A powerful full drama movie filled with love, secrets, and unexpected twists.
Follow a powerful story where relationships are tested, hidden truths are revealed, and lives change forever. From romantic moments to shocking surprises, this drama keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
Featuring stories about CEO, billionaire lifestyles, family connections, and life-changing decisions, this movie delivers strong emotions and unforgettable scenes.
Watch the full movie and discover what happens in the end.
New full drama movies uploaded regularly. Stay tuned for more captivating and trending stories.
#drama #fullmovie #lovestory #dramatic #billionaire #ceo #family #relationships #movie #story
Follow a powerful story where relationships are tested, hidden truths are revealed, and lives change forever. From romantic moments to shocking surprises, this drama keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
Featuring stories about CEO, billionaire lifestyles, family connections, and life-changing decisions, this movie delivers strong emotions and unforgettable scenes.
Watch the full movie and discover what happens in the end.
New full drama movies uploaded regularly. Stay tuned for more captivating and trending stories.
#drama #fullmovie #lovestory #dramatic #billionaire #ceo #family #relationships #movie #story
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Art et designTranscription
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.
00:13The 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 do for you 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.
01:20Yes, 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.
02:53Marcus 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.
03:41Marcus 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.
03:51Mommy 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.
04:04She 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.
04:13At 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.
04:23What'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.
05:06Ivy 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.
05:42She 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.
06:12Harold 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.
06:29After 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, as if checking whether she had dirtied the
06:41carpet.
06:42Lucas noticed mud on the edges of her soles.
06:44He was about to call the butler for slippers when Mia squatted down and pulled a folded little handkerchief from
06:49her pocket.
06:50She tried to wipe her soles clean.
06:52Her hands were too small.
06:53After two wipes, she only smeared rainwater onto the carpet instead.
06:59This 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.
07:13Awkwardly, 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.
07:22This is the Thornton house.
07:23Mia hugged the rabbit tighter.
07:25Then, do I have to leave tomorrow?
07:28The question hung in the air.
07:29Lucas did not answer.
07:31Harold 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.
07:50I 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.
08:15At that moment, his gaze drifted back to the bill.
08:17The column for father's name was slightly smudged by rain, but still legible.
08:22Lucas 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, hugging the rabbit, her feet still in
08:43Lucas' oversized slippers.
08:45They 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, and an old photograph found in the child's backpack.
08:54In the photo, Ivy stood in a hospital corridor, pale-faced, holding a newborn wrapped in a pink
08:59blanket, 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.
10:01He owes you.
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's.
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.
11:18The 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, very cleanly.
11:33Lucas watched her scrape the bottom of the bowl twice.
11:37Not 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,
12:00Mia wrinkled her nose.
12:01Done?
12:02Yes.
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.
12:21Lucas shot him a glance,
12:22and Wyatt immediately resumed his expressionless look.
12:25After the samples were sent off,
12:27Mia 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.
12:43Mia turned to look at him.
12:44Do you keep your word?
12:45Lucas walked in.
12:46Yes.
12:47She 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
13:06and 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.
13:26She 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.
13:44Mia 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.
13:50Yes.
13:53Then 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.
14:12The screen was bright.
14:14Lucas 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.
14:27Lucas 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.
14:40I 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.
15:08Tanchi 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.
15:25The butler gave her a small piece of cake.
15:27She didn't eat it.
15:28STR lice to support a biological relationship.
15:31Probability 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.
15:43Marcus' 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
15:56why the rider seal on this test report
15:58matches the seal used on Thornton Medical's collaboration agreements
16:01from three years ago.
16:02This testing center changed its official seal two years ago.
16:06This report uses the old seal.
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.
16:19Redo it.
16:20I've already arranged us a second institution.
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,
16:36thinking that if she was sent away later,
16:38she 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,
17:01as 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.
17:09Lucas raised his hand.
17:13Brother, maybe you should learn how to handle a child first.
17:20Also, this afternoon,
17:22father 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,
17:29we 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,
17:48cream on her nose,
17:49her eyes full of caution.
17:50She said food was important.
17:53Go buy children slippers and clothes,
17:55toothbrush, utensils.
17:57Yes, sir.
17:58Should I buy a credit card too?
18:00You're racing though?
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,
18:17so it stopped eating.
18:18No one spoke in the corridor.
18:20The toy rabbit was old,
18:22its fabric frayed at the edges.
18:24Lucas looked at that rabbit.
18:26For the first time,
18:27he thought that even a stuffed toy
18:28could go hungry for three years.
18:30The acknowledgement banquet
18:32was set for three days later.
18:33The hall had been redecorated.
18:35Flowers, champagne, dessert tables,
18:37everything 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.
