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00:00On a rainy night, a three-and-a-half-year-old little girl stood at the main gate of Thornton
00:04Manor, clutching a rabbit plush toy.
00:06She tiptoed and pressed the doorbell, then said in a voice still carrying a milky lilt,
00:10I'm looking for Lucas Thornton.
00:12The butler opened the door and looked down at her.
00:15The little girl pulled a hospital bill from her backpack and added earnestly,
00:19Mom said, Dad owes me three years worth of milk money.
00:23Lucas walked to the entrance.
00:25The little girl looked up at him, her eyes rimmed red.
00:28Are you Lucas Thornton?
00:31Mama said if I nothing to cheer, I should use a U.A. blonde.
00:36A half hour ago, the Thornton Manor family dinner had never really felt like a family dinner.
00:41Twelve people sat at the long table, 26 dishes were laid out.
00:46From the start of the meal, the sound of a butter knife touching a porcelain plate had rung out only
00:51three times.
00:52Harold Thornton sat at the head of the table, his cane resting against his chair.
00:56In front of him lay a document.
00:58The first page read, Thornton Family Trust, beneficiary adjustment list.
01:03Marcus from the second branch, he lifted his red wine glass and swirled it gently twice.
01:08Dad, Penelope is older now.
01:10She's been working with the Charity Foundation all these years, and she has a good reputation outside.
01:15I think we should add her to the list this time.
01:17Beside him, Celeste chimed in immediately.
01:19Yes, Penelope is a Thornton.
01:22We can't keep letting outsiders laugh at us, for having no one of the next generation to hold up the
01:28family name.
01:30On the other side of the long table, Penelope wore a white dress.
01:33She was seven years old.
01:35Hearing the adults mention her, she promptly set down her spoon.
01:39Grandfather, I'll work hard.
01:41Harold didn't nod right away.
01:43He looked toward the other end of the long table.
01:45Lucas sat there, his suit cuffs immaculate, his plate nearly untouched.
01:50He was reviewing a merger agreement.
01:51The family dinner was only halfway through, and he had already turned to page 9.
01:55Harold frowned.
01:56Lucas.
01:57Lucas looked up.
01:58What do you think of the list?
02:02By the bylaws.
02:04Three words.
02:05No one at the table was surprised.
02:07Lucas had always been this way.
02:08If it could be quantified with numbers, he didn't discuss feelings.
02:12Lucas, not everything in this family can go by the bylaws.
02:16Penny is still a child of the Thornton family.
02:19Lucas was about to respond when the doorbell rang.
02:23Very soft, the butler paused.
02:25Thornton Manor had tight security.
02:27No one should be coming at this hour.
02:28It was still raining outside.
02:30Raindrops pounded against the floor-to-ceiling windows, the sound urgent and dense.
02:34The butler hurried out.
02:39Before long, he returned, his expression somewhat odd.
02:44Sir, there's a child at the door.
02:46Harold looked up.
02:47Whose?
02:48She's looking for Mr. Lucas Thornton.
02:51The long table fell silent.
02:52Marcus laughed first.
02:54Lucas, you have clients that young now?
02:56A child showing up at your doorstep.
02:59Seems like a pretty urgent client.
03:02Lucas ignored them.
03:03He set down his papers and rose to walk outside.
03:05When the estate gates opened, a gust of rain-scented air rushed in.
03:09At the entrance stood a little girl.
03:11Her hair was plastered to her forehead by the rain.
03:13She wore a faded little yellow raincoat and clutched an old rabbit plushie in her arm.
03:18The little girl looked up, her eyes very round.
03:20She glanced at the butler, then at Lucas walking out.
03:23Are you Lucas Thornton?
03:25Lucas stopped on the steps.
03:26Rarely did anyone address him by his full name.
03:28I am.
03:29The little girl hugged her rabbit tighter.
03:31Daddy, you owe me three years of child support money.
03:36Lucas' hands stilled on his cup.
03:38The people at the long table heard it too.
03:40Marcus laughed.
03:42Scammers are getting younger these days?
03:44The little girl flinched slightly at the word scammer.
03:47She said in a small voice,
03:48I'm not a scammer.
03:50Mommy said that when you owe money, you need a receipt.
03:55She tucked the rabbit under her arm and bent down to rummage through her small backpack.
03:59There wasn't much inside, a pack of crush crackers and a paper bundle wrapped in several layers of plastic.
04:03She unwrapped the bundle to reveal a crumpled hospital bill.
04:07See?
04:08Mom said this can be reimbursed.
04:10Lucas didn't take it.
04:11His gaze landed on the bill.
04:12At the very bottom was a handwritten note in the remarks column.
04:15Father's name, Lucas Thornton.
04:17The handwriting was faint, but Lucas recognized those three words.
04:21Ivy had written them.
04:22What's your mother's name?
04:24Ivy.
04:25Like the ivy plant and the rose.
04:29The words struck him like a soft tap on the ear from three years away.
04:33He did not move.
04:34Rainwater dripped from the eaves, drop by drop, hitting the edge of the step.
04:37Celeste had already walked over.
04:39She glanced at the child, then at the bill.
04:41Lucas, something this obvious could easily be fake.
04:44Forging documents isn't that hard these days.
04:48It is true.
04:49Mom said daddy hurts here on the left.
04:53And when it hurts, you can't drink cold water.
04:57Lucas' eyelashes flickered.
