I Watched Them Love Her Dailymotion Movie | I Was the One They Betrayed, Now They’ll Regret Losing Me─影片 Dailymotion

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👇Download the app to watch full HD episodes for free: https://reelslink.com/marketing/97Y5uo 👇Click to Find More HD EPs https://www.reelshort.com/movie/i-watched-them-love-her-6a963ba8fda5294962054f78 🍁Notice: All videos by ReelShort Movie Shorts are officially authorized. Tessa is murdered by her adopted sister Chloe, only to wake up five years earlier. Determined to change her fate, she stops seeking her family’s approval and calmly destroys Chloe’s lies with hard evidence. After earning top grades and a Yale scholarship, Tessa turns her back on the family that once rejected her.

Transcript

00:00:04The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:00:10the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:00:16In that second, I understood.

00:00:18The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:00:23When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was,

00:00:28Not bad.

00:00:31When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:00:37Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:00:41When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:00:48When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:00:52Mom's eyes were red. She said Chloe had already been through too much. They had a lot to make up

00:00:56for.

00:01:00Sure. Got it.

00:01:07After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:01:13It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:01:18Last life, so we broke it. The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of

00:01:23this.

00:01:24She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:01:30hand into dropping it.

00:01:31Mom never asked what happened. She just laid into me.

00:01:34Tessa, it's just a music box. Do you have to make a scene over this? Can't you just let her

00:01:38have this one?

00:01:39But it wasn't just a music box. It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:01:43It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:01:47At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:01:49Tessa, come down for dinner. It's Chloe's first meal here. We're all eating together.

00:01:54I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:01:58But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:02:01The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:02:07the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:02:13In that second, I understood.

00:02:15The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:02:20When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:02:23This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight. I didn't ask why.

00:02:29Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:02:35But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:02:40I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:02:44In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:02:47She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:02:50Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:02:54Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:02:58A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:03:02This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:03:06Welcome home. This is for you.

00:03:08He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:03:13I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:03:16She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:03:19If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

00:03:24she probably would have fooled me too.

00:03:26Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

00:03:28Mom finally noticed me.

00:03:29Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:03:33Hello?

00:03:35None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears. No scene.

00:03:38It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:03:42Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:03:45Nothing else to say.

00:03:47I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:03:49Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe, a little awkwardly, that Tessa had always been like this, not great at expressing

00:03:54herself.

00:03:55I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:03:59I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:04:01The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:04:03The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

00:04:07Nothing had changed. But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:04:11This was just where I was staying for now.

00:04:13The school dorms opened in a week.

00:04:15I planned to move in. It was Niko.

00:04:20Tessa, where are you going?

00:04:22Moving into the dorms.

00:04:25Because of Chloe?

00:04:26Honors and AP are a heavy load. I just want some breathing room.

00:04:31She can have this room.

00:04:33Last Life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:04:35First, she was afraid of the dark.

00:04:37The guest room was at the end of the hall.

00:04:39She couldn't sleep.

00:04:40Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:04:42Then she said my room had better light.

00:04:44And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:04:47Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:04:49Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:04:51In the end, they always took her side.

00:04:53So why fight?

00:04:54It didn't matter where I lived.

00:04:56Niko was quiet for a moment.

00:04:58Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:05:03It's not like or dislike.

00:05:05I just want to skip the trouble.

00:05:11Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:05:14But you have to believe me.

00:05:16Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:05:18I looked at him and said, nothing.

00:05:21Doesn't change anything.

00:05:24When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

00:05:32When Chloe got a bit part in the school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:05:37Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:05:42When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:05:48When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:05:52Mom's eyes were red.

00:05:54She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:05:56They had a lot to make up for.

00:06:01Sure.

00:06:01Got it.

00:06:07After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:06:13It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:06:19Last life, so we broke it.

00:06:21The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:06:24She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:06:30hand into dropping it.

00:06:31Mom never asked what happened.

00:06:33She just laid into me.

00:06:34Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:06:36Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:06:38Can't you just let her have this one?

00:06:40But it wasn't just a music box.

00:06:42It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:06:44It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:06:47At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:06:50Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:06:51It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:06:53We're all eating together.

00:06:55I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:06:59But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:07:02My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

00:07:14Eat up, Chloe.

00:07:15I made this chicken just for you.

00:07:17You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:07:20Slow down.

00:07:21It's hot.

00:07:25I stood there, the extra one.

00:07:31Tessa, sit down.

00:07:32What are you standing there for?

00:07:34Chloe knew that was my seat.

00:07:35She didn't move.

00:07:37She didn't even say, sorry.

00:07:46Stop right there.

00:07:48What's that supposed to mean?

00:07:53There's no seat for me.

00:07:54I'll leave you to it.

00:07:56Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:07:58It's Chloe's first day.

00:08:00Can't you make an effort?

00:08:02I'm being plenty cooperating.

00:08:04I just want to eat in peace.

00:08:07I'm sorry.

00:08:09Should I not have sat there?

00:08:10I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:08:14It's not your fault, sweetheart.

00:08:16Don't think like that.

00:08:17Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:08:19I didn't answer.

00:08:20I took my plate upstairs.

00:08:22After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:08:25Tessa, you hardly ate anything.

00:08:28I made you something you like.

00:08:29I glanced at the cup.

00:08:30It had been my favorite when I was little,

00:08:32but I could see right through it.

00:08:33She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:08:35Mom, just say it.

00:08:37It's nothing big, really.

00:08:40I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:08:42Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:08:56The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building, the

00:09:03last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:09:08In that second, I understood.

00:09:10The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:09:15When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

00:09:24When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:09:29Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:09:34When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:09:40When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:09:44Mom's eyes were red.

00:09:45She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:09:47They had a lot to make up for.

00:09:52Sure.

00:09:53Got it.

00:09:59After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:10:05It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:10:10Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:10:13The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:10:16She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:10:22hand into dropping it.

00:10:23Mom never asked what happened.

00:10:25She just laid into me.

00:10:26Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:10:28Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:10:30Can't you just let her have this one?

00:10:31But it wasn't just a music box.

00:10:33It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:10:36It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:10:39At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:10:41Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:10:43It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:10:44We're all eating together.

00:10:46I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:10:50But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:10:53The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:10:59the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:11:04In that second, I understood.

00:11:07The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:11:12When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:11:15This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

00:11:20I didn't ask why.

00:11:21Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:11:27But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:11:33I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:11:36In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:11:39She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:11:42Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:11:47Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:11:50A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:11:54This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:11:58Welcome home. This is for you.

00:12:00He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:12:05I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:12:09She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:12:11If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

00:12:16she probably would have fooled me too.

00:12:18Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

00:12:20Mom finally noticed me.

00:12:22Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:12:25Hello?

00:12:27None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears, no scene.

00:12:30It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:12:34Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:12:37Nothing else to say.

00:12:39I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:12:41Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

00:12:46not great at expressing herself.

00:12:47I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:12:51I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:12:53The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:12:55The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

00:12:59Nothing had changed.

