spin.
17:37The lights blurred together.
17:39The last thing I saw clearly was Jaisleen's smile.
17:43Triumphant.
17:44Cruel.
17:46Victorious.
17:52The guests around us exchanged knowing glances.
17:55They whispered among themselves.
17:58Heard she got knocked up by two different guys at the same time?
18:01Only Dom would dare make a bet on something like that.
18:05My face turned ashen as I listened to their cruel gossip.
18:11Cassie, don't hide in the corner.
18:14Jaisleen walked over.
18:16Jaisleen looped her arm through mine.
18:18Come mingle.
18:20Jaisleen pulled me through the crowd.
18:22I wanted to run, but there was nowhere to go.
18:29My vision began to blur.
18:32Across the room, Dominic stood laughing with a group of men.
18:35A drink in his hand.
18:39Dominic's eyes flicked toward me.
18:42A smirk played on Dominic's lips.
18:44His gaze sharp with warning.
18:47In that moment, everything clicked into place.
18:49This wasn't a celebration.
18:51This was their way to humiliate me.
18:54My marriage to him.
18:55My trust in him.
18:57My love for him.
18:58All of it had been one cruel joke.
19:05A drunk man let out a sleazy whistle.
19:09Dom, it's totally unfair that you only showed us photos.
19:12I wanted to escape this hellhole.
19:15But there was no way out.
19:21The sound of babies crying pierced the noise.
19:24I looked around frantically.
19:26I wanted to run to the nursery.
19:27I needed to get to my children.
19:29But every path seemed blocked by faces I didn't recognize.
19:33Faces that were all watching me.
19:34Waiting for something.
19:36I felt trapped in a cage made of people.
19:43Then Jaisleen appeared in front of me again.
19:46Jaisleen was holding a glass.
19:49Cassie, a toast to your beautiful babies.
19:55You must drink this.
19:58I stepped back.
19:59I shook my head.
20:01I'm sorry.
20:04I haven't fully recovered yet.
20:07I can't drink alcohol.
20:14Just one glass.
20:16Do me the honor.
20:19Jaisleen grinned her teeth.
20:21Jaisleen's smile still sickeningly sweet.
20:24I stared at the glass in Jaisleen's hand.
20:27The liquid inside caught the light.
20:30I didn't know what was in it.
20:32But every instinct in my body screamed at me not to touch it.
20:35Cassie.
20:37The voice came from from behind me.
20:39I froze.
20:40It was Dominic.
20:42Dominic had silently appeared at my back.
20:44Cassie, I understand you can't drink much liquor.
20:46But you have to drink this one from Lena.
20:49Drink it.
20:50Dominic's tone was gentle.
20:51But the look in Dominic's eyes was terrifying.
20:55I stood there, trapped between them.
20:59Jaisleen in front.
21:00Dominic behind.
21:02And a room full of strangers watching.
21:07I reached out with trembling fingers.
21:10I took the glass from Jaisleen's hand.
21:13My fingers shook so violently I could barely hold it.
21:17The glass felt cold against my palm.
21:19Or maybe that was just my own fear.
21:22Somehow, the guests had formed a tight circle around us.
21:26Their eyes fixed on me intently.
21:29Like wolves circling prey.
21:31I could feel their gazes on my skin.
21:33Heavy.
21:35Hungry.
21:36Waiting for me to break.
21:38I looked up at Dominic.
21:39He was still smiling.
21:40That same cold smile from across the room.
21:44The smile that had warned me.
21:46The smile that told me this was all planned.
21:50Every word.
21:52Every glance.
21:53Every moment of this nightmare.
21:55It had all been arranged.
21:58I brought the glass to my lips.
22:00There was no choice.
22:02There had never been a choice.
22:07I downed the drink in one gelp.
22:10The liquid burned my throat.
22:12It tasted bitter.
22:14Wrong.
22:16Something was off.
22:17The wine was drugged.
22:19I realized it too late.
22:21Within three minutes,
22:23a wave of Delizia swashed over me.
22:26My head spun.
22:27The walls seemed to breathe.
22:30The room began to hilt.
22:32Colors bled together at the edges of my vision.
22:36I stared at Dominic in horror.
22:38But he only smiled back.
22:40That same cold smile.
22:42Unmoved.
