- 5 hours ago
Love In The Twilight - Ep
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:20Lawrence, I have something to tell you.
00:46Something important...
00:47What's more important than what I want to do now?
00:51I...
00:53Got any news?
00:54Yes! We found her!
00:56Where is she? Are you sure it's her?
00:58It's confirmed. I've sent the material to your email.
01:01I'm on my way.
01:05Who is she? Where are you going?
01:08Our deal is over. Fill in any amount on the check on the table, and move out by tomorrow.
01:14You think I'm only after your money, so we are only bound by the contract, huh?
01:19Fine.
01:22I don't want your money. I'm pregnant, and it's yours.
01:28You know the agreement. Take your medication on time.
01:32Don't worry. I won't disturb your wedding.
01:39Why do and feel heartbroken?
01:52Is it you?
01:58Mrs. Veronica, if you don't pay the hospital fees, we'll have to discharge your mother.
02:02I know. I get it. I'll get the money soon.
02:10Dad.
02:11About my mom's medical expense.
02:16Those seem like my shoes.
02:19Mr. Roy!
02:20You're right. It's my daughter who saved you.
02:23This is my daughter.
02:30Listen, we have guests now.
02:32If you still want money, keep your mouth shut and go back to your room.
02:39Who's that? She sounds familiar.
02:42Sorry, Mr. Roy. It's just a servant's child. Let's continue.
02:46Miss, are these shoes yours?
02:47Yes, Mr. Roy. I'm Elena. These are the shoes I lost when I saved you.
02:52Did you get hurt? When you saved me?
02:56I remember that on your call of a tone, there's a-
02:59Oh, right. There's a birthmark on her call of a tone.
03:01Yes, but you're not asking to see it now, right?
03:05I won't be so rude. Thank you for saving my life.
03:08Please tell me what do you want. I'll make it happen.
03:10You're too nice. I don't really need anything.
03:13Please, give me a chance to thank you properly.
03:16Then...
03:19Marry me.
03:20That figure seemed familiar.
03:28Aren't those shoes the ones I lost five years ago?
03:32We found some old stuff in the storage room. Who cares whose they are?
03:35Anyway, let me tell you some good news. Your sister is getting married soon.
03:39That's right. My dear sister, be my bridesmaid.
03:43Congratulations, Elena.
03:45Oh, sister, are you back this time?
03:47To jay money for your mom's trialed?
03:50Don't feel embarrassed.
03:52Here. Take it.
03:57I'm throwing an engagement party here tonight.
04:00Dance for us, and the money is yours.
04:02Alright. What time is it?
04:05Eight sharp.
04:05Oh, besides, my fiancé will be here.
04:08Looking forward to it.
04:10She doesn't know who Lawrence is, right?
04:13It doesn't matter.
04:16I have the shoes.
04:20He'll believe me.
04:28I heard Elena's sister is performing tonight.
04:31Exotic dancer.
04:37Veronica, come and meet my fiancé.
04:41This is my fiancé, Mr. Lawrence Roy.
04:48Darling, this is tonight's surprise.
04:51Veronica.
04:53It's a pleasure to meet you.
04:55A pleasure to meet you?
04:58I've heard so much about you.
05:01Mr. Roy.
05:05Wait.
05:06These shoes are filthy.
05:07They'll ruin my father's marble floor.
05:10Without the ballet shoes, I can't dance.
05:12True artists don't need fancy tools.
05:22Think about your mother's medical fee.
05:24Dance.
05:25Or piss off.
05:28Fine.
05:29Stop wasting time.
05:31Dance.
05:51Enough, Veronica.
05:56I said enough.
05:58Are you trying to ruin my banquet?
06:01Why bother?
06:27Why are you dancing ballet here?
06:29I'm a ballet dancer.
06:31I only dance ballet.
06:33Don't work here.
06:35From now on, you'll dance only for me.
06:39How silly of me.
06:41To think he would do the same.
06:51What are you doing here?
06:54You've ruined my engagement party!
06:57I danced.
06:58Give me the money.
07:00Money?
07:01After you ruined everything and totally embarrassed me?
07:05Your mom should have died long ago.
07:07You two deserve to go to hell.
07:22Mom, I'm sorry.
07:24I fucked up again and I didn't get the money.
07:28Mom, I'm pregnant with Lawrence's baby.
07:33I don't want to have anything to do with him.
07:36And he's intending to hold me accountable for a breach.
07:39I can't drag this baby into our mess.
07:42When I finish everything here, I'll get you transferred.
07:46Let's find a place where no one knows us.
07:59Find her.
08:00She's not going anywhere without my permission.
08:10Are you sure you want an abortion?
08:15Yes.
08:16A family member needs to sign.
08:21I'll sign it.
08:32Get out.
08:39Why are you here?
08:47I own this hospital.
08:50Move.
08:52Listen.
08:53Without my permission.
08:56Don't even think about getting rid of it.
08:58Why?
