- 2 days ago
They Left Me, Then They Left Everything
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:00At 12, two boys swore to protect me.
00:00:03Alexander gave me a supercar.
00:00:05Julian proposed on a rooftop.
00:00:07But on my wedding day, both had used me.
00:00:10When Lily Evans walked in, they let her take everything.
00:00:13Later, I signed a death waiver.
00:00:17Stole my car.
00:00:18Crashed through a blizzard.
00:00:23Six months later, I returned on General Carl's arm.
00:00:31I saw the two drained faces.
00:00:36I said, you both deserve to die.
00:00:43Alexander Sterling, the billionaire heir to the Sterling Empire, planned to publicly dump me for a club girl.
00:00:49A club girl named Lily Evans.
00:00:53Furious, my father Robert Vance pulled strings to blacklist her.
00:00:57He intended to ship her overseas to fend for herself.
00:01:02Unexpectedly, Alexander did not intervene.
00:01:05He did not fly into a rage.
00:01:07He simply watched.
00:01:09My 18th birthday was approaching.
00:01:12The entire upper class of Kingston was preparing for my birthday banquet at the Vance estate.
00:01:20Alexander and I had been engaged since we were children.
00:01:25Everyone said we were the perfect match.
00:01:29The Sterlings and the Vances.
00:01:32Two empires united through marriage.
00:01:36But something felt wrong.
00:01:38Alexander had been distant lately.cold, even.
00:01:41When I asked him about it, he dismissed me with a single word.
00:01:45Busy.
00:01:47That was all I got.
00:01:49I stood before the full-length mirror in my room, adjusting the sapphire necklace Alexander had given me last week.
00:01:54The stone matched my eyes, he'd said.
00:01:58Now I wondered if he'd even remember giving it to me.
00:02:02Downstairs, the orchestra was already tuning their instruments.
00:02:11Guests in haute couture gowns and tailored suits streamed through the marble foyer.
00:02:17My father descended the grand staircase beside me, his hand firm on the small of my back.
00:02:24Eleanor, tonight, keep your smile on, no matter what happens.
00:02:28He said under his breath.
00:02:30I looked up at him.
00:02:32His jaw was tight.
00:02:33What do you know that I don't?
00:02:36He didn't answer.
00:02:38He just squeezed my shoulder once and walked ahead to greet the first arrivals.
00:02:44Something was coming.
00:02:47I could feel it in the air, heavy and suffocating, like a storm gathering behind closed doors.
00:02:57The banquet hall glittered with crystal chandeliers and whispered secrets.
00:03:03I circulated through the crowd, smiling until my cheeks ached.
00:03:09Alexander arrived fashionably late, as always, but he didn't come alone.
00:03:14Lily Evans hung from his arm like a silk scarf draped over furniture.
00:03:18She wore red.
00:03:21Not just any red.
00:03:22The exact shade of crimson that Alexander had once told me was.
00:03:27Too bold for anyone but you, Eleanor.
00:03:30My stomach dropped.
00:03:32Guests exchanged glances.
00:03:34Murmurs rippled through the room like wind through wheat.
00:03:40Robert's face went dark across the room.
00:03:43He started moving toward us.
00:03:45His stride sharp and purposeful.
00:03:50I caught his eye and shook my head frantically.
00:03:53Not here, not now.
00:03:55Not in front of everyone.
00:03:58He stopped.
00:03:59But the damage was already done.
00:04:04Lily leaned into Alexander and giggled at something he whispered in her ear.
00:04:11Her fingers traced the lapel of his tuxedo.
00:04:15Possessive.deliberate, a declaration written in body language.
00:04:21I turned away before anyone could see my expression crack.
00:04:25The balcony doors were just ahead.
00:04:27I needed air.
00:04:29I needed to breathe.
00:04:31Behind me, I heard Alexander's voice cut through the music.
00:04:35Everyone.
00:04:37May I have your attention.
00:04:39The room fell silent.
00:04:42Every head turned toward him.
00:04:44Toward us.
00:04:45Toward Lily.
00:04:46Still clinging to his arm.
00:04:48Toward me.
00:04:49Standing alone near the glass doors that led out into the cold night.
00:04:57Alexander said.
00:05:00I have an announcement.
00:05:02His voice rang clear and confident through the banquet hall.
00:05:07Lily pressed closer to him.
00:05:09Her painted lips curving into a smile that didn't reach her eyes.
00:05:16I felt every pair of eyes in the room burning into my back.
00:05:22This engagement, Alexander continued, was arranged by our families a long time ago.
00:05:28A pause.
00:05:29Deliberate, deliberate, calculated.
00:05:31But I've come to realize that neither Eleanor nor I are happy with this arrangement.
00:05:36Gasps.
00:05:37Scattered.
00:05:38Like broken glass across marble.
00:05:40So today, I am officially announcing the end of our engagement.
00:05:46The room erupted.
00:05:48Phones came out.
00:05:49Whispers became shouts.
00:05:51Someone was already live streaming.
00:05:54I stood frozen.
00:05:56My hands still resting on the balcony door handle.
00:05:58This was how it ended.
00:06:00Not in private.
00:06:01Not with decency.
00:06:03But in front of 300 people.
00:06:05Live streamed to the world.
00:06:08Thank you all for understanding.
00:06:10Lily stepped forward, wrapping both arms around Alexander's waist.
00:06:13She said, her voice dripping with false sweetness.
00:06:17Alexander and I are very much in love.
00:06:21Robert exploded across the room.
00:06:26You disgusting!
00:06:29Mr. Vance.
00:06:30One of them said evenly.
00:06:32We suggest you calm down.
00:06:34Both Alexander's bodyguards intercepted him before he could reach the stage.
00:06:38Calm down!
00:06:39You said you can't get a four in the end!
00:06:42Robert's voice cracked.
00:06:47Alexander looked down at my father with something close to pity.
00:06:51Eleanor will find someone else.
00:06:53She always was.
00:06:55Resilient.
00:06:58The way he said that word made my skin crawl resilient.
00:07:03Like I was a problem to be managed rather than a person to be loved.
00:07:07I pushed through the balcony doors and stepped out into the freezing night.
00:07:13The sound of the crowd faded behind me.
00:07:16Replaced by the lonely whistle of wind across the mansion's rooftop gardens.
00:07:22I gripped the railing until my knuckles turned white.
00:07:28I would not cry.
00:07:30Not here.
00:07:31Not ever in front of them again.
00:07:35I left the banquet through the garden exit.
00:07:37Avoiding the main hall entirely.
00:07:40My white supercar waited in the circular driveway.
00:07:43Gleaming under the decorative lights.
00:07:50One of the valets brought the keys to me.
00:07:53Ms. Vance.
00:07:54Should I have the driver ready?
00:07:57No.
00:07:58I'm driving myself tonight.
00:08:00My voice came out steadier than I expected.
00:08:05I slid into the driver's seat.
00:08:10The leather still held the faint scent of the custom cologne Alexander had picked out for me on my birthday
00:08:14five years ago.
00:08:20Alexander had sat right where I was sitting now.
00:08:23He'd taken my hands in his and said,
00:08:26This car is yours, Eleanor.
00:08:28Only yours.
00:08:29No one else will ever sit in this seat.
00:08:31I started the engine.
00:08:33The roar vibrated through my chest.
00:08:35Familiar and comforting.
00:08:40I pulled out of the driveway and onto the main road.
00:08:44Kingston at night was beautiful.
00:08:47Skyscrapers glittered.
00:08:49Streetlights cast golden pools on wet pavement.
00:08:52I didn't know where I was going.
00:08:54I just drove.
00:08:5820 minutes later.
00:08:59The GPS signal flickered and died.
00:09:02The engine made a strange sound.
