- il y a 2 jours
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06:09« Victoria, quand est-ce qu'on peut aller public ? »
06:11« Victoria stiffened, puis forced un petit sourire.
06:14« Tu sais comment ma mère est, et ma famille's traditions.
06:17Just give me un peu plus de temps.
06:19Plus de temps.
06:20Je suis entendu ça depuis trois ans.
06:22C'est ok.
06:23Je comprends.
06:24Je comprends.
06:25Tu n'as jamais voulu me donner une standing.
06:27Je suis juste un stepping-stone pour la femme que tu as jouais.
06:32Victoria picked les papiers et spotted un « Reset Your Life »
06:35volunteer form filled out in mon nom.
06:37« Qu'est-ce que ça ?
06:44I took the paper back from Victoria and set the proposal on the table.
06:48It's a new biotech project called Reset Your Life.
06:50I think it has great potential.
06:52Victoria nodded vaguely.
06:53If you think it's good, I'm sure it is.
06:55Victoria skimmed a few pages, then signed the last.
06:58Just as I expected, she had not even noticed my name on the application.
07:03She was already lost in the thought of seeing Sophia.
07:05A faint smile played on her lips, and her fingers tapped the table like piano keys.
07:11She only did that when she was truly happy.
07:15Victoria checked her phone.
07:18I'm afraid I have to cancel dinner.
07:20I have a reception tonight.
07:22Since neither of us drinks, I'll take Linda with me.
07:25Victoria cupped my face, kissed me softly, and left.
07:28Oh, and print the files on my desktop and leave them on my desk.
07:32Of course.
07:33The door shut.
07:34I sat down at Victoria's computer and suddenly saw a message from someone I knew.
07:39My hand froze on the mouse.
07:41Vicky, thanks for the chief designer role.
07:43And if you hadn't helped me with that video back then,
07:46I never would have gotten the scholarship or mic that easily.
07:49Love you.
07:50About the video?
07:51Could it be?
07:53My fingers shook, but I settled them and typed a reply in Victoria's voice.
07:59You still remember the video?
08:01Three seconds later, Sophia replied.
08:04Of course.
08:05You had Evelyn's computer hacked and post her private video on the campus forum.
08:08You said that once she was ruined, her scholarship and boyfriend would both be mine.
08:12Vicky, I was really touched.
08:14I collapsed into the chair.
08:18Slut!
08:18The video's all over campus, yet she still acts innocent.
08:21I heard her mother was a homewrecker.
08:23Like mother, like daughter.
08:27We're done.
08:31Those voices, the ones I had buried three years ago,
08:34they came flooding back, swallowing me whole.
08:39I always thought Victoria was a light in my darkest days.
08:42She pulled me off that rooftop, erased the scandal, and gave me a place to hide.
08:48But she was the one who first brought darkness into my life.
08:57Something in me snapped.
08:58I swept everything off the desk.
09:00Papers flew everywhere like snowflakes.
09:03The monitor and keyboard hit the floor with a dull head,
09:05and the penhiles had tilted over, sending pens rolling everywhere.
09:10I was breathing hard, my eyes burning.
09:13I looked at the mess around me, and the pain inside me seemed to expand like a black hole.
09:18I wiped away my last tear.
09:20Victoria Ashford, you destroyed my past.
09:23You stole my work.
09:24For three whole years, you trampled on everything I gave you and gave it to another woman.
09:29This time, I'm not looking back.
09:34The reception's over.
09:36Come pick me up.
09:37Back then, no matter what I was doing,
09:39if I saw a message from Victoria,
09:41I'd drop everything and rush to her.
09:42But today, I stared at her message,
09:44my finger frozen above the screen.
09:45The screen died.
09:48I don't want to go.
09:49This was the first time I ignored her request.
09:52Hot water ran down my shoulders,
09:54as if it could wash every emotion down the drain.
09:56The bathroom door flew open.
09:59Victoria leaned in the doorway.
10:00Tie loose.
10:02Why didn't you come pick me up?
10:05I waited two hours for you.
10:10You've never done that before.
10:11I shut off the shower and steadied my voice.
10:13I wasn't feeling well, and my phone died.
10:16Victoria studied me, then touched my forehead.
10:18Her voice softened.
10:19You do look pale.
10:20Have you taken your medicine?
10:22I turned my head away from her hand.
10:24I'm fine.
10:25I just need some sleep.
10:27As I sat on the bed drying my hair,
10:29Victoria walked up to me,
10:30her eyes bright with barely contained excitement.
10:33I forgot to tell you.
10:34Sophia's coming back,
10:35and I'll hire her as chief designer at a high salary.
10:38She finally told me.
10:39I didn't react.
10:40I just quietly dried my hair.
10:41She's your sister.