04:59That was an old injury from a car rollover when he was 18.
05:02Apart from the family doctor, few knew about it.
05:05Ivy knew.
05:06She used to always replace his iced water with warm water.
05:10Marcus' face darkened slightly.
05:12Harold gripped his cane and rose.
05:13He walked to the foyer and looked at Mia.
05:15Child, what's your name?
05:17Mia.
05:18Mom said it means mine.
05:20And it's short.
05:22Easy to remember.
05:23Harold's gaze fell on her neck.
05:25From under the collar of her raincoat, a small, old silver locket peeked out.
05:30The locket was tiny, strung on a fine chain.
05:33One edge was broken, clearly only half of a pair.
05:36Harold's hand slowly tightened on his cane.
05:38Where did you get this?
05:40Mom gave it to me.
05:41She said I mustn't lose it.
05:44Father, an old piece of jewelry proves nothing.
05:46Lots of Thornton things get lost and picked up by anyone.
05:50It wasn't picked up!
05:51Mom sewed it into my little coat!
05:53She paused there, and then her small stomach gave a very soft rumble.
05:57The foyer was so quiet that the sound was exceptionally clear.
06:01I didn't come to eat.
06:03I came for the reimbursement.
06:05Lucas finally reached out and took the bill.
06:07When the paper touched his palm, he realized his own hand was cold.
06:11Harold looked at the child's damp shoe tips.
06:14Come inside.
06:15Mia did not move.
06:16She looked up at Lucas.
06:18Is that okay?
06:19Lucas looked down at her.
06:20He had handled countless merger cases, signed contracts worth tens of billions.
06:25But at this moment, he did not know how to answer a child.
06:28After a long moment, he stepped aside.
06:31Come in.
06:32Mia hugged the rabbit and carefully stepped over the Thornton family's threshold.
06:35She walked two steps, then turned to look back at the rain,
06:39as if checking whether she had dirtied the carpet.
06:42Lucas noticed mud on the edges of her soles.
06:44He was about to call the butler for slippers when Mia squatted down
06:47and pulled a folded little handkerchief from her pocket.
06:50She tried to wipe her soles clean.
06:52Her hands were too small.
06:53After two wipes, she only smeared rain water onto the carpet instead.
06:57Celeste sighed lightly.
06:58This child, who taught her to be like this?
07:02Enough.
07:03His voice was not loud.
07:04Celeste's smile stiffened.
07:06Mia raised her head.
07:07She did not know what she had done wrong, and tears quickly welled up in her eyes.
07:11Lucas crouched down.
07:12Awkwardly, he took the handkerchief from her hand.
07:15You don't need to clean the carpet.
07:16But mom said, if you dirty someone else's things, you have to pay.
07:21This is the Thornton house.
07:23Mia hugged the rabbit tighter.
07:25Then do I have to leave tomorrow?
07:27The question hung in the air.
07:29Lucas did not answer.
07:30Harold turned to the butler.
07:32Get dry towels and children's slippers.
07:35Sir, there are no children's slippers in the house.
07:39Thornton Manor was large.
07:40It had a wine cellar, a library, a cigar room, an entire floor of wardrobes.
07:46But not a single pair of slippers small enough for a child.
07:49It's okay, I can walk, Baird.
07:52Lucas stood up.
07:53Bring my slippers.
07:54Sir, they'll be far too big for her.
07:56Lucas looked at him.
07:57The butler immediately lowered his head.
07:59Right away, sir.
08:00Soon, a pair of dark gray men's slippers were brought over.
08:04When Mia put her feet in them, they only reached halfway.
08:07She took a step forward and the slipper fell off with a slap.
08:10She pressed her lips together and bent down to pick it up herself.
08:13Lucas watched her crouch down.
08:14At that moment, his gaze drifted back to the bill.
08:17The column for father's name was slightly smudged by rain, but still legible.
08:21Lucas Thornton.
08:22His name sat on that paper.
08:24It had sat there for three years.
08:27That night, no one at Thornton Manor ate dinner.
08:29The dishes on the long table were cleared away one by one.
08:33The dining room soon stood empty.
08:35Mia was taken to the small sitting room.
08:37The butler brought dry towels.
08:38She sat by herself at the very edge of the sofa,
08:41hugging the rabbit, her feet still in Lucas's oversized slippers.
08:44They were so big that her toes sank into them whenever she moved.
08:48Lucas sat across from her.
08:49Before him lay the bill, the half locket,
08:51and an old photograph found in the child's backpack.
08:54In the photo, Ivy stood in a hospital corridor, pale-faced,
08:57holding a newborn wrapped in a pink blanket, only a small face visible.
09:01On the back of the photo, a line was written,
09:03Mia's seventh day.
09:04Lucas stared at that line for a long time without turning the photo over.
09:08Marcus stood nearby.
09:10Lucas, based on just these things, it's not enough.
09:13Celeste nodded.
09:14Indeed.
09:15The child is pitiful, yes, but the Thornton family can't just acknowledge anyone casually.
09:20I'm not being casual.
09:21Mom said, I can only find Lucas Thornton.
09:25Lucas looked at her.
09:26Where is your mom now?
09:27Mia squeezed the rabbit's ears.
09:29She looked down and picked at the stitching on the rabbit.
09:32Mom fell asleep.
09:33Where did she fall asleep?
09:34Mia thought for a moment.
09:35The White House.