18:55You don't have to.
18:56Okay.
18:57Then I won't pay.
18:59She picked up the rabbit
19:00and followed the butler downstairs.
19:02Lucas was waiting for her
19:03at 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,
19:14trying to clip it in.
19:15He tried to clip the hairpin into her hair.
19:17Lacking experience,
19:19he fumbled it,
19:20and 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.
19:45Only 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.
20:03These 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,
20:23but 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.
20:34There 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,
20:39you have to stay close to an adult.
20:41Your mom sure taught you a lot.
20:42The moment she finished speaking,
20:44the lights in the banquet hall
20:45suddenly dimmed for an instant.
20:47The projection screen at the front lit up.
20:51Who put this up?
20:53What are the staff doing?
20:55So 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,
21:07her 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,
21:17we can't pretend we didn't see it.
21:18Ivy took the Thornton family's money and left.
21:21That'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,
21:30at worst they say we've masked the scythe.
21:32But dis-hired?
21:33Because what if people start calling her
21:35Lucas Illafiti Muir?
21:36Where does that leave the Thornton family rapation?
21:39Daddy?
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
22:04and still sent you back to ask for more?
22:07No.
22:08Mom didn't.
22:11The 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,
22:21a small seam split open on the rabbit's belly.
22:24Don'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?
22:37Mom 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
22:52says your mother took money,
22:53give Bunny to Wyatt Thornton.
22:56Mommy?
22:58Remember,
22:59don'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
23:11pressed down over the momos again and again.
23:14Harold struck his cane heavily against the floor.
23:17Close the doors.
23:18No one leaves today.
23:22The banquet hall doors were shut by the butler.
23:25As the heavy wooden door clicked shut,
23:27it 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,
23:35they should listen even more clearly.
23:37Celeste's lips moved,
23:38but she said no more.
23:40Wyatt placed the voice recorder in his palm.
23:42He did not continue playing it.
23:44Instead,
23:44he took a transparent evidence bag
23:46from the inner pocket of his suit jacket.
23:48His movements were practiced.
23:50Uncle,
23:51are you putting Mommy in there?
23:52Wyatt paused for a moment.
23:54He looked down at her.
23:55No,
23:56I'm protecting the recorder.
23:57Can Mommy still talk?
23:59Yes,
24:00but we have to listen slowly.
24:02Mia nodded.
24:04Then 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
24:16to 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.
24:26Wyatt.
24:26Marcus stepped forward.
24:28You can say a lot of things at dinner,
24:29but not that.
24:31Don't worry,
24:31Marcus.
24:32I don't make claims.
24:33I investigate.
24:35He turned to the butler and spoke.
24:37Secure the banquet hall surveillance.
24:39Seal the projection computer,
24:40backgown accounts,
24:41and 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,
24:50registering a phone won't cost you a pound of flesh.
24:52The man was left speechless.
24:54Mia heard the word flesh,
24:55and quickly checked her own hands.
24:57Lucas drew her a little closer to him.
25:00Not you.
25:01Mia gave a small O.
25:02O.
25:03Her hand was still clutching the rabbit.
25:05The rabbit's belly had split open,
25:06with a bit of cotton showing.
25:08Lucas noticed.
25:09He turned to the butler.
25:11Needle and fire.
25:13The butler was startled.
25:14Sir?
25:14Lucas looked at him.
25:15The butler immediately went to find them.
25:17Before long,
25:18Lucas opened the box.
25:19Looking at the needle and thread inside,
25:21his brows furrowed slightly.
25:23Mia 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,
25:31I suggest you don't let that rabbit suffer a second injury.
25:34Mia immediately hugged the rabbit back to her chest.
25:38Then,
25:39let'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,
25:48editing trace detection,
25:49and storage chip reading.
25:50Yes, sir.
25:52Wait a moment.
25:54Several pairs of eyes in the hall turned to her.
25:56She managed to smile.
25:57I mean,
25:58the item was brought in by a child.
26:01Before it's sent out,
26:02we 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,
26:09its serial number clearly visible on the seal.
26:12From now on,
26:13I'm in charge for the process.
26:14If you want to review,
26:16you can bring in your lawyer.
26:19Mommy,
26:19I'm scared.
26:21It's okay.
26:23Don't be afraid.
26:24Hearing this,
26:25Mia tucked herself a little further behind Lucas.
26:28She was scared too,
26:29but no one had taught her what to say right now.
26:32Harold's gaze fell on the two children.
26:34One was held in her mother's arms.
26:35The other stood on her own,
26:37clutching a rabbit with a torn belly.
26:39His grip on his cane slowly tightened.
26:41Mia,
26:42come 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,
26:53her 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.
27:06These ones are fine too.
