One painful decision sets off a chain of secrets, regret and unexpected romance. This dramatic romance drama brings emotional confrontations, surprising turns and a second chance no one expected.
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00:00:00$50,000 a month. Room and board included. Looking after a four-year-old child. I stared at the job
00:00:07listing on my phone screen, convinced my eyes were playing tricks on me. I checked it three
00:00:11times. No mistake. $50,000. $50,000. I was crouched in a corner of the hospital hallway with exactly
00:00:20$307 left to my name. Three days earlier, my fiance, Malzak Thornton, had thrown me out of
00:00:25our wedding home. Serena, I'm marrying your sister. Pack your things and leave. My sister,
00:00:32Celeste Wynn, the daughter my father's second wife brought into our family. She stood there in the
00:00:37wedding dress I had picked out in the home I had spent six months decorating and smiled at me.
00:00:41Thanks for warming up the bed for me, sis. I didn't cry. My mother was still lying in the ICU,
00:00:49the bills pouring out like water through an open tap. My father? Sarah, if your sister marries in,
00:00:56the Thornton family's bride price will pay your mother's treatment. Just let this one go. Let
00:01:01this one go. Let go of my fiance, Mal. Let go of my wedding home. Let go of my dignity.
00:01:06And in the end,
00:01:07they didn't spend a single cent on my mother. So now, I needed money. A lot of it. I dialed
00:01:14the
00:01:14number from the listing. Hello, you've reached Carrington Domestic Services. Are you calling about
00:01:19the live and nanny position with the $50,000 monthly salary? Yes. May I ask your age? 24.
00:01:25Education? Master of Clinical Medicine from North Fort University. Minor in Child Psychology.
00:01:30Please be at the main gate of Lakeview Manor tomorrow morning at 10. Someone will receive you.
00:01:34I hung up and looked down at my wrinkled t-shirt and sneakers. Doesn't matter. I'm applying to be a
00:01:39nanny, not walking a runway. The next day, Lakeview Manor. I stood at the entrance and my entire brain
00:01:47short-circuited. This was an entire mountain. And there was only one house on it. No, calling it a
00:01:54house would be an insult. This was an estate. Miss Wynn, this way, please. The butler led me along
00:02:00the 200-yard tree-lined path, past the private stables, indoor heated swimming pool, and indoor
00:02:06botanical garden, before finally stopping in the Grand Hall. I fought to keep my expression neutral.
00:02:11Mr. Carrington isn't home at the moment. You'll meet the young master first.
00:02:14The butler brought me to a room on the second floor. The door opened. A little boy sat on the
00:02:21carpet, a row of building blocks arranged before him in perfect order. He looked up at me. His eyes
00:02:27were striking, deep blue, like two pieces of polished sapphire. Noah, this is the new nanny.
00:02:33The young master didn't speak at all until he was three. He said his first word last year, but even
00:02:38now,
00:02:38now, he only says a few words to Mr. Carrington occasionally. The previous nannies, the longest one,
00:02:43lasted a week. Why did they leave? The young master is difficult. I crouched down to meet
00:02:49the boy at eye level. He ignored me. I just sat quietly beside him, picked up a block and placed
00:02:55it next to the castle he was building. He glanced at it, then picked up the block I had placed
00:03:00and
00:03:00threw it aside. I picked up another and put it in a different spot. He threw that one too. Farther
00:03:06this
00:03:06time, I picked up a third block. This time, I started building a tiny swing set beside it instead.
00:03:12His hand stopped. He stared at the swing set for three full seconds, then took a block from his
00:03:19own castle and placed it next to the swing set. The butler froze in the doorway. I smiled.
00:03:24Your castle is beautiful.
00:03:26He didn't answer, but he didn't throw my block away. The butler brought me back downstairs,
00:03:33his expression complicated. Miss Wynn, you're the first person who hasn't had something thrown at
00:03:37them by the young master. Throwing blocks doesn't count. The previous nannies got flower vases thrown
00:03:42at them. Mr. Carrington will be home this evening. He'll interview you personally. Until then,
00:03:45feel free to familiarize yourself with the grounds and change into your uniform. Second floor,
00:03:49the living quarters. The entire third floor was the master suite. That is Mr. Carrington's private
00:03:57space. No one is permitted entry. My room was on the second floor, right next to Noah's room.
00:04:02I sat on the edge of the bed and stared into space for a while. Three days ago, I was
00:04:07being thrown out
00:04:07of my wedding home. Now I was sitting in an estate worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
00:04:12Life has a twisted sense of humor. Eight o'clock that evening, movement downstairs. The butler
00:04:18knocked on my door. I went down. A man stood in the entryway, bent over, untying his shoelaces.
00:04:27When he straightened up, only one thought filled my mind. This man is impossibly good-looking.
00:04:32His features were striking, but not harsh. The kind of handsome that made you unable to look away
00:04:39and too intimidated to get close. He lifted his eyes to me. His gaze was faint, like he was looking
00:04:46at a piece of insignificant furniture. You're the new hire?
00:04:52Yes, Serena Wine. He didn't reply. The butler handed him a glass of water.
00:04:58Education? Master of Clinical Medicine, Northport University.
00:05:02Why become a nanny? I need money.
00:05:09He raised an eyebrow slightly. Noah's situation? The butler filled you in?
00:05:15Yes. Eight nannies before you. The longest lasted seven days.
00:05:24How long do you think you'll last?
00:05:27I don't know. But he didn't throw a vase at me this afternoon.
00:05:31His fingers paused on the water glass.
00:05:38One month probation. The butler will go over the rules. Noah's daily routine cannot be disrupted.
00:05:44He doesn't like strangers touching him. Don't force him to speak.
00:05:48One more thing. The third floor. Stay out.
00:05:53The whole exchange lasted less than three minutes.
00:05:55As I turned to go upstairs, I heard the butler say,
00:05:58Mr. Carrington, this Ms. Wynne seems steady.
00:06:04He didn't answer.
00:06:06I closed my bedroom door, sat on the bed, and pulled out my phone.
00:06:09Bank balance. $307.
00:06:12Mom's medical bills. $12,000 due tomorrow.
00:06:16I took a deep breath and sent the butler a message.
00:06:19Is it possible to get an advance on my salary?
00:06:23Two minutes later, the butler replied,
00:06:26Mr. Carrington says wages are calculated daily starting from day one of probation.
00:06:31Your first day's pay will be transferred tomorrow.
00:06:35At a $50,000 monthly rate.
00:06:37That's $1,666 per day.
00:06:41$1,600 a day.
00:06:43My hand trembled slightly as I held the phone.
00:06:46Enough. Survive first. Everything else can wait.
00:06:50The next morning, my alarm went off at six.
00:06:52I washed up and stepped out to find Noah already awake.
00:06:55He was sitting on the windowsill in his room,
00:06:58hugging a gray stuffed rabbit, staring outside.
00:07:01Sunlight fell across his face.
00:07:03His skin was so pale it was nearly translucent.
00:07:06Good morning.
00:07:07It's a beautiful day.
00:07:09There's mist on the lake.
00:07:11Still nothing.
00:07:12I didn't push.
00:07:13I turned and went to help the kitchen prepare breakfast.
00:07:17Mr. Carrington has left for the day.
00:07:20Noah's breakfast was usually milk, eggs, and toast.
00:07:23I carried the tray upstairs.
00:07:25Noah was still on the windowsill.
00:07:27Breakfast time.
00:07:28He glanced at me but didn't move.
00:07:30I set the tray on the small table beside him,
00:07:33then sat down across from him.
00:07:35I didn't rush him.
00:07:36About five minutes passed.
00:07:38Noah reached out and took a piece of toast.
00:07:41Took a bite.
00:07:42I pretended not to notice.
00:07:44He finished the entire piece of toast and drank half his milk.
00:07:47Then he looked at my phone screen,
00:07:49dense with medical terminology,
00:07:51and his little brow furrowed.
00:07:53What are you reading?
00:07:55He spoke.
00:07:56The butler had said he barely said a word to anyone
00:07:58except Lucian Carrington.
00:08:00Some information about treating illnesses.
00:08:03Who's sick?
00:08:05My mother.
00:08:09I don't have a mother.
00:08:11In that moment, something stabbed right through my chest.
00:08:16I just said,
00:08:17Then if you ever feel unwell, you can tell me.
00:08:20I studied how to treat people.
00:08:22He looked up at me.
00:08:23In those sapphire eyes, there was something slightly different.