00:13:00But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:13:03This was just where I was staying for now.

00:13:05The school dorms opened in a week.

00:13:07I planned to move in.

00:13:08It was Nico.

00:13:12Tessa, where are you going?

00:13:14Moving into the dorms.

00:13:17Because of Chloe?

00:13:18Honors and AP are a heavy load.

00:13:20I just want some breathing room.

00:13:23She can have this room.

00:13:25Last life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:13:28First, she was afraid of the dark.

00:13:29The guest room was at the end of the hall.

00:13:31She couldn't sleep.

00:13:32Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:13:35Then she said my room had better light.

00:13:36And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:13:39Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:13:41Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:13:44In the end, they always took her side.

00:13:46So why fight?

00:13:47It didn't matter where I lived.

00:13:48Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:13:50Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:13:55It's not like or dislike.

00:13:57I just want to skip the trouble.

00:14:03Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:14:06But you have to believe me.

00:14:08Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:14:10I looked at him and said nothing.

00:14:13Doesn't change anything.

00:14:16When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

00:14:19all Dad said was, not bad.

00:14:24When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

00:14:26the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:14:29Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:14:34When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

00:14:37my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:14:40When Chloe came down with the flu once,

00:14:42Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:14:44Mom's eyes were red.

00:14:46She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:14:48They had a lot to make up for.

00:14:53Sure.

00:14:54Got it.

00:14:59After Nico left,

00:15:01I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

00:15:04and took out a wooden box.

00:15:05It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:15:11Last life.

00:15:12So we broke it.

00:15:13The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

00:15:15it was because of this.

00:15:17She ran to my parents crying,

00:15:18saying she'd only wanted a look,

00:15:20that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

00:15:24Mom never asked what happened.

00:15:25She just laid into me.

00:15:26Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:15:28Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:15:30Can't you just let her have this one?

00:15:32But it wasn't just a music box.

00:15:34It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:15:36It was the last thing in this house

00:15:38I still wanted to take with me.

00:15:40At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:15:42Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:15:44It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:15:45We're all eating together.

00:15:47I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:15:51But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:15:54My usual seat between Mom and Nico

00:15:56was taken by Chloe.

00:16:06Eat up, Chloe.

00:16:07I made this chicken just for you.

00:16:09You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:16:13Slow down, it's hot.

00:16:17I stood there, the extra one.

00:16:23Tessa, sit down.

00:16:24What are you standing there for?

00:16:26Chloe knew that was my seat.

00:16:27She didn't move.

00:16:29She didn't even say sorry.

00:16:39Stop right there.

00:16:40What's that supposed to mean?

00:16:45There's no seat for me.

00:16:46I'll leave you to it.

00:16:48Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:16:51It's Chloe's first day.

00:16:52Can't you make an effort?

00:16:54I'm being plenty cooperating.

00:16:56I just want to eat in peace.

00:16:59I'm sorry.

00:17:01Should I not have sat there?

00:17:03I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:17:06It's not your fault, sweetheart.

00:17:08Don't think like that.

00:17:09Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:17:11I didn't answer.

00:17:12I took my plate upstairs.

00:17:14After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:17:17Tessa, you hardly ate anything.

00:17:20I made you something you like.

00:17:21I glanced at the cup.

00:17:23It had been my favorite when I was little, but I could see right through it.

00:17:26She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:17:27Mom, just say it.

00:17:29It's nothing big, really.

00:17:32I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:17:35Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:17:48The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building, the

00:17:55last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security and Nico standing right beside her.

00:18:00In that second, I understood.

00:18:02The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:18:08When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

00:18:16When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:18:21Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:18:26When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:18:32When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:18:36Mom's eyes were red.

00:18:38She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:18:39They had a lot to make up for.

00:18:44Sure.

00:18:45Got it.

00:18:51After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:18:57It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:19:03Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:19:05The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:19:08She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:19:14hand into dropping it.

00:19:15Mom never asked what happened.

00:19:17She just laid into me.

00:19:18Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:19:20Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:19:22Can't you just let her have this one?

00:19:23But it wasn't just a music box.

00:19:26It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:19:28It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:19:31At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:19:33Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:19:35It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:19:37We're all eating together.

00:19:38I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:19:42But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:19:45The moment my adopted sister Chloe pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:19:51the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:19:57In that second, I understood.

00:19:59The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:20:04When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:20:07This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

00:20:12I didn't ask why.

00:20:13Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:20:19But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:20:25I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:20:28In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:20:31She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:20:34Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:20:39Chloe, don't be nervous.

00:20:41This is your home now.

00:20:42A scene like this used to hurt.

00:20:43It didn't anymore.

00:20:45Dad looked pleased.

00:20:45This is your big brother, Nico.

00:20:48He came back from college just to meet you.

00:20:50Welcome home.

00:20:51This is for you.

00:20:52He was usually cool with people.

00:20:54But right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:20:57I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:21:01She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:21:03If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

00:21:08she probably would have fooled me too.

00:21:10Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

00:21:13Mom finally noticed me.

00:21:14Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:21:18Hello?

00:21:19None of Last Life's meltdown.

00:21:21No tears.

00:21:22No scene.

00:21:23It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:21:26Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here.

00:21:28Can't you say more than that?

00:21:30Nothing else to say.

00:21:31I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:21:33Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

00:21:38not great at expressing herself.

00:21:39I didn't look back.

00:21:40Whatever they said, it had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:21:43I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:21:45The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:21:47The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

00:21:51Nothing had changed.

00:21:52But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:21:55This was just where I was staying for now.

00:21:57The school dorms opened in a week.

00:21:59I planned to move in.

00:22:00It was Nico.

00:22:05Tessa, where are you going?

00:22:06Moving into the dorms.

00:22:09Because of Chloe?

00:22:10Honors and AP are a heavy load.

00:22:12I just want some breathing room.

00:22:15She can have this room.

00:22:17Last life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:22:20First, she was afraid of the dark.

00:22:22The guest room was at the end of the hall.

00:22:23She couldn't sleep.

00:22:24Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:22:27Then she said my room had better light.

00:22:29And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:22:31Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:22:34Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:22:36In the end, they always took her side.

00:22:38So why fight?

00:22:39It didn't matter where I lived.

00:22:41Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:22:42Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:22:47It's not like or dislike.

00:22:49I just want to skip the trouble.

00:22:55Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:22:58But you have to believe me.

00:23:00Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:23:03I looked at him and said nothing.

00:23:05Doesn't change anything.

00:23:08When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

00:23:12all Dad said was, not bad.

00:23:16When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

00:23:18the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:23:21Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:23:26When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

00:23:29my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:23:33When Chloe came down with the flu once,

00:23:35Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:23:37Mom's eyes were red.

00:23:38She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:23:40They had a lot to make up for.

00:23:45Sure.

00:23:46Got it.

00:23:51After Nico left,

00:23:54I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

00:23:56and took out a wooden box.

00:23:57It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:24:03Last life.