00:09:04A grinding cough that no sports car should ever make.
00:09:08Then the power steering failed.
00:09:10I wrestled with the wheel.
00:09:12Managing to guide the dying car toward the side of the road.
00:09:14It rolled to a stop in front of a narrow alley between two brick buildings.
00:09:18The neighborhood was wrong.
00:09:19Neon signs flickered in languages I didn't recognize.
00:09:23Figures loomed in doorway.
00:09:24Watching.
00:09:25I reached for my phone dead.
00:09:29The car's emergency system, usually so reliable, stayed silent.
00:09:37I unlocked the door and stepped out.
00:09:39My heels clicking on the grimy pavement.
00:09:49A voice from the shadows, then another.
00:09:52And another.
00:09:54Three men emerged from the alley's mouth.
00:09:56Forming a half circle around me.
00:09:58Their smiles held nothing human.
00:10:01I tried to run.
00:10:02My heel caught on a crack in the pavement and I went down hard.
00:10:06Palms scraping against rough concrete.
00:10:10Someone grabbed my hair.
00:10:11Another wrenched my arms behind my back.
00:10:13The third.
00:10:14I never saw his face clearly.
00:10:16Forced something between my teeth.
00:10:18A bottle.
00:10:19Liquid burned down my throat.
00:10:21Bitter and chemical.
00:10:22Making my vision swim.
00:10:26Look at her.
00:10:27All dressed up like a doll.
00:10:30She's worth a fortune.
00:10:32Another said.
00:10:33Check her bag.
00:10:34Design her everything.
00:10:35One of them laughed.
00:10:40Another said.
00:10:42Phones came out.
00:10:43Flashes blinded me.
00:10:44They were recording everything.
00:10:46I wanted to scream.
00:10:47But my throat had clenched shut around the terror lodge there.
00:10:51My mind detached.
00:10:53It floated somewhere above my body.
00:10:55Watching the scene unfold like a bad movie I couldn't walk out of.
00:10:59This wasn't happening.
00:11:00This couldn't be happening.
00:11:02Not to me.
00:11:03Not to Eleanor Vance.
00:11:05Daughter of the Vance Medical Empire.
00:11:07Fiancé of Alexander Sterling.
00:11:09Time blurred.
00:11:12When I finally became aware of myself again.
00:11:15I was curled on the ground.
00:11:17My dress was torn.
00:11:19My body shook with cold or shock or both.
00:11:22The men were gone.
00:11:23Their laughter echoed somewhere in the distance.
00:11:26Fading into the city noise.
00:11:28I pushed myself upright.
00:11:30My phone was missing.
00:11:32My jewelry was gone.
00:11:33Even my shoes.
00:11:35One had fallen off during the struggle.
00:11:39I limped back to my car on bare feet.
00:11:43The engine wouldn't start.
00:11:45Of course it wouldn't.
00:11:47Someone had made sure of that.
00:11:50I slumped against the driver's side door and let the darkness swallow me whole.
00:11:55I don't know how long I lay there.
00:11:57An hour, maybe more.
00:11:59Headlights swept across the alley mouth.
00:12:01A black sedan slowed to a stop.
00:12:04Two men in dark suits stout.
00:12:07My father's security detail.
00:12:10They'd tracked my car's emergency beacon.
00:12:15Mrs. Vance?
00:12:16I couldn't speak.
00:12:19They helped me into the back seat.
00:12:22Wrapped me in a wool blanket.
00:12:23And drove me straight to Vance Manor.
00:12:28My father was waiting in the foyer.
00:12:30One look at me and his face crumpled.
00:12:32He didn't ask questions.
00:12:34He didn't demand answers.
00:12:37He simply carried me upstairs to my room, laid me on my bed, and called the family doctor.
00:12:44The examination was quick.
00:12:49No permanent physical injury, the doctor said gently.
00:12:53But the psychological toll.
00:12:55He left that sentence unfinished.
00:12:57Morning came to fast.
00:12:59I refused to leave my room.
00:13:01But the world refused to let me hide by noon.
00:13:04The story was everywhere.
00:13:06Photos, videos, speculation.
00:13:09The Vance heiress found intoxicated in red light district.
00:13:13Sterling Ayers X.
00:13:14Fianci caught in compromising position.
00:13:17Sources say Alexander Sterling ended the engagement hours before the incident.
00:13:22My phone blew up with messages.
00:13:24Most were from people I'd once called friends.
00:13:27Are you okay?
00:13:29What happened?
00:13:30Oh my god.
00:13:31Eleanor, I'm so sorry.
00:13:33And then the other kind of message.
00:13:35The ones that came from numbers I didn't recognize.
00:13:39Slut.
00:13:41Whore.
00:13:42She deserved it.
00:13:43Damaged goods.
00:13:45I deleted them all, every single one.
00:13:49But the words had already burrowed under my skin, where they would fester for a long time to come.
00:13:56Julian Montgomery arrived that afternoon.
00:14:00We'd grown up together.
00:14:02Alexander.
00:14:03Julian, and I.
00:14:05The three of us had been inseparable since kindergarten.
00:14:09Julian was different from Alexander.
00:14:19Where Alexander blazed, Julian warmed.
00:14:23He sat beside my bed, holding my hand with careful gentleness.
00:14:29Eleanor.
00:14:31His voice was low, steady.
00:14:35I know you're going through hell right now.
00:14:37I said nothing.
00:14:38But I want you to know, none of this changes how I see you.
00:14:42I finally looked at him.
00:14:44His brown eyes held no judgment.
00:14:46No pity.
00:14:48Just something that might have been warmth.
00:14:51Marry me.
00:14:52He said.
00:14:53I blinked.
00:14:55What?
00:14:57Marry me, Eleanor.
00:14:59Not because of what happened.
00:15:01Not because I feel sorry for you.
00:15:07He squeezed my hand tighter.
00:15:13Marry me.
00:15:16Because I've loved you since we were kids, and I was too cowardly to say it until now.
00:15:23Marry me.
00:15:25Because.
00:15:27I don't care about your reputation or what people are saying.
00:15:33The Montgomerys and the Vances have been allies for generations.
00:15:37Our families would celebrate this union.
00:15:40Their es in Brailes can you be called by Sefton this year's.
00:15:43And most importantly, marry me.
00:15:48Because I will spend the rest of my life making sure no one ever hurts you again.
00:15:56I stared at him.
00:15:57This was Julian.
00:15:59My childhood friend.
00:16:01The boy who once carried me three miles through a rainstorm because I'd twisted my ankle.
00:16:09Julian was offering me a lifeline.
00:16:12A way out of the wreckage Alexander had made of my life.
00:16:18I...
00:16:18I need time.
00:16:20My voice caught.
00:16:22Take all the time you need.
00:16:24He smiled, and for a moment, it almost looked genuine.
00:16:27I'm not going anywhere.
00:16:29He leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to my forehead.
00:16:34Rest now, Eleanor.
00:16:35Everything is going to be okay.
00:16:37After he left, I lay in the dark staring at the ceiling.
00:16:40Everything was not going to be okay.
00:16:42I could feel it in my bones.
00:16:44The shape of the trap closing around me.
00:16:46Invisible but unmistakable.
00:16:49Julian's proposal was too convenient.
00:16:51Too perfectly timed.
00:16:53And something in his eyes when he mentioned Alexander's name.
00:16:56Something that didn't match the words coming out of his mouth.
00:16:59The marriage registration was scheduled for the following Monday.
00:17:03I wore white.
00:17:04Not a wedding dress.
00:17:06I wasn't ready for that.
00:17:07But a pristine white haute couture ensemble, it felt like armor against what was coming.
00:17:12The civil registry office was a modest building compared to the cathedral weddings the upper class usually favored.