00:08:27Faint.
00:08:27But I caught it.
00:08:29After breakfast, the butler came upstairs to collect the tray.
00:08:32When he saw the half-empty milk glass,
00:08:34Miss Wynn, the young master usually only eats two bites at breakfast.
00:08:38He finished a whole piece of toast today.
00:08:40The butler's face could only be described as seeing a ghost.
00:08:43At ten that morning,
00:08:45I was keeping Noah company in the playroom while he drew.
00:08:48He was drawing a house with a tall figure standing beside it.
00:08:51Only one figure.
00:08:52I didn't ask who it was.
00:08:54My phone rang.
00:08:55Unknown number.
00:08:59Hello?
00:09:00Serena.
00:09:01The moment I heard that voice, my hand clenched.
00:09:04Zach Thornton, my ex-fiance.
00:09:06How did you get my number?
00:09:08I've always had it.
00:09:10Serena, I'm calling about something serious.
00:09:12Your mother's hospital bills.
00:09:14You're running out of money, aren't you?
00:09:16We have nothing serious between us.
00:09:18Your father told me.
00:09:20He says you're carrying everything alone now.
00:09:22No place to live, either.
00:09:24My father.
00:09:25The wonderful father who gave my wedding home and my fiancé to Celeste.
00:09:30Serena, Celesta and I talked about it.
00:09:32We can cover your mother's medical expenses.
00:09:34On what condition?
00:09:35Be Celesta's maid of honor.
00:09:38Excuse me?
00:09:39We're getting married next month.
00:09:40Celeste wants you as her maid of honor.
00:09:42You know how it is.
00:09:43You're sisters.
00:09:43It would look good in front of everyone.
00:09:45You're using my wedding date, my wedding planner, my wedding dress, and now you want
00:09:48to use me too?
00:09:50I laughed.
00:09:50I actually laughed.
00:09:52Zach, do you think I'm that easy to walk all over?
00:09:55I hung up.
00:09:57Noah stopped drawing and looked up at me.
00:09:59You're sad.
00:10:00He said, it's nothing.
00:10:03Keep drawing.
00:10:04He looked down and added another small figure to the paper, standing beside the tall one.
00:10:09At noon, I got a call from the hospital.
00:10:13Mrs. Wynn, your mother's medical fees must be paid before 5 o'clock today, or we'll be
00:10:17forced to suspend some treatments.
00:10:19$12,000.
00:10:21I had $307,000 plus today's $1,600, less than $2,000, $10,000 short.
00:10:28I called everyone I could think of to borrow from.
00:10:31College friends, former colleagues, distant relatives.
00:10:34No one picked up.
00:10:36Or they did, with a string of apologies.
00:10:393.30 in the afternoon.
00:10:41I stood at the end of the second floor hallway, staring out at the lake, and for the first
00:10:45time, I felt like I was about to break.
00:10:48Mrs. Wynn.
00:10:51What is it?
00:10:52Mr. Carrington asked me to inform you.
00:10:54A month's salary has been advanced to your account.
00:10:57I froze.
00:10:58I pulled out my phone.
00:11:00A bank notification.
00:11:01Deposit.
00:11:02$50,000.
00:11:04$50,000 in full.
00:11:06I stared at the number, unable to speak.
00:11:09Mr. Carrington said it's an advance, not charity.
00:11:12Deduct what's owed, then resume regular monthly payment.
00:11:17Tell Mr. Carrington, thank you.
00:11:23I turned.
00:11:24Lucian Carrington had returned at some point.
00:11:27Don't thank me.
00:11:29Just take good care of Noah.
00:11:31He walked past me without slowing.
00:11:33He went up to the third floor.
00:11:35The door closed.
00:11:36I stood there, gripping my phone.
00:11:38$50,000.
00:11:40My mother was going to be okay.
00:11:42At 4.30, I rushed to the hospital and paid the $12,000 in medical fees.
00:11:46My mother lay in the hospital bed, nothing but skin and bones.
00:11:52Sarah, where did the money come from?
00:11:55I found a job.
00:11:56The pay is good, Mom.
00:11:58Don't worry.
00:11:59What kind of job?
00:12:03Taking care of a child.
00:12:05Sarah, your father came by.
00:12:08My expression went cold instantly.
00:12:10What did he want?
00:12:12He said Celeste getting married.
00:12:13Told me not to hold a grudge.
00:12:15He also said, if you agree to be the maid of R, they'll cover the surgery costs.
00:12:20Mom, the surgery is all we paid for.
00:12:23We don't need their money.
00:12:25I've been such a burden to you.
00:12:27No, you haven't.
00:12:29I pressed her hand firmly.
00:12:30You just focus on getting better.
00:12:33Leave everything else to me.
00:12:35I left the hospital after dark and stood outside waiting for a cab.
00:12:38A white Porsche suddenly pulled up in front of me.
00:12:42The window rolled down.
00:12:43Celeste Wynn sat in the passenger seat, makeup flawless, a smirk on her lips.
00:12:48Well, well.
00:12:50Little sister.
00:12:51What are you doing here?
00:12:54Zach Thornton was in the driver's seat.
00:12:56When he saw me, his expression turned uncomfortable.
00:12:59Visiting Mom.
00:13:00Oh, Zach and I were just coming to visit Aunt 2.
00:13:03Perfect timing.
00:13:05By the way, sis.
00:13:06Zach told you about the maid of Maren thing, right?
00:13:09Have you thought about it?
00:13:11No.
00:13:12Come on, don't be so petty.
00:13:14Zach and I are truly in love.
00:13:16You can't hold a grudge forever.
00:13:18I'm not holding a grudge.
00:13:21I'm just not interested.
00:13:22Serena.
00:13:23Salisha is being kind.
00:13:24Don't be ungrateful.
00:13:26Ungrateful?
00:13:26You and my sister slept in my bed.
00:13:28You're using my wedding dress to get married.
00:13:30And now you want me to stand there as maid of honor and smile for you?
00:13:32Zach, has something gone wrong with your brain?
00:13:34His face flushed red.
00:13:36You-
00:13:38Enough.
00:13:39I turned and walked away.
00:13:40Serena!
00:13:41Don't get cocky!
00:13:42You think you can find someone better than Zach?
00:13:44Look at you!
00:13:45You don't even have a place to live!
00:13:46I didn't look back.
00:13:49Lakeview Manor?
00:13:51Ma'am, are you sure that address is right?
00:13:53That's the Carrington private estate.
00:13:56I'm the Carrington's nanny.
00:13:59The driver didn't say another word.
00:14:03It was nearly nine when I got back to the estate.
00:14:06The butler said Noah was already asleep.
00:14:08I quietly pushed open Noah's door to check on him.
00:14:11The little guy was curled up with that gray rabbit, sleeping soundly.
00:14:15A piece of drawing paper sat on his nightstand.
00:14:17I picked it up.
00:14:18It was the drawing from that afternoon.
00:14:20A house.
00:14:21A tall figure.
00:14:23A short one.
00:14:24And beside the short figure, two words had been added.
00:14:27Crooked and barely legible, but readable.
00:14:30Nanny Sarah.
00:14:31Close the door.
00:14:33Back in my own room, I sat on the bed, covered my face, and cried huo silently.
00:14:38Not from bitterness, because it had been so long since someone made me feel needed.
00:14:42Day three.
00:14:43I was starting to understand Noah's patterns.
00:14:46He didn't like being touched, but he could tolerate someone staying at arm's length.
00:14:50He didn't like noise, so I softened my voice whenever I spoke to him.
00:14:54He loved drawing.
00:14:55Loved blocks.
00:14:57Loved sitting on the windowsill, staring into space.
00:15:00He loved that gray rabbit more than anything.
00:15:02Took it everywhere.
00:15:03In the morning, I tried telling him a story.
00:15:06He wasn't interested at first, but slowly inched closer.
00:15:09The story was about a rabbit going on an adventure.
00:15:12When I got to the part where the rabbit fell into a river, he suddenly asked,
00:15:16Can it swim?
00:15:17What do you think?
00:15:18He considered it.
00:15:20Teach it.
00:15:20All right.
00:15:21Then you teach it how to swim.
00:15:23He took over the story, stumbling through a few sentences.
00:15:26The butler stood in the doorway, his eyes glistening.
00:15:29Later, he told me,
00:15:31Miss Wynn, the last time the young master said this many words was two years ago.
00:15:35That afternoon, Lucian Carrington came home early.
00:15:38When Noah saw Lucian, his eyes lit up.