09:37Mrs. Dawson said mom was tired.
09:39She needs to sleep for a very, very long time.
09:42She did not know that was called a ward, nor did she know what a death certificate was.
09:46She only remembered that when Ivy touched her head for the last time, her hand was very cold.
09:53Mia, from now on, you have to eat by yourself.
09:57If you have no food, go to the Thornton house.
10:00Find Lucas Thornton.
10:02Mia did not say all of that.
10:03She only hugged the rabbit tighter.
10:05Lucas' Adam's apple moved.
10:07Harold sat in the single armchair, watching the child.
10:10Arrange a pernity test.
10:12Now.
10:13Father, it's far too late tonight.
10:16Harold tapped his cane on the floor.
10:18It's not late.
10:19Whether the Thornton family gains a child, or someone dares to use a child as a pawn, neither is a
10:26small matter.
10:27Wyatt walked over from the far end of the long table.
10:30He was the youngest Thornton's son, working in family legal affairs year-round.
10:34He spoke little, and his face was even more unreadable than Lucas'.
10:38He picked up the bill and examined it.
10:40I'll contact the testing center.
10:42Mia heard testing and grew nervous.
10:44She asked in a small voice.
10:46Do I need a shot?
10:47Just a few cells from inside your mouth.
10:49Mia looked even more confused.
10:51Wyatt rephrased it.
10:52A cotton squab.
10:54Just a gentle rub inside your mouth.
10:56Mia immediately covered her mouth.
10:58Will it scratch me?
10:59Wyatt paused.
11:00Clearly, he had never soothed a child before.
11:03No.
11:03Mia kept her hand over her mouth.
11:05Lucas watched her for a long moment.
11:07If you do it, I'll buy you milk, Peter.
11:09The words sounded odd.
11:11Mia, however, understood.
11:12She slowly lowered her hand.
11:14Just one can is enough.
11:16It's expensive.
11:17The butler brought a glass of warm milk and a half bowl of oatmeal porridge.
11:21Mia's eyes lit up at the sight of the porridge.
11:24She quickly controlled herself.
11:26Can I eat this?
11:27Lucas nodded.
11:29She picked up the spoon and ate in small mouthfuls.
11:31Very slowly.
11:32Very cleanly.
11:34Lucas watched her scrape the bottom of the bowl twice.
11:36Not a single grain left.
11:38Celeste stood by the door.
11:39Who taught such a young child to say all that?
11:41They really put some effort in.
11:43Mia looked up.
11:44A bit of porridge clung to the corner of her mouth.
11:46Mom taught me not to waste.
11:48Does that count as effort too?
11:50Celeste's smile thinned.
11:51Harold glanced at her.
11:53Celeste said no more.
11:54The paternity test personnel arrived late at night.
11:57When the cotton swab touched the inside of her cheek, Mia wrinkled her nose.
12:01Done?
12:01Yes.
12:02Mia let out a breath of relief.
12:05Does daddy have to do it too?
12:08Mia watched intently.
12:09After he finished, she asked very quietly.
12:12Did it hurt?
12:13Lucas looked at her.
12:14No.
12:14Oh.
12:15Mia nodded.
12:15Then you're braver than me.
12:17Wyatt bent to seal the sample bag.
12:19The corner of his mouth seemed to twitch.
12:20Lucas shot him a glance, and Wyatt immediately resumed his expressionless look.
12:25After the samples were sent off, Mia was placed in a guest room on the ground floor.
12:29But she was too afraid to sleep on the bed.
12:31She sat at the edge, holding her rabbit.
12:33The butler made the bed for her.
12:35Miss Maya, you can sleep now.
12:36Mia looked up.
12:37Uncle, will I still be here tomorrow?
12:40Lucas stood at the door.
12:41He had heard.
12:42Yes.
12:42Mia turned to look at him.
12:44Do you keep your word?
12:45Lucas walked in.
12:46Yes.
12:46She thought for a moment, then asked.
12:49Then, when I wake up, I won't be outside the door, will I?
12:53This time, Lucas did not answer immediately.
12:55He walked to the bed and folded the duvet down a little.
12:58His motion was awkward.
12:59The corner was not neatly tucked.
13:01No.
13:02Mia finally climbed onto the bed.
13:04She put the rabbit on the inside of the pillow and occupied only a small edge of the mattress.
13:09Lucas watched her for a long time.
13:11Sleep in the middle.
13:12Mia shook her head.
13:13I'm afraid I'll wrinkle it.
13:15The sheets can be changed.
13:17Mia said softly.
13:18But mama said not to touch other people's things.
13:21This is the Thornton house.
13:23It's not someone else's home.
13:25Mia blinked.
13:25She was not quite sure she could believe it.
13:28But she slowly scooted a little toward the center of the bed.
13:31Lucas stood up and headed for the door.
13:33Just as he reached the threshold, a tiny voice came from behind him.
13:36Lucas, can you buy the smallest can of milk powder tomorrow?
13:40I don't drink much.
13:42I'll buy the big one.
13:43Mia thought for a moment.
13:45But do you have money?
13:47The butler at the door coughed quietly.
13:49Lucas was silent for a moment.
13:51Yes.
13:51Oh.
13:52Then don't borrow from Lone Sharks.
13:55For the first time, Lucas did not know what expression to wear.
13:58As he closed the door and stepped out, Wyatt stood at the end of the corridor.