22:44Unbothered.
22:47Dom, your wife's face is all flushed.
22:50Why don't you make her dance for us?
22:52It'll liven things up.
22:57Someone laughed.
22:59More laughter erupted around me.
23:03Dominic nodded slowly.
23:05Cassie,
23:06don't disappoint the guests.
23:11No.
23:14I shook my head wheatly.
23:16But someone shoved me roughly into the middle of the circle.
23:20I stumbled.
23:22Nearly fell.
23:23The floor rushed up to meet me.
23:30Dom pleaded.
23:32I looked at the man who had once claimed to love me.
23:35The man I had trusted with everything.
23:38Be a good wife.
23:41He let out a cold laugh.
23:43The words hit me like a physical blow.
23:45I heard the babies crying again.
23:47I tried to lunge toward the nursery.
23:50But someone blocked my path.
23:52In the distance,
23:52I saw the Nancy holding my crying children.
23:55The Nancy looked over anxiously.
23:57The Nancy couldn't reach me either.
23:59His voice cold and commanding.
24:01Take the children farther away.
24:02They're spoiling the mood.
24:10Someone pulled out a phone and started filming me.
24:13The flash stung my eyes.
24:15Capturing every moment of my humiliation.
24:22Jaisleyne stood by Dominic's side.
24:25Jaisleyne looped her arm through his.
24:27A triumphant grin on Jaisleyne's face.
24:30Jaisleyne leaned close to my ear.
24:33Well?
24:36Do you feel ashamed?
24:40Tears blurred my vision.
24:42Through the haze,
24:43I saw Damiel's fingers laced with Jaisleyne's.
24:46The smile in Damiel's eyes
24:48sent a sharp ache straight through my heart.
24:52Dazed,
24:53I heard the baby's cries
24:54begin to fade into the distance.
24:57They were being taken away from me.
25:00I crawled toward the sound
25:01with the last of my strength.
25:07The guests erupted into laughter.
25:11Someone splashed wine on me.
25:16Others snapped photos of my humiliating state.
25:19I looked at Dominic.
25:21There was no pity in his eyes.
25:23None at all.
25:24I struggled to speak but failed.
25:26My limbs felt heavy and unresponsive.
25:29But my mind was terrifyingly clear.
25:31It's starting.
25:33Our game has only just begun.
25:42Dom,
25:43do you think she can hear us right now?
25:47Of course.
25:48The drink doesn't touch the mind.
25:51Tears slipped from the corners of my eyes.
25:54They fell onto the cold, hard floor beneath me.
25:59My baby's cries grew increasingly distant.
26:02My heart shattered all over again.
26:06Take those two little bastards far away.
26:08They're ruining the fun.
26:13Move the kids somewhere else.
26:15Make sure they stop their whining.
26:17I stared in despair at the man
26:19who had once shared my bed.
26:22He had turned into someone I scarcely knew.
26:25A complete stranger.
26:28The onlooker's laughter stripped away another shred of my dignity.
26:37Look at those tears.
26:39Dom, your wife's got some serious acting skills.
26:42A sudden thought crossed my mind.
26:44I bit down hard on the tip of my tongue.
26:47The sharp pain brought a fleeting moment of clarity.
26:50The metallic taste of blood filled my mouth.
26:53Pain was the only lifeline I could cling to right now.
26:57Trying to off yourself?
27:00Not off yourself?
27:02Not on my watch!
27:08Don't let her hurt himself!
27:11The baby's cries and the crowd's laughter
27:13merged into a deafening noise.
27:16My consciousness started to fade.
27:25I didn't know how much time had passed
27:27before the cold woke me.
27:29The room was silent.
27:31Everyone was gone.
27:32I was lying all alone on the freezing floor.
27:35The clock on the wall read
27:37three in the morning.
27:39I had been unconscious for hours.
27:41I thought of my children.
27:43Where were my children?
27:44Panic surged through my chest.
27:47I forced myself up.
27:48My legs trembled as I staggered toward the nursery.
27:51Every step felt like
27:52walking through water.
27:54The hallway was dark empty.
27:56Terrifyingly quiet.
27:57My phone was lying on the floor near the doorway.
28:00Its screen kept lighting
28:01up
28:02repeatedly
28:03new message after new message.
28:05I picked it up with shaking hands.