00:15:41Daddy.
00:15:42Lucian walked over, knelt on one knee, and ruffled his hair.
00:15:46Were you good today?
00:15:47Nanny taught me to build a bridge.
00:15:49Lucian glanced at me.
00:15:50His gaze was a fraction warmer than yesterday.
00:15:53Just a fraction.
00:15:54Good.
00:15:55I wasn't sure if he meant Noah or me.
00:15:57He stood up and said to the butler,
00:15:59Have the kitchen and add an extra dish.
00:16:00Miss Wynn will join us for dinner tonight.
00:16:02It was the first time I ate at the same table as Lucian Carrington.
00:16:05His table manners were impeccable.
00:16:08Noah sat beside him, feeding himself with his spoon.
00:16:11Lucian looked at me.
00:16:12What were you doing before this?
00:16:14Interning at a clinic.
00:16:16Why didn't you continue?
00:16:17The clinic shut down.
00:16:19The truth was my advisor had run into trouble.
00:16:21The entire research project was suspended and my internship went with it.
00:16:25He didn't press.
00:16:25Noah has a checkup tomorrow.
00:16:27You'll go with him.
00:16:28What kind of checkup?
00:16:29Developmental pediatrics.
00:16:30He goes every month.
00:16:32Okay.
00:16:33After dinner, Lucian went up to the third floor.
00:16:36I helped Noah brush his teeth, gave him a bath, and told him a bedtime story.
00:16:40He fell asleep mid-story, his little hand still clutching my sleeve.
00:16:44I carefully freed my sleeve and tucked him in.
00:16:46I looked back from the doorway.
00:16:48This child, Huo, he just needed someone with patience to stay by his side.
00:16:51Day four.
00:16:52Morning.
00:16:53I took Noah to Northport Children's Hospital.
00:16:56The butler drove us to the entrance.
00:16:57VIP lane.
00:16:59Noah.
00:17:00Here to see Dr. Lin again.
00:17:01Noah hid behind me, peeking out with half his face.
00:17:04And this is...
00:17:05Serena Wynn, Noah's nanny.
00:17:08Dr. Lin adjusted his glasses, studying me.
00:17:10You don't look much like a nanny.
00:17:12Is there a standard look for nannies?
00:17:14He smiled and began Noah's examination.
00:17:16Noah's physical indicators are all normal, but his social skills and language development
00:17:21are still behind.
00:17:22But he's jacked at every stranger so far.
00:17:24But today, he actually came willingly with you.
00:17:27That's already significant progress.
00:17:29Which number nanny are you?
00:17:30The ninth.
00:17:31I've met all eight before you.
00:17:33None of them could keep Noah this calm in an exam room.
00:17:35Have you studied child psychology?
00:17:38It was my minor.
00:17:39Northport University?
00:17:40Yes.
00:17:41Who was your advisor?
00:17:43Professor Cedric Stanton.
00:17:44Dr. Lin stared at me for several long seconds.
00:17:47Professor Stanton's final prop mau g mau, the Serena Wynn who won the National Pediatric
00:17:51pathology competition, I hadn't expected him to know.
00:17:54Yes.
00:17:55I've read your paper.
00:17:57Outstanding work.
00:18:00How did you end up...
00:18:01He looked at me and stopped mid-sentence.
00:18:03Life takes turns.
00:18:05Dr. Lin, could you send me a copy of Noah's detailed report?
00:18:07I'd like to design some targeted interaction plans based on his condition.
00:18:11Of course.
00:18:12Miss Wynn, Noah is very fortunate to have met you.
00:18:16Leaving the hospital, the butler came to pick us up.
00:18:18Noah sat in the back seat.
00:18:20For the first time, he voluntarily tugged at the hem of my shirt.
00:18:23Nampi Sarah?
00:18:24Yes?
00:18:25Will you still be here tomorrow?
00:18:27Yes.
00:18:28He nodded, saying nothing more, but the corner of his mouth lifted just slightly.
00:18:32The butler caught it in the rear view mirror and nearly swerved off the roof.
00:18:35Miss Wynn, Mr. Carrington has a visitor this afternoon.
00:18:38Please keep the young master upstairs.
00:18:40What kind of visitor?
00:18:42Mrs. Carrington.
00:18:43I blinked.
00:18:44Isn't Mr. Carrington...
00:18:45The former Mrs. Carrington.
00:18:47The butler's expression was delicate.
00:18:48The young master's biological mother.
00:18:51Noah's mother?
00:18:52I thought he didn't have a mother.
00:18:53I can't say too much about the details, but remember, no matter what happens, do not let
00:18:59the young master go downstairs.
00:19:01Two o'clock that afternoon, the sound of high heels echoed up from the first floor.
00:19:06Loud.
00:19:07Every step carried authority.
00:19:09I was upstairs drawing with Noah.
00:19:11He suddenly stopped his pencil, his entire body going rigid.
00:19:15He heard her.
00:19:16Nani Sarah?
00:19:17She's here.
00:19:18His hands were shaking.
00:19:20I crouched down to his level.
00:19:21Noah, you don't want to see her, do you?
00:19:24He shook his head.
00:19:25Then you won't.
00:19:26Let's keep drawing.
00:19:28A woman's voice rose from downstairs, Hua.
00:19:30Crisp, but with an indefinable sharpness.
00:19:33Where's Noah?
00:19:34Bring him down.
00:19:35I want to see him.
00:19:36You don't have that right.
00:19:37I'm his mother!
00:19:39You gave up custody when he was six months old.
00:19:42Lydia, what exactly do you want?
00:19:46I silently filed that name away.
00:19:48The argument downstairs lasted about 20 minutes.
00:19:50At several points, Lydia raised her voice and Noah's body flinched every single time.
00:19:55I said nothing.
00:19:56I just sat beside him, quietly drawing with him.
00:19:59Eventually, the noise downstairs stopped.
00:20:01The click of high heels faded away.
00:20:03Noah set down his pencil, crawled over to me, and buried his face in my arm.
00:20:07Nani Sarah?
00:20:09Hmm?
00:20:10Don't leave.
00:20:12My nose stung.
00:20:13I won't leave.
00:20:14That evening, Lucian came upstairs.
00:20:16He stood at Noah's doorway and watched Noah sleeping against me, silent for a long moment.
00:20:22Lydia came by.
00:20:23He didn't deny it.
00:20:24What does she want?
00:20:26Money.
00:20:27It's always money.
00:20:30Noah is terrified of her.
00:20:32I know.
00:20:32He was trembling the entire time today.
00:20:35Lucian's hand tightened into a fist.
00:20:37I'll handle it.
00:20:38Thank you for today.
00:20:40He turned to leave.
00:20:41Mr. Carrington.
00:20:42He stopped.
00:20:43Noah isn't unable to speak.
00:20:45He's afraid.
00:20:46What he fears isn't strangers.
00:20:48It's being abandoned.
00:20:50His back was to me.
00:20:50He didn't move.
00:20:52Hmm.
00:20:53He walked away.
00:20:54But I saw his shoulders were rigid.
00:20:56Day five.
00:20:57Everything seemed to be falling into a rhythm.
00:21:00Morning.
00:21:00Drawing.
00:21:01Blocks.
00:21:02Stories with Noah.
00:21:04Afternoon.
00:21:04Walking around the estate together.
00:21:06He was starting to let me hold his hand now.
00:21:09Evening.
00:21:10Bedtime stories.
00:21:11He listened to every single one before falling asleep.
00:21:14The words were coming more and more.
00:21:16Still sparse.
00:21:17But noticeably more than before.
00:21:19The butler said Lucian had been coming home earlier lately.
00:21:22He used to return past midnight.
00:21:24Now he was almost always back before nine.
00:21:27First thing he did.
00:21:28Check on Noah.
00:21:29If Noah was already asleep.
00:21:31He'd stand at the door for a moment.
00:21:32Take a look.
00:21:33And then go up to the third floor.
00:21:34That day I was in the kitchen.
00:21:36Helping prepare Noah's afternoon snack.
00:21:38My phone rang.
00:21:39Caller ID.
00:21:40Dad.
00:21:40I hesitated for two seconds then answered.
00:21:44Sarah.
00:21:45What do you want?
00:21:46How do you sister wedding?
00:21:48No.
00:21:49Why are you so stubborn?
00:21:50Celeste is your sister.
00:21:52She's your wife's baggage.
00:21:53Not my sister.
00:21:55Silence on the other end.