08:59You're going to get married.
09:01This is my child.
09:02And you...
09:03must deliver it.
09:09Before that,
09:10you're not allowed to go anywhere.
09:13You have no right to...
09:15From now on,
09:16you're my personal assistant.
09:1824-7.
09:19What did you say?
09:21Don't forget.
09:22You still owe me a penalty fee.
09:25Lee will send you the address.
09:278 tomorrow morning.
09:29Meet me at the office.
09:33This is what he called
09:34a personal assistant.
09:36There's nothing I can do.
09:42Postpone this afternoon's meeting
09:43to 4 a.m.
09:44Re-revise the merger
09:45and acquisition document.
09:47Yes, sir.
09:51Sir,
09:52here's the background information
09:53you requested.
09:54Inform the security team
09:55that Elena will be there tomorrow.
09:59Coffee.
10:05Too sweet.
10:06Do it again.
10:07I didn't put sugar in it.
10:14Don't move.
10:15Let go.
10:17Are you doing this on purpose?
10:21You think I'd throw myself
10:22into the arms of a man
10:23who's about to get married?
10:53Sir.
10:54Sir.
10:55Miss Elena
10:56is coming this way.
11:07Don't let her see me.
11:22Don't let her see me.
11:26Please.
11:29You don't want anyone
11:30to see us together?
11:32Are you insane?
11:34Your fiancé
11:34is outside the door
11:35right now.
11:36So?
11:43Miss Elena!
11:44Mr. Lawrence is...
11:45He's busy!
11:46Please wait!
11:49So you don't want her
11:50to find out
11:51that her fiancé
11:51is having an affair
11:52with another woman, right?
11:54An affair?
11:58Remember,
11:59you're pregnant
12:00with my child first.
12:08Busy?
12:08I have to wait to meet him?
12:10I'll go in
12:10and talk to him myself.
12:11Open the door!
12:17Darling!
12:18Do you miss me?
12:20What brings you here?
12:21I'm here to see you.
12:22Secretary Lee said
12:23you were busy.
12:24What's keeping you occupied?
12:25Schedule is a bit tight recently.
12:27You'll keep me company
12:28at the charity gala
12:29tomorrow, right?
12:30I don't want to face
12:31those annoying things
12:32socialers on my own.
12:33Sure.
12:35That's more like it.
12:37Oh,
12:37can I use your
12:38lounge?
12:39Why?
12:40I've been shopping
12:41the whole afternoon.
12:42I'm exhausted.
12:44I want to rest
12:45on your bed
12:45before I leave.
12:48No problem.
12:51What's that sound?
13:06Miss Elena!
13:07Mr. Lawrence
13:08prepared a gift for you.
13:10It's in the car
13:10downstairs.
13:11Would you like
13:12to take a look?
13:13A gift?
13:14What gift?
13:15It's the limited edition
13:17you pecked the last time
13:18necklace.
13:18Mr. Lawrence
13:19ordered it from Paris.
13:20You're such a sweetheart.
13:21show it to me.
13:33Why didn't you
13:34want her to find you?
13:36If I tell you,
13:38can you advance
13:38me six-month salary?
13:40Are you qualified
13:40to negotiate with me?
13:42I said,
13:43can you?
13:44What leverage
13:45do you have?
13:46Never mind.
13:48Tell me.
13:50Fine.
13:50Starting tomorrow,
13:52you're fired.
13:53Don't forget that
13:54you still owe me
13:54the penalty fee.
13:56If you don't come
13:57to work,
13:57just wait to pay
13:58back the money.
13:59You...
14:00I'm giving you
14:00three seconds.
14:02One.
14:03Two.
14:04She's my sister.
14:06What did you say?
14:08Elena is my sister.
14:12Five years ago,
14:13your daughter
14:13saved my life
14:14at West Horry Tunnel.
14:15You're from
14:16the Crower family?
14:23So,
14:24you're George
14:25Crowdy's daughter?
14:27What does it
14:27have to do with you?
14:32Can you give it to me?
14:34The money?
14:35Why do you need money?
14:36Find a father
14:37for my child.
14:38It deserves a dad.
14:42There's no need
14:43to upset me.
14:44After you give birth
14:45to the kid,
14:46you'll get your payment.
14:48What if I want it now?
14:50Then prove yourself.
14:52Finish this today,
14:53and I'll pay you.
14:57Deal.
15:06Miss Veronica,
15:07here's your drink.
15:08No, thanks.
15:10Mr. Roy,
15:11he doesn't mean it that way.
15:13He's just...
15:13You don't need to speak
15:14for him.
15:15I know perfectly well
15:17what he thinks of me.
15:18Miss Veronica.
15:18It's done.
15:20Remind your boss
15:21to keep his promise.
15:26Sir.
15:27Miss Veronica
15:28has finished her cinch.
15:29Well,
15:29transfer the money to her.
15:31Sir,
15:32Miss Veronica
15:33is also Mr. Crowett's daughter.
