- 2 days ago
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00:00After our 88th cancelled wedding, I called my business partner.
00:05I'm taking the Havana Market Project.
00:07There was a beat of stunned silence.
00:10Seriously? That's 10 years overseas.
00:13You just got married, well, weren't you?
00:16Does your husband even know?
00:18What about your parents? You always said staying close to them was everything.
00:22I glanced around the empty church and let out a sharp laugh.
00:27There was no wedding?
00:30No husband?
00:32And my parents?
00:36They've got Cindy.
00:39That's all they need.
00:41Another pause.
00:43Alright, pack your bags. You leave tomorrow.
00:48After the call, I ran a hand down my wedding dress.
00:51One last tear slipped out, quiet and pointless.
00:56If neither my fiancé nor my parents wanted me around, then fine.
01:01I'd leave.
01:03And this time I'm not coming back.
01:06Another call, Cindy Valance's classic I'm ending it all routine.
01:10No shocker, Andrew Todd bailed on our wedding, again.
01:13I blocked his path, fists clenched around a gown that was supposed to mean something.
01:20Can't this wait till after?
01:22It's the 88th time.
01:25My throat burned. He sighed, pulled me close.
01:29Just a little more time, Viv.
01:31She's been off since the accident. I'm scared she'll actually do it. I swear I'll talk to her.
01:36For real this time. Then we'll get married. Promise.
01:39That was the 88th time he said those exact words.
01:44The first 87, I ate them up like gospel.
01:47Told myself love was enough, that delays didn't matter if he still chose me.
01:51The wedding always crashed halfway through, always pushed back.
01:55We threw ceremony after ceremony, but never made it to I do.
02:00Cindy always pulled something car crash, meltdown, suicide threats, like clockwork.
02:06And Andrew, he always ran to her, magically saving the day.
02:11Wild, right? A girl on the edge, slitting wrists, downing pills,
02:15screaming about death suddenly finds her will to live the second he shows up.
02:19I didn't say a word, just hugged him back like my life depended on it, hoping he'd stay.
02:25Andrew kept whispering comfort, but a sharp voice interrupted him.
02:29Vivian, if Cindy jumps, it's on you.
02:37Vivian, stop being difficult. Cindy's on the balcony.
02:41Dad's face turned cold.
02:43If she hadn't gotten kidnapped trying to save you, she wouldn't be like this.
02:47You're selfish enough. Now she's hanging on by a thread, and you still can't think past yourself?
02:52Andrew's phone buzzed. He slipped his hand from mine.
02:56I have to go, Viv. You get it right?
02:57I didn't even get to answer. Took one shaky step. Heel twisted, I hit the ground hard.
03:02My arm slammed into the metal flower stand, splitting wide open.
03:07White hot pain shot through me. I cried out.
03:11Andrew didn't even flinch, just ran. Never looked back.
03:15As he disappeared through the door, I snapped.
03:18Andrew, Todd! I'll wait here till the day ends.
03:21If you don't come back, we're done. For good.
03:26He heard me. Paused for half a second. Still didn't turn around.
03:31My parents blew past me. Dad sneered.
03:36Who are you performing for?
03:38Let me make this clear. Forget cancelling.
03:41If we told you to hand Andrew over to Cindy, you would. Her life matters more.
03:47Mom gave me that tired look.
03:50Vivian, be reasonable.
03:53It's just a wedding. We can reschedule.
03:56But Cindy needs him now.
03:58You always clash, sure, but we don't have time for your drama today.
04:08I'd been hearing that same crap since I finally came to my real parents.
04:12Cindy had already been living with them for 15 years when they found me.
04:16I never asked them to kick her out.
04:18I actually treated her like a real sister.
04:21But she always wanted what was mine, even stuff she didn't like.
04:25A teddy bear she'd trashed.
04:26A red dress she'd never wear.
04:28If I wanted it, she had to take it.
04:31Every time.
04:32I asked her once why she kept doing it.
04:35Her answer? Ice cold.
04:37No reason.
04:39I just love the look on your face when I take everything.
04:43At that moment, our parents suddenly arrived and saw the two of us.
04:49Cindy! What are you doing?
04:52I was stupid back then.
04:54Thought if I told Mom and Dad they'd finally see her for what she was.
04:57Maybe stop blaming me for everything.
05:00But I didn't get it how deep their love for her ran.
05:03Instead, they hit me with...