00:21:56Serena watch your mouth.
00:21:58Your mother is the way she is because of that attitude of yours.
00:22:00Because of what?
00:22:01Because she was abandoned by you?
00:22:03Steven my mother is lying in a hospital bed right now and you haven't contributed a single
00:22:07penny.
00:22:08What gives you the right to even talk to me?
00:22:10I don't have money.
00:22:11You know the situation at home.
00:22:13No money at home but Celeste's Porsche was bought with pocket winch?
00:22:15Zach bought that for her.
00:22:17Even better.
00:22:18Spending my ex-fiance's money driving the car in front of me to rub it in.
00:22:21You people are truly something.
00:22:23Serena.
00:22:23Are you coming or not?
00:22:25If you don't, your mother's surgery costs...
00:22:27I've covered the surgery costs myself.
00:22:29Don't trouble yourself.
00:22:30I hung up.
00:22:31My fingers were trembling slightly.
00:22:33Not from fear.
00:22:34From disgust.
00:22:36Your father?
00:22:37Lucian Carrington was standing in the kitchen doorway.
00:22:39An empty glass in his hand.
00:22:41Probably came to get water.
00:22:42Yeah.
00:22:43Not on good terms?
00:22:44No relationship at all.
00:22:46A double meaning quo.
00:22:48Answering his question and stating the truth about me and my father.
00:22:51He looked at me for a second.
00:22:53Didn't ask anything else.
00:22:54As he walked past me, he set down the empty glass.
00:22:57It wasn't empty.
00:22:58There was a piece of candy inside.
00:23:01I stared at that candy for several long seconds.
00:23:04Lucian Carrington never ate candy.
00:23:06The candy in his study drawer was meant for Noah.
00:23:09But Noah didn't like this brand.
00:23:11So that piece of candy had been sitting there.
00:23:14Until today.
00:23:15When he gave it to me.
00:23:16I don't know if it was meant as comfort.
00:23:18But that night I ate it.
00:23:20It was very sweet.
00:23:21Day seven.
00:23:22I officially made it through my first week of probation.
00:23:24None of the previous Nammys had made it past seven days.
00:23:28You are the first.
00:23:30Lucian came home especially early that day, Huo.
00:23:32Six o'clock.
00:23:33Noah ran to take his hand.
00:23:34Nanny taught me to fold a rabbit today!
00:23:37He pulled a crookedly folded paper rabbit from his pocket and held it up to Lucian.
00:23:41Lucian took it and studied it.
00:23:42Good.
00:23:43Noah ran back to me.
00:23:45Nammysera!
00:23:45Teach daddy to fold one too!
00:23:47Lucian and I both froze.
00:23:49Your daddy's probably busy.
00:23:50I'm not busy.
00:23:51And then he actually sat down and picked up a piece of paper.
00:23:54I taught him how to fold a paper rabbit.
00:23:56His hands were large, knuckles well defined, and surprisingly clumsy with origami.
00:24:00He failed three times in a row.
00:24:02Noah was doubled over laughing beside him.
00:24:04Lucian eventually produced a rabbit that barely passed his one.
00:24:08One ear long, one ear short.
00:24:09Noah took it and placed it beside his own.
00:24:11Daddy rabbit and baby rabbit.
00:24:15Nammysera, fold one too.
00:24:18I folded one.
00:24:19Noah placed all three rabbits side by side on the windowsill.
00:24:23Rabbit family.
00:24:25Lucian looked at me.
00:24:26I couldn't quite read the expression in his eyes, but the corner of his mouth moved, barely
00:24:30perceptible, but I caught it.
00:24:32That night, after putting Noah to bed, I went downstairs for water and ran into Lucian
00:24:37in the hallway.
00:24:37He was leaning against the railing, phone in hand, lost in thought.
00:24:42Noah sleep?
00:24:43He asked.
00:24:45Sleeping.
00:24:46He laughed several times today.
00:24:50A moment of silence.
00:24:54Serena.
00:24:56Yes?
00:24:58Your probation doesn't need to last the full month.
00:25:02My heart seized, Huo.
00:25:04I thought he was about to fire me.
00:25:07Starting tomorrow, you're permanent.
00:25:11Salary raised to $60,000.
00:25:14I was standing on the stairs and nearly missed a step.
00:25:17Mr. Carrington?
00:25:18You're worth it.
00:25:19He said it and went upstairs.
00:25:20I stood gripping the banister for a long time.
00:25:23$60,000.
00:25:25$60,000 a month.
00:25:26My mother's surgery costs, Huo.
00:25:29No longer a worry.
00:25:32The following days passed quickly.
00:25:34Good morning.
00:25:35Good morning, Noah.
00:25:36Noah's transformation was visible to the naked eye.
00:25:39He started greeting the kitchen staff voluntarily.
00:25:41Of course.
00:25:42He started being willing to spend time in the first floor drawing room.
00:25:45He even sat quietly in the corner of the study drawing while Lucian was on conference calls.
00:25:50Dr. Lin sent the latest evaluation report.
00:25:53Noah's social ability indicators have improved by 40%.
00:25:56His verbal expression frequency is three times what it was three months ago.
00:26:01Miss Nguyen, you've done an exceptional job.
00:26:04I looked at the report and exhaled.
00:26:06At least on this Huo, on Noah Huo, I'd delivered.
00:26:10Day 10.
00:26:11Trouble came.
00:26:11I was walking with Noah in the estate gardens when my phone buzzed with a message.
00:26:15From Celeste.
00:26:16A photo of a wedding invitation.
00:26:18It read,
00:26:19Mr. Zachary Thornton and Miss Celeste Wynne request the honor of your presence at their wedding.
00:26:25Followed by a message.
00:26:27Little sister, the invitations are already printed.
00:26:30Your name is on one.
00:26:31The maid of honor spot is still yours.
00:26:33I didn't reply.
00:26:3510 minutes later, another one.
00:26:37Oh, by the way, I heard you're working as a nanny.
00:26:40A Northport University master's graduate working as a nanny.
00:26:44You really are bringing honor to the Wynne family name.
00:26:46Still no reply.
00:26:47Are you too ashamed to respond?
00:26:49Whatever.
00:26:49I feel sorry for you.
00:26:51Come to the wedding, Huo.
00:26:52I put my phone in my pocket.
00:26:54Nanny Sarah, there are flowers over there.
00:26:56Want to go see?
00:26:57He nodded.
00:26:58I led him over.
00:26:59He crouched in front of the rose bushes, reached out as if to pick one, then pulled back.
00:27:04He said,
00:27:05They'll prick.
00:27:07Yeah.
00:27:08Beautiful things sometimes sting.
00:27:11He thought about it.
00:27:13Then just look.
00:27:14Don't pick.
00:27:16I smiled.
00:27:17You're smarter than most adults.
00:27:20At that moment, the butler hurried over, his expression tense.
00:27:25Miss Wynne, there's someone at the estate gate asking for you.
00:27:28Who?
00:27:28A woman says she's your sister.
00:27:32My smile vanished.
00:27:34Celeste had tracked me here.
00:27:35I said to the butler,
00:27:37I'll go out.
00:27:37Watch Nova for me.
00:27:39The butler nodded.
00:27:40I walked to the main gate of the estate.
00:27:42Celeste was leaning against that white Porsche, dressed in a designer dress and sunglasses,
00:27:46which she removed the moment she spotted me.
00:27:48Little sister, I finally found you.
00:27:52How did you find this place?
00:27:54Dad told me.
00:27:55He said you're working as a nanny at Lakeview Manor.
00:27:58Steven Wind.
00:28:00I should have only told my mother the address.
00:28:02What do you want?
00:28:04To see you, of course.
00:28:06This place is pretty impressive.
00:28:09Who's your employer?
00:28:10Someone with deep pockets.
00:28:12None of your business.
00:28:15Don't be like that.
00:28:16Sis, I genuinely want you as my maid of honor.
00:28:20Think about it.
00:28:21You show up, and the wedding's packed with Northport's elite.
00:28:25Could even find you a decent man.
00:28:27Way better than slaving away as a nanny, right?
00:28:30Celeste, what do you actually want?
00:28:33I just want you to come-
00:28:34Not happening.
00:28:35You can leave now.
00:28:36Her smile thinned.
00:28:37Serena, don't make this harder than it needs to be.
00:28:40Dad already told you, if you don't come, your mother's surgery-
00:28:44I've covered my mother's surgery myself.
00:28:47What exactly are you threatening me with?
00:28:50Where did you get the money?