14:02She doesn't seem coached.
14:04Lucas looked at him.
14:05Wyatt handed over his phone.
14:07Found Ivy's death record.
14:08Last month, the 27th, Fairville General Hospital.
14:11The screen was bright.
14:13Lucas saw Ivy's name and the cause of death column.
14:16The illness had dragged on for a long time.
14:19He held the phone, unmoving, for a long while.
14:22Wyatt added,
14:23The testing center is expediting.
14:25Earliest result by tomorrow morning.
14:26Lucas handed the phone back.
14:28Recheck everything.
14:29Where Ivy lived these three years, who took care of her, who paid for the child.
14:33Wyatt nodded.
14:34He was about to leave, when the guest room door suddenly creaked open a crack.
14:38Mia poked her head out, clutching the rabbit.
14:39I wasn't eavesdropping.
14:41She paused.
14:42I just wanted to ask, where's the bathroom?
14:45Lucas turned around.
14:46I'll take you.
14:47Wyatt watched him bend down to find the child's slippers.
14:50One of the big gray slippers had fallen off again.
14:52Lucas crouched and pushed the slipper back to Mia's feet.
14:55His movements were still clumsy.
14:57Mia held the doorframe and reminded him softly,
15:00It's backwards.
15:01Lucas looked down.
15:02Indeed, he had put the slipper on backwards.
15:04Wyatt turned his head away.
15:06This time, he genuinely laughed.
15:08Tunchi or the next morning at 9 o'clock.
15:11The first round of paternity test results arrived at the Thornton house.
15:16Harold, Lucas, and Wyatt were in the study.
15:18Marcus and Celeste had also come.
15:21Mia sat on a small stool outside the study door.
15:24The butler gave her a small piece of cake.
15:27She didn't eat it.
15:28STR lice to support a biological relationship.
15:31The probability of paternity exceeds 99.99%.
15:35Lucas said nothing.
15:36He took the report, his gaze stopping on the line that read,
15:40Lucas Thornton is the biological father of Mia.
15:42Marcus' expression was sour.
15:45Celeste quickly spoke up.
15:46It's just the first preliminary result.
15:49These expedited reports, we should be cautious.
15:52Indeed, caution is warranted.
15:54Which is why I'd like to know why the rider seal on this test report matches the seal used on
15:59Thornton Medical's collaboration agreements from three years ago.
16:08Outside the study, Mia did not understand any of this.
16:11She only heard her own name.
16:13Hugging the rabbit, she crept closer to the gap in the door.
16:16It was quiet inside for a few seconds.
16:23Celeste's smile faded.
16:24Mia looked down at her own little shoe tips.
16:27She did not know why the adult still needed to check.
16:30All she knew was that she did not seem to have been kept yet.
16:33She wrapped the little cake back into the napkin,
16:35thinking that if she was sent away later, she could take it with her to eat on the road.
16:40I wasn't stealing.
16:41The butler gave it to me.
16:44Why aren't you eating it?
16:47I'm afraid it'll be gone soon.
16:52Eat.
16:53Will I have one tomorrow too?
16:55Yes.
16:55And the day after?
16:56Yes.
16:57And the day after that?
16:58Every day.
16:59Mia stared into his eyes for a moment, as if judging whether she could trust his words.
17:03Finally, she took the cake.
17:05She took a small bite.
17:06Cream got on the tip of her nose.
17:08Lucas raised his hand.
17:13Brother, maybe you should learn how to handle a child first.
17:20Also, this afternoon, father wants to hold a small welcome banquet for her.
17:24The results aren't all in yet.
17:26Father's decision is the child stays.
17:27As for who tampered the report and Ivy's records, we investigate everything together.
17:30Will there be food at the banquet?
17:32Yes.
17:33Then I can go.
17:34You don't have to go just for the food.
17:36But food is very important.
17:38Lucas did not speak again.
17:40Lucas, people can't live on contracts alone.
17:43You have to eat too.
17:44He hadn't listened then.
17:46Now, a child stood before him, cream on her nose, her eyes full of caution.
17:50She said food was important.
17:53Go buy children's slippers and clothes, toothbrush, utensils.
17:57Yes, sir.
17:58Should I buy a credit card too?
18:00You're racing that?
18:02I'm joking.
18:03What's a credit card?
18:05Something you can use to buy milk powder.
18:09Can it buy carrots for Bunny to eat?
18:12Does it eat carrots?
18:13It used to.
18:14But then mom didn't have money, so it stopped eating.
18:18No one spoke in the corridor.
18:20The toy rabbit was old, its fabric frayed at the edges.
18:24Lucas looked at that rabbit.
18:26For the first time, he thought that even a stuffed toy could go hungry for three years.
18:30The acknowledgement banquet was set for three days later.
18:33The hall had been redecorated.
18:35Flowers, champagne, dessert tables, everything was laid out with dignity.
18:39Mia changed into a new dress.
18:41It was pale yellow.
18:42Do I have to return this?
18:45Miss Mia, this was bought for you by Mr. Thornton.
18:49Then, if I get it dirty, do I have to pay for it?
18:54No, Miss Mia, you don't have to.
18:56Okay, then I won't pay.
18:59She picked up the rabbit and followed the butler downstairs.
19:02Lucas was waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs.
19:05He wasn't looking at any contracts today.
19:07Lucas, is my hair messy?
19:10Hmm.
19:11Is it rude?