15:35Could she be the one
15:36who saved you
15:37five years ago?
15:38Those shoes belong to Elena.
15:41Wait.
15:42Make an appointment
15:42with Elena.
15:44Tell her to wear the dress
15:45from five years ago.
15:48Darling,
15:49thank you for making time
15:50to choose my wedding dress.
15:52Why didn't you wear that dress?
15:54It's been five years.
15:55There's no way
15:56I'm still keeping it.
15:57But as I recall,
15:59you didn't wear a dress then.
16:00You seem to have
16:01a lot of secrets.
16:02I don't remember.
16:04What secrets
16:05could I possibly have?
16:07Haven't you
16:07investigated everything?
16:09If that's true,
16:10I wouldn't have just
16:11figured out
16:11that Veronica
16:12is your sister.
16:13Well,
16:14I don't think
16:14that's relevant.
16:15She not important.
16:17Elena,
16:18I hope you didn't hide
16:20anything from me.
16:26I hope you didn't hide anything from me.
16:38you,
16:39why are you here?
16:45It'd be ideal
16:46to choose the wedding dress
16:47with family.
16:48So I invited your sister.
16:50You wouldn't mind,
16:52right?
16:54Let me try this one first.
16:57Hmm.
17:00Why don't you pick a bridesmaid dress
17:01instead of standing here?
17:03Sister.
17:17What are you doing?
17:19Do you want
17:19a wedding dress too?
17:21Have you found
17:22anyone with the money?
17:24Have you lost your mind?
17:25Elena is still here!
17:29Answer me.
17:30Let go!
17:31Is there anything
17:32I can do
17:33that can help you?
17:42I...
17:42I'm gonna try this.
17:47Psycho.
17:57You!
17:58How can you get in here?
18:00Leave!
18:01Do you think
18:02you can escape from me?
18:07I've never noticed
18:08that you have
18:09a birthmark here.
18:10You never cared
18:11about these details.
18:16Stop!
18:17Stop it!
18:18Darling!
18:18Where are you?
18:23Everyone listen!
18:25I'm the Harman Bride!
18:31I'm the Harman Bride!
18:49I'm the Harman Bride!
18:49Luggage came through!
18:5060 seconds!
18:53Hey!
18:53I'm so sorry!
18:54We were at a bar last night,
18:55had a stupid idea,
18:56got a little drunk,
18:57and just...
18:58went and did it.
18:59Don't worry!
18:59Once the 30-day waiting period is up,
19:01we're filing for divorce immediately.
19:02We'll get him right back to you.
19:04I was quiet for two seconds, then I blocked her. Three hours later, Ethan came home. I was already
19:09at the bottom of the stairs, luggage in tow. He glanced at the certificates, sitting on the
19:14coffee table and pressed two fingers to his temple. It's not a big deal. She was just messing
19:19around. You're really going to hold this over everyone? You've been waiting for this wedding
19:23for six years. You can't wait one more month? I smiled. I didn't deny it. No, I can't. Ethan
19:29blinked. He stepped in front of me on instinct. Mia, stop. Don't do this. The invitations
19:36are already out. If you leave now, what are our families supposed to do? I moved his hand
19:41aside and kept walking. His voice finally went cold. You're going to throw away six years
19:45over something this small? I stopped. I turned around. Six years? Ethan, when you signed that
19:52certificate with her, did you think about those six years at all? He had nothing. He forced
19:57out something useless. The bar was loud. The guys kept pouring drinks. She took a lot of
20:03them for me. She was pretty out of it herself. Everyone was egging us on. I wasn't thinking
20:06straight. They basically dragged us there. It was a joke. We'll fix it. I looked at his
20:14unbothered face and didn't even have the energy to argue. A joke. If marriage could be a joke,
20:20what in this world was actually serious? I turned away. His phone rang. He looked at it.
20:26It's Cassie. She knows she's screwed up. She wants to apologize to you. I ignored him and
20:30opened the door. Cassie was already standing outside. Keys dangling from one hand.
20:38You're actually leaving? I wheeled my suitcase around her. Cassie clicked her tongue and grabbed
20:42the handle. Really? I said I'd apologize. Isn't that enough? I'm the one who talked him into it. I'm
20:48the one who kept pouring. If you're mad, be mad at me. Don't take it out on Ethan. Cassie,
20:53be respectful. Give her the bag. Cassie didn't give it back. She pulled it further
20:58behind her. If I do, who's he gonna swap rings with tomorrow? Air? Look, unlike you, I don't spend
21:11my whole life orbiting some guy with zero career of my own. But even I know. A guy like Ethan,
21:16the dinners, the smoothing, the situational flirtation. That's just business. We grew up
21:23together. I helped him fight his battles. You weren't even the picture back then. Getting
21:28all dramatic over one little joke. Can't you act like a grown-up? Since you're so mature
21:34and so concerned about him. Then you go. Tomorrow. To the wedding. You be the main event. That
21:44certificate becomes the real thing.