00:28:51My salary.
00:28:53How much can a nanny possibly make?
00:28:55More than the man you stole gives you.
00:28:57Serena!
00:28:58What's that supposed to mean?
00:28:59You know exactly what it means.
00:29:01My wedding home, my wedding dress, my fiancé.
00:29:04When you took them one by one, did you ever stop to ask what it meant?
00:29:08Zach chose me!
00:29:09Then why are you here bothering me?
00:29:11Guilty conscience?
00:29:13Celeste's chest heaved.
00:29:15Serena, don't get too proud!
00:29:17You think working as a nanny makes you something?
00:29:19You're just a servant!
00:29:21Better a servant than a thief.
00:29:26A voice came from inside the gate.
00:29:28Miss Wynne, may I ask who you are?
00:29:32This is the Carrington private residence.
00:29:34Trespassers are not permitted.
00:29:35I'm Serena's sister.
00:29:37The Carrington house only recognizes Miss Serena Wynne.
00:29:40If you do not have an appointment, please leave.
00:29:42He pressed his earpiece.
00:29:43Security, we have a disturbance at the main gate.
00:29:46Serena!
00:29:47You're having a servant's butler throw me out?
00:29:50Celeste's face went completely green.
00:29:52I turned and walked back into the estate without looking back.
00:29:55Serena!
00:29:56Mark my words!
00:29:57If you don't show up at the wedding,
00:29:59I'll make sure everyone in Northport knows you're nothing but a pathetic cast-off!
00:30:03The butler closed the main gate.
00:30:05Her voice was cut off outside.
00:30:07Miss Wynne, should I inform Mr. Carrington if this person returns?
00:30:10I said.
00:30:11No need to trouble Mr. Carrington.
00:30:13She can't make any real waves.
00:30:15The butler nodded.
00:30:16What I didn't know was that the estate's surveillance system was networked.
00:30:20Lucian Carrington, in his office at the company, had already watched the entire thing.
00:30:25When he came home that night, he said nothing.
00:30:28He simply handed me a warm glass of milk after I finished Noah's bedtime story.
00:30:32Drink this and get some rest.
00:30:33Then he went upstairs.
00:30:35I stood in the hallway holding the milk.
00:30:36This man was different.
00:30:38So cold.
00:30:38But cold in a way that felt warm.
00:30:40What a contradiction.
00:30:42Two more days passed.
00:30:44Zach called.
00:30:45Serena, are you working as a nanny at Lakeview Manor for Lucian Carrington?
00:30:48How do you know that?
00:30:49Celeste looked it up.
00:30:50Lucius Carrington, CEO of Carrington Group.
00:30:52Serena, you've got some nerve.
00:30:54Working as a nanny for the richest man in Northport.
00:30:57What business is it of yours?
00:30:58It is my business.
00:31:01Serena, I warn you.
00:31:02A man like Lucian Carrington, he's not someone you can climb up to.
00:31:05Just do your job and don't get any ideas.
00:31:08What ideas?
00:31:10Don't play dumb.
00:31:11$50,000 a month?
00:31:12What do you think he's paying you for?
00:31:13I laughed.
00:31:14Zach, are you jealous or just pathetic?
00:31:16When you broke up with me, you made it very clear we were done.
00:31:19Now you're meddling in where I work and who I work for?
00:31:22I'm trying to warn you.
00:31:23Save your concern for your bride.
00:31:25I don't need it.
00:31:27I hung up.
00:31:31Five minutes later, Celeste called.
00:31:35Serena, stay away from Lucian Carrington.
00:31:38You have no say in this.
00:31:39Lucian Carrington is Northport's most eligible bachelor.
00:31:42A nanny like you don't even dream-
00:31:44Worried your husband doesn't measure up to my employer?
00:31:46Three seconds of dead silence.
00:31:48Serena, just wait.
00:31:49You'll get what's coming to you.
00:31:51She hung up.
00:31:52I blocked her number, but that wasn't the end of it.
00:31:54Day 13.
00:31:56I took Noah to the mall to buy colored pencils.
00:31:58The butler drove us to the largest mall in Northport.
00:32:00Noah held my hand and spent ages in the art supply section before finally selecting a 48-colored pencil set.
00:32:06Serena, look at these!
00:32:07As we were checking out, a voice came from behind.
00:32:09Well, well.
00:32:11Isn't that Serena when?
00:32:12I turned.
00:32:13Victoria Crane.
00:32:14Celeste's best friend.
00:32:16Serena!
00:32:17Long time no see.
00:32:19Whose kid is this?
00:32:21None of your concern.
00:32:23Wow.
00:32:24Still got that attitude.
00:32:26Victoria smiled.
00:32:27Celeste told me you're working as a nanny now.
00:32:31A Northfield University grad.
00:32:34Babysitting.
00:32:36A few glances turned our way.
00:32:38Is there a problem?
00:32:39Not at all.
00:32:40Just seems like such a waste.
00:32:41You used to be the acclaimed prodigy of our circle.
00:32:44Now look at you.
00:32:46Better than ending up as someone who steals other people's fiancés.
00:32:51Victoria's smile froze.
00:32:53What's that supposed to mean?
00:32:55Nothing.
00:32:56I took Noah's hand and started to leave.
00:32:57Stop right there!
00:32:59Serena, you think you're still the old Serena?
00:33:01You're just a nanny now!
00:33:02What gives you the right to act superior in front of me?
00:33:04Victoria's voice froze.
00:33:05I looked back at Victoria.
00:33:07Noah looked up at me and tightened his grip on my hand.
00:33:09What's wrong with being a nanny?
00:33:11A nanny is a servant!
00:33:12I earn my own living and support my family.
00:33:15That makes me a servant.
00:33:16So what do you call women who rely on men's money for handbags?
00:33:20Every single one of their faces change color.
00:33:23You!
00:33:26Miss Wynn.
00:33:27A voice came from the side.
00:33:29A man in a black suit was striding toward us.
00:33:31Around 30, sharp and efficient.
00:33:33I recognized him.
00:33:34Lucian Carrington's personal assistant.
00:33:37Aiden?
00:33:37Mr. Carrington sent me to pick up you and the young master.
00:33:40He glanced at Victoria and her group.
00:33:41Is there a problem?
00:33:42Victoria saw the ID badge on Aiden's wrist.
00:33:45Who-oh.
00:33:47Carrington group.
00:33:47Her face shifted.
00:33:49Carrington, you work for Carrington group?
00:33:52Carrington?
00:33:53Miss Wynn, the car is downstairs.
00:33:55This way, please.
00:33:56I nodded and led Noah away with him.
00:33:58Behind us came Victoria's lowered voice.
00:34:01She's working as a nanny for the Carrington's?
00:34:04Carrington, the Carrington's?
00:34:05It can't be.
00:34:06Lucian Carrington, can it?
00:34:08No way.
00:34:09A man like Lucian Carrington wouldn't like to sound a nanny.
00:34:12In the car, Aiden said,
00:34:14Miss Wynn, Mr. Carrington asked me to tell you,
00:34:16if anyone gives you trouble, you can contact me directly.
00:34:19He handed me a business card.
00:34:21Mr. Carrington's orders.
00:34:23He added.
00:34:25I stared out the window.
00:34:26How did Lucian know I was being harassed at the mall?
00:34:29Whenever an estate vehicle goes out,
00:34:31Mr. Carrington has me remotely track the route.
00:34:33Security measure.
00:34:35Security measure.
00:34:37Aiden seemed to read my thoughts.
00:34:41Right.
00:34:44Back at the estate, Noah bolted upstairs with his new colored pencils.
00:34:48I stood on the first floor about to head up myself
00:34:51when my phone buzzed with a text.
00:34:53Unknown number.
00:34:55Serena, Celeste asked me to tell you.
00:34:58At the wedding,
00:34:59she's going to publicly announce that you were fired.
00:35:01She's already contacted your old clinic colleagues.
00:35:04Everyone in Northport will know you were kicked out by your advisor
00:35:07and dumped by your fiancé.
00:35:08If you don't want the humiliation,
00:35:10show up and be the maid of honor.
00:35:12Zach, I read it and calmly deleted it.
00:35:16Not because I wasn't angry,
00:35:17because wasting emotion on people like that wasn't worth it.
00:35:21But I knew this wasn't going to end easily.
00:35:23Celeste wasn't the type to let things go.
00:35:25She'd been this way since we were kids.
00:35:28If I had something good, she had to take it.