28:08Dozens of texts from unknown numbers.
28:11Get an insider's look at the
28:12closely guarded secrets of high society.
28:15Read one preview.
28:16My stomach dropped.
28:17Something was wrong.
28:19Very wrong.
28:22With trembling fingers, I tapped the link.
28:25Photos of my humiliation were spreading like wildfire across the internet.
28:29Me on the floor.
28:30Tears streaming down my face.
28:32My dress torn.
28:33The crowd laughing in the background.
28:35Someone had documented everything.
28:37And posted it for the world to see.
28:39A searing pain shot through my heart.
28:42It carried a despair more profound than death itself.
28:45I couldn't breathe.
28:46I dragged myself to the dresser.
28:49My hand closed around a pair of scissors,
28:51cold metal against my palm.
28:53I stared at them.
28:54For a long moment.
28:56Then I dragged my heavy body toward the nursery.
28:59I pushed the door open.
29:01The two tiny babies were sleeping soundly.
29:03Their cheeks soft and pink.
29:05They were innocent.
29:07And they were the only hope I had left to cling to.
29:09For now, I raised the scissors.
29:12My hand shook uncontrollably.
29:16The scissors hovered in the air above them.
29:19My hand would not stop trembling.
29:21I looked down at their faces.
29:23So small.
29:25So peaceful.
29:26They had done nothing wrong.
29:29A single tear fell from my cheek.
29:33He stirred.
29:35His eyes opened slowly.
29:37He looked up at me.
29:40Eyes full of innocent wonder.
29:42Pure, unbroken trust in his eyes.
29:46The scissors slipped from my fingers.
29:48They clattered onto the floor.
29:54I broke down completely.
29:56I sank to my knees beside the crib.
29:59Sobbing silently.
30:02My whole body shaking.
30:04I couldn't kill them.
30:06They were innocent.
30:09The only thing in this world
30:11that was still mine.
30:20I wiped my face.
30:22Stood up on unsteady legs.
30:25There was only one thing left to do.
30:27Run.
30:28I moved quickly now.
30:30Grabbed a small bag from the closet.
30:32Packed essentials for the kids and me.
30:34And my documents.
30:35Nothing else mattered.
30:39I picked up the babies.
30:40They nestled against my chest.
30:42I tiptoed toward the front door.
30:45The elevator was too risky.
30:46Too slow.
30:47Too easy to get caught.
30:49I took the stairs instead.
30:51Descending as quietly as I could with my precious burden.
30:54Step by step.
30:56Each footfall.
30:57Careful.
30:58Controlled.
31:03The babies seemed to sense my fear.
31:06They stayed unusually quiet.
31:10As if they knew.
31:11As if they understood that everything depended on this moment.
31:17I pushed open the front door and stepped outside.
31:23The night wind was biting cold.
31:26But it felt nicer than the stares of those people inside.
31:31Far nicer than Dominic's cold eyes.
31:35Than Ghislaine's triumphant smile.
31:38I flagged down a taxi.
31:41To the airport.
31:42The driver eyed my disheveled state.
31:44Then he looked at the two infants in my arms.
31:47Suspicion fliggered across his face.
31:50My voice was raw and horny.
31:54The driver nodded and pulled away from the curb.
31:59I powered off my phone.
32:01Severing the last tie to that hell.
32:04The babies let out soft whimpers against my chest.
32:08I kissed their foreheads gently.
32:10Don't be scared.
32:13Mommy's taking you far away from here.
32:16Far away from all of this.
32:18The car started moving.
32:20The taxi had just started moving when I heard it.
32:25A voice yelling behind me.
32:28The nanny.
32:29Mr. Kester!
32:31Panic seized my chest.
32:36Hurry!
32:37Please just drive!
32:39I begged the driver.
32:40I clutched my children tighter against me.
32:43The taxi sped away.
32:44In the rear view mirror.
32:45I saw the nanny chasing after us.
32:48But she couldn't keep up.
32:49The car pulled further and further ahead.
32:51She stopped in the middle of the street.
32:53Pulled out her phone.
32:55Dialed a number.
32:58Something bad came up.
33:00Miss Cassandra ran away with the children.
33:06Dominic's smile had frozen on his face.
33:08The wine glass slipped from his hand.