05:05I ran over to my parents and grabbed the edge of my mother's dress.
05:09Mom?
05:10My sister just snatched away my doll.
05:13Mom immediately let go of my hand.
05:15Vivian, how did we end up with such a selfish, lying daughter?
05:20You're a real disappointment.
05:22Fine. Be disappointed.
05:25I was done.
05:26Too drained to cry.
05:27Just cold.
05:28Hollow.
05:29I pushed myself off the floor, pressed tissues to the bleeding gash on my arm.
05:34I looked at the ring on my hand.
05:36It had accompanied me through 88 weddings, and I had never taken it off.
05:41This time, my hands trembling, I slipped it off my ring finger.
05:46Then I threw it away with all my strength.
05:49Goodbye.
05:51Beneath the church dome, the last bit of light vanished, swallowing me whole.
05:56Midnight struck.
05:57Still no Andrew.
05:58I knew how this ended just like the last 87 times, wrecked and forgotten.
06:05My phone lit up.
06:07Cindy had posted again.
06:08Nine perfectly curated pics.
06:11Losing fake vulnerability.
06:13Mom and dad feeding her peeled grapes like royalty.
06:16Andrew beside her, tucking her hair back with that soft smile.
06:20And then the kicker, a family portrait.
06:24All of them huddled around fragile little Cindy,
06:26grinning like they'd won something.
06:29The pain is unbearable, but being wrapped in love really can defeat all darkness.
06:34Thank you mom and dad, thank you my Mr. Todd.
06:37Your love pulls me out of the abyss every time.
06:40The comments were all the same, like they'd rehearsed it.
06:43Sweet girl, get well soon.
06:47Sweet girl, get well soon.
06:47I'll always protect you.
06:50Don't be afraid Cindy.
06:52With me here, you'll always be our precious little one.
06:56Focus on getting better.
06:57Everything will be okay.
07:04Then came a text from mom.
07:07Mom, please don't let me down this time.
07:10With the last bit of hope, I opened her message.
07:14The moment I clicked it, I knew I'd lost again.
07:18Go leave a comment for Cindy.
07:21She's refusing to take her meds because she thinks you're mad at her.
07:24Yeah, that was Cindy talking, her little power play, rubbing it in.
07:29And still something in me cracked.
07:32Funny, isn't it?
07:33I'm the real daughter.
07:35The actual fiancé.
07:37But every time it's me versus Cindy, they don't even flinch, they pick her.
07:41Every. Single. Time.
07:47The first wedding got scrapped because it was Cindy's birthday.
07:50She threw a fit at the venue, sobbing about how she didn't want to spend her birthday heartbroken.
07:57Andrew folded instantly.
07:59My parents yanked down our photos and snapped at me.
08:05Vivian, you already have Andrew.
08:07Why provoke Cindy?
08:09How could you be so heartless?
08:12Second time.
08:14Cindy had a dream said once we were married, Andrew would stop caring about her.
08:19She stormed the Todd estate in the middle of the night and clung to him like a lifeline.
08:27He let her crash on the bed we picked out.
08:30My parents dragged me out.
08:32Don't disturb her.
08:34Can't you see how scared she is?
08:36What's wrong with you?
08:39Third time, the cat Andrew gave her went missing.
08:43She got hit by a car looking for it and freaked out.
08:46My parents locked me out for 24 hours.
08:50You knew how much that cat meant.
08:52Why didn't you close the door?
08:54And now?
08:55This time it's because she wasn't invited.
08:58Said she felt left out.
08:59Cue the meltdown.
09:01Each excuse more ridiculous than the last.
09:04Yet every time Andrew caved, my parents defended her, and I got left behind.
09:10I yelled.
09:11I fought.
09:12I begged.
09:14Didn't matter.
09:15Same ending every time.
09:17Be understanding.
09:19Step back.
09:20Sacrifice a little more.
09:22Haven't 87 cancelled weddings made the point?
09:25Enough.
09:28For these 87 times.
09:30I will repay you accordingly.
09:33The 88th time.
09:35I won't keep company anymore.
09:37Staring at that empty church, something in me just...
09:41Let go.
09:4310 years back with the Valence family, and nothing I did ever measured up.
09:48No matter how hard I tried, Cindy was always the golden girl.
09:53Thoughtful.
09:54Fragile.
09:55Perfect.
09:56Me?
09:57I was the selfish one.
09:59The liar.