00:24:04So we broke it.

00:24:05The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

00:24:08it was because of this.

00:24:09She ran to my parents crying,

00:24:11saying she'd only wanted a look,

00:24:12that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

00:24:16Mom never asked what happened.

00:24:17She just laid into me.

00:24:19Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:24:20Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:24:22Can't you just let her have this one?

00:24:24But it wasn't just a music box.

00:24:26It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:24:28It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:24:32At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:24:34Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:24:36It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:24:37We're all eating together.

00:24:39I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:24:43But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:24:46My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

00:24:58Eat up, Chloe.

00:24:59I made this chicken just for you.

00:25:01You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:25:05Slow down, it's hot.

00:25:09I stood there, the extra one.

00:25:15Tessa, sit down.

00:25:16What are you standing there for?

00:25:18Chloe knew that was my seat.

00:25:20She didn't move.

00:25:21She didn't even say sorry.

00:25:31Stop right there.

00:25:32What's that supposed to mean?

00:25:37There's no seat for me.

00:25:38I'll leave you to it.

00:25:40Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:25:43It's Chloe's first day.

00:25:44Can't you make an effort?

00:25:46I'm being plenty cooperating.

00:25:48I just want to eat in peace.

00:25:52I'm sorry.

00:25:53Should I not have sat there?

00:25:55I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:25:58It's not your fault, sweetheart.

00:26:00Don't think like that.

00:26:02Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:26:03I didn't answer.

00:26:04I took my plate upstairs.

00:26:06After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:26:09Tessa?

00:26:10You hardly ate anything.

00:26:12I made you something you liked.

00:26:13I glanced at the cup.

00:26:15It had been my favorite when I was little, but I could see right through it.

00:26:18She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:26:19Mom, just say it.

00:26:21It's nothing big, really.

00:26:24I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:26:27Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:26:41The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building, the

00:26:47last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:26:52In that second, I understood. The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a

00:26:59long time ago.

00:27:00When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

00:27:08When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:27:13Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:27:18When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:27:24When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:27:28Mom's eyes were red. She said Chloe had already been through too much. They had a lot to make up

00:27:33for.

00:27:37Sure. Got it.

00:27:43After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:27:49It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:27:55Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:27:57The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:28:00She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:28:06hand into dropping it.

00:28:07Mom never asked what happened. She just laid into me.

00:28:10Tessa, it's just a music box. Do you have to make a scene over this? Can't you just let her

00:28:15have this one?

00:28:16But it wasn't just a music box. It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:28:20It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:28:23At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:28:26Tessa, come down for dinner. It's Chloe's first meal here. We're all eating together.

00:28:30I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:28:35But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:28:37The moment my adopted sister Chloe pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:28:43the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:28:49In that second, I understood. The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a

00:28:55long time ago.

00:28:56When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:29:00This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight. I didn't ask why.

00:29:06Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:29:11But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:29:17I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:29:20In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:29:24She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:29:26Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:29:31Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:29:34A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:29:38This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:29:42Welcome home. This is for you.

00:29:44He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:29:49I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:29:53She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:29:55If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building 10 years from now,

00:30:00she probably would have fooled me too.

00:30:02Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

00:30:05Mom finally noticed me.

00:30:06Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:30:10Hello?

00:30:11None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears, no scene.

00:30:15It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:30:19Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:30:22Nothing else to say.

00:30:23I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:30:25Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe, a little awkwardly, that Tessa had always been like this,

00:30:30not great at expressing herself.

00:30:31I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:30:35I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:30:37The room still looked the way it did at 15. The frame on the desk, the books by the bed,

00:30:42the little plant on the windowsill. Nothing had changed.

00:30:44But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:30:47This was just where I was staying for now. The school dorms opened in a week.

00:30:51I planned to move in. It was Nico.

00:30:57Tessa, where are you going?

00:30:58Moving into the dorms.

00:31:01Because of Chloe?

00:31:03Honors and AP are a heavy load. I just want some breathing room.

00:31:08She can have this room.

00:31:09Last Life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:31:12First, she was afraid of the dark. The guest room was at the end of the hall.

00:31:15She couldn't sleep.

00:31:16Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:31:19Then she said my room had better light.

00:31:21And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:31:23Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:31:26Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:31:28In the end, they always took her side.

00:31:30So why fight?

00:31:31It didn't matter where I lived.

00:31:33Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:31:35Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:31:39It's not like or dislike. I just want to skip the trouble.

00:31:47Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:31:50But you have to believe me.

00:31:52Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:31:55I looked at him and said nothing.

00:31:58Doesn't change anything.

00:32:00When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

00:32:04all Dad said was, not bad.

00:32:08When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

00:32:11the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:32:13Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:32:18When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

00:32:21my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:32:25When Chloe came down with the flu once,

00:32:27Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:32:29Mom's eyes were red.

00:32:30She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:32:32They had a lot to make up for.

00:32:37Sure.

00:32:38Got it.

00:32:44After Nico left,

00:32:46I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

00:32:48and took out a wooden box.

00:32:50It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:32:55Last life,

00:32:56so we broke it.

00:32:58The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

00:33:00it was because of this.

00:33:01She ran to my parents crying,

00:33:03saying she'd only wanted a look,

00:33:05that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

00:33:08Mom never asked what happened.

00:33:09She just laid into me.

00:33:11Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:33:12Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:33:14Can't you just let her have this one?

00:33:16But it wasn't just a music box.

00:33:18It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:33:20It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:33:24At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:33:26Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:33:28It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:33:29We're all eating together.

00:33:31I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:33:35But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:33:38My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

00:33:50Eat up, Chloe.

00:33:51I made this chicken just for you.

00:33:53You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:33:57Slow down, it's hot.

00:34:01I stood there, the extra one.

00:34:07Tessa, sit down.

00:34:08What are you standing there for?

00:34:10Chloe knew that was my seat.

00:34:12She didn't move.

00:34:13She didn't even say sorry.

00:34:23Stop right there.

00:34:24What's that supposed to mean?

00:34:29There's no seat for me.

00:34:30I'll leave you to it.

00:34:32Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:34:35It's Chloe's first day.

00:34:36Can't you make an effort?

00:34:38I'm being plenty cooperating.

00:34:41I just want to eat in peace.

00:34:44I'm sorry.

00:34:45Should I not have sat there?

00:34:47I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:34:50It's not your fault, sweetheart.

00:34:52Don't think like that.

00:34:54Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:34:55I didn't answer.

00:34:56I took my plate upstairs.

00:34:58After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:35:01Tessa, you hardly ate anything.

00:35:04I made you something you like.

00:35:05I glanced at the cup.

00:35:07It had been my favorite when I was little,

00:35:08but I could see right through it.

00:35:10She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:35:11Mom, just say it.

00:35:13It's nothing big, really.

00:35:16I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:35:19Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:35:33The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:35:39the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:35:44In that second, I understood.

00:35:47The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:35:52When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was,

00:35:57Not bad.