00:17:18But Julian had insisted on simplicity.
00:17:27For us, it's not about the spectacle.
00:17:29It's about the commitment.
00:17:32He'd said.
00:17:33I stood in the lounge area, waiting for our appointment number to be called.
00:17:38Julian had stepped away to take a call.
00:17:40Through the half-open door of the adjacent conference room, I heard voices.
00:17:45Two women.
00:17:47Secretaries.
00:17:48From the sound of it, their conversation drifted toward me like smoke.
00:17:52Did you hear about Mrs. Vance?
00:17:54I heard it's been a centiblike, wait on every go to wear.
00:17:56A poor thing.
00:17:58Her reputation is ruined in the upper class.
00:18:01And in the end, she has to rely on Mr. Montgomery with pieces.
00:18:04My blood went cold.
00:18:06What do you know?
00:18:08To marry that little influencer, Lily Evans.
00:18:11Mr. Sterling orchestrated the trap to ruin Miss Vance.
00:18:15My hand flew to my mouth.
00:18:18He even paid those thugs to disappear.
00:18:21No witnesses.
00:18:22No evidence.
00:18:24He destroyed her just to clear the way for Lily.
00:18:29The second secretary lowered her voice further.
00:18:32And Mr. Montgomery.
00:18:33He doesn't love Miss Vance either.
00:18:35My heart stopped.
00:18:37He's only marrying her because he's afraid she used the Vance's power to take revenge on Lily.
00:18:45He wants to keep her under his nose where he can watch her.
00:18:49Withstanding it's a move and embrace it is on it rape and embrace first for Noxus, this
00:18:52pre's miskindits and ensied you the grex.
00:18:57It turned out that both of thee were in love with Lily.
00:19:01Despair, like an invisible hand, strangled my throat.
00:19:05Both of them.
00:19:06Both of the men I trusted my entire life.
00:19:08They were both in love with the same woman.
00:19:10The woman who had taken everything from me.
00:19:13And Julian's proposal.
00:19:14It was never about saving me.
00:19:16It was about controlling me.
00:19:18I walked out of the registry office into the bright afternoon sun.
00:19:22My legs felt like they belonged to someone else.
00:19:27Julian was waiting by the fountain in the courtyard.
00:19:30Wearing that same gentle, warm smile that had comforted me for days.
00:19:36Now it made me want to scream.
00:19:38He saw my expression change and his smile faltered.
00:19:43Eleanor?
00:19:50I pulled the marriage registration papers from my bag.
00:19:53I looked at them for a long moment.
00:19:55All those carefully printed words.
00:19:57All those official stamps and signatures waiting to be added.
00:20:00All of it built on a foundation of lies.
00:20:03I ripped the papers in half.
00:20:04Then in quarters.
00:20:07Then I kept tearing until there was nothing left but white confetti scattered around my feet.
00:20:14I'm not marrying you Julian.
00:20:16Julian's expression changed instantly.
00:20:19The warmth drained away.
00:20:20Replaced by something sharp and calculating.
00:20:23He stepped forward.
00:20:24Gripping my wrists tightly.
00:20:27Eleanor.
00:20:28Have you lost your mind?
00:20:30Right now.
00:20:31In all of Kingston.
00:20:32I'm the only one who doesn't mind your past.
00:20:35His voice was a low hiss.
00:20:37Meant only for me.
00:20:38By breaking off the engagement.
00:20:41Do you plan on being pointed at and judged for the rest of your life?
00:20:47I know you're still obsessed with Alexander.
00:20:50But if you really love him.
00:20:53Shouldn't you just let him be happy with Lily?
00:20:55My nose stung.
00:20:57I looked up.
00:20:58Forcing back the tears.
00:21:00And asked him with a cold sneer.
00:21:02So you love Lily too?
00:21:03You're sacrificing yourself to marry me just to let her and Alexander be together?
00:21:10To stop me from hating her out of jealousy and causing trouble for Lily.
00:21:17You're marrying me as a decoration to keep me under surveillance, right?
00:21:23A trace of panic flashed across his face.
00:21:26But he kept denying it.
00:21:28His eyes rimmed with red.
00:21:30Eleanor, how can you think of me like that?
00:21:33We grew up together.
00:21:34You know I'm not that kind of person.
00:21:39Around us, guests and passersby had stopped to watch.
00:21:43The whispers started immediately.
00:21:46Mr. Montgomery is only marrying her for old time's sake.
00:21:49Yet she's throwing mud at him in public.
00:21:51What an ungrateful bitch.
00:21:52Since she doesn't appreciate his kindness, he should just cancel.
00:21:55I don't think anyone else would dare take her except him.
00:21:58Robert appeared at my side.
00:22:00His face dark with rage.
00:22:02He was about to open his mouth to defend me.
00:22:05To tell everyone the truth about that night.
00:22:08I hurriedly grabbed his hand.
00:22:10Shook my head at him.
00:22:12Leaned close and whispered in his ear.
00:22:14Dad, don't say it.
00:22:16If the Sterlins and the Montgomerys join forces, we can't win.
00:22:24Alexander just secured those major projects.
00:22:27He's untouchable right now.
00:22:29Alexander has everyone in his pocket now.
00:22:34He destroyed me for Lily.
00:22:36And he'd do it again.
00:22:41If we fight him, he'll bury us under his lies.
00:22:48No one will believe us now.
00:22:53They'll just think we're fishing for sympathy and slanting the two great families.
00:22:57Robert's chest heaved with violent anger.
00:23:00His fists clenched at his sides.
00:23:05Robert could only storm back into the building in frustration.
00:23:10Leaving me to face it alone.
00:23:13Julian took my hand again.
00:23:15Looking at me with deep affection that I now knew was an act.
00:23:18Eleanor.
00:23:19If you're in a bad mood today, I can wait.
00:23:23This engagement.
00:23:26Stands forever.
00:23:31As long as you promised me not to harass Alexander and Lily anymore.
00:23:36I shook off his hand.
00:23:38My eyes were cold as ice.
00:23:42I won't marry you.
00:23:44Nor will I go look for Alexander again.
00:23:53Not in this lifetime.
00:23:59Because I'm about to.
00:24:01Just as I was about to reveal my plan.
00:24:02My real plan.
00:24:03A familiar engine roar cut through the air.
00:24:06A white supercar screeched to a curb nearby.
00:24:09Lily Evans stepped out.
00:24:11Dressed in haute couture Chanel.
00:24:13Swaying her hips like she owned the sidewalk.
00:24:15Her eyes found mine.
00:24:17And when she looked at Julian.
00:24:19There was a trace of subtle.
00:24:21Lingering affection in her gaze.
00:24:23A fragmented light instantly lit up in Julian's eyes.
00:24:27But he suppressed it just as quickly.
00:24:30Lily walked up to me.
00:24:32Tears flowing on command.
00:24:34Crocodile tears bathed in artificial sunlight.
00:24:39Eleanor, why did you still wear these clothes to go see Alexander today?
00:24:43I'd never been to the Sterling Manor today.
00:24:46She was lying.
00:24:50Why are you still clinging to him so tightly when you're about to get married?
00:24:54The surrounding whispers became even more piercing.
00:24:56Just now.
00:24:57She was swearing she wouldn't stalk Mr. Sterling.
00:25:00But the moment she turns around, the official girlfriend shows up.
00:25:04She really has no shame.
00:25:06Mr. Montgomery even spent a forge wing that pink diamond necklace for her.
00:25:09What a waste of genuine affection on a dog.
00:25:11This kind of woman should be blacklisted.
00:25:13Hearing that I had gone to see Alexander today, Julian's eyes turned cold.
00:25:17He instinctively shielded Lily, his tone full of reproach.