00:35:30If she couldn't take it, she'd destroy it.
00:35:32That night, I stood on the second floor balcony,
00:35:35looking out at the lake.
00:35:36Moonlight painted silver ripples across the dark water.
00:35:39Somewhere in the distance,
00:35:40an owl called twice and fell silent.
00:35:43It was peaceful here.
00:35:44Almost too peaceful.
00:35:46I thought about the past two weeks.
00:35:48About a boy who wouldn't speak.
00:35:49Who now said my name like it was the most natural word in the world.
00:35:53About a man carved from ice who left pieces of candy in empty glasses.
00:35:57About three paper rabbits on a windowsill.
00:35:59One with a crooked ear.
00:36:01One with a carefully folded tail.
00:36:03One impossibly small.
00:36:04That somehow carried more meaning than all the wedding invitations gathering dust in some landfill.
00:36:10Fourteen days ago, I'd been crouched in a hospital hallway with $300 to my name,
00:36:14and the world had felt like a closing fist.
00:36:17Now I was standing on a balcony overlooking a lake,
00:36:19and for the first time in months, I could breathe.
00:36:21A creak came from behind me.
00:36:23I turned.
00:36:24Noah stood in his doorway, pajama clad.
00:36:27The gray rabbit pressed against his chest.
00:36:29Can't sleep?
00:36:30He shook his head.
00:36:32I slid down to sit on the balcony floor.
00:36:34After a moment, Noah padded over and sat beside me.
00:36:37Close enough that his shoulder touched my arm.
00:36:40Bad dream?
00:36:41He nodded.
00:36:42Want to tell me about it?
00:36:44Silence stretched.
00:36:45The owl called again somewhere in the dark.
00:36:48She was in it.
00:36:49My arm tightened around him.
00:36:51He meant Lydia.
00:36:53What happened in the dream?
00:36:55She came back.
00:36:56She picked me up and took me away.
00:36:59And you weren't there.
00:37:01And Daddy wasn't there.
00:37:04And I was alone.
00:37:07I shifted so I could face him directly.
00:37:09His sapphire eyes were completely unguarded now.
00:37:13Terrified.
00:37:15Noah.
00:37:16I took both his hands in mine.
00:37:18That was just a dream.
00:37:20You are not alone.
00:37:22You will never be alone again.
00:37:24Nami Sarah is here.
00:37:26Daddy is here.
00:37:27The butler is here.
00:37:29Everyone in this house is here.
00:37:31Do you understand me?
00:37:32He stared at me for one heartbeat.
00:37:35Two.
00:37:36Then he nodded and crawled into my lap.
00:37:38Pressing his face against my shoulder.
00:37:40We sat like that until his breathing slowed.
00:37:42Until his body went heavy with sleep.
00:37:45I carried him back to bed.
00:37:47Tucked the rabbit under his arm.
00:37:48Pushed the hair from his forehead.
00:37:50He stirred.
00:37:51Murmuring something unintelligible.
00:37:53And his fingers found the edge of my sleeve and held on.
00:37:56I waited until his grip relaxed.
00:37:58Then I slipped out and closed the door with barely a sound.
00:38:02When I turned around, Lucian was standing at the end of the hallway.
00:38:05He must have come down from the third floor at some point.
00:38:08I had no idea how long he'd been there.
00:38:11His expression was unreadable.
00:38:12But there was something about the way he stood.
00:38:15Completely motionless.
00:38:16Neither of us spoke.
00:38:18Then he pushed off the wall and walked toward me.
00:38:21He had a nightmare.
00:38:23I heard.
00:38:24He dreamed about her.
00:38:26About Lydia.
00:38:27A muscle in his jaw pulsed.
00:38:29I thought her visitation rights were revoked.
00:38:32They were.
00:38:33But she's filed a new motion.
00:38:35Her lawyer is claiming she's been through rehabilitation, counseling, the works.
00:38:40When did you find out?
00:38:41This morning.
00:38:43That explained his earlier tension.
00:38:45The third glass of wine he'd poured and barely touched.
00:38:48Is she going to get them back?
00:38:50He was quiet for a moment.
00:38:51No.
00:38:52One syllable.
00:38:54Absolute.
00:38:55But there was something else underneath it.
00:38:57A tension I couldn't quite name.
00:38:59Lucian.
00:39:01If she comes here again...
00:39:04Noah can't see her.
00:39:05He can't.
00:39:07You didn't see him tonight.
00:39:09He was shaking so hard he could barely speak.
00:39:12I know.
00:39:15Then why does she still have the power to do this?
00:39:19Why can't she keep filing motions?
00:39:22Sending lawyers and...
00:39:24Because she's his mother.
00:39:27Because the courts believe in second chances.
00:39:30Because every time I block her...
00:39:33She finds another angle.
00:39:36Because...
00:39:37He stopped.
00:39:38His fist was clenched at his side.
00:39:40White knuckled.
00:39:40I'd never seen him lose control before.
00:39:43Not once.
00:39:44Not when his ex-wife screamed at him in his own foyer.
00:39:46Not when reporters camped at his gate.
00:39:48But right now, standing in this dark hallway.
00:39:51The man who could buy and sell entire city blocks without blinking.
00:39:55Looks like he was holding back a flood with his bare hands.
00:39:58Because I can't protect him from everything.
00:40:02No matter how much I want to.
00:40:04He looked at Noah's closed door.
00:40:06When she left him at that mall...
00:40:10Six months.
00:40:11She put him in a stroller and walked away and didn't come back.
00:40:15Didn't come back for three hours.
00:40:18Security found him crying.
00:40:20Dehydrated.
00:40:21Alone in the middle of the food pocket.
00:40:24I was in a board meeting when they called.
00:40:29I made it there in 12 minutes.
00:40:32Fastest I've ever driven in my life.
00:40:34But it was already too late.
00:40:37Something broke in him that day.
00:40:39He stopped trying to speak.
00:40:41Stopped reaching for people.
00:40:43Stopped crying when he was hurt.
00:40:46So you built walls.
00:40:49Around him.
00:40:51Around yourself.
00:40:53He looked at me.
00:40:54Something flickered in his eyes.
00:40:56Yes.
00:40:58And then I walked in and started putting blocks on his castle.
00:41:01The corner of his mouth moved.
00:41:03Not quite a smile, but close.
00:41:05You didn't just put blocks on his castle.
00:41:09I didn't listen to Denith Rife.
00:41:11You sat beside him and waited.
00:41:13You didn't force him.
00:41:15You didn't perform for him.
00:41:17You just stayed.
00:41:20Anyone could have done that.
00:41:22No.
00:41:23Eight people tried.
00:41:26You're the only one who succeeded.
00:41:29Serena.
00:41:32Yes.
00:41:33The road ahead, it's going to get harder before it gets easier.
00:41:37Lydia won't stop.
00:41:38Your sister won't stop.
00:41:39Whatever peace we've found here, it's temporary.
00:41:41I know.
00:41:42You could leave.
00:41:43No one would blame you.
00:41:45This isn't your fight.
00:41:46I thought about my mother in her hospital bed.
00:41:48Thinner every time I visited.
00:41:50I thought about Celeste's designer dress and Zach's Porsche and the wedding invitation with my name printed on it.
00:41:56I thought about Stephen Wynn's voice on the phone.
00:41:59Half plea, half threat.
00:42:00And the $50,000 he'd taken to destroy my future.
00:42:03And then I thought about a little boy who had drawn two crooked words on a piece of paper.
00:42:08Nanny Sarah.
00:42:11You're wrong.
00:42:12He looked at me.
00:42:22Lucian Carrington stared at me like I was a puzzle he couldn't quite solve.
00:42:25Like he'd spent his entire adult life categorizing the world into threats and assets and liabilities.
00:42:30And I refused to fit into any of his columns.
00:42:34I turned and walked toward my room.
00:42:36Serena.
00:42:37I stopped.
00:42:39The storm that's coming.
00:42:42It's not just Lydia.
00:42:44And it's not just your family.
00:42:46There are things you don't know yet.
00:42:49Things about my past.
00:42:51About this house.
00:42:53About why Noah is the way he is.
00:42:56I turned back to face him.
00:42:59Then tell me.
00:43:00Not tonight.
00:43:02His voice was barely audible.
00:43:04But soon.
00:43:06I promise.
00:43:08He turned and walked toward the staircase that led to the third floor.
00:43:12The floor no one was allowed to enter.
00:43:15For tonight.
00:43:16For Noah.