19:13Lucas raised his hand, trying to clip it in.
19:15He tried to clip the hairpin into her hair.
19:17Lacking experience, he fumbled it, and the hairpin slipped out.
19:21Wyatt walked past below.
19:23He stopped in his track.
19:24Brother, you put it on the bunny's ear.
19:28Bunny wants to be pretty, too.
19:31Lucas took the clip off.
19:33This time, he moved much more slowly.
19:35Thank you, Daddy.
19:37Lucas' fingers paused.
19:39I forgot just now.
19:41Can I owe it to you?
19:44Yes.
19:44Only then did she breathe a sigh of relief.
19:47Quite a few people had already gathered in the hall.
19:49Harold sat at the head of the table.
19:51Little sister, you look so pretty today.
19:55Thank you, big sister.
19:57You've never been to this kind of banquet before, have you?
20:00No.
20:01Then don't touch things.
20:02These glasses are very expensive.
20:05I won't touch.
20:07And don't say random things, either.
20:09Everyone here is an adult.
20:11I'll be quiet.
20:12Is that child really Lucas's?
20:14I heard the DNA test isn't fully confirmed yet.
20:17Didn't Ivy take the money and leave back then?
20:19Now sending the kide back?
20:20The timing is awfully convenient.
20:22The voices were not loud, but Mia heard her own name.
20:25She also heard her mother's name.
20:26She looked up to find Lucas.
20:28Celeste happened to block her path.
20:30Mia, why aren't you at the dessert table?
20:32I'm looking for Lucas.
20:33There are so many people here today.
20:35He's very busy.
20:36You need to be understanding.
20:37But mom said when there are lots of people, you have to stay close to an adult.
20:41Your mom sure taught you a lot.
20:42The moment she finished speaking, the lights in the banquet hall suddenly dimmed for an instant.
20:47The projection screen at the front lit up.
20:51Who put this up?
20:53What are the staff doing?
20:54So your mom really did take the money.
20:59Mom didn't.
21:01It says so on the screen.
21:03Can't you read?
21:04Mia's face turned pale.
21:06She stepped back, her heel catching on her skirt, nearly tripping.
21:09Lucas reached out and steadied her.
21:11Don't be afraid.
21:12Father, I didn't want this to happen today.
21:14But since the evidence is already out there, we can't pretend we didn't see it.
21:18Ivy took the Thornton family's money and left.
21:20That's a fact.
21:21And now a child suddenly shows up.
21:24Who's to say someone didn't coach her to come here?
21:26Celeste.
21:27Father, I'm only thinking of the Thornton name.
21:29If Penelope enters the fees and list, at worst, they say we've masked the scythe.
21:32But dis-hired, her swannabee people start calling her Lucas Illafiti Muir.
21:36Where does that leave the Thornton family rapation?
21:38Daddy?
21:40What's an illegitimate daughter?
21:46It's not a word you need to understand.
21:48But mom doesn't have money.
21:50In her bag, there was only $8.60.
21:54And a bus pass.
21:57Of course a child wouldn't know.
21:59Would adults tell her the truth about something like this?
22:02So your mom took the money and still sent you back to ask for more?
22:07No.
22:08Mom didn't.
22:10The stuffed rabbit slipped from her arms.
22:13The rabbit fell to the floor.
22:15Bunny, I'm sorry.
22:16I didn't mean to.
22:18The old fabric was already loose.
22:20With that fall, a small seam split open on the rabbit's belly.
22:23Don't move.
22:26Mia, let me see it.
22:28Give it to him.
22:30It was an old voice recorder.
22:32The casing was heavily worn.
22:35Who gave this to you?
22:36Mom sewed it into Bunny's tummy.
22:39She said, Bunny can't be lost.
22:42An old recording pen?
22:44What could that possibly prove?
22:49Mia, if anyone at the Thornton house says your mother took money, give Bunny to Wyatt Thornton.
22:56Mommy?
22:59Remember, don't give it to anyone else.
23:02Only Wyatt.
23:03The projection screen was still bright.
23:05The $500,000 transfer receipt hung on the wall.
23:09But Ivy's voice from the recorder pressed down over the mamas again and again.
23:14Harold struck his cane heavily against the floor.
23:22The banquet hall doors were shut by the butler.
23:24As the heavy wooden door clicked shut, it made only a soft sound.
23:29Celeste's face went slightly pale.
23:31She quickly forced a smile.
23:32Dad, this isn't appropriate, is it?
23:34Since they're family, they should listen even more clearly.
23:37Celeste's lips moved, but she said no more.
23:40Wyatt placed the voice recorder in his palm.
23:42He did not continue playing it.
23:43Instead, he took a transparent evidence bag from the inner pocket of his suit jacket.
23:48His movements were practiced.
23:50Uncle, are you putting Mommy in there?
23:52Wyatt paused for a moment.
23:54He looked down at her.
23:55No, I'm protecting the recorder.
23:57Can Mommy still talk?
23:59Yes, but we have to listen slowly.
24:02Mia nodded.
24:03Then be gentle.
24:05Wyatt placed the recorder into the evidence bag.
24:08Lucas watched him.
24:09Play it.
24:10Wyatt shook his head.
24:12The original stays sealed.
24:14Playing it now only gives someone a chance to claim it was edited or swapped.
24:17You admit it could be edited.
24:19Then it's not evidence.
24:21I said we need to find out who did the editing.