00:25:21Eleanor, I know you look down on Lily.
00:25:23You think she comes from a club.
00:25:25You think she isn't clean.
00:25:27That she isn't good enough for Alexander?
00:25:30But she only worked as a receptionist at the club.
00:25:32She never sold her body.
00:25:33She is still pure.
00:25:35Look at yourself, Eleanor.
00:25:37After what happened in that red light district.
00:25:40You're damaged goods.
00:25:41I took a deep breath.
00:25:42The winter wind sliced my face like a knife.
00:25:45Stabbing straight into my heart.
00:25:51Yes.
00:25:51To whitewash Lily's background.
00:25:54To make her worthy of the Sterling's family prestige.
00:25:58Alexander had forced several media outlets to change their stories overnight.
00:26:02He'd even had a university professor recognize her as his influential sponsor to rewrite her past.
00:26:09Overnight, I became the slut spurned by everyone in the upper class.
00:26:13She became the inspirational, innocent goddess, the apple of Mr. Sterling's eye.
00:26:19Lily suddenly pointed at the ruby necklace around my neck and screamed emotionally.
00:26:24You thief!
00:26:25You stole the necklace Alexander gave me!
00:26:28How could you put your filthy hands on my engagement gift?
00:26:31I froze.
00:26:32I looked at Julian with bloodshot eyes.
00:26:35Didn't you send this necklace to me last night?
00:26:40Julian's eyes flickered.
00:26:41He avoided my gaze.
00:26:43Yet his tone was unusually firm.
00:26:45I never gave you anything, Eleanor.
00:26:47I nemeth you aj'en alor, sinna.
00:26:49Don't lie just to cover up your own crimes.
00:26:51You're making yourself look pathetic.
00:26:53My ears filled with voices calling me a thief.
00:26:56Those vicious words smashed into me like stones, leaving me breathless.
00:27:01Enduring the tearing pain in my heart, I yanked the necklace off with trembling hands.
00:27:06I smashed it viciously onto the ground.
00:27:11The gem shattered.
00:27:13Shards grazed Lily's calf.
00:27:15I said, my voice flat.
00:27:18I've never been to the Sterling Manor.
00:27:21So how could I possibly steal this necklace?
00:27:24Lily clutched her leg.
00:27:25A flash of triumphant malice crossed her eyes.
00:27:28She wailed to the crowd.
00:27:29We missed the servants at the Sterling Manor and all saw her come by today.
00:27:35If you don't believe me, go ask them!
00:27:39A cold, deep male voice suddenly came from outside the crowd.
00:27:46Lily, it's just a necklace.
00:27:48If she wants to steal it, let her steal it.
00:27:56I'll win a better one for you at auction.
00:27:59After all, Eleanor and I grew up together.
00:28:03Let's not make things too ugly on her big day.
00:28:07Alexander parted the crowd and strode over.
00:28:10He unceremoniously shoved Julian aside.
00:28:14He wrapped an arm around Lily's shoulder, his eyes burning with undisguised possessiveness.
00:28:25Thank you, Mr. Montgomery, for looking out for Lily.
00:28:29You two carry on with your business.
00:28:32Lily and I are heading back.
00:28:36I called out to him.
00:28:39Alexander, you know perfectly well I never went to your house today.
00:28:45Why didn't you defend me?
00:28:49He stopped, turned his head.
00:28:56Alexander's eyes were cold as ice.
00:28:58He leaned in close to my ear, whispering so only I could hear.
00:29:03I'm doing this so you'll finally get the message.
00:29:06I don't care how much you cry.
00:29:09You disgust me, Eleanor.
00:29:11Stay on disgust to you, Eleanor.
00:29:13Mitra Amasher, stay away from us, or I'll make sure you lose everything else.
00:29:18My eyes stung terribly, yet it felt as if my tears had already run dry.
00:29:25My memory drifted back to our childhood.
00:29:29Back then, no matter who wronged me, Alexander would be the first to step up and take them down.
00:29:36He used to say I was his little princess, no one was allowed to bully me.
00:29:41Yet now, to force me away, he allowed the woman he loved to frame me in front of everyone.
00:29:47He didn't know that even if I wanted to cling to him, I wouldn't have the chance anymore.
00:29:52After tomorrow, Eleanor would no longer exist in Kingston.
00:29:57After they left, Julian dispersed the onlookers.
00:30:01Seeing my face drained of color, he grabbed my hand.
00:30:05His tone laced with a trace of barely perceptible guilt.
00:30:10I'm sorry, Eleanor. I didn't actually buy that necklace.
00:30:14Lily just tossed it to me.
00:30:15I saw it looked expensive enough, and since you don't have much jewelry,
00:30:18I thought I'd use it to help you keep up appearances.
00:30:23I pulled my hand back expressionlessly.
00:30:26You didn't say that just now.
00:30:28What good does saying it now do?
00:30:29Alexander defended himself with self-righteous logic.
00:30:33If I had taken your side, Lily would have looked like a monster.
00:30:35Sir, you survives. You don't out-rip her.
00:30:37So what's the thing if you know level one to my son?
00:30:39Lily was only trying to help.
00:30:40She's fighting so hard to fit in.
00:30:42Did you really want to destroy her life?
00:30:45She's the apple of Alexander's eye right now.
00:30:46She struggled so hard to gain a foothold in the upper class.
00:30:49Did you want to ruin her?
00:30:53Anyway, I know the truth.
00:30:55Knowing you are innocent is enough.
00:30:59We're the ones living our lives together in the future.
00:31:01You don't need to care about how others look at you.
00:31:05He was wrong.
00:31:07I no longer cared about anyone's opinion.
00:31:10I just felt a bone-deep chill of heartbreak toward both of them.
00:31:14It was a fact that Lily had framed me.
00:31:16Yet to shield that woman, he had personally branded me a thief.
00:31:20And then he had the nerve to blame me for being unreasonable.
00:31:24I couldn't bear to think about why the boy who once carried me for miles through a rainstorm had turned
00:31:30into this.
00:31:31I turned and walked into the villa.
00:31:34Returned to my room, Julian followed me.
00:31:36He watched as I frantically threw all those designer bags and clothes onto the floor like a mad woman.
00:31:45I curled up on the bed, hugging my knees, sobbing uncontrollably.
00:31:52Eleanor, stop crying.
00:31:54I was wrong about this.
00:31:56I'll make it up to you double in the future, okay?
00:31:59I grabbed a crystal ornament within reach.
00:32:01I smashed it violently toward him.
00:32:04The impact left a bloody gash on his forehead.
00:32:06I told you! I'm not marrying you! Get the hell out!
00:32:12His temper ignited instantly.
00:32:15His eyes snapped.
00:32:16He grabbed me by the throat.
00:32:18He slammed me against the wall so hard the pictures rattled on their nails.
00:32:24If you don't marry me, who else would want you?
00:32:28Do you want to go be a mistress for some low-class thug?
00:32:31Or do you want to be scorned and gossiped about for the rest of your life?
00:32:34I only agreed to marry you out of respect for our family's long-standing ties.
00:32:38Yet today, you tore up the marriage papers in public and completely humiliated the Montgomerys!
00:32:43I desperately clawed at his hand.
00:32:46I couldn't breathe.
00:32:47My face turned crimson.
00:32:49He released me abruptly.
00:32:51I coughed violently, gasping for air.
00:32:57Tears streamed down my face.
00:32:59I forced a smile that looked more painful than weeping.
00:33:04Why? Why have you all changed like this?
00:33:07Julian watched my breakdown with cold eyes as if looking at an insignificant stranger.
00:33:11I kicked him out.
00:33:12I sat alone in the room until darkness fell.