00:43:18Before I could answer, he was gone.
00:43:20His footsteps faded up the stairs.
00:43:22And somewhere out in the darkness beyond the lake.
00:43:25Beyond the estate gates.
00:43:26Beyond the tree-lined drive.
00:43:28Lydia with her lawyers.
00:43:29Celeste with her wedding.
00:43:31Zach with his wounded pride.
00:43:33Stephen with his gambling debts and his guilty conscience.
00:43:36They were all coming.
00:43:37I could feel it in the air.
00:43:38That electric stillness before a storm breaks.
00:43:41But I looked at the door where Noah slept.
00:43:43And I remembered the weight of his small body against my shoulder.
00:43:47I remembered two crooked words on a piece of paper.
00:43:49I remembered three paper rabbits on a windowsill.
00:43:53And I wasn't afraid anymore.
00:43:55Whatever was coming.
00:43:56Let it come.
00:43:57I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
00:44:00Day 14.
00:44:01Afternoon.
00:44:02An uninvited guest appeared at the estate.
00:44:04Not Celeste.
00:44:05Lydia Carrington.
00:44:06She blew right past security.
00:44:08Striding across the marble floor in red-bottomed heels.
00:44:12Marian!
00:44:13Her voice sliced through the entire first floor.
00:44:15I was upstairs with Noah, building blocks.
00:44:18Noah's hand jerked.
00:44:19The block tower collapsed.
00:44:21His face went sheet white.
00:44:23I crouched down, blocking his view.
00:44:25Noah.
00:44:25Don't be scared.
00:44:27Look at me.
00:44:28His lips were trembling.
00:44:30She's going to take me away.
00:44:32No one is taking you anywhere.
00:44:34She will.
00:44:35She said she'd take me before.
00:44:38And then she left me on the side of the road.
00:44:40My heart felt like it had been squeezed in someone's fist.
00:44:44Noah, listen to me.
00:44:45You are safe here.
00:44:46I'm here.
00:44:48Daddy's here.
00:44:50No one can take you away.
00:44:52He looked at me.
00:44:53Those sapphire eyes were full of pure terror.
00:44:56Then he threw himself forward and wrapped his arms around my neck.
00:44:59It was the first time he had ever voluntarily hugged anyone.
00:45:02His little body was shaking.
00:45:04I held him, one hand gently patting his back.
00:45:07The shouting downstairs grew louder.
00:45:09Lucian, I want to see no one.
00:45:11The court granted me visitation rights.
00:45:14Your visitation rights were revoked.
00:45:16Lydia, don't push me.
00:45:17You revoked them?
00:45:18What rights do you have?
00:45:19You left a six-month-old baby alone in a shopping mall for three hours.
00:45:22You think you deserve visitation rights?
00:45:24That was an accident.
00:45:25I had something to do that day.
00:45:26Something to do?
00:45:27Like what?
00:45:28Vacationing overseas with your lover?
00:45:30Silence downstairs.
00:45:32Then the sound of something smashing.
00:45:34Lucian!
00:45:35Don't think money makes you above everyone else!
00:45:38I'll sue you!
00:45:39I'll be waiting.
00:45:40The click of high heels retreated rapidly.
00:45:43The front door slammed.
00:45:44Noah's body was still trembling.
00:45:46She's gone.
00:45:47She's gone now.
00:45:48I held him and said softly.
00:45:50He slowly loosened his grip, but still clutched my sleeve.
00:45:55Nanny Sarah.
00:45:56Hmm?
00:45:57Will you leave too?
00:45:59I told you I'm not leaving.
00:46:01That's what they all say.
00:46:03Those other nannies said they wouldn't leave either.
00:46:05Then they disappeared.
00:46:07I took his hand and placed it in front of me.
00:46:10Noah, look at me.
00:46:12He raised his head.
00:46:14I, Serena Wynne, keep my word.
00:46:16I'm not leaving.
00:46:18He stared at me for a long time, then let out a tiny.
00:46:21That night, Lucian came up to the second floor.
00:46:24Noah was already asleep.
00:46:25He stood at Noah's door for a long time, watching.
00:46:28Then he walked over to me.
00:46:30What happened today?
00:46:33It's my job.
00:46:34No.
00:46:35He said.
00:46:36What you do goes far beyond a job.
00:46:38And in those normally warmthless eyes, there was something else.
00:46:41Serena.
00:46:44I looked into you.
00:46:45My heart skipped.
00:46:47You're Professor Cedric Stanton's final protege.
00:46:50National Pediatric Pythology Competition winner.
00:46:52That paper you published on early intervention for childhood autism,
00:46:55it's been cited over 300 times.
00:46:58After what happened to your advisor, your internship was cancelled.
00:47:01Your scholarship was clawed back.
00:47:03You barely got your diploma.
00:47:06Your father didn't help you.
00:47:07Your fiancé, he chose your stepsister at the worst moment of your life.
00:47:13You dug deep.
00:47:15You shouldn't be working as a nanny.
00:47:17But here I am.
00:47:19He looked at me for a few seconds.
00:47:21I'm not trying to fire you.
00:47:22I know.
00:47:23What I mean is, you deserve better.
00:47:26I smiled faintly.
00:47:28Mr. Carrington, right now nothing matters more to me than earning money for my mother's treatment.
00:47:33This job is the best option I have.
00:47:36He didn't say anything else.
00:47:38But before he turned away, he said one thing.
00:47:41If someday you don't want to be a nanny anymore, come find me.
00:47:45He went up to the third floor.
00:47:47I stood in the hallway, my heart beat slightly unsteady.
00:47:53Serena, get a crib.
00:47:54He's your employer.
00:47:56You're his son's nanny.
00:47:57Don't make this complicated.
00:47:59Day 15.
00:48:00Celeste's wedding invitations officially went out.
00:48:03Her social media exploded.
00:48:04Caption,
00:48:05Thank you all for the well wishes.
00:48:07The 15th of next month.
00:48:09Come witness our happiness.
00:48:10Likes and comments flooded in.
00:48:12Celeste, you're gorgeous.
00:48:14Zach is so handsome.
00:48:16Perfect couple.
00:48:18So jealous.
00:48:19I scrolled through and found one comment.
00:48:21Isn't your sister coming?
00:48:23Celeste replied,
00:48:24My sister's busy out there.
00:48:26She's working as a nanny now.
00:48:28Can't get away.
00:48:29Followed by a string of laughing emojis.
00:48:31The comment section erupted.
00:48:33Serena's a nanny now?
00:48:34Wasn't she a Northport grad?
00:48:36I heard she got dumped by her boyfriend.
00:48:38Doesn't even have a place to live.
00:48:40Brutal?
00:48:41Guess it's just fate.
00:48:42Same father.
00:48:43Such a different life.
00:48:45I looked at these comments,
00:48:46my fingers tightening slightly.
00:48:48Celeste,
00:48:48you really won't let me live in peace.
00:48:52The butler approached.
00:48:53Miss Wynne,
00:48:54there are people at the gate.
00:48:55They say they're reporters.
00:48:56They want to interview Celeste Wynne's sister.
00:49:00What?
00:49:01They said someone tipped them off.
00:49:03Northport University graduate working as a nanny.
00:49:05They want to do a feature story.
00:49:07Celeste.
00:49:09Send them away.
00:49:10They're already being removed,
00:49:11but they photographed the estate gate.
00:49:13They'll identify this as Carrington property soon.
00:49:16If this got reported,
00:49:17this wasn't just about my reputation.
00:49:19It implicated Lucien too.
00:49:21I grabbed my phone,
00:49:23hesitated for three seconds,
00:49:24and called Aiden.
00:49:26Aiden,
00:49:26I need help.
00:49:27Fifteen minutes later,
00:49:28every reporter at the gate had been dispersed.
00:49:31Aiden's efficiency was staggering,
00:49:33but he called me back.
00:49:34Miss Wynne,
00:49:35Mr. Carrington has been informed.
00:49:37What did he say?
00:49:38He told me to look into this Celeste Wynne.
00:49:41That's not necessary.
00:49:43Mr. Carrington's orders.
00:49:44He says no one gets to use his staff for publicity stunts.
00:49:48I held the phone,
00:49:49not knowing what to say.
00:49:50Staff.
00:49:51He said staff.
00:49:52But what he did,
00:49:53that wasn't how you treated staff.
00:49:55That evening,
00:49:56Lucien came home even earlier than usual.
00:49:585.30.
00:49:59He walked into the hall while I was warming Noah's milk.