10:43Once she starts working here,
10:44you two can look out for each other.
10:46I lowered the towel and met her eyes.
10:48Victoria, if Sophia joins the company, I'm quitting.
10:51Her voice went cold.
10:53What did you say?
10:55I said, if she comes, I'm leaving.
10:57Evelyn, don't make this hard for me.
10:59She's the best candidate for chief designer.
11:01I finally laughed.
11:02It was quiet, but laced with sarcasm.
11:04Chief designer?
11:06Victoria, do you remember?
11:08Sophia didn't even make it past the first round of that design competition.
11:11I was the champion.
11:14Victoria's pupils narrowed slightly.
11:15I stood up to face her.
11:16What qualifies her to be chief designer?
11:19If you need a designer, why can't it be me?
11:22Or do you think being your secretary is all I'm good for?
11:29Evelyn, do you really have to do this?
11:31She studied me, trying to read my thoughts, but she couldn't.
11:34I'm kidding.
11:35Look how scared you are.
11:38What?
11:39Sophia's my sister.
11:40Of course I don't mind her working here.
11:42Victoria sighed and shook her head.
11:43Don't joke about that again.
11:45I nodded, smiling.
11:46Okay.
11:47I won't.
11:47Of course I won't.
11:48I'll be gone in seven days.
11:50None of this will have anything to do with me anymore.
11:54I'd already cleaned up the office, so Victoria didn't notice a thing.
11:57Over the next few days, Victoria became much more considerate.
12:07I knew what she was making up for.
12:10Don't work so hard.
12:12Get some rest.
12:13But I knew she was doing all this to pave the way for Sophia.
12:16She didn't understand Sophia or me.
12:19Sophia was the one who always picked fights.
12:21Just when I thought my remaining days here might be peaceful.
12:24The storm came early.
12:25Vicky, surprise.
12:26I'm back early and I'm right outside your house.
12:29Open the door.
12:29The night before Sophia started her new job, she messaged Victoria.
12:33Victoria snatched up the phone.
12:35Shock turned to panic, then to a joy I had never seen in her.
12:38She's back already?
12:39Victoria leaped out of bed barefoot without even looking at me.
12:44I watched her fumble into her coat and rush out, her footsteps fading in the hall, faster and faster.
12:53Sophia burst in, threw herself into Victoria's arms, and let her suitcase fall.
12:59Sophia squealed in delight.
13:02Vicky, I missed you so much.
13:04Flustered, Victoria hugged her back and languered before letting go.
13:08I'd only ever seen her be decisive and forceful in business.
13:12This cautious side of her felt unfamiliar.
13:15Why are you back early?
13:16Didn't you go home?
13:18Sophia's voice turned sweet and coaxing.
13:20I wanted to surprise you.
13:21I haven't told my family yet.
13:24It okay if I stay here tonight?
13:26Of course.
13:29Victoria quietly helped Sophia with her suitcase and took off her coat.
13:35She had always take it for granted that I'd do those things for her.
13:39Sophia sank onto the sofa.
13:43Your career is really taking off.
13:45I'm really glad to be joining your company.
13:47I heard Evelyn is your secretary now?
13:50Sophia smirked, missing the shift in Victoria's face.
13:54After that huge scandal, you're probably the only person who would take her in.
13:58Everyone saw her make a fool of herself, right?
14:00God, if I had humiliated myself like that, I would have-
14:02Sophia, don't.
14:04Victoria cut in.
14:05But just then, I came downstairs, smiling, and said,
14:10What would you do?
14:11Sophia froze at the sight of me, then sprang up.
14:14Evelyn?
14:15It's been a while, little sister.
14:19Sophia smiled.
14:20It was the expression she'd perfected.
14:22Sweet, harmless, and as sticky as honey.
14:25She hurried over, took my hand warmly, and gave Victoria a knowing smile.
14:30Vicky?
14:31So you two live together now?
14:34Are you-
14:35Victoria hurriedly tried to explain.
14:37No.
14:38We're just friends.
14:39Don't get the wrong idea.
14:40Friends.
14:41I gave Victoria a bitter smile.
14:43What kind of friends have sex every night?
14:46Victoria couldn't bring herself to look at me.
14:50Maybe hiding our relationship was never about whether I was worth it.
14:53Maybe she just didn't want Sophia to know.
14:55Come to think of it, I really should thank Evelyn.
14:58My eyelashes fluttered slightly.
15:01If that scandal hadn't happened, I never would have gotten Mike or the scholarship.
15:06When she mentioned Mike, her tone was breezy, and she gave me a playful wink.
15:11I already dumped Mike.
15:12If you're still hung up on him, I can give you his number.
15:15I cut her off.
15:17No need.
15:18I don't touch other people's trash.
15:22Sophia composed herself.