21:50I pulled my suitcase back. Cassie's expression cracked. Her chest rose and fell twice. Then
21:56she smirked. Fine. She dug into her bag, pulled out her copy of the certificate. This little
22:03thing bothers you that much? Then I'll just tear it up. Consider it my apology. The certificate
22:11split straight down the middle. Cassie dropped both halves on the floor. Done. Happy now?
22:17If you can't take a joke, you can't take a joke. This is so boring. Ethan's expression
22:22went dark. Cassie, what are you doing? Fixing your problem. Certificate's gone. She can
22:30calm down now, right? She turned to me. Satisfied? Then she shot me a look. Eyes already going
22:36red and ran. Then I looked at Ethan. That's her apology? He watched the spot where she
22:45disappeared. Rubbed his forehead irritated. She's impulsive. She was trying to let you
22:49vent. Let me vent. I nearly laughed. She tore up the marriage certificate. Before you two
22:56can file for divorce, you'll have to go replace it. Ethan, she wasn't letting me vent. She was
23:02rubbing salt in the wound on purpose. She didn't think that far. Right. She didn't have to. Because
23:08in the end, it's not her problem. I stopped looking at him. Grabbed my suitcase. Turned
23:13around. The driver helped load it into the trunk. Ethan caught up. Pressed his hand against the
23:21door before it closed. He leaned down to look at me. Mia, go to your parents' place. Cool off. Think
23:28about
23:28whether you're being unreasonable. But tomorrow, every guest and every reporter will be there.
23:33You know how to show up as a proper bride. Our family's reputations are not yours to throw around.
23:38I slowly lifted my head. There it was again. Our family's reputations. Six years. Every time Cassie
23:46crossed a line in the name of best friends. Because he was sure I couldn't leave. Not emotionally,
23:51not financially. He never once thought about putting distance between himself and Cassie.
23:55I did believe nothing physical had happened between them. I spent six happy months planning
23:59a wedding. And then, a marriage certificate. A bar. Her name on it next to his. First it was all
24:05the
24:05small things. Now she'd even slipped herself into the legal definition of his spouse. As a joke.
24:11Our family's reputations. I repeated it softly. You keep them. That's your job. The wedding.
24:18I'm not coming. As for the bride. I pulled the door shut. Marry whoever you want. The car pulled out.
24:28Miss, where to? The airport. My phone vibrated the whole way there. Ethan. My mom. His mom. Mutual friends.
24:37I declined every call. Turned it off. For the first time. I was not being good. And I felt something
24:44I
24:44hadn't felt in years. Light. But just when I thought I was free. That lightness shattered the
24:49moment we pulled up to the terminal. My parents were there. My brother Jamie. And the family's
24:54adopted daughter Sierra. Jamie grabbed my suitcase handle. Mia, what is wrong with you? If you leave,
24:59what happens to us? The comp is on on life support waiting for the Harmon Group investment.
25:03My mom took advantage of the distraction and snatched my purse. Sweetheart, I heard everything.
25:07Just wait for them to divorce in a month and it's like it never happened. Stop causing a scene.
25:12Sierra drifted over. Sis. I know you're hurting. But we're family. Can't you think of us just this
25:21once? Just this once. Was that really what it was? At 18, I signed over grandpa's shares to her. At
25:2621,
25:27when she had her eye on someone, I stepped aside from the engagement. Grandpa had arranged for me.
25:31An old money family, the Yates. At 22, I drank until I was hospitalized to smooth over a business
25:36dinner for the family. At 25, I took the fall for Jamie's embezzlement to protect the heir's
25:40clean record. Every single time, written off as family. And it is what you do. Since the day I
25:45was brought into this so-called home, had anyone ever thought about me, my parents' warmth and
25:48favoritism had always flowed straight to Sierra. The good daughter. The one they'd raised from childhood.
25:53Jamie had been carried his whole life. He was a leech, and he knew it. If it hadn't been for
25:57Ethan
25:57walking into my world like a light through a window. I wouldn't have lasted this long. He saw
26:01through my silence. Understood the things I couldn't say. With him there, Sierra's digs,
26:04and my parents' favoritism had stayed in check. I fell in love with him, depended on him. I held
26:08on like he was a life raft. I'd pushed so hard for him to marry me sooner. Convinced myself that
26:12once I
26:13had my own home, I could finally leave this suffocating place behind. For that, I told myself
26:17Cassie's boundary crossing was something I could tolerate. But now, even that last stupid hope was gone.
26:22Give me my bag. I held out my hand to my mother. Come home first. We'll talk when you've settled
26:27down. Jamie groaned and stamped his foot. Mia, I'm begging you. Just get through this one thing.
26:33Once the funding comes in, after that, you can do whatever you want. I looked at this brother who'd
26:37been pampered his whole life. How much money would it take to save this family so it doesn't have to
26:42sell off another daughter? Jamie flinched. He gave me a number. It was staggering. Pulled out my phone.