00:33:15That night, I packed my few documents and personal belongings.
00:33:19I intended to bid this city a final farewell.
00:33:23I froze.
00:33:25I watched Alexander plant a kiss on Lily's forehead.
00:33:28Then, with eyes ring onto her ring finger.
00:33:31He said,
00:33:32It's beautiful. It suits you perfectly.
00:33:35Lily seemed to spot me standing in the shadows.
00:33:38She lifted her chin in a provocative gesture.
00:33:41Turning back, she cooed at Alexander.
00:33:44It's gorgeous.
00:33:46But, didn't you fly all the way to the Middle East, just to find this diamond for Eleanor?
00:33:50Are you sure I should have it?
00:33:52Alexander gently stroked her long hair.
00:33:54He whispered soothingly,
00:33:55I'll give you whatever you want.
00:33:56I'd even let you play with the Sterling group if you asked.
00:34:03As for Eleanor, who is she?
00:34:06She doesn't even deserve to be compared to you.
00:34:09Lily cast a triumphant smile in my direction.
00:34:12She took Alexander's arm.
00:34:14The two of them walked intimately into the private club nearby.
00:34:19In December's Kingston, heavy snow suddenly began to fall.
00:34:23My heart turned completely cold.
00:34:25I didn't want to wait until tomorrow.
00:34:28I returned to the villa.
00:34:30I left a letter for my father on his desk.
00:34:33Then I put my white coat back on.
00:34:36It felt like putting on armor.
00:34:38The coat I'd worn to my volunteer medical shifts before everything fell apart.
00:34:43I took a taxi to Alexander's private garage.
00:34:49While the security guard wasn't looking, I slipped inside.
00:34:54My supercar.
00:34:55The white supercar sat in its usual spot.
00:34:58The one Alexander had given me on my 18th birthday.
00:35:02The one he'd just stolen back to give to Lily.
00:35:05I started the engine.
00:35:07The roar vibrated through my chest.
00:35:09Fierce and alive.
00:35:11I slammed on the gas.
00:35:13Clashed through the barrier.
00:35:15Sped away into the night.
00:35:16The guard couldn't stop me.
00:35:18He could only watch my taillights vanish into the darkness.
00:35:22I rolled down the window.
00:35:26Tell Alexander that I, Eleanor, am leaving for the Middle East right now!
00:35:31This car has been with me for five years.
00:35:34Let it take me on my final journey.
00:35:40I sped wildly.
00:35:42Tears burst forth.
00:35:43They were instantly scattered by the biting wind.
00:35:46Alexander.
00:35:46Julian.
00:35:48Our entanglement of over a decade ends today.
00:35:51Severed once and for all.
00:35:52The flustered security guard relayed the message to Alexander,
00:35:55who was drinking at the club.
00:35:57Hearing this, a sneer appeared on his face.
00:36:00Please, we all know it's an old doctor on that mission.
00:36:03Eleanor is just faking a suicide mission to get my attention.
00:36:05It's pathetic.
00:36:06But Lil likes that car.
00:36:07I can't let her drive it away.
00:36:09He threw on his coat, grabbed the keys to another sports car,
00:36:14and chased after me.
00:36:16He chased me all the way to the gate of the Vance's mansion.
00:36:19He honked the horn at me.
00:36:22Eleanor, leave the car here!
00:36:24Where the hell you go is your own business!
00:36:26After a long while, the butler opened the gate.
00:36:28His eyes were red.
00:36:30His voice choked with emotion.
00:36:34He parked his car directly across the entrance of our mansion.
00:36:39This is what I learned later happened after I'd left Kingston.
00:36:43Vivian!
00:36:45Mr. Sterling.
00:36:47Ms. Vance has already gone to the airport.
00:36:51She really is going to the Middle East.
00:36:53That was what his assistant apparently told him.
00:36:55Alexander refused to believe any of it.
00:36:58Eleanor, get the hell out here!
00:37:00Don't think making up some story about going to die in the Middle East will make me change my mind.
00:37:04Everyone knows you're a spoiled princess, Eleanor.
00:37:07Used to cry for hours over a scratched knee.
00:37:10My father walked out when he heard the commotion.
00:37:13I was told he gazed at the drifting snow.
00:37:16His eyes must have been terrifyingly hollow that day.
00:37:19Alexander, just leave.
00:37:21Eleanor is truly gone.
00:37:22What she went to process yesterday were her exit papers.
00:37:26She will never be a stain on your sight to you again.
00:37:29I heard that Alexander felt a chill under my father's gaze.
00:37:32But he forced a smile anyway.
00:37:35Mr. Vance, is it fun helping your daughter put on an act?
00:37:38You adore your daughter so much.
00:37:40How could you possibly bear to let her go to a place like that?
00:37:46Alexander's expression darkened.
00:37:48His tone turned vicious.
00:37:50Even if she lost her verju in the red light district,
00:37:53you wouldn't necessarily send her off to die, would you?
00:37:56My father gave a cold snert.
00:37:58The sound seemed squeezed through clenched teeth.
00:38:00You animals pushed her to the edge.
00:38:02Maybe a war zone is the only place left where she can finally find some peace.
00:38:07Away from you!
00:38:13Alexander stared at my father's face.
00:38:16He tried to find even the slightest crack in that calm.
00:38:20But all he found was despair and dead silence.
00:38:25A sudden panic seized him.
00:38:29He kicked open the door to my room.
00:38:31The room was empty, save for the mess scattered on the floor.
00:38:35In that heavy snow driving a sports car.
00:38:38Where else could I have gone?
00:38:41Alexander walks out of the bedroom angrily and heads to the mansion gate.
00:38:45No sooner had the words fallen than two figures appeared at the entrance of the
00:38:49mansion.
00:38:50Lily and Julian.
00:38:52Alexander, don't worry.
00:38:54She drove into some random direction.
00:39:00I don't care about that junk car anymore.
00:39:03Since Eleanor likes it so much, let her keep it as a breakup fee.
00:39:07His fists cracked as he crunched them.
00:39:12I never thought that just to get back at me, she would actually sink this low.
00:39:17Mr. Vance, you really raised your daughter well.
00:39:20As a big shot businessman to think you'd help her spin such a massive lie.
00:39:25He wrapped his arm around Lily and walked out.
00:39:28He patted Julian on the shoulder as he passed.
00:39:33I truly feel for you, Julian, having to pick up trash like her.
00:39:37Once she's done with her little drama and crawls back, I'll throw you a massive wedding gift for
00:39:42taking her off my hands.
00:39:44Julian forced the corners of his mouth up into a smile that looked worse than crying.
00:39:50Just take good care of Lily for me.
00:39:52After seeing the two of them off, Julian turned on my father.
00:39:58Just now, the Sterling family bodyguards said Eleanor went to the Middle East.
00:40:03Is that actually true?
00:40:07Julian knew Lily had been lying just now, but he hadn't exposed her.
00:40:12After all, Lily had shown him a report.
00:40:15She'd said she was already carrying his child.
00:40:18So no matter what she said or did, he indulged her unconditionally.
00:40:23My father let out a long sigh.
00:40:25He shook his head.
00:40:26He seemed to age ten years in an instant.
00:40:30Mr. Montgomery, please go back as well.
00:40:32If you want to find Eleanor, go look in the Middle East.
00:40:35There is no longer anyone named Eleanor in Kingston.
00:40:38With a final icy look, my father had the butler throw Julian out.
00:40:45Julian stood alone in the biting wind.
00:40:48I imagine a cold, empty ache must have opened in his chest, like freezing wind tearing right through his ribs.
00:40:56My words outside the registry office must have flashed through his mind then.
00:41:00I won't marry you.
00:41:02Because I'm about to.
00:41:04Could it be?