24:24Celeste's smile faltered.
24:25Wyatt.
24:26Marcus stepped forward.
24:28You can say a lot of things at dinner, but not that.
24:30Don't worry, Marcus.
24:32I don't make claims.
24:33I investigate.
24:35He turned to the butler and spoke.
24:37Secure the banquet hall surveillance.
24:38Seal the projection computer, backgown accounts, and audio equipment for tonight.
24:43Everyone's phone will be temporarily registered on site.
24:45Wyatt Thornton.
24:46Are you treating us like criminals?
24:48If it's just a misunderstanding, registering a phone won't cost you a pound of flesh.
24:52The man was left speechless.
24:54Mia heard the word flesh and quickly checked her own hands.
24:57Lucas drew her a little closer to him.
25:00Not you.
25:00Mia gave a small O.
25:02O.
25:03Her hand was still clutching the rabbit.
25:05The rabbit's belly had split open, with a bit of cotton showing.
25:08Lucas noticed.
25:09He turned to the butler.
25:11Needle and fire.
25:12The butler was startled.
25:14Sir?
25:14Lucas looked at him.
25:15The butler immediately went to find them.
25:17Before long, Lucas opened the box.
25:19Looking at the needle and thread inside, his brows furrowed slightly.
25:24Mia watched him too.
25:25Do you know how to sew?
25:27Lucas was silent.
25:28Wyatt stood to the side and said flatly,
25:30Brother, I suggest you don't let that rabbit suffer a second injury.
25:34Mia immediately hugged the rabbit back to her chest.
25:37Then, let's not sew it for now.
25:41It doesn't hurt.
25:42Lucas looked at the rabbit she was holding.
25:44He did not touch the sewing kit again.
25:46Send it for voice print analysis, editing trace detection, and storage chip reading.
25:49Yes, sir.
25:52Wait a moment!
25:54Several pairs of eyes in the hall turned to her.
25:56She managed to smile.
25:57I mean, the item was brought in by a child.
26:00Before it's sent out, we should at least confirm what's inside.
26:04What are you in a hurry for?
26:05I just think the process lacks transparency.
26:08Wyatt held up the evidence bag, its serial number clearly visible on the seal.
26:12From now on, I'm in charge for the process.
26:15If you want to review, you can bring in your lawyer.
26:19Mommy, I'm scared.
26:20It's okay.
26:22Don't be afraid.
26:24Hearing this, Mia tucked herself a little further behind Lucas.
26:28She was scared too.
26:29But no one had taught her what to say right now.
26:31Harold's gaze fell on the two children.
26:33One was held in her mother's arms.
26:35The other stood on her own, clutching a rabbit with a torn belly.
26:39His grip on his cane slowly tightened.
26:41Mia, come to grandpa.
26:44Mia looked up at Lucas.
26:45Lucas gave a slight nod.
26:46Only then did she walk over.
26:48There was no child seat beside Harold.
26:50The butler had to bring over a low stool.
26:52Mia sat on it, her feet just dangling.
26:55Harold noticed her shoes.
26:56He frowned.
26:58Shoes uncomfortable?
26:59Mia shook her head at once.
27:01No.
27:02They're comfortable.
27:03Buy new ones.
27:05Softer.
27:05These ones are fine too.
27:07The Thorntons can afford two pairs of shoes.
27:10Then don't borrow from Lone Hawks either.
27:13Several servants nearby could not hold back and burst out laughing.
27:16He gave a light cough.
27:18No, we won't.
27:19Lucas sat on the other side.
27:21He did not laugh.
27:22Ivy had sewn the voice recorder into the rabbit's belly.
27:25She knew she might not live to see Mia grow up.
27:27She also knew that a child was too young to explain things clearly.
27:31So she had only taught Mia one thing.
27:33Give it to Wyatt.
27:34Why did she choose you?
27:36Wyatt did not answer immediately.
27:37He took out his phone and pulled up an old record.
27:42I just had someone pull Ivy's communication records from three years ago.
27:46The night before she left the Thornton house, she sent me a message.
27:49You never told me.
27:51Wyatt turned his phone toward him.
27:52On the screen was a screenshot of the carrier's record.
27:55Sent time, August 17th, three years ago, 1142 p.m.
28:01Recipient, Wyatt Thornton.
28:03No, Wyatt lowered his voice.
28:04I never received it.
28:05Marcus frowned.
28:06Carrier records can be wrong too, can't they?
28:10Wyatt gave him a look.
28:15That's why I pulled my phone's back up.
28:18He turned to another page.
28:2023.46.
28:23Someone logged into my cloud.
28:25Lucas stared at the timings.
28:26Four minutes.
28:27Ivy sent out a plea.
28:29Four minutes later.
28:3023.47.
28:31The message was deleted.
28:33The login address is the intranet of Thornton Manor.
28:37There are so many people in this manor.
28:39Staff, security guests, anyone could have been on network.
28:43You can't pin this on family just because of an internal IP address.
28:46He handed his phone to his assistant.
28:48Pull all device login records on the manor's internal network for the night of August 17,
28:52three years ago.
28:53Focus on the second floor of the study and the east side guest room.
28:57Harold's face turned completely grim.
28:59That was the room Ivy had stayed in at the estate.
29:01What did mommy send you?
29:03Wyatt did not answer right away.
29:05He looked at the rabbit with its torn belly.
29:10We haven't found it yet.