33:10Crimson spilled onto the priceless carpet.
33:12He refused to believe I'd actually left.
33:16Where else could she go?
33:17She's just throwing a tantrum to get my attention.
33:20But when he dialed my number, a cold automated voice answered.
33:24The number you have dialed is unavailable.
33:27He tried again.
33:28Same result.
33:30The number you have dialed is unavailable.
33:33He shoved open the bedroom door.
33:35The closet was half empty.
33:37My clothes were gone.
33:38The baby's toys were gone.
33:40He stormed into the nursery.
33:42Two cribs stood there perfectly neat.
33:44Glaringly empty.
33:46Not a single photo left behind.
33:48Rage swept through him.
33:50He smashed a nearby vase against the wall.
33:53Find her!
33:54Turn this city upside down until you bring them back!
33:58Meanwhile, at four in the morning.
34:00I huddled on a waiting chair at the airport.
34:03Both babies clutched tightly in my arms, cold.
34:05Air seeped through the cracks in the glass doors.
34:08Both babies clutched tightly in my arms.
34:11I'd bought tickets with the last of my cash.
34:13I picked the destination at random.
34:15I just needed to get as far away from Dominic as possible.
34:19Away from that house of horrors.
34:21Before boarding.
34:22I glanced at my phone one last time.
34:25A flood of messages from unknown numbers still poured in.
34:28I steeled myself.
34:29Turned it off.
34:30Pulled out the SIM card.
34:32And snapped it in half.
34:35When we landed.
34:37Rain was washing the streets of the unfamiliar city.
34:39But it couldn't wash away the pain inside me.
34:42I checked into a cheap motel.
34:44The room was tiny.
34:46The sheets smelled faintly of mildew.
34:47I spent the entire night holding my children.
34:50Crying.
34:51Until dawn broke.
34:52The baby slept peacefully against my chest.
34:55Three days later.
34:57My money was almost gone.
34:58The motel had drained everything I had left.
35:01I needed somewhere cheaper.
35:04I found a tiny run-down rental in a remote small town.
35:08A cramped space less than 20 square meters.
35:12The children seemed to sense my fear.
35:14Often waking with startled cries in the middle of the night.
35:17Every time that happened.
35:19Memories of everything Dominic had done to me would flood my mind.
35:23Filling me with rage.
35:24A week passed.
35:25My phone stayed off.
35:27Imagining the look on Dominic's face when he got home to find me gone sent a twisted thrill.
35:32Through me.
35:32But that satisfaction was quickly replaced by reality.
35:36The babies got sick.
35:40They ran high fevers that wouldn't break.
35:43Their tiny bodies burning to the touch.
35:46I waited in line in the hospital hallway.
35:48Holding my listless, whimpering babies in my arms.
35:51And Group Group of Wins stood behind me.
35:53Gossiping.
35:54I saw those photos online.
35:56That's her, isn't it?
35:57The one from the scandal.
35:58She looks even worse in person.
36:00I hung my head.
36:02A sharp pain pierced my chest.
36:05I thought running away would let me escape it all.
36:10But I'd forgotten the power of the internet.
36:14The photos followed me everywhere.
36:16A nurse called.
36:18Next.
36:19The doctor asked about the babies.
36:22But his eyes lingered on me with a strange, judgmental look.
36:27He'd seen the photos too.
36:30Everyone had.
36:31I bit down hard on my lip.
36:33Forcing myself to stay calm.
36:35All that mattered was getting them treated.
36:37After paying the medical bills, I had no money left.
36:42As I stepped out of the hospital, the rain was falling harder than ever.
36:46The baby's cries sounded even more pitiful amid the downpour.
36:51Suddenly.
36:53An umbrella appeared above my head.
36:56Shielding me from the terrestrial rain.
36:58Do you need help?
37:00A gentle male voice.
37:03I looked up to see a stranger's kind face.
37:06Franco Nordak.
37:07I took two steps back on instinct.
37:10Staring at him warily.
37:11I'm sorry.
37:12I saw you in pediatrics.
37:14Your children look like they could use some rest.
37:17He nodded toward his own child.
37:18My boy just had his checkup.
37:20I can give you a ride if you need it.
37:23Rain streamed down my face.
37:26Mixing with my tears.
37:28After a lament of hesitation, I nodded.