10:01The troublemaker.
10:02Screw it.
10:03Maybe the real mistake was expecting anything different.
10:07I tapped out the comment mom wanted.
10:10Wishing you a speedy recovery.
10:12Seconds later, mom hit me with a smiley.
10:15Vivian, you're my precious girl too.
10:18Hilarious, right?
10:20Her love only shows up when I roll over for Cindy.
10:22But now, I couldn't stop wondering if they ever found out their sweet little angel was faking it all.
10:29The lies, the pity parties, even staging a kidnapping.
10:33And if I vanished for good, would they finally regret it?
10:37I wiped the blood off my lip and called my business partner, Kent.
10:41I'm taking the Havania Market Project.
10:45Kent sounded stunned.
10:46Seriously, that's ten years overseas.
10:50You just got married?
10:51Well, weren't you?
10:52Does your husband even know?
10:54What about your parents?
10:55You always said staying close to them was everything.
10:57I glanced around the empty church and let out a sharp laugh.
11:02I have stood in this church 88 times.
11:05Every time, I thought it would be the last time.
11:09There was no wedding.
11:11No husband.
11:12And my parents?
11:14They've got Cindy.
11:15That's all they need.
11:16I paused for a moment and added something.
11:22Please book me the earliest flight to Haviana.
11:25Silence.
11:26Then Kent sighed.
11:29Alright.
11:30Pack your bags.
11:32You leave tomorrow.
11:34After the call, I ran a hand down my wedding dress.
11:37One last tear slipped out, quiet and pointless.
11:41The blood on the wedding dress has dried, forming a hard, dark brown clot.
11:47I looked down at it for a long time, but I just couldn't bring myself to take it off.
11:53Just treat it as the last farewell.
11:57I spent the night alone on a cold church pew.
12:01At dawn, I drifted home, half conscious.
12:04The second I walked in, Andrew was their bloodshot eyes, a wreck.
12:09He saw the blood on my dress and rushed to hug me.
12:16I'm sorry.
12:18He said, voice cracking.
12:20I was gonna come back, but every time I tried, Cindy lost it.
12:25I swear I couldn't leave her like that.
12:28She just settled down, and I was on my way to find you.
12:36Are you okay?
12:37I'm fine.
12:38My voice didn't waver.
12:41It's okay, Andrew.
12:42The wedding can wait.
12:43Cindy's health comes first.
12:44His face froze.
12:51You really mean that?
12:53Of course.
12:55Honestly, I didn't blame him for needing confirmation.
12:58We'd fought about Cindy a hundred times.
13:01Why wouldn't he double check?
13:02They'd tested the waters before soft suggestions to just skip the wedding, you know, for Cindy's sake.
13:09Every time, I held my ground.
13:11I wasn't gonna let them erase me that easily.
13:14But now, none of it mattered.
13:16I was done.
13:18Wedding or not, I was leaving.
13:22I smiled, took the soup ingredients from his hands, headed for the kitchen.
13:27For Cindy, right?
13:29I'll make it.
13:30She's always loved my tomato bisque.
13:32I lit the stove.
13:34Cool as ever, not a flicker of anger.
13:36Andrew relaxed, smiled, and wrapped his arms around me.
13:42Viv, you finally get it.
13:44Cindy's sick.
13:46We have to keep her happy.
13:47Or the next wedding won't go well.
13:49Married or not, I'll always love you.
13:52The irony hit hard.
13:54Our wedding, hinging on Cindy's mood?
13:57Old me would have lost it right there.
14:00Now, I just shut off the burner and poured the soup into a container.
14:07It's ready.
14:09Take it to her.
14:10Andrew exhaled, all soft and grateful.
14:14You've really matured.
14:16Don't worry.
14:18Once Cindy's better, I'll give you the biggest, most beautiful wedding ever.
14:25His sweet talk didn't touch me.
14:28Whatever hope I had for him vanished with the twelfth chime of that church bell.
14:35I stepped past him, heading upstairs to change and pack.
14:39Halfway up, I ran into my parents.
14:42They were carrying Cindy's makeup bag and a dress.
14:46Mom shot me a glare.
14:47What are you doing up here?
14:49You should be finishing Cindy's soup.
14:51She's still in the hospital.
14:53Do you want her to starve?
14:55Dad's eyes were cold.
14:57If she hadn't saved you during that kidnapping, you'd be dead.
15:02And now she just wants some soup.