26:47Found an unsaved number. Pressed call. It rang five times before someone picked up.
26:51Three million in cash is a wedding gift. If you agree, we get married tomorrow.
26:56Three million in cash is a wedding gift. If you agree, we get married tomorrow.
27:02The breath on the other end paused. Agreed.
27:05Okay. Three million. It'll hit the account. Jamie stared at me.
27:10Mia, are you serious?
27:12My parents' faces went from desperate to flooded with relief. My mom moved to grab my hand.
27:16Sweetheart, you can't just talk money with Ethan over the phone like that. It damages things.
27:22Sis-in-law will think less of you. People will call you a gold digger.
27:27All right. All right. The amount doesn't matter. What matters is that it's settled.
27:32The original agreement with the Harmons was 500,000 up front. This time he's offering three million.
27:37It means he values Mia.
27:41Mia, I don't want to hear you say selling daughters again. Embarrassing.
27:46You and Sierra are both our girls. We love you the same.
27:51You and Sierra are both our girls. We love you the same.
27:55If it's the same, why didn't you offer Sierra for this one?
27:57The Yates are older money than the Harmons, stronger by a mile.
28:00Sierra went white. The Yates were more prominent.
28:02And because of it, stricter about bloodline.
28:05When they'd come to discuss the engagement, they'd looked at me the whole time.
28:09Sierra hadn't even been formally introduced at that meeting.
28:11The Yates hadn't wanted her. Everyone in that room knew it.
28:15Why bring up old history?
28:17Then we won't. The money's coming. Problem solved.
28:21Let's go home. You want me walking down the aisle tomorrow, don't you?
28:23I left without waiting for an answer.
28:28Back in the car, my phone buzzed once.
28:30But at this hour, there was only one person it could be.
28:32A location pin.
28:34Then a second message.
28:36Tomorrow, I am looking forward to seeing you in a white dress.
28:39Back at the house.
28:40The air was thick. I went straight upstairs.
28:43The Harmons side had already been told.
28:44The bride has returned.
28:46Wedding is on. Satisfied, presumably.
28:48The crisis was over.
28:50The ceremony would proceed. That was enough.
28:53Whether or not the bride was willing, no one thought to ask.
28:56The next morning, the house had none of the warmth the wedding day should carry.
29:00No bustle, no joy.
29:02Just a cold and indifferent quiet.
29:04My parents only changed into appropriate clothes when the housekeeper reminded them.
29:08Ethan's motorcade arrived on time.
29:10His suit was immaculate.
29:12His expression composed.
29:13The groomsmen surrounded him.
29:15The energy among them was easy and warm, but no one from the bride's side came to block the door.
29:20They were just awkwardly ushered in.
29:21My mom held a practice smile.
29:24Jamie looked like he hadn't slept.
29:27Ethan scanned the room.
29:28No family friends.
29:29No laughter.
29:31Where is she? Still getting ready?
29:33Oh, probably still upstairs doing her makeup.
29:36Go check. Is she ready?
29:41Relax.
29:42A bride's supposed to make you wait.
29:44Ethan's brow stayed locked.
29:45He pulled out his phone and opened Mia's messages.
29:47A red exclamation point.
29:49His fingers went still.
29:50She still has you blocked?
29:53The ceremony's about to start.
29:54A cold unease expanded in his chest.
29:58Ma'am?
29:59The young miss isn't in her room.
30:01We checked everywhere.
30:02She's gone.
30:02What?
30:05By the time they pulled the security footage, they found she'd left hours ago.
30:09Ethan's chest went airless.
30:11He told her to come back.
30:12She'd still pulled this.
30:14Ethan.
30:14Look at the group chat.
30:16Someone posted a video.
30:17Wait.
30:17Isn't that Mia?
30:19Ethan grabbed the phone.
30:21The video was from the same seven-star hotel where their ceremony was booked.
30:25A woman was led toward the bridal suite by a staff member.
30:32See?
30:33I told you.
30:34She just wanted a dramatic entrance.
30:36She's there.
30:36That's what counts.
30:37This girl.
30:39Couldn't say a word.
30:40Gave us all a scare.
30:41Let's get to the hotel.
30:42Don't miss the timing.
30:44The motorcade reached the hotel.
30:46Ethan exchanged brief greetings with arriving guests.
30:48It's a wonderful night.
30:49It's a beautiful party.
30:50I'm so glad you could make it.
30:52I need to go to the restroom.
30:53Excuse me.
30:53The officiant was ready.
30:54He turned and headed for the bridal suite.
30:56He stopped at the flower-decorated door.
30:58Knocked.
30:59Mia, it's time.
31:00Are you ready?
31:02Silence.
31:03His expression tightened.
31:04He turned the handle.
31:09The room was bright and empty.
31:11And then the thing that turned his blood to ice.
31:13Cassie was standing in the middle of the room.
31:15Ethan!
31:16You can't just come in.