37:32For the baby's sake.
37:35Franco's car was nothing fancy.
37:37But he had a child sheet prepared in the back.
37:39He'd thought of everything.
37:43He barely said a word the whole ride.
37:46Giving me all the space and respect I needed.
37:48When we got to my place, he handed me a business card.
37:52If you need anything, please don't hesitate to contact me.
37:58Closing the door, I looked at my sleeping children.
38:01A wave of bitterness washed over me.
38:04I pulled out an old computer to find out what was going on in the outside world.
38:09In the quiet night, I scrolled through job listings.
38:13My heart sank further with every click.
38:16No degree.
38:18No experience.
38:20And two babies in tow.
38:24Who would ever hire me?
38:26The next day, the babies were feeling better, but my despair only grew stronger.
38:33I still couldn't bring myself to turn on my phone, terrified that Domic would track me down.
38:41A knock came at the door.
38:42It was Franco, holding a bag of baby supplies.
38:45I figured you might need these.
38:47Also, my friend's company is hiring for a remote customer service position.
38:51You could work from home, he said, looking a little awkward.
38:54I took the business card cautiously, afraid it might be a trap.
38:59No need to worry.
39:00I won't ask about your past.
39:02Everyone let be past.
39:04Everyone's got their own story.
39:06He said, as if reading my mind.
39:11Slowly, I grew accustomed to this quiet, simple life.
39:15The children thrived under my care.
39:20Now and then, I'd think of Dominic, but the pain didn't cut as deep anymore.
39:31He often visited with his own child, and the kids played happily together.
39:36Aren't you curious about my past?
39:38I finally asked him one day.
39:41Everyone has pain they'd rather not speak of.
39:43What matters is now, and what comes next.
39:47His words struck a chord deep within me.
39:50I slowly let my guard down, learning to embrace this hard-won peace.
40:00Franco's words stayed with me.
40:02What matters is now, and what comes next.
40:07I repeated them to myself every morning.
40:10One day, I mustered up the courage to put my SIM card back in and turn on my phone.
40:20My hands trembled as I pressed the power button.
40:27Hundreds of unread messages flooded the screen, almost crashing it.
40:31Notification after notification piling up.
40:34The last few were from Dominic.
40:38Come back.
40:39We need to talk.
40:40Where the hell are you?
40:42You have an idea how ill-bred this is.
40:45His text messages transitioned from authoritative commands to raging outblusts.
40:51Then finally, descended to bleeding ton with your life.
40:55I miss you so much.
40:57I'm Harry Maury descended into pleading.
40:59I scrolled through the timeline of his desperation, watching a proud man crumble through text alone.
41:05I snoffed.
41:07Deleted all the messages, one by one, until the inbox was empty.
41:11Then I turned the phone off again.
41:13Three months passed in quiet routine.
41:16Franco noticed when I was having a bad day.
41:19He'd leave a small note by the door.
41:21Nothing fancy.
41:22Hope today is better than yesterday, written in neat handwriting.
41:25On the twins' first birthday since we left, I had nothing to give them.
41:30No cake.
41:31No presents.
41:33No party.
41:35I sat them on the floor and cried silently.
41:41That afternoon, there was another knock.
41:44Franco stood there with a small birthday cake.
41:48Two candles already lit.
41:51I didn't know if you celebrated.
41:53But I couldn't let the day pass without something.
41:56He said softly.
41:57The twins' eyes lit up.
41:59They clapped their tiny hands.
42:03For the first time since leaving Dominic, I smiled.
42:06A real smile.
42:09The first Christmas in our new home, Franco decorated a small tree.
42:17The twins' eyes went wide at the lights.
42:22The second spring, they started daycare.
42:26Franco dropped them off every morning before work.
42:29I watched them grow from wobbling toddlers into curious little people.
42:35Years passed in the blink of an eye.
42:37In this new city, I'd finally found my footing.
42:41The children ran in the sunshine, their laughter ringing out bright and carefree.
42:45Franco stood a short distance away, watching us with tender eyes.
42:50Cassie, there's something I need to tell you.
42:52He said softly.
42:53My heart started racing, as if sensing what was coming.
42:57After all these years of seeing you bravely raise these children,
43:00I've become increasingly sure of one thing.