15:04And you can't even do that.
15:06How'd we end up with such an ungrateful daughter?
15:11That line again.
15:15When they first brought me back from the orphanage, things were good.
15:20They redecorated a room just for me, took me to amusement parks, bought me cute dresses and little cakes.
15:27They treated me like I mattered, like Cindy.
15:30Cindy and I were close, like actual sisters.
15:33But something shifted.
15:35I don't know what she said or did.
15:37But soon, their smiles faded.
15:40Disappointment crept in.
15:42Eventually, they stopped noticing me at all.
15:49Then came the kidnapping she staged five years ago.
15:55She had me taken, then faked a dramatic rescue pretending to get hurt, acting unstable.
16:03And just like that, they were sold.
16:06To them, I became cold and selfish.
16:09And Cindy was the brave, broken hero.
16:13At first, I was crushed with guilt.
16:16Grateful even.
16:18I gave her whatever she wanted.
16:20Let her take it all.
16:22Even when she snapped during those so-called depressive spells.
16:26I stayed calm.
16:27I comforted her.
16:29Then one day, our parents were out and I was making her lunch.
16:35She looked at me, all smug and set it straight.
16:41The kidnapping?
16:43My idea.
16:45I wanted them to think you owed me forever.
16:48She grinned like it was a game.
16:50Said she'd take every drop of love they had for me.
16:53After that, I couldn't even look at her the same.
16:55I tried to tell our parents, over and over, but they never believed me.
17:00And every time they brushed me off, Cindy just smiled.
17:07Vivian, from now on, you don't have a mom or dad anymore.
17:11And she was right.
17:13Her plan worked.
17:15I lost them, all over again.
17:18Mr. Volston, Mrs. Volston, had Vivian already made the soup?
17:23Andrew's voice cut in, snapping me out of my head.
17:27Dad's anger melted fast, replaced by that smug approval.
17:33Vivian, you've finally grown up.
17:35Sisters should love each other.
17:37That's what keeps a family strong.
17:39I smiled.
17:43I won't fight with Cindy anymore.
17:45I looked at dad.
17:46Oh, and dad, Cindy couldn't finish her graduation project, right?
17:49She can use mine.
17:50I don't mind.
17:51His grin widened.
17:52That's the spirit.
17:54That's what being a big sister means.
17:56Mom nodded, all pleased.
17:59Come to the hospital with us.
18:01Cindy's going to be thrilled.
18:04I kept smiling, soft, sweet.
18:09Sure.
18:10You guys go ahead.
18:11I'll change and grab her a little cake first.
18:13They left, all happy.
18:15I turned, went upstairs.
18:18Five minutes later, I walked out of that house the one I'd called home for ten years and never looked
18:24back.
18:26Freedom hit like a breath of fresh air.
18:29I hadn't slept all night, but my eyes weren't tired, just wired with hope.
18:33All that past drama crushed under the wheels as the car sped off.
18:39Right when I hit the airport with my suitcase, Mom FaceTimed me.
18:43The camera shook a little, then boom, Andrew's face popped up, all soft and doting.
18:49He was feeding Cindy's soup, blowing on it like she was five.
18:53My parents hovered by the bed, cooing.
18:59Slow down.
19:00Careful, it's hot.
19:02Mom spotted me first.
19:04Her smile stayed plastic.
19:07Vivian, where are you?
19:10Cindy was just saying how amazing your soup is.
19:12Look how happy she looks.
19:16Cindy, glowing like she'd just won prom queen, flashed a sugary smile, not even a hint of sadness.
19:23She caught Mom's signal, looked straight into the camera.
19:27Her eyes gleamed with smug drama.
19:30Then she dipped her head and took a slow sip from Andrew's spoon.
19:34Vivian, thanks for the soup.
19:36I'm so sorry my body gave out yesterday and messed up your wedding.
19:39You're not mad at me, right?
19:43Cue the perfect fake guilt, lashes lowered, voice all wobbly like she might cry.
19:48That fake, innocent look lit up the room like a flare.
19:52They all fell for it again.
19:55Andrew stroked her hair.
19:58Don't say that, Cindy.
20:01Your health's what matters.
20:03Vivian gets it.
20:05She's cool with it.
20:06He stared into the camera, eyes begging me to play the sweet, understanding fiancé one last time.
20:13Dad chimed in, voice low and sharp.
20:17She better not blame you.
20:20You saved her life.