00:36:00When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:36:05Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:36:10When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:36:16When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:36:20Mom's eyes were red.

00:36:22She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:36:24They had a lot to make up for.

00:36:28Sure.

00:36:29Got it.

00:36:35After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:36:41It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:36:47Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:36:49The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:36:52She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:36:58hand into dropping it.

00:37:00Mom never asked what happened.

00:37:01She just laid into me.

00:37:02Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:37:04Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:37:06Can't you just let her have this one?

00:37:08But it wasn't just a music box.

00:37:10It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:37:12It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:37:15At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:37:18Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:37:19It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:37:21We're all eating together.

00:37:22I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:37:27But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:37:30The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:37:35the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:37:41In that second, I understood.

00:37:43The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:37:48When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:37:52This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

00:37:56I didn't ask why.

00:37:58Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:38:04But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:38:08I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:38:12In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:38:16She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:38:18Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:38:23Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:38:26A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:38:30This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:38:34Welcome home. This is for you.

00:38:36He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:38:41I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:38:45She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:38:47If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

00:38:52she probably would have fooled me too.

00:38:54Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

00:38:57Mom finally noticed me.

00:38:58Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:39:02Hello?

00:39:03None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears, no scene.

00:39:07It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:39:11Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:39:14Nothing else to say.

00:39:15I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:39:17Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

00:39:22not great at expressing herself.

00:39:24I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:39:27I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:39:29The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:39:32The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

00:39:35Nothing had changed.

00:39:36But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:39:39This was just where I was staying for now. The school dorms opened in a week.

00:39:43I planned to move in.

00:39:44It was Nico.

00:39:49Tessa, where are you going?

00:39:50Moving into the dorms.

00:39:53Because of Chloe?

00:39:55Honors and AP are a heavy load. I just want some breathing room.

00:40:00She can have this room.

00:40:01Last Life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:40:04First, she was afraid of the dark.

00:40:06The guest room was at the end of the hall. She couldn't sleep.

00:40:08Then, she wanted to be closer to mom and dad.

00:40:11Then she said my room had better light.

00:40:13And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:40:15Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:40:18Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:40:20In the end, they always took her side.

00:40:22So why fight? It didn't matter where I lived.

00:40:25Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:40:27Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:40:32It's not like or dislike.

00:40:34I just want to skip the trouble.

00:40:39Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:40:42But you have to believe me.

00:40:44Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:40:47I looked at him and said nothing.

00:40:50Doesn't change anything.

00:40:52When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

00:40:56all dad said was, not bad.

00:41:00When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

00:41:03the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:41:06Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:41:10When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

00:41:13my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:41:17When Chloe came down with the flu once,

00:41:19mom and dad took turns at her bedside.

00:41:21Mom's eyes were red.

00:41:22She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:41:24They had a lot to make up for.

00:41:29Sure.

00:41:30Got it.

00:41:36After Nico left,

00:41:38I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

00:41:40and took out a wooden box.

00:41:42It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:41:47Last life, so we broke it.

00:41:50The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

00:41:52it was because of this.

00:41:53She ran to my parents crying,

00:41:55saying she'd only wanted a look,

00:41:57that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

00:42:00Mom never asked what happened.

00:42:02She just laid into me.

00:42:03Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:42:05Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:42:06Can't you just let her have this one?

00:42:08But it wasn't just a music box.

00:42:11It was the last thing grandpa left me.

00:42:13It was the last thing in this house

00:42:14I still wanted to take with me.

00:42:16At six, mom knocked on my door.

00:42:18Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:42:20It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:42:21We're all eating together.

00:42:23I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:42:27But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:42:30My usual seat between mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

00:42:42Eat up, Chloe.

00:42:44I made this chicken just for you.

00:42:45You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:42:49Slow down, it's hot.

00:42:53I stood there, the extra one.

00:42:59Tessa, sit down.

00:43:01What are you standing there for?

00:43:02Chloe knew that was my seat.

00:43:04She didn't move.

00:43:05She didn't even say sorry.

00:43:15Stop right there.

00:43:16What's that supposed to mean?

00:43:21There's no seat for me, I'll leave you to it.

00:43:24Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:43:27It's Chloe's first day.

00:43:28Can't you make an effort?

00:43:30I'm being plenty cooperating.

00:43:33I just want to eat in peace.

00:43:36I'm sorry.

00:43:37Should I not have sat there?

00:43:39I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:43:43It's not your fault, sweetheart.

00:43:44Don't think like that.

00:43:46Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:43:48I didn't answer.

00:43:49I took my plate upstairs.

00:43:50After dinner, mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:43:53Tessa, you hardly ate anything.

00:43:56I made you something you liked.

00:43:58I glanced at the cup.

00:43:59It had been my favorite when I was little, but I could see right through it.

00:44:02She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:44:04Mom, just say it.

00:44:06It's nothing big, really.

00:44:08I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:44:11Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:44:25The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:44:31the last thing I saw was mom shielding her, dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:44:37In that second, I understood.

00:44:39The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:44:44When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all dad said was, not bad.

00:44:52When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:44:57Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:45:02When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:45:08When Chloe came down with the flu once, mom and dad took turns at her bedside.

00:45:13Mom's eyes were red.

00:45:14She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:45:16They had a lot to make up for.

00:45:21Sure.

00:45:22Got it.

00:45:27After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:45:33It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:45:39Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:45:41The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:45:45She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:45:50hand into dropping it.

00:45:52Mom never asked what happened.

00:45:53She just laid into me.

00:45:54Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:45:56Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:45:58Can't you just let her have this one?

00:46:00But it wasn't just a music box.

00:46:02It was the last thing grandpa left me.

00:46:04It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:46:07At six, mom knocked on my door.

00:46:10Tessa, come down for dinner.

00:46:12It's Chloe's first meal here.

00:46:13We're all eating together.

00:46:15I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:46:19But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:46:21The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:46:28the last thing I saw was mom shielding her, dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:46:33In that second, I understood.

00:46:35The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

00:46:40When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:46:44This time, when mom and dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

00:46:48I didn't ask why.

00:46:50Mom and dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love.

00:46:54I didn't want any of it.

00:46:56But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:47:01I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:47:04In the living room, mom and dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:47:08She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:47:10Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:47:15Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:47:18A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:47:22This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:47:27Welcome home. This is for you.

00:47:28He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:47:34I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:47:37She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:47:39If I didn't know she'd pushed me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building 10 years from now,

00:47:44she probably would have fooled me too.

00:47:46Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm. Mom finally noticed me.

00:47:51Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:47:54Hello?

00:47:55None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears. No scene.

00:47:59It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:48:03Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:48:06Nothing else to say.

00:48:07I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:48:10Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this, not great at expressing

00:48:15herself.

00:48:15I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:48:19I went back to my room and shut the door. The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:48:24The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill. Nothing had changed.

00:48:29But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home. This was just where I was staying

00:48:33for now.

00:48:33The school dorms opened in a week. I planned to move in. It was Nico.