43:03I'm in love with you, Cassie.
43:05Will you give me a chance to take care of you and the kids?
43:09I looked at the man who had stood by me through my darkest days, and I nodded.
43:14Just like that, we began a happy life together.
43:17Yet it felt so right.
43:20Franco gave the kids and me a haven, making me believe in love again.
43:24Today, Franco suggested taking the kids and me to the amusement park.
43:29It was a careful invitation, his eyes holding a familiar,
43:33yet somehow new, kind of hope.
43:37His gentle smile stirred a ripple in my heart,
43:39a feeling I'd not experienced in a long time.
43:42Perhaps this was the start of a new life.
43:45Mommy, that man has been looking at us?
43:50As I followed her gaze and saw Dominic, my blood ran cold.
43:55How did he find us here?
43:57The world seemed to freeze around me.
43:59He stood not far away, his eyes burning into us.
44:03His face, once the object of my obsession,
44:06later the source of my deepest pain, looked so haggard now.
44:09Dark circles under his eyes.
44:11His suit wrinkled, his hair unkempt.
44:13A shadow of the man who once commanded rooms with a single glance.
44:17Yet the shock and remet in his eyes stirred nothing within me.
44:20Not anger.
44:21Not fear.
44:22Not even hatred.
44:24Just nothing.
44:25It's okay, sweetie.
44:26Mommy's here.
44:27I whispered, holding her tightly.
44:29My grip on her small hand tightening.
44:31Dominic started walking toward us.
44:33Each step deliberate.
44:34Heavy.
44:35With every step, my heart ached.
44:37But not for him.
44:38For the life we'd built that he was about to try to destroy.
44:41Cassie.
44:44I've been looking for you.
44:46All of you for so long.
44:48He reached out to touch the kid.
44:50But I stepped back sharply.
44:53What are you doing here?
44:54I wanted to see the kids.
44:57They're my flesh and blood too.
45:01That's hilarious.
45:03You remember they're your kids now?
45:06What did you think when you used us as the stakes in your bet?
45:10No, it wasn't like that, Cassie.
45:12I was out of my mind.
45:13I made a terrible mistake.
45:15I know I was wrong.
45:16I regret it.
45:18Give me a chance to make it right.
45:20The children need a father.
45:22A surge of anger flared up inside me as I stared at him.
45:26They don't have a father like you.
45:28From the moment you made that bet, these children were never, and will never, be yours.
45:34Dominic stumbled backward, a mouthful of blood spilling from his mouth.
45:40Cassie.
45:41I know I was wrong.
45:43I really do.
45:46I'll make up for all the pain I've put you through.
45:52Did you have nothing to do with my mother's death?
45:56Can you bring her back to life?
45:59Dominic's expression frozen.
46:01Even in her final moments, she was still worried about me.
46:06You made all of this happen.
46:10Dominic, some wounds can never be healed.
46:14He tried to step closer, but a tall figure blocked his path.
46:19Franco, at some point, appeared by my side and shielded me behind him.
46:23His posture calm but unyielding, like a wall between Dominic and everything I'd built.
46:30Mr. Keston, don't disgrace yourself.
46:34Franco's tone was even but left no room for argument.
46:38Dominic stared at us in shock, his eyes blazing with jealousy and rage.
46:48Who the hell are you?
46:50Franco Nork.
46:53Cassie's husband.
46:55And the father of these kids.
46:58Dominic was struck, staring at me in disbelief.
47:05You married him?
47:08My life is no longer your concern.
47:10You can't do this!
47:12They are my kids!
47:13This was Dean Stide's mask and leaves.
47:15It's just Aurelia sitting this group with Candacele, and they did not be I-liquids!
47:20Justice will be served by the law.
47:23Then by all means, try.
47:24Franco replied, utterly calm.
47:28I've already legally adopted them.
47:30He looked down at Franco, a sneer of contempt twisting his lips.
47:34Franco, huh?
47:35You've got some nerve.
47:37How dare you take her and these bastards in?
47:39Didn't you ask her how she got pregnant with these kids?
47:42I was her husband, but I'm not even their biological father.
47:45Shut up.
47:46These are my wife and my children.
47:48They have nothing to do with you.
47:50Now get lost.
47:52How dare you talk to me like that!
47:55Cassie, they are my blood.