20:22She owes you.
20:24Anything she does for you is the least she can do.
20:26I just watched, blank, like I was streaming some soap I'd already seen.
20:33Those words used to crush me.
20:36Now, they floated past like background noise.
20:40I kept my voice chill.
20:44You're right.
20:46Your health comes first.
20:49Thanks, Vivian.
20:51Cindy smirked.
20:53Mom and dad said you're letting me use your grad project.
20:56That true?
20:57I nodded.
20:59Totally unbothered.
21:02Already sent it.
21:04Check your email.
21:07Her face lit up like Christmas.
21:10She snatched her phone.
21:12Fingers flying download, upload, done.
21:14Like I might snatch it back.
21:17I can finally graduate.
21:20Our parents exhaled like they'd been holding their breath for a year.
21:25So proud.
21:26So touched.
21:31Vivian, you did great.
21:33You really are our good daughter.
21:35Even Andrew looked relieved.
21:37Like I'd finally matured.
21:40He gave me that soft-eyed look.
21:42Viv, you're so understanding.
21:44They had no clue Cindy had just texted me full of smug venom.
21:48Told you you'd cave.
21:50I win again.
21:52Thanks for the design.
21:54Vivian, no need to come by.
21:56Just clean up Cindy's room.
21:58And Mom?
22:00Still barking orders like I worked for her.
22:03Doctor says she's getting discharged.
22:05Oh, and she loves your cooking.
22:07So lunch is on you.
22:08I'll send her favorite dishes.
22:10Follow the list.
22:11That kind of shameless favoritism?
22:13I'd never tasted it in over 20 years.
22:17I used to crave it.
22:19Hate it.
22:20Blame myself for not earning it.
22:23Now?
22:24Whatever.
22:24Cindy could have their love.
22:26I'd take mine.
22:28I gave them a hollow smile and hung up.
22:31Then I turned and walked straight into the airport.
22:34Lunch?
22:36Heh.
22:37Doubt Cindy'll feel like eating.
22:39Taking my stuff was never gonna be a smooth ride.
22:43I was chilling in the airport lounge, sipping my coffee, when the big screen started looping
22:49the winners from the emerging design competition.
22:52Front and center, the piece the media was hyping as a stroke of genius, a total game changer.
22:59Yep, the one I gave to Cindy.
23:02Right then, my phone lit up with a video call.
23:06Her face filled the screen.
23:08All smugness gone.
23:10Replaced by full-blown panic.
23:12Vivian, you bitch!
23:13You set me up with a winning piece!
23:16Just wait!
23:17I'm not letting you get away with this!
23:19God!
23:20Her voice cracked.
23:21Sharp and dripping with hate.
23:23Honestly?
23:24Hilarious.
23:25Even thieves think they're the victims now.
23:27I raised an eyebrow.
23:29A cold smile creeping in.
23:31You're not letting me get away.
23:34I tapped my coffee cup sharp, deliberate.
23:37Pretty sure your school's policy is crystal clear.
23:39Plagiarized work.
23:40Instant expulsion.
23:42And if the real creator presses charges.
23:44I leaned in, eyes slicing right through the screen.
23:51So Cindy...
23:52Should I?
23:55You wouldn't dare!
23:56Dad's voice exploded through the call.
24:00Vivian, I don't care what it takes.
24:02Go to the organizers and tell them the design Cindy's.
24:07Say you copied her.
24:09She saved your life.
24:10And this is how you repay her.
24:12I can't believe I raised such a cruel daughter.
24:16Classic.
24:17That's his only line.
24:18I took a slow sip of coffee.
24:20Then I guess I'm not your daughter anymore.
24:23Mr. Valen.
24:24You...
24:24Are you threatening us?
24:25Mom clutched a sobbing Cindy.
24:28Eyes full of hurt.
24:30Just because we let Cindy borrow your design, you're gonna ruin her future!
24:35And now you hate us for it!
24:37How could you be so heartless?
24:40You've really let me down.
24:42That's all it took to disappoint her?
24:45I shrugged.
24:46If that's how you see it...
24:49Can't help you.
24:51Mrs. Valence.
24:53Andrew finally spoke, still holding the phone, eyes wide like he'd just realized who I was.
25:00Viv.
25:02You planned this?
25:05You're punishing Cindy for the wedding.
25:07I told you she's unstable.
25:08She didn't mean to.
25:11Shut up.