00:41:05No.
00:41:05He refused to believe it.
00:41:07He drove like a madman to the International Aid Office.
00:41:10He didn't care about the cameras.
00:41:12He didn't care about the law.
00:41:14He shoved past the security guard to try to block his path.
00:41:17He slammed his weight against the director's door and barged inside.
00:41:23Upon learning the truth, Julian collapsed entirely into the chair.
00:41:27How could you let her go?
00:41:29She is just an ordinary surgeon.
00:41:32That kind of place.
00:41:33The director looked at him coldly.
00:41:37Mr. Montgomery, this was Dr. Vance's own decision.
00:41:40She said she had no attachments left in Kingston.
00:41:44Here is her flight information.
00:41:46And a copy of the sign Death We Veil.
00:41:48Julian took the paper with trembling hands.
00:41:51My signature, written with such force it nearly pierced through the page.
00:41:56Now that I was gone, he shouldn't have worried about me hurting Lily anymore.
00:42:01Nor should he be torn between sides.
00:42:04Yet why did his chest feel crushed by a heavy stone?
00:42:08Clutching that photocopy, he stumbled to the Sterling Manor.
00:42:12To his surprise, the family doctor was there as well.
00:42:17Congratulations, Mr. Sterling.
00:42:18Mrs. Evans is pregnant.
00:42:20It's been two months already.
00:42:22Alexander picked up Lily and spun her around.
00:42:26He thrilled like a child.
00:42:33Seeing Julian enter, the smile on Alexander's face hadn't faded yet.
00:42:38Julian!
00:42:39What are you doing here so late?
00:42:41Perfect timing.
00:42:42I have good news for you.
00:42:43Julian guiltily avoided Alexander's gaze.
00:42:46He handed over the photocopy.
00:42:49This is Eleanor's exit record.
00:42:51And the death favor.
00:42:53She really went to the Middle East.
00:42:55The smile froze on Alexander's face.
00:42:57He took the paper, glanced at it, tossed it aside with disdain.
00:43:01Anyone can fake a piece of paper.
00:43:03This is just another one of her desperate games to get me back.
00:43:05Julian's eyes were red.
00:43:07His voice trembled.
00:43:09It's real this time.
00:43:10I went to the office to verify it.
00:43:12The plane has already taken off.
00:43:14And she applied for the most dangerous combat zone.
00:43:16The mortality rate is extremely high.
00:43:18Alexander frowned.
00:43:20An inexplicable irritation rose in him.
00:43:22Only a lunatic would go to a place like that.
00:43:25She must be hiding in some resort abroad,
00:43:27waiting for me to beg her to come back.
00:43:29Julian, don't be fooled by her.
00:43:31If she actually dared to go, I'll eat my hat.
00:43:33Julian was about to explain further when Lily suddenly clutched her belly.
00:43:40Lily collapsed onto the sofa, groaning in pain.
00:43:45Alexander, my stomach hurts so much.
00:43:48Something wrong with the baby?
00:43:50Alexander panicked instantly.
00:43:51He scooped Lily up and rushed upstairs.
00:43:54Julian, we'll talk about later.
00:43:56Nothing is more important than Lily and the baby.
00:43:58Julian watched Alexander's retreating figure.
00:44:01He opened his mouth, but swallowed the words on the tip of his tongue.
00:44:05An hour later, Alexander came downstairs, covered in sweat.
00:44:10Julian, what did you want to say just now?
00:44:13Julian took a deep breath.
00:44:14He repeated what he had said earlier.
00:44:18Eleanor really left, and I heard a new virus has broken out over there.
00:44:22Many doctors have been infected.
00:44:27Julian, why are you going crazy along with her?
00:44:30Aren't we's brothers?
00:44:31If Eleanor actually had that kind of dents,
00:44:33she wouldn't have called me crying then just because she was afraid of the dark.
00:44:38Julian raised his right hand.
00:44:41He pointed at the ceiling to swear an oath.
00:44:43Alexander, I'm not lying to you.
00:44:46You know me.
00:44:47I never joke about things like this.
00:44:49Hurry up and contact people over there to search for her,
00:44:52or it really will be too late.
00:44:54The smile on Alexander's face finally faded.
00:44:56It was replaced by a panic he'd never felt before.
00:45:00He grabbed his car keys.
00:45:02He rushed into the wind and snow.
00:45:05He drove straight to our mansion.
00:45:08Arriving at the gate, he ignored the butler.
00:45:10He shouted,
00:45:11Eleanor! Get out here!
00:45:13Stop playing games!
00:45:15As long as you come out,
00:45:16I can let you go back to work at the Sterling Hospital.
00:45:19I can give you the best resources!
00:45:21My father looked down from the balcony.
00:45:23His voice was as cold as ice.
00:45:26You're too late.
00:45:27She reached the Middle East days ago.
00:45:30The news just broke.
00:45:31Her camp was hit by an airstruck.
00:45:33Alexander's whole body shuddered.
00:45:35His legs went weak.
00:45:39Alexander earmely knelt on the ground.
00:45:42Without another word, he prepared to rush to the airport.
00:45:46Just as he got into the car, Lily ran out in thin pajamas.
00:45:51Alexander, you can't go!
00:45:53Lily, move!
00:45:54I have to go and confirm it!
00:45:56Julian also arrived,
00:45:58looking at the scene with a complicated expression.
00:46:01After a long while, he spoke slowly.
00:46:04Alexander, if you really want to go, I'll go with you.
00:46:06But as for Lily, she's pregnant.
00:46:09She can't handle the stress.
00:46:10Alexander looked at Lily.
00:46:13She was weeping like a pear blossom in rain.
00:46:16Then he checked the news notification on his phone.
00:46:19Medical camp in Country R, Middle East attack.
00:46:22Casualties unknown.
00:46:23He gritted his teeth.
00:46:25He threw a plane ticket to Julian.
00:46:26You go.
00:46:27No matter how what it costs, you must bring her back to me.
00:46:29And ask her, why on earth did she leave so firmly?
00:46:32If she's doing this out of spite, I'll apologize to her personally.
00:46:36Alice, we grew together.
00:46:37I can't just watch her die.
00:46:42Alexander carried Lily back inside.
00:46:45Julian took the ticket and flew overnight to that war-torn nation.
00:46:48Lily had told him that he absolutely could not let Alexander go.
00:46:50Only if Julian...
00:46:51When could the matter be handled properly?
00:46:53As for how to handle it, that was a secret between them.
00:46:55After more than 20 hours of travel, Julian finally arrived at the temporary camp on the border of country, our
00:47:01dot sky-filling.
00:47:03Yellow sand and the pungent smell of disinfectant greeted him.
00:47:07Two mercenaries in camouflage blocked his way.
00:47:11Who are you looking for?
00:47:13I'm looking for Dr. Eleanor Vance.
00:47:15The mercenaries exchanged a glance.
00:47:18A meaningful smile spread across their faces.
00:47:21So you're looking for that female doctor from Asia?
00:47:24Our boss is spending some quality time with her right now.
00:47:30Julian's heart skipped a beat.
00:47:32He asked anxiously.
00:47:34Where is she?
00:47:35One of the mercenaries pointed to a tent in the distance.
00:47:41Over there.
00:47:44Honestly?
00:47:45I doubt she'll walk out of that tent in one piece.
00:47:51Julian burst into the tent like a madman.
00:47:56Julian ripped the curtain aside, but he froze in his tracks at the scene before him.
00:48:01I was still in my white doctor's coat.
00:48:03My hands were steady as I worked on a man covered in blood.
00:48:07I didn't even look up.
00:48:09The man had piercing eyes as sharp as a hawk's.
00:48:11The kind of eyes that looked like they had seen a thousand battles.