31:17What are you doing in here?
31:20Where's Mia?
31:21His temper surged hard.
31:23Why are you yelling at me?
31:24The ceremony was about to start and she wasn't out yet.
31:27I came to check if she needed help.
31:29She wasn't here.
31:30The dress was just hanging there.
31:33I just...
31:34It's so beautiful, I couldn't help it.
31:37I tried it on.
31:39The vein in his temple jumped.
31:41Take it off.
31:42Now, if Mia sees this...
31:44Cassie's lip pressed together.
31:46Then someone knocked.
31:47Mr. Harmon, the ceremony start time has passed.
31:49The officiator's asking if the bride is ready to enter.
31:53Also, Mr. Harmon, the ballroom next door has just begun an unscheduled ceremony.
31:57The timeline is quite tight on their end.
31:59If your side is unable to start just yet,
32:01would you consider briefly yielding the corridor?
32:04Or we'd hate to disrupt the other event.
32:06It's a Yates-Carter wedding.
32:09A Yates-Carter wedding?
32:13Which Carter?
32:15I'm not entirely sure of the details.
32:18A nameless unease moved through him, but he had no time to chase it.
32:21He dialed the groomsmen group.
32:23Mia's not in the suite.
32:24Split up and find her.
32:27Then he turned back to the manager.
32:29This wedding was booked six months ago.
32:30We're not moving.
32:31Mr. Harmon, the timing really is...
32:33There's no conflict.
32:34Let my fiancé hear that her aisle is being cleared for someone else.
32:37His voice dropped.
32:38She won't be happy.
32:41His phone buzzed.
32:43A photo from one of the groomsmen.
32:45A slender figure in a wedding gown, half-turned, on a call.
32:48The dress was simpler, elegant.
32:51She was stunning.
32:52All the tension melted away.
32:53He would marry her.
32:54He would have a home with Mia.
32:56Maybe children soon.
32:58Don't you think I looked better in it?
33:00Looks like she didn't love the one I picked.
33:02It's fine.
33:03He pocketed his phone and turned to go find her.
33:05Ethan.
33:06Cassie grabbed his arm.
33:07She asked the question that broke through every layer of best friends, and it means nothing.
33:11When you walked in just now, and saw me in the dress, what did you feel?
33:17He looked at her red-rimmed eyes, at the expensive gown on her body.
33:20The faint warmth the photo had put in his face drained away.
33:22Cassie in a wedding gown was, undeniably striking.
33:25There was something arresting about it.
33:26What he felt toward Cassie was closer to a man's possessiveness over someone who belonged in his orbit.
33:30Liked feeling needed, admired.
33:32But he liked more.
33:33The ease of holding two women in careful balance.
33:35He'd never imagined having to choose.
33:37Cassie's tears.
33:38Her question.
33:39They tore the paper screen open.
33:41He was still for a moment.
33:43Not now.
33:43His throat moved.
33:44He looked past her eyes.
33:46Cassie, not now.
33:47This isn't the moment.
33:48Change out of the dress.
33:49He turned and walked out toward Mia.
33:51I was on the terrace outside the ballroom finishing a call.
33:54I turned to go inside.
33:58Mia!
33:58You're here.
34:03The groomsman and Cassie poured in behind him, filling the doorway.
34:07Sis-in-law, you're something else.
34:08Gave us a serious scare.
34:10Wandered over to the next venue?
34:12Right.
34:13Is this a location comparison?
34:16Didn't like the decor on our side?
34:17Cassie stepped to my side.
34:18You nearly gave Ethan a heart attack.
34:21She laughed and scanned my gown.
34:22That's pretty, too.
34:24But the star of today isn't here for someone else's party.
34:27Come on.
34:28Everyone's waiting.
34:29By the way, you'd technically be the other woman right now.
34:33But don't stress about it.
34:35We know the truth.
34:38Congratulations on the wedding, though.
34:39I looked at her.
34:41Her smile stalled.
34:42Ethan stepped in front of me.
34:43Done with your call?
34:44Let's go back.
34:45We've lost time, but we can still make it.
34:47If you actually like this room set up, I'll talk to the Yates.
34:51We might be able to switch.
34:52Whatever makes you happy.
34:54He said it so naturally.
34:55His groomsman watched, certain waiting for me to do what I'd always done.
34:59He reached for me.
35:00Palm up.
35:00I looked at his face, the handsome face with its faint impatience, in front of everyone watching.
35:04I turned slightly and spoke quietly to the hotel attendant at my side.
35:08Could you please let the officiner know we're ready to begin?
35:10Of course, Mrs. Yates.
35:11Mr. Yates has been ready.
35:13Mrs. Yates, the certainty on Ethan's face split open.
35:16He looked at her red-rimmed eyes, at the expensive gown on her body.
35:19The faint warmth the photo had put in his face drained away.
35:22Cassie in a wedding gown was, undeniably striking.
35:24There was something arresting about it.