25:15I gave each of them a calm once over, then locked onto Cindy's wrecked face and smiled.
25:21Didn't you all say her health comes first?
25:24That everything she does should be forgiven?
25:26Cool.
25:28Go explain that to the school.
25:30Maybe they'll be just as chill.
25:33Their faces dropped like dominoes.
25:35Oh.
25:36And one more thing.
25:38I'm keeping the right to press charges indefinitely.
25:41If I feel like suing, I will.
25:44That's when Cindy snapped.
25:46Her last grip on sanity broke with a shriek.
25:51I'm going to kill you!
25:56She lost it screaming, throwing whatever she could grab at the phone.
26:01Andrew didn't dodge fast enough.
26:03His groan said it all.
26:06I would probably feel sorry for him if this had happened before, but now all I think is
26:13he deserves it.
26:15I watched the chaos for a second, then hung up, blocked them all, and stood to board my flight.
26:26The plane cut through the clouds, that city of lies shrinking below me.
26:30Outside, sunlight spilled through the cottony sky in streaks of gold.
26:36So this is what the clouds look like.
26:38No phone calls, no cries, and certainly no mention of, you have to make way for Cindy.
26:45There's nothing at all.
26:46Only light.
26:47I leaned back, eyes closed, engine humming steady in my ears.
26:52For the first time, my heart was still.
26:56What I didn't know, Cindy really was sick now, but not with depression.
27:03This time, she wouldn't be cutting herself.
27:06She'd be cutting others.
27:08And when she'd pushed everyone to the edge, someone finally told the truth.
27:14None of them Vivian's parents, Emery and Catherine, her ex-fiancé Andrew, or even Cindy ever saw
27:21it coming.
27:22Vivian fighting back, actually setting Cindy up to get expelled?
27:26Unthinkable.
27:28Cindy's screams filled the room, followed by the sound of stuff breaking.
27:33Catherine, her mother, rubbed her temples with a sigh.
27:37Why is Vivian still so selfish?
27:44It was just a design.
27:46Did she really have to make it a whole thing?
27:50Look how upset Cindy is.
27:52Emery's face hardened.
27:53She's gotten gutsy, won't even answer.
27:55If she's so capable, let her stay gone.
27:59Catherine wanted to say something.
28:01Her lips moved slightly, but in the end, she said nothing at all.
28:04She simply looked down at Cindy.
28:07Andrew sat off to the side, gripping his phone in dead silence.
28:11Ever since Vivian hung up, something felt off, wrong.
28:15He kept texting her DMs, messages, everything, but got nothing back.
28:21She used to fly off the handle when angry she'd shout, cry, or grab his sleeve tightly
28:26and hold onto it.
28:27But this time, she was unusually quiet.
28:30Quiet as if everything had been prepared long before.
28:35Frowning, Andrew scrolled through their chat history.
28:38When did it all shift?
28:40From non-stop talking to weeks of silence?
28:43Then he saw it.
28:44The moment everything cracked.
28:46Right after the first wedding cancellation.
28:49Vivian had asked...
28:53Do you really love me?
28:56And after that, he just forgot.
29:02From that moment on, Vivian stopped telling him everything, the way she used to.
29:17Andrew whispered.
29:19Viv, was that when you gave up on me?
29:22No way.
29:23Couldn't be.
29:24She loved him too much for one question to ruin it.
29:27Right?
29:28He ran a hand through his hair, frustrated, spiraling.
29:31Then the doorbell.
29:36Andrew's eyes lit up.
29:37He bolted to the door and swung it open.
29:41Viv!
29:42I knew you wouldn't leave...
29:43Who are you?
29:44The guy standing there reeked of booze and sweat, shoulders hunched, eyes wild.
29:49I'm looking for Cindy.
29:50Without waiting, he shoved past Andrew.
29:54Cindy!
29:56Cindy, get your ass out here!
29:58Stop right there.
29:59We don't know you.
30:00Leave or we're calling the cops.
30:01The drunk didn't even flinch.
30:03He grinned and flopped onto the couch like he lived there.
30:06Relax.
30:08You're her adoptive dad, right?
30:09I'm the real one, Robert Tate.
30:12Don't worry, I'm not here to take her back.
30:14Just broke and need some cash.
30:16You said you're...
30:17What?
30:20You're the one who lost her?
30:22He raised his voice.
30:24Cindy!
30:25I know you're in there.