15:24I still have to thank you.
15:26That scholarship helped me realize my dream of becoming a chief designer.
15:30Evelyn, after doing secretarial work, serving coffee and making coffees.
15:35Have you forgotten how to be a designer?
15:37What a shame.
15:38If it weren't for that video, I looked at her and suddenly found it all absurd.
15:41My voice was soft, but every word was clear.
15:45Sophia, I haven't touched design in three years, and I'm still miles ahead of you.
15:49Once I return, you'll be nothing.
15:51Sophia's smile vanished as her face flushed red.
15:54Enough!
15:55Victoria turned to Sophia, her voice softening.
15:59You must be exhausted after your flight.
16:01Go get some rest.
16:03Sophia gave Victoria a wounded look and bit her lip.
16:06Fine.
16:16Victoria turned to me.
16:19Evelyn, Sophia didn't mean anything by it.
16:21Don't take it personally.
16:23She took my hand, her eyes full of pity, but I knew it was fake.
16:26Don't talk about going back to design.
16:28You know I can't do without you.
16:30Sophia taunted me and mocked me, but Victoria heard none of it.
16:34She only heard me saying I might go back to design.
16:37She feared I really would, and that I'd end up blocking Sophia's path.
16:41Get some rest.
16:42I'll sleep in the study tonight.
16:44Okay.
16:45Good night.
16:46I went upstairs.
16:49Victoria, I hope you keep your word and never regret this.
16:58It's raining again.
17:00Whenever it rains, my body feels like it's being torn apart.
17:04It was a complication from the surgery.
17:06In college, Victoria suffered acute kidney failure and needed a kidney transplant to survive.
17:12She was my only friend back then, and I couldn't let her die.
17:15Without telling her I got tested, signed the consent form, and gave her one of my kidneys.
17:19Ms. Cross, are you sure you want to donate a kidney?
17:22It's a major surgery and will permanently affect your health.
17:25I'm sure.
17:27As long as it saves her.
17:32I never told Victoria about this.
17:35Back then, I was still confused about my feelings.
17:39I knew she was special to me, but I was afraid of scaring her away.
17:43I never meant to use it to win her gratitude.
17:45Back then, whenever the pain got unbearable on rainy days, Victoria would hold me in her arms.
17:53She'd wrap her arms around me, rest her chin on my head, and gently pat my back, like soothing a
17:58child.
17:59Her warmth seeped through my pajamas and worked better than any painkiller.
18:04I'm leaving tomorrow.
18:07Just one last time.
18:09I want her to hold me again.
18:16Victoria, I don't feel well.
18:19Could you come here?
18:20Victoria's expression shifted.
18:22She set down the papers and stood up.
18:25Are you in pain again?
18:26I'll be right there.
18:27Sophia stood in the study doorway.
18:29I had no idea how long she'd been there.
18:31A thin blanket covered her shoulders as she hugged a pillow, her eyes gleaming in the dark.
18:36Vicky?
18:38It's thundering outside.
18:40I'm scared.
18:41Could you stay with me for a bit?
18:46Victoria caught her instinctively and swallowed.
18:48Victoria?
18:49Are you still there?
18:51It hurts.
18:52I need you.
18:54Vicky, don't go.
18:56I'm really scared.
19:00Victoria listened to my pleas over the phone while the woman she loved begged her to stay.
19:05In the end, she turned off her phone and spoke softly to Sophia.
19:10Don't be afraid.
19:12I'm right here.
19:13The call suddenly ended.
19:15She didn't come.
19:25It hurts, Victoria.
19:28Where are you?
19:31I stared at the door for a long while.
19:34Long enough for the sharp pain to turn dull and heavy.
19:37Long enough for my body to go numb.
19:40Victoria still hasn't shown up.
19:51I don't know what got me back on my feet.
19:54Maybe I needed to know why Victoria hadn't come.
19:58I leaned against the wall and made my way to the study.
20:01Each slow step felt like walking on knives.
20:04Victoria sat on the couch with Sophia curled up in her arms.
20:08Her head resting against Victoria's chest.
20:11Victoria's arm was around Sophia's shoulders.
20:14And her hand gently pat her back, just as she once did for me.
20:18A blanket lay over the couch and two cups of hot chocolate sat on the coffee table with the sweet
20:23scent of marshmallows in the air.
20:25Vicky, you're so kind.
20:27With you here, I'm not scared.
20:29I smiled faintly, not the least bit surprised.
20:32Of course it was Sophia.
20:33Was that Evelyn on the phone?
20:35Are you sure it's okay not to go see her?
20:37It's okay.
20:39Victoria spoke gently to Sophia.
20:41Sophia, you saved my life.
20:44Protecting and caring for you is my life's purpose.