35:26What he felt toward Cassie was closer to a man's possessiveness over someone who belonged in his orbit.
35:30Liked feeling needed, admired.
35:32But he liked more.
35:33The ease of holding two women in careful balance.
35:35He'd never imagined having to choose.
35:37Cassie's tears.
35:38Her question.
35:39They tore the paper screen open.
35:40He was still for a moment.
35:42Not now, his throat moved.
35:44He looked past her eyes.
35:45Cassie, not now.
35:46This isn't the moment.
35:48Change out of the dress.
35:49He turned and walked out toward Mia.
35:51I was on the terrace outside the ballroom, finishing a call.
35:53I turned to go inside.
35:57Mia!
35:58You're here!
36:03The groomsman and Cassie poured in behind him, filling the doorway.
36:06Sis-in-law, you're something else.
36:08Gave us a serious scare.
36:09Wandered over to the next venue?
36:12Right.
36:13Is this a location comparison?
36:15Didn't like the decor on our side?
36:16Cassie stepped to my side.
36:18You nearly gave Ethan a heart attack.
36:20She laughed and scanned my gown.
36:22That's pretty, too.
36:23But the star of today isn't here for someone else's party.
36:27Come on.
36:28Everyone's waiting.
36:28By the way, you'd technically be the other woman right now.
36:33But don't stress about it.
36:35We know the truth.
36:37Congratulations on the wedding, though.
36:39I looked at her.
36:40Her smile stalled.
36:41Ethan stepped in front of me.
36:43Done with your call?
36:44Let's go back.
36:44We've lost time, but we can still make it.
36:46If you actually like this room set up,
36:49I'll talk to the Yates.
36:50We might be able to switch.
36:52Whatever makes you happy.
36:53He said it so naturally.
36:55His groomsmen watched,
36:56certain waiting for me to do what I'd always done.
36:58He reached for me.
36:59Palm up.
37:00I looked at his face,
37:01the handsome face with its faint impatience,
37:03in front of everyone watching.
37:04I turned slightly and spoke quietly to the hotel attendant at my side.
37:07Could you please let the officiner know we're ready to begin?
37:10Of course, Mrs. Yates.
37:11Mr. Yates has been ready.
37:12Mrs. Yates, the certainty on Ethan's face split open.
37:15He was betting on the last six years,
37:17betting I'd soften,
37:18betting that none of this was real enough to hold.
37:20Somewhere the music had stopped.
37:22Every person in the room was watching me.
37:24I lifted my eyes.
37:25I looked at the man I had loved for six years,
37:27and waited on for six years.
37:28He looked in this moment very far away.
37:30I didn't look at Ethan.
37:31I just said it,
37:32one word at a time.
37:34Ethan,
37:35look carefully.
37:36I turned slightly.
37:37This dress,
37:38you didn't choose it.
37:40This ring,
37:41you didn't give it.
37:42I looked past his pale face.
37:44Today,
37:44standing here,
37:45marrying Nathan Yates,
37:47that's me,
37:48Mia Carter.
37:48I paused,
37:49one breath,
37:50then the last sentence,
37:51the one that severed everything.
37:52Your wedding,
37:53your bride,
37:54none of that was ever mine.
37:55I didn't look at his face go gray.
37:57I placed my hand steadily into the curve of Nathan's arm.
37:59Let's continue.
38:01Nathan looked at me for a moment,
38:02then nodded at the officiant.
38:03The next second,
38:04the wedding march filled the hall again,
38:06fuller than before.
38:07It swept over everything.
38:08Nathan walked me forward,
38:09step by steady step toward the altar at the end of the aisle.
38:11On both sides,
38:12guests began to clap.
38:13My family's composed expressions had long since collapsed.
38:16None of them had seen this coming,
38:17that the man I was marrying today had nothing to do with the Harmons
38:20they'd spent years courting.
38:21That it was the Yates,
38:22who operated on an entirely different level,
38:24who wouldn't have thought twice about the Harmons.
38:26As for how I'd gotten Nathan Yates to put three million on the table,
38:28that was my business.
38:30It had nothing to do with their scheming,
38:31nothing to do with the hollow shell my family had become.
38:34The guests who had been invited by my family,
38:35who were supposed to be here for the wedding on the other side,
38:38every single one of them had drifted to this room instead.
38:40Not out of loyalty to the Carters,
38:42out of instinct for the more valuable alliance.
38:44Their applause built into something that filled the entire hall.
38:47Behind me silence like a held breath.
38:48I didn't need to turn around to picture Ethan's face,
38:51but that was no longer mine to carry.
38:53The ceremony reached the moment that mattered most.
38:56The officiant's voice was warm and measured.
38:58Mia Carter,
38:59do you take Nathan Yates to be your husband,
39:02to have and to hold,
39:03in sickness and in health,
39:04for richer or poorer,
39:06for as long as you both shall live?
39:08The room held still every eye on me.
39:10I do.
39:11No!