30:28If you don't show up, I might let something slip.
30:36Cindy finally stepped out, her face twisting in disgust and just a flicker of fear.
30:41What do you want?
30:43Robert sneered, hand out.
30:45Money.
30:45I'm dry.
30:47Send me 50 grand.
30:49Are you crazy?
30:5050,000?
30:51Where would I even get that much money?
30:54Robert shrugged his shoulders and smiled broadly.
30:57Then 10 grand.
30:59It can't be any less.
31:01Cindy didn't have that kind of money still a student, barely scraping by.
31:06And with Emery, Catherine, and Andrew all watching, the last thing she needed was to be linked
31:11to some sweaty drunk.
31:14You might be my biological father, but the day you dumped me at that orphanage?
31:19We were done.
31:20I don't owe you a thing.
31:22Leave, or I'm calling the cops.
31:24The cops?
31:25Robert let out a bark of laughter, like she'd just told the funniest joke ever.
31:29He leaned back, smirking at her.
31:31Great.
31:32I'd love a little cop chat.
31:34Maybe I'll tell them about that kidnapping five years ago.
31:38Ring any bells?
31:40Cindy froze.
31:42Her voice cracked.
31:46What kidnapping?
31:47What are you even talking about?
31:49Panic surged as she punched into her phone, jaw tight.
31:53She wired him $2,000 with a message.
31:56Try this again and you won't see another cent.
31:59Robert frowned at the tiny transfer but staggered to his feet anyway.
32:03He blew Cindy a gross, sloppy kiss.
32:06Fine, fine.
32:07I'm out for today.
32:09Don't forget to miss me, sweetheart.
32:11As he shuffled off, Cindy finally exhaled, her body loosening like a coiled spring.
32:17She was just about to spin a cover story when she looked up and froze.
32:22Emery was already in Robert's path, blocking the doorway.
32:25His voice came low and rough.
32:28You said something about a kidnapping five years ago?
32:31What do you know?
32:32And just like that, an image hit him, Vivian.
32:36Pale, pleading, repeating herself like no one was listening.
32:40For the first time, a voice deep inside whispered,
32:43Maybe you got it all wrong.
32:47Oh, I know plenty.
32:49Robert said with a greasy chuckle, rubbing his fingers together.
32:52Just depends on how much it's worth to you.
32:56Dad, stop!
32:58Cindy's voice shot up as panic set in.
33:01She rushed to them like a cat on fire, trying to shove him out the door.
33:05He's just some drunk lunaturk!
33:07He'll say anything for cash!
33:09You're seriously gonna believe him over me?
33:11A homeless nobody?
33:13Tears welled in Cindy's eyes, slipping down her cheeks like her heart had just shattered.
33:18But Catherine wasn't buying it.
33:20She grabbed Cindy's arm, voice icy.
33:24Give him the money.
33:25Let him talk.
33:27Emery pulled a checkbook out of his coat pocket, wrote a check without lifting his eyes, tore it off and
33:33handed it to Robert.
33:35Fifty thousand.
33:36Take it and speak quickly.
33:38Cindy reached out to snatch the check.
33:40Dad!
33:41Don't let him fool you!
33:43Emery held his hand high to dodge Cindy's reach, his voice icy cold.
33:51Move aside.
33:53Robert pocketed the fifty thousand dollars check with a low whistle, leaned back against the couch and got comfy.
34:03Not much to it, he said, casual as ever.
34:06Cindy hated Vivian.
34:09So she faked a kidnapping to turn you all against her.
34:13That whole depression act?
34:15Total scam.
34:17She's been twisted since she was a toddler.
34:20He smirked.
34:22When she was three, she stuffed nails into another kid's shoes just cause they wouldn't share toys.
34:27Nearly wrecked the poor kid's foot.
34:30That's when I dumped her at the orphanage.
34:33He let out a laugh.
34:34Didn't think anyone would actually take her in like treasure.
34:39Done talking, Robert didn't even glance at Emery or Catherine both looking like they'd aged a decade in seconds.
34:45He slipped the check into his pocket and turned to leave.
34:49Passing Andrew, he paused, something clicking.
34:54He gave him a mocking pat on the shoulder.
34:57Oh, and you?
34:59What a joke.
35:00Cindy trashed your wedding on purpose.
35:02Ever since you started dating Vivian, she had me watching you two.
35:06Jumping in any time to stir up drama.
35:10Locked in storage.