47:56I can sue you.
47:58I'll take them back.
48:02I let out a cold laugh and pulled a thick folder out of my bag.
48:07It contained everything I'd secretly copied before leaving him the bed agreement,
48:10the chain of evidence for video dissemination, and the records of his plot with Jasleen.
48:14Be my guest.
48:16I'll see you in court.
48:20Dominic took a folder, his expression shifting from blind rage to sheer terror.
48:23He flipped through the pages with trembling hands, cold sweat dripping down his forehead.
48:26This is more than enough to ruin you.
48:28I'm sure the entire board of the Keston group would find it fascinating.
48:36Cassie!
48:36I'm sorry!
48:37Don't do this!
48:39It was all Jasleen and Felix's idea!
48:42I was stupid!
48:44I let them manipulate me!
48:46This was the man I'd once loved, still trying to shift the blame.
48:50Was it just Jasleen and Felix humiliating me at the sip and see?
48:54Did you not stand there and let it happen?
48:56You coldly watched me crawl on the floor with a drink in hand.
49:01It in a trusted, as half a Yendie Rick's day.
49:06Cassie, I was blind back then.
49:08I loved you.
49:10I still do.
49:11My stomach churned.
49:13His shedding tears looked like a performance.
49:17Your remorse is so cheap.
49:20Cassie, wait!
49:22Don't touch my wife.
49:23I took Franco's hand and grabbed the kid with the other.
49:26Rot in hell, Dominic.
49:28I said, turning around and walking away without looking back.
49:30Dominic's frantic screams echoed behind us.
49:32Get back here!
49:33Franco, I'll never let you get away with this!
49:36You stole my woman!
49:37My kids!
49:38I'll make you pay!
49:40I just tightened my grip on Franco's hand.
49:44Franco squeezed back, giving me a reassuring look.
49:50Back home, the moment the door closed, I finally broke.
49:55Holding my children, I cried out loud.
49:58It was the first time I'd let myself cry like that in years.
50:02Franco sat quietly nearby, giving me space.
50:05The kids looked at me confused, their little hands wiping away my tears.
50:09Mommy, don't cry.
50:10Daddy will protect us.
50:11My daughter said innocently.
50:13Tears streamed down my face even harder.
50:14But they weren't tears of pain anymore.
50:16They were tears of release.
50:17Of letting go.
50:18A final goodbye to my past.
50:22I wiped my eyes and took Franco's hand.
50:26Thank you for always being here for us.
50:28Franco squeezed my hand.
50:30His eyes filled with nothing but tenderness.
50:33I told you.
50:34This is our home.
50:36No one is ever going to destroy it.
50:41A month passed.
50:43Dominic bombarded me with threatening texts.
50:45Every single one was filled with venom threats to take.
50:48The kids away from me.
50:49He'd been lurking outside our neighborhood, following us,
50:52and throwing a fit when the security guards chased him away.
50:56Then one morning, we found a legal letter taped to our front door.
51:03Dominic was suing for custody, alleging unfit mother.
51:07I felt a jolt.
51:09My hands began to shake.
51:13Franco took the letter and smiled calmly.
51:18Don't worry.
51:19I've got everything under control.
51:21He pulled out a USB drive.
51:25This contains all the evidence of Dominic's crimes.
51:29He'd never dare show up to court.
51:31This is just intimidation.
51:33I've got a legal team and private security on standby.
51:37Franco said, holding my hand tightly.
51:39I stared at him in shock.
51:41His eyes held a calmness I couldn't understand,
51:44as if he had been prepared all along.
51:48You've been...
51:49The realization dawned on me.
51:54Franco said softly,
51:58I've been waiting for this day.
52:01The day to settle previous scores for you once and for all.
52:07His calmness unsettled me.
52:09How long had he been planning this?
52:15I'd thought our lives would be turned upside down,
52:18but Franco always stayed one step ahead of Dominic.
52:21The legal team he mentioned.
52:23The private security.
52:26The USB drive.
52:30It wasn't coincidence.
52:32It was preparation.
52:34My fear gradually ebbed away,
52:36replaced by the strange,
52:38wonderful sensation of being truly protected.
52:41For the first time in my life,
52:43someone had my back completely.
52:46Three months later,
52:47Dominic vanished without a trace.