00:48:14But right now, he was looking at me with a strange gentleness.
00:48:19Eleanor.
00:48:20Let the nurses handle the small stuff.
00:48:23I don't want you to overwork yourself.
00:48:26Julian stared.
00:48:27His mouth hung open.
00:48:29He knew exactly who this man was.
00:48:31Carl Anderson.
00:48:32The general known as the Desert Eagle in this part of North Africa.
00:48:36He was the man who really ran everything.
00:48:39I didn't even blink.
00:48:40My hands remained rock steady as I continued closing the gash in his side.
00:48:44My voice was low, professional, and utterly calm.
00:48:48Carl, as long as you're on my table, you're the patient and I'm the doctor.
00:48:52Stop moving.
00:48:53Carl let out a low, rough chuckle.
00:48:56There was a dangerous blint of amusement in his eyes as he finally stayed still.
00:49:04They told me Eleanor Vance was just another rich girl with a silver spoon in her mouth.
00:49:08I didn't expect your hands to be this steady with a scalpel.
00:49:12You actually had the balls to storm my compound alone just to save one life.
00:49:16You've definitely proven me wrong, doctor.
00:49:18As he spoke, he looked up.
00:49:20The moment he saw Julian, who had just kicked the door open and stood there panting,
00:49:24Carl's eyes turned cold and lethal.
00:49:26As sharp as the edge of a blade.
00:49:28This uninvited guest is even more annoying than the desert sandstorms.
00:49:32Not a shred of manners.
00:49:34My hands never paused.
00:49:36Are you still here?
00:49:39Do you want to end up as a nameless corpse in this godforsaken place too?
00:49:43This isn't Kingston.
00:49:45Your power and influence mean nothing here.
00:49:48I turned to Carl.
00:49:49Here, the only things that matter are the scalpel in my hand and Carl's word.
00:49:53Julian stared at me in utter disbelief, as if he had seen a ghost.
00:49:56Eleanor, how could you, how could you associate with a cold-blooded killer like him?
00:50:02I smiled faintly.
00:50:04I tossed the bloody gauze into the tray.
00:50:09Julian, you know the answer perfectly well.
00:50:12Why ask me?
00:50:14Fighting back the nausea rising within me, I refused to look at him.
00:50:18Go back.
00:50:19Tell Alexander that I, Eleanor, will never return in this lifetime.
00:50:23Carl's murderous gaze locked onto Julian, forcing him to take a frightened half-step back.
00:50:30Before leaving, Julian left one last remark.
00:50:34Eleanor, seeing that you're doing well, I'm relieved.
00:50:38If you ever regret this, call me anytime.
00:50:42Alexander and I will come to get you.
00:50:45I merely chuckled at his words.
00:50:47Go back and tell Alexander that whatever bond we gared over the last decade ends today.
00:50:51We are finished.
00:50:52From now on, in life, my soul belongs to this land.
00:50:55In death, I shall be buried beneath these deserts.
00:50:57Julian stood frozen for a long moment.
00:50:59The desert wind whipped sand against his face.
00:51:02He opened his mouth as if to say something else.
00:51:04But no words came out.
00:51:05He turned and walked away.
00:51:09Let's go inside.
00:51:10It's getting cold.
00:51:15I leaned into his warmth.
00:51:17From that day on, I stopped being the ruined girl from Kingston.
00:51:21Between my steady surgical hands and a raw grit they'd never seen in a woman, I did the impossible.
00:51:26I earned the respect of Carl and his men.
00:51:29Back home, people whispered about the ruthless general as if he were a monster from a nightmare.
00:51:35But up close, he wasn't the demon they made him out to be.
00:51:39He was a man of his word, fiercely loyal to those under his protection.
00:51:43I realized his cruelty wasn't born of malice.
00:51:46It was just his armor in this living hell where only the strongest survived.
00:51:51I had thought coming here would be a death sentence.
00:51:54But unexpectedly, this life of brushing shoulders with death every day gave me a newfound sense of purpose.
00:52:00Six months passed.
00:52:02An international medical organization was holding a charity gala in Kingston.
00:52:06They invited our team as special guests.
00:52:11Thinking it was a good opportunity to visit my father and settle the Vance family assets,
00:52:16Carl canceled his other engagements to accompany me back.
00:52:21We returned to Kingston in early summer.
00:52:23The city was filled with drifting willow catkins, warm breeze, golden sunlight.
00:52:29Everything looked the same, and yet nothing was the same at all.
00:52:33The girl who had left this city broken and humiliated was gone.
00:52:37In her place stood a woman who had survived war zones,
00:52:40who had held beating hearts in her hands,
00:52:43and learned that the only person she could count on was herself.
00:52:47Before the gala began,
00:52:49I went to the hotel's open-air garden alone for some fresh air,
00:52:52and I ran into a heavily pregnant woman, Lily.
00:52:56She stared at me for a long moment,
00:52:59as if struggling to recognize me,
00:53:01then she let out a sneer.
00:53:03Well, well, isn't this Eleanor?
00:53:05I didn't expect you to be so tough.
00:53:07You actually made it back alive?
00:53:09I ignored her and turned to leave,
00:53:11but she rushed forward to block my path.
00:53:13Her eyes brimmed with triumph.
00:53:16I won.
00:53:17Are you still not convinced?
00:53:19Hearing her words, I only found it amusing.
00:53:22Why would I care about two pieces of trash
00:53:24that never belonged to me in the first place?
00:53:30Lily stroked her protruding belly.
00:53:33Her lips curved into an eerie smile.
00:53:37Guess whose child is in here?
00:53:41My gaze faltered slightly,
00:53:42looked past her at two figures slowly approaching from the garden path,
00:53:47Alexander and Julian,
00:53:49having not seen them for six months.
00:53:51They seemed much more haggard.
00:53:54They had lost weight.
00:53:56Their eyes held an exhaustion they couldn't hide.
00:54:00The moment Alexander's gaze landed on me,
00:54:03he stopped dead in his tracks.
00:54:05His face went pale.
00:54:07Beside him,
00:54:08Julian's hand flew to his mouth.
00:54:10Eleanor?
00:54:11I didn't answer.
00:54:12I didn't even acknowledge them.
00:54:14I simply watched Lily Preen,
00:54:16utterly oblivious to the devastation spreading across both men's faces.
00:54:20She had no idea that her little victory,
00:54:23speech was about to blow up in her face.
00:54:26I'm talking to you.
00:54:28Stop acting so high and mighty.
00:54:30Guess whose seed this child really is.
00:54:35I caught her wrist in midair.
00:54:42I smiled coldly.
00:54:45I don't know.
00:54:46Isn't it Alexander's?
00:54:48She tilted her head back arrogantly,
00:54:50her voice shrill.
00:54:52Of course it's not his, Miz.
00:54:55I was already pregnant before I even met him.
00:55:00Then is it Julian's?
00:55:06To tell you the truth,
00:55:08even I don't know which client this child belongs to.
00:55:12You're two good brothers.
00:55:13One treats me like a chevel and raises a bastard for me.
00:55:17While the other thinks the child is has and obeys my every command.
00:55:21It's hilarious.
00:55:22Tell me, wouldn't I your wind disround completely?
00:55:25I smirked.
00:55:27I looked at the pale-faced Alexander and Julian behind her.
00:55:33Did you both hear that?
00:55:34Lily rolled her eyes dismissively.
00:55:37Who are you trying to scare?
00:55:39It's not like Stanheim me as...
00:55:44She glanced back casually.
00:55:46But upon seeing two faces grimmer than death,
00:55:48she was so terrified she collapsed onto the ground.
00:55:51She clutched her belly and screamed.
00:55:53Why are you both here?