27:07The Thorntons can afford two pairs of shoes.
27:10Then don't borrow from Lone Hawks either.
27:12Several servants nearby could not hold back
27:15and burst out laughing.
27:16He gave a light cough.
27:17No,
27:18we won't.
27:20Lucas sat on the other side.
27:21He did not laugh.
27:22Ivy had sewn the voice recorder
27:23into 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
27:29to 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.
27:38He took out his phone
27:39and pulled up an old record.
27:42I just had someone pull
27:43Ivy's communication records
27:45from three years ago.
27:46The night before she left the Thornton house,
27:48she sent me a message.
27:49You never told me.
27:51Wyatt turned his phone toward him.
27:52On the screen was a screenshot
27:54of the carrier's record.
27:56Sent time,
27:56August 17th,
27:57three years ago,
27:591142 p.m.
28:01Recipient,
28:02Wyatt Thornton.
28:03No,
28:03Wyatt lowered his voice.
28:04I never received it.
28:06Marcus frowned.
28:06Carrier records can be wrong too,
28:08can'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.
28:202346.
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.
28:312347.
28:32The message was deleted.
28:33The login address is the intranet of Thornton Manor.
28:37There are so many people in this manor.
28:39Staff,
28:40security,
28:41guests,
28:41anyone 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,
28:53three years ago.
28:53Focus on the second floor,
28:55the study,
28:55and 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.
29:17Did 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,
29:29but 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.
29:49From the day Ivy entered this house.
29:52Transfers, 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, or his 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.
30:17Last 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.
30:34The West Study on the second floor.
30:35Anyone could have gone in there three years ago.
30:38I was just doing temporary accounts.
30:40I 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, he 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, he 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, dust rose into the air.
32:19The old butler put on white gloves and brought out a stack of ledgers.
32:23Harold sat at an old wooden table, turning 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 and said very politely,
32:42Daddy, practice on other fabric first.
32:45Wyatt lowered his eyes, his shoulder twitching slightly.
32:47Lucas said nothing.
32:48He picked up an old rag nearby.
32:50The needle went in.
32:52Daddy, 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.
33:16Ivy 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
33:54and furrowed her little brow.
33:55Mommy wouldn't linger.
33:57You 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.
34:20The 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,
34:34she didn't even take her umbrella.
34:35Harold closed the ledger.
34:44No 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.
35:13Celeste couldn't stand steady and gripped the doorframe.
35:16Mia glanced at Penelope,
35:18then pulled out the half-eaten small cake from her little backpack.
35:21The cake was wrapped in a tissue, slightly squashed.
35:25She walked over and held it out to Penelope.
35:33The cake fell to the floor kind of cream smeared across the old wooden planks.
35:38Mia looked down at it.
35:39She didn't cry.
35:40She crouched down, trying 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.
35:58Mia 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, the 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.
36:19The manor did not grow quiet until the dead of night.
36:22Mia had been taken back to the guest room.
36:24After her bath, she changed into her little pajamas.
36:27Also newly bought.
36:29With two small rabbits embroidered on the cuffs.
36:32She sat on the bed, looking 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.
36:41Rabbit doesn't hurt anymore.
36:43It doesn't hurt anymore.
36:45Lucas stood at the door, holding a glass of warm milk.
36:48Mia 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.
36:55What did she sing?
36:56Mia hugged the rabbit and thought for a moment.
36:59Twinkle.
37:00Twinkle.
37:01Little star.
37:02The screen had just lit up when 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, then looked at Harold.
37:14He said nothing.
37:15Since you're all passing by, can you sing a little bit?
37:19Harold glanced at Lucas.
37:21Lucas glanced at Wyatt.
37:22Wyatt looked away.
37:23In the end, Harold turned the tablet's volume down to 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, don'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.
37:52Harold shot him a look.
37:53This time, he didn't scold.
37:55Harold turned first.
37:57He was the first to turn, tapping his cane on the floor as he headed down the corridor to the
38:01right.
38:02His back was slightly hunched, making him look older than he had in the ballroom just hours before.
38:08Wyatt followed.
38:09Two seconds after Harold left, Wyatt also turned.
38:12He took the left.
38:13In the instant his back was to the camera, he 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, then gently pulled the door shut.
38:26Mia turned over in her sleep, her little face shifting from one side to the other.
38:31She had kicked off a corner of the blanket.
38:33Her hand rested on the rabbit.
38:35Her right hand emerged from under the covers and lay naturally on the rabbit's stitched belly.
38:40Her fingers curled slightly as if checking that it was still there.
38:43She was very happy to see her to be in the back of the rabbit's nest.
38:43She was very happy to see her.
38:43She was very happy to see her in the back of the rabbit's face.
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