29:12Mia lowered her head.
29:14Oh.
29:15After a moment she asked again.
29:16Did mommy reach out to you?
29:18Wyatt's throat tightened slightly.
29:21Yes.
29:22Mia stroked the rabbit's ear with her little hand.
29:26Then why didn't you come?
29:28The words were light, but they seemed to press down on Wyatt.
29:31He was silent for a long time.
29:33Lucas was silent too.
29:35That night Ivy had reached out to Wyatt.
29:37She might have reached out to him too.
29:39But none of those messages ever made it to the people who were meant to receive them.
29:43Harold steadied himself on his cane and stood up.
29:47Investigate.
29:48From the day Ivy entered this house.
29:51Transfers visitors, internal network staff, reassignments, everything.
29:56She still wanted to speak, but her phone suddenly buzzed.
29:58Wyatt's assistant hurried back.
30:01Mr. Wyatt, we have it.
30:02At 2346 that night, the device deleted the message connected to the manor's network.
30:05The device tag says, personal for this computer.
30:08Mia sat too far away to see clearly.
30:12Wyatt raised his eyes.
30:13His gaze traveled across the room and landed on Celeste.
30:16Last registered location of the device.
30:18Second floor, West Study.
30:20Celeste's lips went white.
30:22Harold's cane struck the floor with a heavy thud.
30:24The second floor, West Study at Thornton Manor.
30:27Three years ago, it was the room Celeste used for temporary bookkeeping.
30:32Mommy.
30:33The West Study on the second floor.
30:35Anyone could have gone in there three years ago.
30:38I was just doing temporary accounts.
30:39I wasn't the only one who used that computer.
30:42Which is why I didn't say it was you.
30:43I only said the device is registered under your name.
30:48Wyatt, don't make this ugly in front of the family.
30:51Was Ivy family too?
30:55Marcus was struck silent.
30:57She asked softly,
30:58Could Ivy come into the Thornton house?
31:01No one answered right away.
31:02Lucas looked at her.
31:04Mia tilted her face up.
31:05Mommy used to say she didn't have a home.
31:08So, did she ever come here?
31:12Harold's grip on his cane tightened.
31:14Harold remembered it clearly.
31:16Ivy's face was very pale that day.
31:18But she stood straight.
31:20She said,
31:21I'm not here for money.
31:22No one believed her then.
31:24Harold closed his eyes briefly.
31:26When he opened them again,
31:27he looked at the old butler.
31:29Get the visitor log from August three years ago.
31:33Sir, the paper logs are in the old archives.
31:35I'll go now.
31:36Harold said,
31:37I'll go myself.
31:38Dad, it's late.
31:40Your health-
31:40I'm not dead yet.
31:42The hall fell silent.
31:43She looked down and stroked the rabbit's ear.
31:46Lucas saw it.
31:47He walked over and crouched down.
31:51He didn't mean your mom.
31:53Mia nodded.
31:55I know.
31:55But Grandpa shouldn't say that word.
31:58Mia doesn't like it.
32:00Harold stopped in his tracks.
32:01He turned to look at the small child.
32:03After a moment,
32:04he lowered his voice.
32:07Okay.
32:08I won't say it.
32:10Your old archive room was at the rear of the manor.
32:13It was rarely opened.
32:14When the door was pushed open,
32:16dust rose into the air.
32:18The old butler put on white gloves
32:21and brought out a stack of ledgers.
32:23Harold sat at an old wooden table,
32:26turning the pages one by one.
32:28Lucas stood beside him.
32:29Wyatt photographed each page with his phone as evidence.
32:32Mia had followed them in two.
32:34The butler had brought needle and thread.
32:36Lucas reached for them.
32:37Mia immediately hugged the rabbit closer to her chest
32:40and said very politely,
32:42Daddy, practice on other fabric first.
32:45Wyatt lowered his eyes,
32:46his shoulder twitching slightly.
32:47Lucas said nothing.
32:48He picked up an old rag nearby.
32:50The needle went in.
32:51Daddy, rabbit is still little.
32:54It can't afford trial and errors.
32:57Harold's hand paused mid-page turn.
32:59He didn't look up.
33:00Lucas put the needle and thread down.
33:02Let the butler do it.
33:04Mia let out a breath of relief.
33:05Thank you, Daddy.
33:06Lucas's fingers stilled.
33:08The old archive room was very quiet.
33:10Soon, the old butler pointed to one page.
33:13Sir, right here.
33:14August 17th.
33:15Ivy Winter.
33:16Time of entry.
33:179.17 a.m.
33:19Time of departure.
33:2111.58 p.m.
33:23The remarks column read,
33:24Received by the second madam.
33:26Harold stared at those four words.
33:28For a long while, he said nothing.
33:30Celeste stood at the doorway.
33:32Her face was paler than before.
33:34Dad, you had me handling the accounts back then.
33:36I just followed the rules in receiving her.
33:38You received her until 11.58 p.m.?
33:41She was emotional.
33:42She wouldn't leave.
33:43Why wouldn't she leave?
33:44What else could it be?
33:45She wanted to see you,
33:47but you were overseas.
33:48She couldn't reach you,
33:49so she just lingered at the manor.
33:52Mia heard the word hanging around
33:53and furrowed her little brow.
33:55Mommy wouldn't linger.
33:56You weren't even born yet.
33:58What do you know?