00:55:55Did Eleanor call you here?
00:55:57Those words weren't true.
00:55:58Eleanor forced me to say them.
00:56:01Lily scrambled frantically toward Alexander.
00:56:07Alexander, the child is yours!
00:56:10My stomach hurts so much!
00:56:12Please save our child!
00:56:14Alexander's face was dark as thunder.
00:56:16He looked as if he might collapse.
00:56:18Lily, Lily, you wretch!
00:56:20You've been lying to me for so long.
00:56:22But when I took you to the hospital for the checkup,
00:56:25the doctor clearly said it was my child.
00:56:27Were those test reports all fake?
00:56:29I let out a cold laugh.
00:56:31How hard is it to forge a report?
00:56:33How easy is it to bribe a doctor?
00:56:36Don't you understand these kinds of tricks?
00:56:38Julian rushed forward from the side.
00:56:40He slapped Lily viciously across the face twice.
00:56:43Those two slaps are for Eleanor.
00:56:44And these two are to help you wake up
00:56:46and realize who the real fool is.
00:56:48Stop hitting me! Stop hitting me!
00:56:50I admit everything!
00:56:51Please just save me and the child first.
00:56:53The doctor said if I lose this pregnancy, I'll die.
00:56:56I know you both love me.
00:56:57You wouldn't have the heart to let me die, would you?
00:57:00Soon as the baby's born, I can take a parenting test.
00:57:02Please! I beg you!
00:57:03Alexander pulled a self-defense dagger from his inner pocket.
00:57:06He walked toward Lily with hollow eyes.
00:57:10You and this bastard both deserve to die.
00:57:15I watched the circus unfold before me.
00:57:18My heart was as cold as stone.
00:57:20Not a single spark of pity remained.
00:57:22Alexander's eyes were beeloded, his face wet with useless tears.
00:57:28Eleanor, I failed you. I was blind.
00:57:31Please, can we just start over?
00:57:33Even if we're just friends?
00:57:35No.
00:57:37We're nothing.
00:57:39The word hung in the air between us like a death sentence.
00:57:42Alexander staggered back as if I had struck him.
00:57:45His hand reached toward me.
00:57:47Then it dropped to his side.
00:57:49He understood.
00:57:50There was no coming back from this.
00:57:53Not ever.
00:57:54Julian dropped to his knees with a heavy thud.
00:57:56He sobbed like a child.
00:57:58Eleanor, if you hate Alexander, fine.
00:58:00But please forgive me.
00:58:02I never wanted to hurt you.
00:58:03I just...
00:58:04You just what?
00:58:04Let me save you from that, General?
00:58:06I'll give you a life of luxury?
00:58:07You shouldn't be in this war-torn hell.
00:58:09I arched an eyebrow.
00:58:10Forgive me?
00:58:11You've got to be kidding me.
00:58:13You stood by and watched while Lily made me the city's punch tome.
00:58:17You were his partner in crime the day my life was ruined.
00:58:25Besides, I've already fallen for Carl.
00:58:28I'm spending the rest of my life with him.
00:58:31Impossible!
00:58:31How could you love a beast like him?
00:58:33He kills without a second thought.
00:58:35He isn't even half the man I am.
00:58:37Tell me the truth.
00:58:38Is he holding you hostage?
00:58:40Just say the word and I'll spend every cent I have to rescue you.
00:58:43Even if it bankrupts the Sterling Empire.
00:58:46I calmly smoothed the hem of my gown.
00:58:48I looked at them both like they were insects.
00:58:50You're overthinking it, Alexander.
00:58:52The Middle East is dangerous, sure.
00:58:54But I've never felt more free.
00:58:57Do you want to know why?
00:58:58The two exchanged glances.
00:59:00They shook their heads in turn.
00:59:02Because he truly understands me,
00:59:05cherishes me,
00:59:05and treats me like the only treasure in the world.
00:59:11He saves the best of everything for me immediately.
00:59:15Even if it's just a piece of candy.
00:59:17He'd cross half a desert just to bring it to me.
00:59:20Just like how you used to treat me when we were children.
00:59:24If you're willing, we can go back to how things were.
00:59:27We can be even better than before.
00:59:28Before their words could settle,
00:59:30Carl strode over.
00:59:31He was dressed in an immaculate suit,
00:59:34walking with purpose.
00:59:36Eleanor, the banquet is about to start.
00:59:38Why aren't you inside yet?
00:59:40What is there to talk about with such boring people?
00:59:42I'm coming right now.
00:59:48We can never go back.
00:59:50We can never go back.
00:59:51Not ever.
00:59:52With that,
00:59:53I linked my arm tighter through Carl's
00:59:55and walked away without looking back,
00:59:57leaving them with nothing but my firm silhouette
01:00:00fading into the golden afternoon light.
01:00:02I didn't glance back once.
01:00:06Not even when I heard Alexander's voice crack behind me.
01:00:10They were strangers to me now.
01:00:12Complete strangers.
01:00:14Not long after,
01:00:15news came from Kingston.
01:00:17Alexander and Julia had both committed suicide.
01:00:20It was said that the day after,
01:00:22Lily died from a massive hemorrhage following a miscarriage.
01:00:25They knelt outside the gates
01:00:27of our mansion for an entire night.
01:00:29Eventually, they were found dead in the freezing cold,
01:00:33still kneeling.
01:00:34They were tightly clutching the birthday gifts
01:00:36I had given them when we were children
01:00:38to engraved silver lockets bearing their names.
01:00:41Eleanor, I'm sorry.
01:00:43If there is a next life,
01:00:44I promise to cherish you with my life.
01:00:45The paper trembled slightly between my fingers.
01:00:48I'd already called my father.
01:00:51He was safe.
01:00:52He told me not to come back.
01:00:54Not for them.
01:00:55Not for anyone.
01:00:57Not from grief.
01:00:58From something I couldn't name.
01:01:01Carl's hand covered mine.
01:01:03Steading it.
01:01:04He didn't speak.
01:01:05He didn't need to.
01:01:08That night, I sat alone in Carl's tent
01:01:10and read the full report for the second time.
01:01:13The desert wind howled outside,
01:01:15carrying sand that stung like tiny needles
01:01:18against the canvas.
01:01:20Carl sat across from me,
01:01:22watching my face.
01:01:26Carl didn't ask how I felt.
01:01:28He didn't offer platitudes or empty condolences.
01:01:32He simply reached,
01:01:33across the table and took my hand.
01:01:36His palm was rough,
01:01:38calloused from years of handling weapons,
01:01:40but warm,
01:01:41steady,
01:01:42real.
01:01:44Do you regret it?
01:01:46I thought about his question.
01:01:48I thought about the girl I used to be,
01:01:50the one who cried over scratched knees,
01:01:52who believed every promise,
01:01:54who thought love was enough.
01:01:57I thought about the woman lying in that alley,
01:02:00broken and bleeding,
01:02:01while the two men she trusted most
01:02:02were planning their futures with someone else.
01:02:05I thought about the surgeon
01:02:06who'd learned to hold a scalpel steadier than a sword,
01:02:09who'd walked through fire to save lives,
01:02:12who'd found that the only person worth trusting
01:02:14was the one who'd never lied to her.
01:02:17No,
01:02:18I'd regret a single choice I made.
01:02:23Carl lifted my hand to his lips
01:02:25and kissed my knuckles,
01:02:26one by one.
01:02:29Good,
01:02:30because neither do I.
01:02:31Outside,
01:02:32the desert stretched endless in every direction.
01:02:35Brutal,
01:02:36beautiful,
01:02:36and ours.
01:02:41We'll see you next time.
01:02:41We'll see you next time.
01:02:41We'll see you next time.
01:02:41We'll see you next time.
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