39:14Ethan's voice cracked across the room.
39:20His eyes were red.
39:21Fixed on me.
39:26Mia!
39:26I won't allow it!
39:28You're mine!
39:29You are leaving with me right now!
39:30He lunged toward the altar.
39:31Two security guards caught him before he made it two steps,
39:34locking his arms.
39:35Get your hands off me!
39:36Do you know who I am?
39:37Mia!
39:38Look at me!
39:39I'm the one you're supposed to marry!
39:41Nathan!
39:42Let go of her!
39:44The Yates family elders in the front row frowned faintly,
39:47but didn't seem alarmed.
39:48They had clearly planned for disruption.
39:51Then a figure in white burst from the side of the crowd.
39:54Cassie.
39:54She'd put the gown back on.
39:56She pushed to the front,
39:57held her phone high with the screen facing out,
39:59and screamed.
40:01Everyone listen!
40:02This whole thing is a mistake!
40:04I'm the Harmon bride!
40:09Look at this!
40:10We already have a marriage license!
40:14Her hands were shaking as she angled the screen toward the guests,
40:17the officiant,
40:18the Yates family.
40:19On the screen,
40:19a marriage certificate,
40:21open to the interior page.
40:23Look at her!
40:24She's the one who went behind my back!
40:25She got caught,
40:26and now she's running to someone else!
40:28I don't care how powerful the Yates are!
40:29You can't change the fact that she's the other woman!
40:31She will always be a joke!
40:33The room erupted.
40:34Gasps,
40:35whispers,
40:36eyes moving rapidly between Cassie's phone screen and the room.
40:39My family's faces had gone from blank to ash.
40:41Everyone was holding their breath,
40:42waiting for the Yates to react,
40:44waiting for me to fall apart.
40:45Cassie stood tall,
40:47certain she'd just played the card that turned the game.
40:49But the first person to crack was not the Yates family.
40:51It was not me.
40:52It was Ethan.
40:55Cassie, shut up!
40:56What are you saying?
40:57He wrenched his head toward her,
40:58still held by the guards,
40:59voice ripped raw.
41:00I'm not lying!
41:01You won't even admit I'm your wife?
41:03Right here in front of everyone?
41:05It's not real!
41:05It was a bar stunt!
41:06It doesn't count!
41:08He couldn't admit it.
41:10Not here.
41:10Not in the Yates' house.
41:12Not in front of Mia.
41:14Nathan, who had been silent, spoke.
41:16If it doesn't count,
41:17we can just check the county records.
41:19He leaned slightly toward an assistant
41:20and said something low.
41:22The assistant nodded and left quickly.
41:24Ethan and Cassie were escorted from the room.
41:26The officiant lifted his voice.
41:29Let's ask everyone to settle.
41:30We'll continue with the ceremony.
41:33Toasts for receiving love.
41:35Farewells everything moved
41:36to the quiet, mutual warmth.
41:38The room felt like
41:39what it was supposed to feel like.
41:40Two families joining.
41:41Genuinely.
41:42By the time the last guests
41:43felt it out,
41:44I sat down in one of the private rooms
41:45the hotel had reserved
41:46and let out the first real breath
41:48I'd taken all day.
41:49Nathan handed me a glass of water.
41:51Tired?
41:51His voice was attentive.
41:53Not intrusive.
41:56Today.
41:58It was agreed to.
41:59The Yates keep their word.
42:01As for your family and the Harmons?
42:02Before he could finish a knock,
42:04the hotel manager stepped in
42:05and addressed Nathan quietly.
42:06Sir,
42:07Mr. Harmon is still outside.
42:09He's insisting on a few minutes
42:10with Mrs. Yates.
42:12Do you want to see him?
42:13I looked at my reflection in the floor
42:15to ceiling window,
42:16still in the dress.
42:17I shook my head.
42:20Everything that needed to be said,
42:22I said it.
42:25Tell Mr. Harmon my wife needs to rest.
42:28She's not receiving visitors.
42:30If he continues to linger,
42:32you know what to do.
42:33Yes, sir.
42:38I knew the Yates had the reach
42:39to make Ethan walk away tonight
42:41and keep him from getting close again.
42:42That was part of why I chose Nathan.
42:44Part of why I chose this.
42:45I needed somewhere safe.
42:46I needed something sharp enough
42:48to cut through every knot
42:49I tied myself into.
42:51I changed out of the gown,
42:53put on something comfortable,
42:54settled into the car.
42:55It pulled away from the hotel slowly.
42:56The city lights moved past the window.
42:57I leaned my head back
42:58and closed my eyes.
42:59Not the flood of relief I'd imagined.
43:01Not grief even.
43:02A flat, open calm.
43:03And somewhere under it,
43:04something faint and new.
43:05Like the first edge
43:06of wanting something again.
43:08I knew Ethan wouldn't let go easily.
43:10But this time,
43:10I was not standing still.
43:12I had married...
43:13someone else.
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