52:49He stopped harassing us,
52:51as if he'd vanished into Int Air.
52:53I let out a quiet sigh of relief,
52:55thinking he'd finally given up.
52:58Or maybe Franco's warning had finally sunk in.
53:02Then,
53:03an unexpected call shattered the peace.
53:06Cassie, have you heard?
53:07Dominic and Jazeline are at each other's throats.
53:10My friend Nora's voice was brimming with excitement.
53:13My hand,
53:14holding the coffee mug,
53:15paused.
53:19What's going on?
53:21They're fighting over a huge sum of money.
53:25Jazeline's accusing Dominic of stealing funds and running off,
53:28and he's saying she embezzled it.
53:31I hadn't expected the once inseparable pair to turn on each other.
53:35Turned out,
53:36money was the only thing they'd ever truly loved.
53:38And,
53:40that's not even the best part.
53:43Norta lowered her voice.
53:45Jazeline leakered everything that happened to you at the Sip and See!
53:50My hand jerked.
53:52Hot coffee splashed onto my clothes,
53:55burning my skin.
53:57She posted everything online.
53:59The entire video dissemination chain,
54:01and then the details of the vet.
54:06I covered my mouth in shock.
54:11Memories of that terrible day flooded back.
54:16But strangely,
54:17I didn't feel shame or fearing more fear anymore.
54:22The internet exploded.
54:24Dominic and Jazeline's feud escalated.
54:26Felix got dragged into it.
54:28The three of them exposed each other's secrets,
54:30laying near every dirty deal.
54:32I watched it all unfold with cold description.
54:35Dominic held a press conference,
54:37accusing Jazeline and Felix of setting him up.
54:40Jazeline screamed at the cameras,
54:42accusing Dominic of using her feelings.
54:45Felix hit back with even more evidence,
54:47proving Dominic had been the mastermind all along.
54:50I sat in front of the TV,
54:52watching the three once untouchable figures attack each other.
54:59Wrapping his arms around me from behind,
55:02Happy with the news?
55:04I asked,
55:05leaning into his chest.
55:09Did you plan this?
55:11Franco said,
55:13his voice eerily calm.
55:15I just gave the evidence to the right people.
55:18A week later,
55:20the police launched an investigation.
55:23Two months after that,
55:24the verdicts were released.
55:26Dominic was sentenced to 10 years in prison on multiple charges.
55:30Jazeline and Felix received six and eight years, respectively.
55:34Even the people who'd mocked me at the sip and see faced legal consequences.
55:39I attended the sentencing quietly.
55:41I watched as Dominic was escorted away from the courtroom.
55:46He still had that arrogant look,
55:48but when his eyes met mine,
55:50they were filled with hatred.
55:52I didn't look away.
55:55I just stared back,
55:57calm and unfringing.
56:04Three years later,
56:06I heard from a friend that Dominic was suffering badly in prison.
56:11He'd betrayed so many people.
56:13No one was willing to help him.
56:15His parents,
56:16ruined by the scandal and their collapsed company,
56:19had both suffered strokes.
56:22The once untouchable Keston heir was now left with nothing,
56:27but debt.
56:29Rumors about the others reached me in bits and pieces.
56:33Jazeline was released early,
56:35diagnosed with a mental illness.
56:37They said she'd sit on park benches talking to thin air.
56:42As for Felix,
56:43word was he'd been attacked in prison,
56:46left paralyzed from the waist down.
56:50I felt no glee,
56:52only a sense that justice had finally been served.
56:55It was a sunny weekend morning.
56:58With the children's hands in mine,
57:00we followed Franco
57:02as he pushed their bikes just ahead of us.
57:06We'd moved to a new city,
57:07where no one knew our past.
57:09The kids skipped along,
57:11their laughter echoing through the neighborhood.
57:16Mommy, you have such a beautiful smile,
57:19my daughter said,
57:20looking up at me.
57:21Only then did I realize
57:22I'd been smiling without even noticing.
57:25The trauma and the pain were finally in the past.
57:27Franco glanced back at me,
57:29his love for me clear in his eyes.
57:31The setting sun cast a golden glow around his figure.
57:34This must be what real happiness feels like.
57:37.
57:37.
57:38.
57:38.
57:38.
57:38.
57:38.
57:38You
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