00:48:41Tessa, where are you going?

00:48:42Moving into the dorms.

00:48:45Because of Chloe?

00:48:47Honors and AP are a heavy load. I just want some breathing room.

00:48:52She can have this room.

00:48:53Last life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:48:56First, she was afraid of the dark. The guest room was at the end of the hall. She couldn't sleep.

00:49:01Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:49:03Then she said my room had better light, and her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:49:07Every time I said no, my parents called me cold. Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:49:12In the end, they always took her side. So why fight? It didn't matter where I lived.

00:49:17Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:49:19Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:49:24It's not like or dislike. I just want to skip the trouble.

00:49:31Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house, but you have to believe me. Chloe being here

00:49:37doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:49:39I looked at him and said nothing. Doesn't change anything.

00:49:44When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was not bad.

00:49:52When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:49:58Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:50:02When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:50:09When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside. Mom's eyes were red.

00:50:14She said Chloe had already been through too much. They had a lot to make up for.

00:50:22Sure. Got it.

00:50:28After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box. It was the

00:50:35music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:50:39Last life, so we broke it. The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of

00:50:45this.

00:50:45She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:50:51hand into dropping it.

00:50:52Mom never asked what happened. She just laid into me.

00:50:55Tessa, it's just a music box. Do you have to make a scene over this? Can't you just let her

00:51:00have this one?

00:51:00But it wasn't just a music box. It was the last thing Grandpa left me. It was the last thing

00:51:06in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:51:08At 6, Mom knocked on my door. Tessa, come down for dinner. It's Chloe's first meal here. We're all eating

00:51:14together.

00:51:15I put down my book and went downstairs. But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:51:22My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

00:51:34Eat up, Chloe. I made this chicken just for you. You said you liked it, didn't you?

00:51:41Slow down. It's hot.

00:51:45I stood there, the extra one.

00:51:52Tessa, sit down. What are you standing there for?

00:51:54Chloe knew that was my seat. She didn't move. She didn't even say sorry.

00:52:07Stop right there. What's that supposed to mean?

00:52:14There's no seat for me. I'll leave you to it.

00:52:17Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

00:52:19It's Chloe's first day. Can't you make an effort?

00:52:22I'm being plenty cooperating. I just want to eat in peace.

00:52:28I'm sorry. Should I not have sat there? I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

00:52:35It's not your fault, sweetheart. Don't think like that.

00:52:38Tessa, what's going on with you today?

00:52:39I didn't answer. I took my plate upstairs.

00:52:42After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

00:52:46Tessa, you hardly ate anything. I made you something you like.

00:52:50I glanced at the cup. It had been my favorite when I was little, but I could see right through

00:52:54it.

00:52:54She wasn't here about the cocoa.

00:52:56Mom, just say it.

00:52:58It's nothing big, really.

00:53:00I wanted to talk to you about something.

00:53:03Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

00:53:17The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building, the

00:53:24last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:53:29In that second, I understood. The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a

00:53:35long time ago.

00:53:36When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

00:53:44When Chloe got a bit part in the school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:53:49Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:53:54When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:54:00When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:54:05Mom's eyes were red. She said Chloe had already been through too much. They had a lot to make up

00:54:09for.

00:54:13Sure. Got it.

00:54:19After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

00:54:26It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:54:31Last life, Chloe broke it.

00:54:33The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

00:54:37She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

00:54:42hand into dropping it.

00:54:43Mom never asked what happened. She just laid into me.

00:54:46Tessa, it's just a music box. Do you have to make a scene over this? Can't you just let her

00:54:51have this one?

00:54:52But it wasn't just a music box. It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:54:56It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

00:55:00At six, Mom knocked on my door.

00:55:02Tessa, come down for dinner. It's Chloe's first meal here. We're all eating together.

00:55:07I put down my book and went downstairs.

00:55:11But when I reached the table, I stopped.

00:55:14The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

00:55:20the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

00:55:25In that second, I understood. The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a

00:55:32long time ago.

00:55:32When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

00:55:36This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight. I didn't ask why.

00:55:42Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

00:55:48But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

00:55:53I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

00:55:57In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

00:56:00She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

00:56:03Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

00:56:07Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

00:56:11A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

00:56:14This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

00:56:19Welcome home. This is for you.

00:56:21He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

00:56:25I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

00:56:29She'd always been good at putting on a show.

00:56:31If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

00:56:36she probably would have fooled me too.

00:56:38Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm. Mom finally noticed me.

00:56:42Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

00:56:46Hello?

00:56:48None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears. No scene.

00:56:51It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

00:56:55Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

00:56:58Nothing else to say.

00:56:59I turned and walked back upstairs.

00:57:02Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

00:57:06not great at expressing herself.

00:57:08I didn't look back. Whatever they said, it had nothing to do with me anymore.

00:57:11I went back to my room and shut the door.

00:57:14The room still looked the way it did at 15.

00:57:16The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

00:57:20Nothing had changed.

00:57:21But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

00:57:24This was just where I was staying for now.

00:57:26The school dorms opened in a week.

00:57:27I planned to move in.

00:57:29It was Nico.

00:57:33Tessa, where are you going?

00:57:35Moving into the dorms.

00:57:37Because of Chloe?

00:57:39Honors and AP are a heavy load.

00:57:41I just want some breathing room.

00:57:44She can have this room.

00:57:46Last life, she came up with every reason to take it.

00:57:48First, she was afraid of the dark.

00:57:50The guest room was at the end of the hall.

00:57:52She couldn't sleep.

00:57:53Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

00:57:55Then she said my room had better light.

00:57:57And her therapist said she needed more sun.

00:57:59Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

00:58:02Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

00:58:04In the end, they always took her side.

00:58:06So why fight?

00:58:07It didn't matter where I lived.

00:58:09Nico was quiet for a moment.

00:58:11Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

00:58:16It's not like or dislike.

00:58:18I just want to skip the trouble.

00:58:23Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

00:58:26But you have to believe me.

00:58:29Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

00:58:31I looked at him and said nothing.

00:58:34Doesn't change anything.

00:58:37When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

00:58:40all Dad said was, not bad.

00:58:45When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

00:58:47the whole family took two cars to watch.

00:58:50Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

00:58:55When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

00:58:57my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

00:59:01When Chloe came down with the flu once,

00:59:03Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

00:59:05Mom's eyes were red.

00:59:06She said Chloe had already been through too much.

00:59:08They had a lot to make up for.

00:59:13Sure.

00:59:14Got it.

00:59:20After Nico left,

00:59:22I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

00:59:24and took out a wooden box.

00:59:26It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

00:59:32Last life.

00:59:33So we broke it.

00:59:34The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

00:59:36it was because of this.

00:59:37She ran to my parents crying,

00:59:39saying she'd only wanted a look,

00:59:41that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

00:59:44Mom never asked what happened.

00:59:46She just laid into me.

00:59:47Tessa, it's just a music box.

00:59:49Do you have to make a scene over this?