20:47A sudden clap of thunder kept me from hearing what Victoria said to Sophia at the end.
20:52But I don't care anymore.
20:53I didn't push the door open, cry, or make a sound.
20:57I simply turned and left.
21:00Tomorrow, I'll leave.
21:02I shouldn't have held on to anything.
21:05Victoria stared at the gap under the door, as if she could sense I'd been there.
21:10I didn't know whether she felt a twinch of pain, but she still couldn't bring herself to let go of
21:15Sophia.
21:18Victoria opened the passenger door, and Sophia got in, buckling her seatbelt as if she'd always belong there.
21:26For three years, that seat had been mine.
21:29Victoria drove, and I sat beside her.
21:32We commuted to work together and home again.
21:35Those drives were the few times in three years when I could openly stay by her side.
21:39Now Sophia sat there, and Victoria didn't think anything was wrong as she took the wheel.
21:45Evelyn, why aren't you getting in?
21:50It's fine.
21:51It's my last day anyway.
21:53Everyone, this is Sophia Cross.
21:56Starting today, she'll be Ashford Group's chief designer.
21:59The company will hold a welcome party at six tonight.
22:02All staff are expected to attend.
22:08Thank you, everyone.
22:10I look forward to working with you.
22:13I stood in the back of the crowd, without applauding.
22:17On my last day, I carried out my usual secretarial duties.
22:21Sophia suddenly stopped me and ordered me around in front of everyone.
22:25Hey, Evelyn, could you get me a coffee?
22:28Black.
22:29No sugar.
22:30She shoved papers into my hands.
22:32Make ten copies of these, bind them, and bring them to my office.
22:35I glanced down at the documents, then looked up and handed them back to Sophia.
22:41The coffee machine is in the break room.
22:44The copier in the print room.
22:45I'm the CEO's secretary, not yours.
22:49Sophia froze.
22:50The employees behind her began whispering.
22:53Humiliated, Sophia let out a cold laugh and raised her voice.
22:56Aren't secretaries supposed to serve people?
22:58My hands are for creating award-winning works, not for fetching tea or running errands.
23:02I stepped half a pace closer and met her gaze.
23:04We were close enough for me to see the anger in her eyes.
23:07Sophia, you know exactly where those award-winning designs came from.
23:10Sophia's eyes widened.
23:11Those designs, every sketch, every line, were mine.
23:14If I pursue this, you'll have nothing left.
23:17Sophia went pale, flushed, then pale again, clutching the papers until her knuckles whitened.
23:22Unless you need anything else, I'll get back to work.
23:25Evelyn, who do you think you are?
23:35You think you won?
23:37You probably don't know this, but I've kept this video for three years.
23:42Tonight's welcome party will have the whole company there.
23:45I'm going to make everyone see who you really are.
23:50Just before work ended, my phone buzzed.
23:54Miss Cross, your reset is scheduled.
23:57At 8 o'clock tonight, a black sedan will be waiting at the intersection of Central Street and 7th Avenue.
24:02We'll send you the plate number at 755.
24:04Get in the car, and we'll handle the rest.
24:078 o'clock tonight.
24:09Less than three hours away.
24:12Tonight, it all ends.
24:15Sophia, you're so young and promising.
24:17At the party, some toasted Sophia, while others praised how young and promising she was,
24:23or asked about her relationship with Victoria.
24:26Victoria will be late because she's in a business meeting.
24:29I don't know if I'll get to see her one time before I leave.
24:33Sophia clapped, her voice bright and sweet.
24:36Everyone, thank you all for coming to my welcome party.
24:41I'd like to take this chance to present my award-winning work.
24:44Feel free to share your thoughts.
24:50Wow, the colors are incredible.
24:52She's a genius.
24:52The room erupted in praise for her work.
24:55Sophia smiled as she swiped through the photos one by one.
24:58Every single one had been stolen from me.
25:01Sophia's thumb hovered over the screen.
25:03She shot me a cold look and hit play.
25:06The banquet hall fell silent.
25:09My blood ran cold.
25:10On screen, a half-naked girl was caught on camera doing something intimate.
25:15Her face was clearly visible.
25:17It was my face.
25:18It was the video that ruined my life three years ago.
25:21Everyone in the banquet hall stood frozen, as if under a spell.
25:26Every eye moved from the screen to me.
25:28Beside the screen, Sophia hid a faint smile behind feigned panic.
25:33Sorry, Evelyn.
25:34I clicked the video by accident.
25:37I couldn't even make out what she was saying.
25:40I just felt everyone's eyes piercing through me.
25:43Shock.
25:44Disgust.
25:45Morbid curiosity.
25:46Pity.
25:47Their stares flooded over me, threatening to drown me.
25:53I snapped back, rushed to the projector, and yanked out the cable.