33:59Mommy said,
34:00Don't stay too long at other people's houses.
34:03Don't leave food on the plate.
34:05Return borrowed umbrellas.
34:07She wouldn't linger.
34:09Harold looked at her.
34:10Those eyes were too clear.
34:11So clear that he suddenly remembered Ivy three years ago,
34:15looking at him the same way.
34:16Ivy had placed a prenatal checkup report on the table.
34:19The Thorntons can't just take your word for it.
34:22Then investigate.
34:24Just don't only investigate me.
34:26Harold hadn't investigated back then.
34:29Celeste had handed over transfer records.
34:31He said Ivy was greedy.
34:33When Ivy left,
34:33she didn't even take her umbrella.
34:35Harold closed the ledger.
34:37First thing tomorrow,
34:40pull the records for that 500,000 transfer.
34:45No need to wait for morning.
34:46I already had finance pull the raw transaction logs.
34:49The money did come out of a Thornton family trust linked account,
34:52but the receiving account was in Ivy's name only.
34:55Three minutes after the funds arrived,
34:56they were split into four transfers.
34:58Three transfers went to Marcus's affiliated companies,
35:01the last one into a shell account linked to Celeste's family.
35:05You're lying!
35:06Bank statements,
35:09tax IDs,
35:10corporate registration changes,
35:12all here.
35:13Celeste couldn't stand steady and gripped the doorframe.
35:16Mia glanced at Penelope,
35:17then pulled out the half-eaten small cake from her little backpack.
35:22The cake was wrapped in a tissue,
35:23slightly squashed.
35:25She walked over and held it out to Penelope.
35:28Don't cry.
35:30Penelope froze.
35:31Who wants your things?
35:33The cake fell to the floor,
35:35kind of cream smeared across the old wooden planks.
35:38Mia looked down at it.
35:39She didn't cry.
35:40She crouched down,
35:42trying to wipe it up with a tissue.
35:43But Lucas picked her up first.
35:45It was the first time he had ever held a child.
35:49His movements were stiff.
35:50Mia's small body stiffened too for a moment,
35:53then she carefully tucked her dirty hand against herself.
35:57Don't wipe it.
35:57Mia said softly.
35:59But it got dirty.
36:00Lucas turned his gaze to Celeste.
36:02The one who should clean it up isn't her.
36:04Celeste's face turned ashen.
36:06Seal it.
36:07Starting tomorrow,
36:08the second branch is suspended from the family trust.
36:10Harold handed the ledger to Wyatt.
36:12Marcus jerked his head up.
36:13Dad.
36:14I said suspended.
36:16Not negotiable.
36:18The manor did not grow quiet until the dead of night.
36:22Mia had been taken back to the guest room.
36:24After her bath,
36:25she changed into her little pajamas,
36:27also newly bought,
36:29with two small rabbits embroidered on the cuffs.
36:32She sat on the bed,
36:33looking at the stuffed toy the butler had sewn up.
36:36The rabbit's belly now had a new line of stitching,
36:38neater than before.
36:39She touched it.
36:40Rabbit doesn't hurt anymore.
36:43It doesn't hurt anymore.
36:45Lucas stood at the door,
36:46holding a glass of warm milk.
36:47Mia looked at him.
36:49Daddy, do you know how to sing?
36:51That's okay.
36:52Mommy had things she didn't know how to do too.
36:54What did she sing?
36:56Mia hugged the rabbit and thought for a moment.
36:59Twinkle, twinkle, little star.
37:02The screen had just lit up
37:04when a wrinkled hand reached over from the side.
37:07Just passing by.
37:09Wyatt happened to be walking past in the hallway.
37:12He saw the tablet,
37:13then looked at Harold.
37:14He said nothing.
37:15Since you're all passing by,
37:17can you sing a little bit?
37:19Harold glanced at Lucas.
37:21Lucas glanced at Wyatt.
37:22Wyatt looked away.
37:23In the end,
37:24Harold turned the tablet's volume down
37:26to the lowest setting.
37:27A children's voice came through.
37:29Twinkle, twinkle, little star.
37:31How I wonder what you are.
37:33Mia lay down with the rabbit in her arms.
37:36She told me back then,
37:38don't just investigate her.
37:41You didn't.
37:43No, I didn't.
37:45Lucas said nothing in reply.
37:47Wyatt turned off the tablet.
37:49Keep it down.
37:50She just fell asleep.
37:51Harold shot him a look.
37:53This time, he didn't scold.
37:55Harold turned first.
37:57He was the first to turn,
37:58tapping his cane on the floor
37:59as he headed down the corridor to the right.
38:02His back was slightly hunched,
38:04making him look older than he had
38:06in the ballroom just hours before.
38:08Wyatt followed.
38:09Two seconds after Harold left,
38:11Wyatt also turned.
38:12He took the left.
38:13In the instant his back was to the camera,
38:16he could be seen letting out a faint sigh.
38:18Lucas was the last.
38:19Lucas was the last to leave the guest room doorway.
38:22He cast one final glance inside,
38:24then gently pulled the door shut.
38:26Mia turned over in her sleep,
38:28her little face shifting from one side to the other.
38:31She had kicked off a corner of the blanket.
38:32Her hand rested on the rabbit.
38:35Her right hand emerged from under the covers
38:37and lay naturally on the rabbit's stitched belly.
38:40Her fingers curled slightly
38:41as if checking that it was still there.
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