00:59:51Can't you just let her have this one?

00:59:53But it wasn't just a music box.

00:59:55It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

00:59:57It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:00:00At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:00:03Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:00:04It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:00:06We're all eating together.

01:00:07I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:00:12But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:00:14My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

01:00:26Eat up, Chloe.

01:00:28I made this chicken just for you.

01:00:30You said you liked it, didn't you?

01:00:33Slow down, it's hot.

01:00:37I stood there, the extra one.

01:00:44Tessa, sit down.

01:00:45What are you standing there for?

01:00:46Chloe knew that was my seat.

01:00:48She didn't move.

01:00:49She didn't even say sorry.

01:00:59Stop right there.

01:01:00What's that supposed to mean?

01:01:06There's no seat for me.

01:01:07I'll leave you to it.

01:01:09Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

01:01:11It's Chloe's first day.

01:01:13Can't you make an effort?

01:01:15I'm being plenty cooperating.

01:01:17I just want to eat in peace.

01:01:20I'm sorry.

01:01:22Should I not have sat there?

01:01:23I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

01:01:27It's not your fault, sweetheart.

01:01:28Don't think like that.

01:01:30Tessa, what's going on with you today?

01:01:32I didn't answer.

01:01:33I took my plate upstairs.

01:01:35After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

01:01:38Tessa?

01:01:39You hardly ate anything.

01:01:40I made you something you liked.

01:01:42I glanced at the cup.

01:01:43It had been my favorite when I was little, but I could see right through it.

01:01:46She wasn't here about the cocoa.

01:01:48Mom, just say it.

01:01:50It's nothing big, really.

01:01:53I wanted to talk to you about something.

01:01:55Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

01:02:09The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

01:02:15the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:02:21In that second, I understood.

01:02:23The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:02:28When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was,

01:02:33Not bad.

01:02:36When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:02:41Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:02:46When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:02:53When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:02:57Mom's eyes were red.

01:02:58She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:03:00They had a lot to make up for.

01:03:05Sure.

01:03:06Got it.

01:03:11After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

01:03:18It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:03:23Last life, Chloe broke it.

01:03:26The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

01:03:29She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look, that I'd snapped at her and startled her

01:03:34hand into dropping it.

01:03:36Mom never asked what happened, she just laid into me.

01:03:39Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:03:40Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:03:42Can't you just let her have this one?

01:03:44But it wasn't just a music box.

01:03:46It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:03:48It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:03:52At 6, Mom knocked on my door.

01:03:54Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:03:56It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:03:57We're all eating together.

01:03:59I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:04:03But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:04:06The moment my adopted sister Chloe pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

01:04:12the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:04:17In that second, I understood.

01:04:20The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:04:25When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

01:04:28This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

01:04:33I didn't ask why.

01:04:34Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

01:04:40But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

01:04:45I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

01:04:49In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

01:04:52She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

01:04:55Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

01:05:00Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

01:05:03A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

01:05:07This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

01:05:11Welcome home. This is for you.

01:05:13He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

01:05:18I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

01:05:22She'd always been good at putting on a show.

01:05:23If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

01:05:29she probably would have fooled me too.

01:05:30Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

01:05:33Mom finally noticed me.

01:05:35Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

01:05:38Hello?

01:05:40None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears, no scene.

01:05:43It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

01:05:47Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

01:05:50Nothing else to say.

01:05:51I turned and walked back upstairs.

01:05:54Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

01:05:58not great at expressing herself.

01:06:00I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

01:06:04I went back to my room and shut the door.

01:06:06The room still looked the way it did at 15.

01:06:08The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

01:06:12Nothing had changed.

01:06:13But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

01:06:16This was just where I was staying for now.

01:06:18The school dorms opened in a week.

01:06:19I planned to move in.

01:06:21It was Nico.

01:06:25Tessa, where are you going?

01:06:27Moving into the dorms.

01:06:30Because of Chloe?

01:06:31Honors and AP are a heavy load.

01:06:33I just want some breathing room.

01:06:36She can have this room.

01:06:38Last Life, she came up with every reason to take it.

01:06:40First, she was afraid of the dark.

01:06:42The guest room was at the end of the hall.

01:06:44She couldn't sleep.

01:06:45Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

01:06:47Then, she said my room had better light.

01:06:49And her therapist said she needed more sun.

01:06:51Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

01:06:54Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

01:06:56In the end, they always took her side.

01:06:58So, why fight?

01:06:59It didn't matter where I lived.

01:07:01Nico was quiet for a moment.

01:07:03Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

01:07:08It's not like or dislike.

01:07:10I just want to skip the trouble.

01:07:16Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

01:07:18But you have to believe me.

01:07:21Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

01:07:23I looked at him and said, nothing.

01:07:26Doesn't change anything.

01:07:29When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

01:07:32all Dad said was, not bad.

01:07:37When Chloe got a bit part in the school play,

01:07:39the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:07:42Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:07:47When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

01:07:49my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:07:53When Chloe came down with the flu once,

01:07:55Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:07:57Mom's eyes were red.

01:07:59She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:08:01They had a lot to make up for.

01:08:05Sure.

01:08:06Got it.

01:08:12After Nico left,

01:08:14I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

01:08:16and took out a wooden box.

01:08:18It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:08:24Last life, so we broke it.

01:08:26The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

01:08:28it was because of this.

01:08:29She ran to my parents crying,

01:08:31saying she'd only wanted a look

01:08:33that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

01:08:36Mom never asked what happened.

01:08:38She just laid into me.

01:08:39Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:08:41Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:08:43Can't you just let her have this one?

01:08:45But it wasn't just a music box.

01:08:47It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:08:49It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:08:52At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:08:55Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:08:56It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:08:58We're all eating together.

01:09:00I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:09:04But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:09:07My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

01:09:19Eat up, Chloe.

01:09:20I made this chicken just for you.

01:09:22You said you liked it, didn't you?

01:09:25Slow down, it's hot.

01:09:29I stood there, the extra one.

01:09:36Tessa, sit down.

01:09:37What are you standing there for?

01:09:38Chloe knew that was my seat.

01:09:40She didn't move.

01:09:42She didn't even say sorry.

01:09:51Stop right there.

01:09:53What's that supposed to mean?

01:09:58There's no seat for me.

01:09:59I'll leave you to it.

01:10:01Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

01:10:03It's Chloe's first day.

01:10:05Can't you make an effort?

01:10:07I'm being plenty cooperating.

01:10:09I just want to eat in peace.

01:10:12I'm sorry.

01:10:14Should I not have sat there?

01:10:15I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

01:10:19It's not your fault, sweetheart.

01:10:21Don't think like that.

01:10:22Tessa, what's going on with you today?

01:10:24I didn't answer.

01:10:25I took my plate upstairs.

01:10:27After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

01:10:30Tessa, you hardly ate anything.

01:10:33I made you something you liked.

01:10:34I glanced at the cup.

01:10:35It had been my favorite when I was little,

01:10:37but I could see right through it.