25:57Then I grabbed Sophia's phone from the table and threw it into the beer keg.
26:00Sophia, what the hell are you trying to do?
26:02I told you, it was an accident.
26:05I slapped her.
26:06She clutched her cheek, staring at me in disbelief.
26:09Evelyn, who the hell do you think you are hitting me?
26:12Her face twisted with rage as she screamed at me.
26:15You dared to film it, but you can't stand people watching?
26:17Were you thinking about someone while touching yourself for the camera?
26:21Heads turned between Sophia and me.
26:23Some covered their mouths.
26:25Others began recording.
26:26Whispers spread, but no one intervened.
26:29A cruel smile curled at Sophia's lips.
26:31Was it your boyfriend at the time?
26:33Or Victoria?
26:36What?
26:37Her and the CEO?
26:38Three years ago, her sex tape spread all over campus.
26:42Three years later, she crawled into her boss's bed.
26:45What else is she but a slut?
26:47You deserve to be exposed for what you really are, Evelyn Cross.
26:51You're absolutely disgusting!
26:53I stood there listening, my body trembling.
26:56Three years ago, I heard the very same words.
26:58Slut.
26:59Whore.
27:00Shameless.
27:01But I'm not the Evelyn I was three years ago.
27:03The one who could do nothing but cry.
27:05I did nothing wrong.
27:07Sophia, you have no right to judge me.
27:10You stole my work, my scholarship, and everything from me.
27:13You stepped on my life to get where you wanted, then turned around and called me filthy?
27:19The filthy one was you all along.
27:21Shut up!
27:22You should shut up.
27:24I grabbed her hair and slammed her onto the table.
27:27The table shook hard, spilling wine everywhere.
27:30Her cheek flattened against the table as she struggled under my grip.
27:45Victoria shoved me so hard that I hit the table and I'm being shot for me.
27:50Enough.
27:51Sophia curled into Victoria's arms like a frightened bird, tears streaming.
28:05Victoria fought to contain her anger as she demanded an answer.
28:09Evelyn, when did you get so rude?
28:11Suddenly, it all seemed ridiculous.
28:14Rude?
28:15You didn't even ask why I hit her.
28:17You just judged me guilty.
28:19Whatever happened, you had no right to treat her that way.
28:22The employees traded uneasy looks.
28:24No one spoke.
28:25Those gosling about the video moments where we are now stared at the floor, trying to disappear.
28:29Vicky, she's jealous of me.
28:32You don't know how obsessed she is with you.
28:34She couldn't stand seeing us together, so that's why she did this to me.
28:37Victoria looked livid and turned to Evelyn.
28:40Evelyn, have you lost your mind?
28:42What did you say in front of everyone?
28:44To me, you, she paused.
28:46In that brief moment, I saw her throat bob as she swallowed.
28:49You're just a friend, my employee.
28:51Nothing more.
28:52A friend, an employee, nothing else.
28:55For three years, every night, every kiss, every time she whispered in my ear, don't leave me.
29:00All were erased in one sentence, in front of everyone.
29:04Victoria took a deep breath.
29:06Her voice was non-negotiable.
29:08Evelyn, apologize to Sophia.
29:10I looked at Victoria and spoke quietly.
29:12What did you say?
29:13I said, apologize, and I'll act like this never happened.
29:16I laughed as if I'd heard the funniest joke in the world.
29:19Apologize to Sophia?
29:20My smile slowly faded, and my eyes filled with resolution and disgust.
29:24I can't.
29:24That's disgusting.
29:27Victoria had never expected me to defy her publicly.
29:30She let go of Sophia, stepped closer to me, and looked down at me, each word sounding like a command.
29:35Evelyn, I'll give you one last chance.
29:38Apologize.
29:39Victoria had never expected me.
29:41I'll say it again.
29:42She doesn't deserve it.
29:44Victoria's pupils contracted slightly.
29:47She'd probably never seen me like this.
29:48For three years, I'd been obedient and considerate, and never fought back.
29:52Her secretary.
29:53Her lover.
29:53But now I was defying her.
29:55Panic flickered in her eyes before she gave me a cold stare.
29:58Evelyn, you...
29:59Sophia cut in, her voice silky soft.
30:01Vicky, let it go.
30:03She held out the glass to me.
30:05Evelyn, you're my sister.
30:06Why make a scene?
30:07Drink this, and let's pretend none of this ever happened, okay?
30:12It's dark red surface shimmered under the light, like congealed blood.
30:16Victoria instinctively blocked the drink.
30:18Sophia, she can't drink.
30:20She stopped.
30:21She probably didn't even know why she stopped Sophia.
30:24She only remembered that for three years, no matter the occasion, I had never touched
30:28alcohol.