35:11Stalkers.
35:12The whole damsel act.
35:14Total theater.
35:16Hilarious, right?
35:17But with your brains, you never deserved Vivian anyway.
35:22Guess God finally noticed.
35:26Shut up!
35:27Shut up!
35:28Cindy screamed, completely losing it.
35:30This time, no one stepped in to stop her.
35:35Catherine stood frozen, her whole body shaking.
35:38Flashes hit her every time she'd scolded Vivian, that blood-soaked wedding dress, the way Vivian called her Mrs. Valance
35:45like a stranger.
35:47That was her daughter, the one she carried for months, the one she finally got back and still chose to
35:53throw away, all for an adopted girl who'd fooled them all.
36:00Tears blurred her vision as guilt came crashing down.
36:03Then she spun and slapped Cindy hard, the sound echoing through the room.
36:08This is all your fault!
36:11Catherine's voice cracked, raw and broken.
36:15You lied about being sick.
36:18Turned us against Vivian.
36:22Ripped my daughter away from me!
36:24You're the monster!
36:26We never should have adopted you!
36:28Emery's tall frame crumpled.
36:30He dropped onto the couch, head in his hands, sobbing.
36:34Vivian, I was wrong.
36:36I'm so sorry.
36:38I'm so...
36:42Andrew stood frozen, still clutching his phone the one that hadn't buzzed once.
36:47She was really gone.
36:50He tossed aside the girl who only ever looked at him for a liar.
36:55No, I don't believe it, he muttered.
36:57If I can just find her, she'll forgive me.
37:00That sparked something.
37:01Emery's and Catherine's eyes lit up with the tiniest flicker of hope.
37:05Yes, we'll find her.
37:06We'll apologize for real this time.
37:08She'll forgive us.
37:14Pathetic.
37:16Cindy sneered, clutching her burning cheek.
37:19She slowly pushed herself off the floor, lips curling into a twisted grin.
37:24Find Vivian?
37:25Please.
37:26She left the country ages ago.
37:29Didn't any of you notice the background during that last call?
37:33That was an international terminal.
37:36She looked them over three fools drowning in regret and let out a cold, mocking laugh.
37:42So what if she's your real daughter?
37:45I still ran her off like a stray dog?
37:47No, wait.
37:49She pointed, one by one, at Emery, Catherine, and Andrew.
37:53It was all of us.
37:55Dear old dad.
37:56Sweet, loving mom.
37:59And you, Andrew.
38:01The dream team.
38:02Aren't you proud?
38:03Shut up, you lunatark!
38:06Something snapped in Andrew.
38:09His last thread of denial ripped clean.
38:11Eyes bloodshot, veins pulsing at his temple he lunged.
38:15But Cindy moved fast, ducking behind Catherine.
38:19Unprepared, Catherine took the full hit as Andrew barreled forward.
38:23She lost her balance, crashing headfirst into the sharp edge of the marble coffee table.
38:27No scream, just a sickening crack.
38:31She dropped, limp, blood spreading fast.
38:34Emery's scream tore through the room.
38:37Catherine!
38:39He staggered forward, but halfway there, his chest seized, his knees buckled, and everything went black.
38:50Murder.
38:51It's murder!
38:53Andrew stood frozen, shocked, terrified.
38:57Catherine's body, Emery on the ground, blood, so much blood.
39:01He backed away, hands shaking.
39:04No, it wasn't me.
39:05Cindy laughed.
39:07Oh, I saw everything.
39:08You did it?
39:09You killed them?
39:11Want me to keep quiet?
39:13Then marry me.
39:15Say yes, and I'll call it an accident.
39:17But it was already over.
39:20The cops had arrived.
39:22They were both arrested on the spot.
39:26I got the call while sunbathing on a beach in Haviana.
39:29The officer's voice was heavy.
39:33Mrs. Vallas,
39:35we regret to inform you that while we've arrested the suspects,
39:39your mother was pronounced dead.
39:42Your father passed from a heart attack
39:44before medics could stabilize him.
39:47But rest assured,
39:49both Andrew Todd and Cindy Vallis will face full legal consequences.
39:54Understood.
39:57I matched his tone.
39:59Calm.
40:00Steady.
40:01After I hung up,
40:02I didn't cry.
40:04Not a single tear.
40:05They loved Cindy so much after all.
40:08Why would they ever be mad at her?
40:10Nodır.
40:10No.
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