01:10:38She wasn't here about the cocoa.

01:10:40Mom, just say it.

01:10:42It's nothing big, really.

01:10:45I wanted to talk to you about something.

01:10:47Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

01:11:01The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building, the

01:11:08last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:11:13In that second, I understood.

01:11:15The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:11:20When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

01:11:28When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:11:34Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:11:38When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:11:45When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:11:49Mom's eyes were red.

01:11:50She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:11:52They had a lot to make up for.

01:11:57Sure.

01:11:58Got it.

01:12:04After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

01:12:10It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:12:15Last life, Chloe broke it.

01:12:18The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

01:12:21She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

01:12:27hand into dropping it.

01:12:28Mom never asked what happened.

01:12:30She just laid into me.

01:12:31Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:12:32Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:12:34Can't you just let her have this one?

01:12:36But it wasn't just a music box.

01:12:38It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:12:40It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:12:44At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:12:46Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:12:48It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:12:49We're all eating together.

01:12:51I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:12:55But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:12:58The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

01:13:04the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:13:10In that second, I understood.

01:13:12The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:13:17When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

01:13:20This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

01:13:25I didn't ask why.

01:13:26Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

01:13:32But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

01:13:37I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

01:13:41In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

01:13:44She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

01:13:47Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

01:13:52Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

01:13:55A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

01:13:59This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

01:14:03Welcome home. This is for you.

01:14:05He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

01:14:10I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

01:14:14She'd always been good at putting on a show.

01:14:16If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

01:14:21she probably would have fooled me too.

01:14:23Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

01:14:25Mom finally noticed me.

01:14:27Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

01:14:30Hello?

01:14:32None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears, no scene.

01:14:35It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

01:14:39Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

01:14:42Nothing else to say.

01:14:44I turned and walked back upstairs.

01:14:46Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

01:14:51not great at expressing herself.

01:14:52I didn't look back, whatever they said.

01:14:54It had nothing to do with me anymore.

01:14:56I went back to my room and shut the door.

01:14:58The room still looked the way it did at 15.

01:15:00The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

01:15:04Nothing had changed.

01:15:05But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

01:15:08This was just where I was staying for now.

01:15:10The school dorms opened in a week.

01:15:12I planned to move in.

01:15:13It was Nico.

01:15:17Tessa, where are you going?

01:15:19Moving into the dorms.

01:15:22Because of Chloe?

01:15:23Honors and AP are a heavy load.

01:15:25I just want some breathing room.

01:15:28She can have this room.

01:15:30Last life, she came up with every reason to take it.

01:15:33First, she was afraid of the dark.

01:15:34The guest room was at the end of the hall.

01:15:36She couldn't sleep.

01:15:37Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

01:15:40Then she said my room had better light, and her therapist said she needed more sun.

01:15:44Every time I said no, my parents called me cold, said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

01:15:48In the end, they always took her side.

01:15:51So why fight?

01:15:52It didn't matter where I lived.

01:15:53Nico was quiet for a moment.

01:15:55Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

01:16:00It's not like or dislike.

01:16:02I just want to skip the trouble.

01:16:08Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

01:16:11But you have to believe me.

01:16:13Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

01:16:15I looked at him and said nothing.

01:16:18It doesn't change anything.

01:16:21When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was, not bad.

01:16:29When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:16:34Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:16:39When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:16:45When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:16:49Mom's eyes were red.

01:16:51She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:16:53They had a lot to make up for.

01:16:58Sure.

01:16:58Got it.

01:17:04After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

01:17:10It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:17:16Last life, Chloe broke it.

01:17:18The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

01:17:22She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

01:17:27hand into dropping it.

01:17:29Mom never asked what happened.

01:17:30She just laid into me.

01:17:31Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:17:33Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:17:35Can't you just let her have this one?

01:17:37But it wasn't just a music box.

01:17:39It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:17:41It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:17:44At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:17:47Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:17:49It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:17:50We're all eating together.

01:17:52I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:17:56But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:17:59My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

01:18:11Eat up, Chloe.

01:18:12I made this chicken just for you.

01:18:14You said you liked it, didn't you?

01:18:17Slow down.

01:18:18It's hot.

01:18:22I stood there, the extra one.

01:18:28Tessa, sit down.

01:18:29What are you standing there for?

01:18:31Chloe knew that was my seat.

01:18:32She didn't move.

01:18:34She didn't even say sorry.

01:18:43Stop right there.

01:18:45What's that supposed to mean?

01:18:50There's no seat for me.

01:18:51I'll leave you to it.

01:18:53Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

01:18:56It's Chloe's first day.

01:18:57Can't you make an effort?

01:18:59I'm being plenty cooperating.

01:19:01I just want to eat in peace.

01:19:04I'm sorry.

01:19:06Should I not have sat there?

01:19:07I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

01:19:11It's not your fault, sweetheart.

01:19:13Don't think like that.

01:19:14Tessa, what's going on with you today?

01:19:16I didn't answer.

01:19:17I took my plate upstairs.

01:19:19After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

01:19:22Tessa?

01:19:23You hardly ate anything.

01:19:25I made you something you like.

01:19:26I glanced at the cup.

01:19:27It had been my favorite when I was little,

01:19:29but I could see right through it.

01:19:31She wasn't here about the cocoa.

01:19:32Mom, just say it.

01:19:34It's nothing big, really.

01:19:37I wanted to talk to you about something.

01:19:39Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

01:19:53The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

01:20:00the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:20:05In that second, I understood.

01:20:08The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:20:13When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair, all Dad said was,

01:20:17Not bad.

01:20:21When Chloe got a bit part in a school play, the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:20:26Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:20:31When I tore a ligament playing basketball, my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:20:37When Chloe came down with the flu once, Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:20:41Mom's eyes were red.

01:20:42She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:20:44They had a lot to make up for.

01:20:49Sure.

01:20:50Got it.

01:20:56After Nico left, I opened the deepest drawer in my closet and took out a wooden box.

01:21:02It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:21:07Last life, Chloe broke it.

01:21:10The first time I ever raised a hand to her, it was because of this.

01:21:13She ran to my parents crying, saying she'd only wanted a look that I'd snapped at her and startled her

01:21:19hand into dropping it.

01:21:20Mom never asked what happened.

01:21:22She just laid into me.

01:21:23Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:21:25Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:21:27Can't you just let her have this one?

01:21:28But it wasn't just a music box.

01:21:30It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:21:33It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:21:36At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:21:38Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:21:40It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:21:42We're all eating together.

01:21:43I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:21:47But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:21:50The moment my adopted sister, Chloe, pushed me off the 102nd floor observation deck of the Empire State Building,

01:21:56the last thing I saw was Mom shielding her, Dad holding back security, and Nico standing right beside her.

01:22:02In that second, I understood.

01:22:04The family I'd been fighting to hold together had stopped standing on my side a long time ago.

01:22:09When I opened my eyes again, I was 15.

01:22:12This time, when Mom and Dad brought Chloe home, I didn't fight.