30:28But she didn't know why.
30:30Seeing Victoria take the drink for me, Sophia put on a hurt look.
30:34Vicky, maybe I shouldn't have come back.
30:35I should just leave.
30:36Sophia turned to leave, but Victoria stopped her, gentle yet firm.
30:41No one is making you leave.
30:42Victoria took the glass from Sophia, grabbed my chin, and forced the wine into my mouth.
30:48I pushed her away, coughing vrydantly.
30:51Evelyn, drink it.
30:54I can't drink.
30:56You're not leaving tonight until you drink.
30:59My tears finally fell.
31:01I remembered that operating room, the moment I signed my name, and the doctor's warning
31:06never to drink again.
31:07Victoria, I don't drink for the same reason you don't.
31:10We only have one kidney each, and our bodies can't handle alcohol.
31:14My voice was trembling.
31:16Victoria?
31:17Why are you doing this to me?
31:19All for Sophia?
31:20Victoria was silent for a moment.
31:23Pity crossed her face, but she said it anyway.
31:26Sophia saved my life.
31:29I swore I'd never let her suffer even a little.
31:32No one can hurt her.
31:33She saved your life?
31:34Could she be talking about the kidney transplant?
31:37Shock ran through me like electricity, and my voice rose against my will.
31:42No!
31:43Victoria, she wasn't the one who saved you!
31:46Tears poured down my face, and every word felt torn from my chest.
31:50I won!
31:51I won!
31:54Victoria swayed, her voice trembling.
31:56What did you say?
31:58My tears kept falling, but my voice was strangely clear.
32:01When you developed acute kidney failure, I got tested, signed the surgery consent form,
32:05and gave you one of my kidneys.
32:07Oh!
32:08If that's why you've always been so kind to Sophia, then you're talking to the wrong person!
32:13I laughed kidly through my tears.
32:14I was the one on that operating table.
32:16I was the one they cut open.
32:18My kidney is in you, so how could she get the credit?
32:21Panic flashed through Sophia's eyes.
32:24She knew everything she had was stolen from me.
32:26Victoria's lips moved, but she said nothing.
32:28A few seconds later, she let out a cold laugh, shook her head, and looked at me with disappointment.
32:35Evelyn, you've lost your mind.
32:37I froze.
32:39You're making up a lie just to avoid apologizing and drinking?
32:42I know who donated the kidney.
32:44It was Sophia.
32:45I saw the last name on the donor consent form.
32:48It was Cross.
32:49Victoria turned to Sophia, her gaze gentle.
32:52When I woke up, Sophia was sitting beside my bed.
32:55She was wearing a hospital gown, pale, with an IV still in her arm.
33:00Victoria looked at me, her eyes turning cold.
33:04Back then, you were off fooling around with Mike.
33:06How dare you say you saved me?
33:08No, that's not what happened.
33:10I had just come out of surgery, and the anesthesia hadn't fully worn off.
33:14I felt hollowed out, and even breathing hurt.
33:17But I just wanted to see her, to make sure she was alive.
33:20But the pain was too much, and I fainted at the door.
33:25Sophia showed up, took off my hospital gown, put it on herself, and took all the credit.
33:31I looked at Victoria and shook my head, disappointed.
33:34At that moment, I didn't feel like explaining anymore.
33:37She wouldn't believe me.
33:38Anything I said was pointless.
33:42Vicky, my back, it hurts.
33:49Sophia, I'm taking you to the hospital.
33:51Victoria paused at the door without looking at me.
33:54Her voice was as cold as a freezing wind.
33:58Evelyn, we'll talk later.
34:00I lowered my head, my voice barely above a whisper.
34:04Victoria, we don't have later.
34:05Victoria seemed to hear me.
34:07She stopped, looked back at me, and frowned.
34:11Victoria hesitated for a moment before asking me.
34:15What did you say?
34:16I did not repeat myself.
34:18Victoria finally shook her head, a little impatiently.
34:21Never mind.
34:22We'll talk later.
34:24Victoria always said later.
34:25She'd make us official later.
34:27Make our relationship public later.
34:29Even hearing my explanation had to wait until later.
34:32After Victoria left, the staff in the banquet hall began drifting out like a receding tide.
34:37Just when I thought everyone had left, a hand gently rested on my shoulder.
34:41I turned to see Linda.
34:43She was my intern and my best assistant secretary.
34:46Evelyn, are you okay?
34:48I believe you.
34:49She hesitated, then continued.
34:51I've always known about you and Victoria.
34:54The way you look at each other makes it obvious you're in love.
34:57Victoria only treated you that way tonight because she didn't know about the video.
35:00If she knew Sophia had played it, she would never-
35:02I gently shook my head, cutting her off.
35:05It doesn't matter anymore.
35:07Thanks, Linny.
35:08You should go now.
35:09Linda opened her mouth but said nothing.
35:12She nodded and left.
35:15Alone in the banquet hall, I looked at my reflection in the glass, at the wine still on my lips,
35:20and wiped it away hard with the back of my hand.
35:23Then my phone vibrated.
35:25The Reset Your Life team.
35:27Program Representative, License Plate XX7742, a black sedan at the corner of Central Street and 7th Avenue, 755.
35:35Please arrive on time.
35:36This will be your final mission as Elilin Cross.
35:39We wish you a happy new life.
35:40It's time.
35:53I stood at the corner watching the car.
35:56It was like a silent beast waiting to swallow me whole and spit out someone new.
36:01I opened the door and got in without hesitation.
36:08Mrs. Ashfield, Sophia is fine.
36:10All her readings are normal.
36:11She was probably just frightened and needs some rest.
36:13I was irritated.
36:14I thought Sophia was seriously ill, so I left Evelyn.
36:17At that moment, I just wanted to turn and walk away.
36:20Sophia, since you're alright, I'll be going-
36:22Vicky, I feel terrible.
36:24Will you stay with me?
36:27I said nothing.
36:29I stood beside the hospital bed,
36:31my gaze drifting to the window as a vague sense of unease crept over me.
36:36I raised a hand to my chest.
36:38My heart suddenly jolted as if an invisible hand had clamped down on it then let go.
36:43Vicky?
36:45Are you not feeling well?
36:49I'm fine.
36:50I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself, but it didn't help.
36:54My heart pounded faster and faster, until I was starting to panic.
36:58I felt hollow, as if something important were draining away from me.
37:02Evelyn.
37:05Outside the car window was the city I'd lived in for over 20 years.
37:08I was born here, grew up here, fell in love with Victoria here, and lost myself here.
37:13Soon, the Reset Your Life program would erase all my memories and give me a new beginning.
37:17But before that, I still had two more things to do.
37:22Dr. White, I'm Evelyn Cross.
37:24Three years ago, you oversaw my kidney donation for Victoria Ashford.
37:27I'd like to have my donor identity disclosed, and the relevant medical records sent to the Ashfords.
37:32Ms. Cross, I remember you.
37:34Of course, we'll respect your decision and reveal your identity.
37:36After hanging up, I sent the design competition's organizers everything I had to prove Sophia had plagiarized my work.
37:42The original layered files, creation time stanks, email exchanges, and more.
37:47Sophia, even if I no longer want what you stole from me, you'll never get to keep it.
37:53Once I was done, I leaned back and closed my eyes.
37:58Goodbye, Victoria.
38:02That strange feeling suddenly grew overwhelming.
38:05I shuggered, clutching my chest, my face turning deathly pale.
38:10It was an indescribable pain, like something was being ripped out of me by the roots.
38:15Vicky!
38:15What's wrong?
38:17My chest.
38:18It hurts.
38:19I'll get a doctor!
38:20I stopped her.
38:21I don't think a doctor could help.
38:23This pain wasn't physical.
38:24It came from somewhere deeper.
38:26From a corner of myself I'd never faced.
38:30No need.
38:31I'm looking for Evelyn.
38:33She'll know how to fix this.
38:35I'm waiting.
38:36Every second feels like an eternity.
38:38Whenever something happened, I'd call Evelyn.
38:41She always picked up right away and gently told me,
38:43I'm here.
38:44No matter how hard things got, she always handled them for me.
38:47For three years, that had been my surest habit.
38:49More natural than breathing.
38:51But this time, no matter how many times I called,
38:53Evelyn didn't answer.
38:55When my phone lit up, I let out a relieved sigh.
39:00It had to be Evelyn calling from another number because her phone had died.
39:05She never kept me waiting long.
39:08I answered the phone nervously.
39:10Evelyn?
39:11Hello, is this Ms. Ashford?
39:13This is the Central Street Traffic Division.
39:15My smile froze.
39:17In that instant, I heard my heart skip a beat.
39:19We found your number on a phone recovered from the accident scene.
39:22You're listed as Evelyn Cross's emergency contact.
39:26What accident?
39:27A black set exploded on the elevated bridge, killing a woman.
39:31Preliminary reports identify her as the phone's owner, Evelyn Cross.
39:35What?
39:36The world suddenly went silent.
39:38All I could hear was a ringing in my ears.
39:40I heard every word clearly.
39:41But together, they made no sense.
39:46No!
39:48Impossible.
39:50I shouted into the phone, my voice sounding foreign even to me.
39:55I don't accept it.
39:58Someone must be playing a sick joke on me!
40:01Who gave you the nerve to play a prank on me?
40:03Evelyn can't be dead!
40:06Please stay calm.