01:22:17I didn't ask why.

01:22:18Mom and Dad's favoritism, Nico's care, and later Rowan's love, I didn't want any of it.

01:22:24But what I never expected was that this time, the ones begging me to come back would still be them.

01:22:29I stood at the top of the stairs, my hand on the banister.

01:22:33In the living room, Mom and Dad stood in the foyer with a girl.

01:22:37She wore an old coat with cuffs worn thin.

01:22:39Her head stayed down, stealing only sidelong glances at the big house in Scarsdale.

01:22:44Chloe, don't be nervous. This is your home now.

01:22:47A scene like this used to hurt. It didn't anymore. Dad looked pleased.

01:22:51This is your big brother, Nico. He came back from college just to meet you.

01:22:55Welcome home. This is for you.

01:22:57He was usually cool with people, but right now, looking at Chloe, his face was nothing but patience.

01:23:02I watched it all from the stairs, like I was watching someone else's family.

01:23:06She'd always been good at putting on a show.

01:23:08If I didn't know she'd push me off the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building ten years from now,

01:23:13she probably would have fooled me too.

01:23:15Even thinking about that moment, I stayed calm.

01:23:17Mom finally noticed me.

01:23:19Tessa, come down and meet your sister.

01:23:23Hello?

01:23:24None of Last Life's meltdown. No tears. No scene.

01:23:27It was like those feelings had been lifted out of me.

01:23:31Tessa, it's Chloe's first day here. Can't you say more than that?

01:23:34Nothing else to say.

01:23:35I turned and walked back upstairs.

01:23:38Behind me, Mom explained to Chloe a little awkwardly that Tessa had always been like this,

01:23:43not great at expressing herself.

01:23:44I didn't look back, whatever they said. It had nothing to do with me anymore.

01:23:48I went back to my room and shut the door.

01:23:50The room still looked the way it did at 15.

01:23:52The frame on the desk, the books by the bed, the little plant on the windowsill.

01:23:56Nothing had changed.

01:23:57But looking at all of it, I didn't feel like I was home.

01:24:00This was just where I was staying for now.

01:24:02The school dorms opened in a week.

01:24:04I planned to move in.

01:24:05It was Nico.

01:24:10Tessa, where are you going?

01:24:11Moving into the dorms.

01:24:14Because of Chloe?

01:24:15Honors and AP are a heavy load.

01:24:17I just want some breathing room.

01:24:20She can have this room.

01:24:22Last Life, she came up with every reason to take it.

01:24:25First, she was afraid of the dark.

01:24:26The guest room was at the end of the hall.

01:24:28She couldn't sleep.

01:24:29Then, she wanted to be closer to Mom and Dad.

01:24:31Then, she said my room had better light.

01:24:34And her therapist said she needed more sun.

01:24:36Every time I said no, my parents called me cold.

01:24:38Said I didn't know how to take care of anyone.

01:24:41In the end, they always took her side.

01:24:43So, why fight?

01:24:44It didn't matter where I lived.

01:24:46Nico was quiet for a moment.

01:24:47Tessa, do you not like Chloe?

01:24:52It's not like or dislike.

01:24:54I just want to skip the trouble.

01:25:00Tessa, I know it's strange having someone new in the house.

01:25:03But you have to believe me.

01:25:05Chloe being here doesn't change how we feel about you.

01:25:08I looked at him and said nothing.

01:25:10Doesn't change anything.

01:25:13When I took first place at the National Youth Science Fair,

01:25:16all Dad said was, not bad.

01:25:21When Chloe got a bit part in a school play,

01:25:23the whole family took two cars to watch.

01:25:26Afterward, they took her out to dinner and bought her flowers.

01:25:31When I tore a ligament playing basketball,

01:25:34my parents sent the housekeeper to stay with me at the hospital.

01:25:37When Chloe came down with the flu once,

01:25:40Mom and Dad took turns at her bedside.

01:25:42Mom's eyes were red.

01:25:43She said Chloe had already been through too much.

01:25:45They had a lot to make up for.

01:25:50Sure.

01:25:51Got it.

01:25:56After Nico left,

01:25:59I opened the deepest drawer in my closet

01:26:01and took out a wooden box.

01:26:03It was the music box my grandfather had made for me on his own.

01:26:08Last life, Chloe broke it.

01:26:10The first time I ever raised a hand to her,

01:26:12it was because of this.

01:26:14She ran to my parents crying,

01:26:16saying she'd only wanted a look

01:26:17that I'd snapped at her and startled her hand into dropping it.

01:26:21Mom never asked what happened.

01:26:22She just laid into me.

01:26:23Tessa, it's just a music box.

01:26:25Do you have to make a scene over this?

01:26:27Can't you just let her have this one?

01:26:29But it wasn't just a music box.

01:26:31It was the last thing Grandpa left me.

01:26:33It was the last thing in this house I still wanted to take with me.

01:26:36At six, Mom knocked on my door.

01:26:39Tessa, come down for dinner.

01:26:41It's Chloe's first meal here.

01:26:42We're all eating together.

01:26:44I put down my book and went downstairs.

01:26:48But when I reached the table, I stopped.

01:26:50My usual seat between Mom and Nico was taken by Chloe.

01:27:03Eat up, Chloe.

01:27:04I made this chicken just for you.

01:27:06You said you liked it, didn't you?

01:27:10Slow down. It's hot.

01:27:14I stood there, the extra one.

01:27:20Tessa, sit down.

01:27:21What are you standing there for?

01:27:23Chloe knew that was my seat.

01:27:24She didn't move.

01:27:26She didn't even say sorry.

01:27:36Stop right there.

01:27:37What's that supposed to mean?

01:27:42There's no seat for me.

01:27:43I'll leave you to it.

01:27:45Tessa, do you have to talk like that?

01:27:48It's Chloe's first day.

01:27:49Can't you make an effort?

01:27:51I'm being plenty cooperating.

01:27:53I just want to eat in peace.

01:27:56I'm sorry.

01:27:58Should I not have sat there?

01:28:00I didn't mean to upset Tessa.

01:28:03It's not your fault, sweetheart.

01:28:05Don't think like that.

01:28:06Tessa, what's going on with you today?

01:28:08I didn't answer.

01:28:09I took my plate upstairs.

01:28:11After dinner, Mom came to my room with a cup of hot cocoa.

01:28:14Tessa?

01:28:15You hardly ate anything.

01:28:17I made you something you like.

01:28:18I glanced at the cup.

01:28:20It had been my favorite when I was little.

01:28:21But I could see right through it.

01:28:23She wasn't here about the cocoa.

01:28:24Mom, just say it.

01:28:26It's nothing big, really.

01:28:29I wanted to talk to you about something.

01:28:32Could you switch out of AP and just do regular?

I Watched Them Love Her Dailymotion Movie | I Was the One They Betrayed, Now They’ll Regret Losing Me

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