40:08The death notice will be sent to your address shortly.
40:11They'd already hung up, but I was still swearing.
40:15I couldn't stop.
40:17As if yelling loud enough could make it untrue.
40:21What nonsense!
40:23Don't let me catch you!
40:27Sophia grabbed my hand and tried to say something.
40:30I jerked free and glared at her.
40:33Right now, anyone's touch made me want to throw up.
40:37Don't touch me!
40:38Seeing me lose control left Sophia a little resentful.
40:42Vicky, isn't this a bit much?
40:44Evelyn probably disappeared on purpose, to get your attention.
40:51I slowly turned to Sophia, my eyes full of fury and warning.
40:56Sophia swallowed hard and stepped aside.
41:01I had to find Evelyn.
41:03And I had to find her now.
41:05I needed to hear her voice.
41:07No matter how many times I called Evelyn, I couldn't reach her.
41:11I wanted to ask about Evelyn, but I didn't know who to call.
41:15Mom, has Evelyn called you?
41:17No.
41:17What is it, sweetheart?
41:19Didn't you always hate having Evelyn around us?
41:21I hung up in frustration.
41:24Nearly consumed by helpless terror.
41:26I once thought the best way to control Evelyn
41:29was to isolate her from friends and family.
41:31I never realized that once she was gone,
41:34I'd lose all contact with her.
41:36I called Linda.
41:38Linda, did Evelyn say anything to you?
41:42I paused and glanced at the ward door.
41:45Let me ask you this.
41:46What exactly happened between Evelyn and Sophia at tonight's party?
41:51Linda hesitated so long that I started to feel uneasy.
41:55Mrs. Ashfield, I recorded it.
41:57I'll send you the video and you'll understand when you see it.
42:00While waiting for Lena's video, I saw Sophia through the crack in the door.
42:05Sophia was excitedly patting the blanket.
42:09You should have seen her face when I played that video in front of the whole company today.
42:13You dared to film it, but you can't stand people watching?
42:17My entire body went rigid and my eyes widened in shock.
42:20My blood turned to ice.
42:24You played her private video in front of everyone?
42:29I looked calm, but rage consumed me.
42:33How could you do that?
42:34Sophia gasped for air as I tightened my grip on her collar.
42:38She's your sister!
42:40How could you show her private video to the whole company?
42:43Three years ago, she nearly killed herself over that video,
42:46and you want to push her to do it again?
42:47You destroyed her!
42:49Sophia suddenly let out a sharp laugh.
42:52It sliced through my ears like shattered glass.
42:55I destroyed her?
42:57Victoria, what are you playing at?
42:59Three years ago, wasn't it you who hired someone to hack into her computer
43:03and post that video on the school forum?
43:05My face went deathly pale.
43:06I felt drained of all strength and took a step back.
43:09You destroyed her yourself and ruined her reputation.
43:12And now you're asking how I could do this?
43:14Her voice grew louder.
43:17Victoria, you're the last person who has any right to say that.
43:20I opened my mouth, but no sound came out.
43:23I destroyed her, pretended to save her,
43:26then kept her by my side for three years.
43:28I stole her work, trampled her feelings,
43:31forced her to drink and apologized to Sophia,
43:33and told her,
43:34You're just a friend.
43:36I never thought that three years later,
43:38I'd be the one who regretted it most.
43:44Sophia, I never should have hired you as chief designer.
43:47Leave.
43:48I'll recommend you to another company.
43:49How could you do this to me?
43:51I gave you a kidney, don't you remember?
43:53Closed my eyes, took a deep breath,
43:54then opened them again.
43:55My gaze held only exhaustion and resolve.
43:57Her kidney donation once made me indulge every demand she made.
44:01But now, I don't want to hear about it anymore.
44:03Sophia, you saved my life, and I'm grateful.
44:06But I've already done enough for you.
44:08From now on, I won't do anything for you anymore.
44:11Especially if it means hurting Evelyn.
44:19You're in love with her, aren't you?
44:21I paused for a moment.
44:22I didn't deny it.
44:24I opened the door and stepped outside.
44:26Mobilize all our family's resources.
44:28Search the entire city for Evelyn at once.
44:30I shouted into the phone.
44:32I rarely spoke like that,
44:33and I'd never lost control like that over anyone before.
44:36Now, I didn't care about any of it anymore.
44:38Family reputation, business etiquette,
44:40or staying calm and poised.
44:41I just wanted to find her.
44:43I don't believe a word the police say.
44:44I want to see Evelyn alive or dead.
44:46Whatever it costs, I have to see her again.
44:51I don't believe a word the police say.
44:53I don't believe a word the police say.
44:55I don't believe a word the police say.
44:55I don't believe a word the police say.
44:55I don't believe a word the police say.
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