00:50:03Serena.
00:50:04My study.
00:50:05Now.
00:50:06I followed him into the first floor study.
00:50:09The door closed.
00:50:10He sat behind his desk,
00:50:12indicating the chair across from him.
00:50:15Celeste.
00:50:16Aiden told you?
00:50:18Yes.
00:50:19Mr. Carrington,
00:50:20this is my personal matter.
00:50:21It shouldn't involve you-
00:50:22It already does.
00:50:24Reporters photograph the Lakeview Manor gate.
00:50:26If this gets published,
00:50:27it affects Noah too.
00:50:29He was completely calm.
00:50:30So I'll handle it.
00:50:32How?
00:50:34You don't need to worry about that.
00:50:36But-
00:50:38Serena.
00:50:39He looked at me,
00:50:40his gaze heavy.
00:50:42Some things you can't carry alone.
00:50:44I froze.
00:50:45Your mother's illness.
00:50:46Your father's indifference.
00:50:50Selelst's scheming.
00:50:53Zack's betrayal.
00:50:56How much longer do you think you can carry all of it by yourself?
00:51:00I opened my mouth.
00:51:01Nothing came out.
00:51:02I'm not pitying you.
00:51:04I'm stating a fact.
00:51:05Right now you are part of the Carrington household.
00:51:08When something happens to someone in this household, I handle it.
00:51:11The Carrington household.
00:51:12Those words suddenly felt very heavy.
00:51:14All right.
00:51:15I said.
00:51:16He nodded.
00:51:18One more thing.
00:51:20He pulled a document from his drawer and slid it across the desk.
00:51:24What's this?
00:51:26Professor Stanton's case.
00:51:28I had someone reinvestigated.
00:51:30My heart lurched.
00:51:31I opened the file.
00:51:32It detailed the full timeline of Professor Stanton's accusation.
00:51:36Accuser.
00:51:37Anonymous.
00:51:38Accusation.
00:51:39Academic fraud.
00:51:40Investigation.
00:51:41Result.
00:51:42Insufficient evidence.
00:51:43Yet Professor Stanton resigned voluntarily.
00:51:46Insufficient evidence?
00:51:47I stared at the file.
00:51:49I see university said it was confirmed.
00:51:50If it had been confirmed, the finding wouldn't be insufficient evidence.
00:51:53Someone manipulated the process.
00:51:56Who?
00:51:57Lucian looked at me.
00:51:58Are you sure you want to know?
00:52:00Tell me.
00:52:01Your father.
00:52:02Stephen Wynn.
00:52:03My mind went blank.
00:52:05What?
00:52:06Stephen Wynn had gambling debts three years ago.
00:52:08The debt collector was someone inside the Northport medical system.
00:52:11A man with a personal grudge against Professor Stanton.
00:52:15To pay off his debts, your father fabricated evidence and filed the complaint against Stanton.
00:52:20I sat frozen in my chair.
00:52:21Professor Stanton's project was suspended.
00:52:24My internship was cancelled.
00:52:25My scholarship was clawed back.
00:52:27My entire life collapsed overnight.
00:52:29And the reason was, my father.
00:52:31Stephen Wynn took $50,000 as payment.
00:52:34Paid off his gambling debts with it.
00:52:37The rest...
00:52:39Bought Salels that Porsche.
00:52:41Lucian's voice was steady, but every word cut like a knife.
00:52:45I sat there, motionless.
00:52:47From start to finish.
00:52:48The person who destroyed me wasn't someone else.
00:52:50It was my own father.
00:52:52Are you okay?
00:52:53Lucian asked.
00:52:55I looked up at him.
00:52:56How solid is this evidence?
00:52:58Rock solid.
00:52:59If you want to use it, I can-
00:53:00Not yet.
00:53:01What are you going to do?
00:53:02I haven't decided.
00:53:04But one thing I had decided.
00:53:07Steve Lynn Wynn.
00:53:09Celeste Wynn.
00:53:11Zach Thornton.
00:53:13None of you are getting away.
00:53:15Mr. Carrington.
00:53:17Hmm?
00:53:19Why are you helping me?
00:53:21Because no one needs you.
00:53:23His tone was too natural.
00:53:24Natural enough that I almost believed it.
00:53:27I didn't sleep that night.
00:53:28Professor Stanton's case churned through my mind over and over.
00:53:33$50,000.
00:53:34Steven Wynn sold my future for $50,000.
00:53:38Go get him, Sarah.
00:53:40Dad believes in you.
00:53:41The man who once patted my shoulder before my college entrance exams and said,
00:53:45I leaned against the headboard and read every word of that file three times.
00:53:49The evidence chain was airtight.
00:53:51Stephen's bank records.
00:53:53The gambling I owe us.
00:53:55Call logs with the debt collector.
00:53:57Handwriting analysis on the complaint letter.
00:54:00Lucian's people had been terrifyingly thorough.
00:54:02How much power did this man have?
00:54:04And why would he go to such lengths for a nanny?
00:54:07Because Noah needs you.
00:54:09That's what he said.
00:54:10But something told me it wasn't just that.
00:54:13The next morning, I was helping Noah into his jacket for a walk.
00:54:17The butler came over.
00:54:18Miss Wynn?
00:54:20Mr. Carrington asked me to tell you.
00:54:22Someone is coming to the estate at three this afternoon.
00:54:25He wants you present.
00:54:26Who?
00:54:27Professor Cedric Stanton.
00:54:30Professor Stanton?
00:54:33Hadn't he resigned and left Northport?
00:54:35Mr. Carrington said it took some time to track down Professor Stanton.
00:54:39He's been running a small clinic in a southern town.
00:54:41He traveled overnight to get here.
00:54:45Nami, Sarah, what's wrong?
00:54:48Nothing.
00:54:50I stood and took a deep breath.
00:54:53Let's go for that walk.
00:54:54Okay.
00:54:55Three o'clock.
00:54:56I stood outside the first floor drawing room door.
00:55:00Palms slick with sweat.
00:55:01The door opened.
00:55:02Professor Cedric Stanton sat on the sofa.
00:55:05He'd aged so much.
00:55:06His hair gone completely white, but his eyes were still bright.
00:55:09The moment he saw me, he stood.
00:55:12Sarah.
00:55:13Professor.
00:55:15You've lost weight, but your spirit's still there.
00:55:20My nose stung.
00:55:21I fought it back.
00:55:22Lucian sat on the opposite sofa, saying nothing.
00:55:25Professor Stanton sat down and sighed.
00:55:27Mr. Carrington showed me the evidence yesterday.
00:55:29I always suspected the complaint was fabricated, but I never imagined it was your father.
00:55:34Professor, I'm so sorry.
00:55:37What does this have to do with you?
00:55:39You were the best student I ever had.
00:55:41When it happened, you were the one who suffered most.
00:55:44Your paper.
00:55:46Your project.
00:55:47Your future.
00:55:48Professor, if this evidence comes out, your reputation can be restored.
00:55:56I've already had the legal team prepare.
00:55:59Whenever Professor Stanton is ready, we can proceed.
00:56:02Steven Wynn is your father.
00:56:04Have you thought this through?
00:56:06He sold my future.
00:56:08Destroyed your reputation.
00:56:09He doesn't deserve to be called my father.
00:56:12All right.
00:56:15That evening, before Professor Stanton left, he spoke to me alone.
00:56:19Sarah.
00:56:20Mr. Carrington.
00:56:22I've only known him a day, but I can tell he's not the type who helps people casually.
00:56:28Professor.
00:56:29The resources he sank into uncovering all this, it wasn't cheap.
00:56:33He's either after something, or he cares about you.
00:56:38Whatever it is, know your own worth.
00:56:41You're a talented young woman, not anyone's accessory.
00:56:44I know.
00:56:46Professor Stanton patted my head.
00:56:48Go on.
00:56:50You've got a long road ahead.
00:56:51After seeing Professor Stanton off, I stood at the estate gate, watching his car disappear
00:56:57down the tree-lined drive.
00:56:59Lucian had appeared beside me at some point.
00:57:03Your professor was right.
00:57:06About what?
00:57:08You shouldn't be anyone's accessory.
00:57:10But if you need someone in your corner, I can be that.
00:57:14I turned to look at him.
00:57:16He wasn't looking at me.
00:57:17Mr. Carrington.
00:57:19Call me Lucian.
00:57:22That doesn't seem appropriate.
00:57:24Why not?
00:57:26I'm your nanny.
00:57:28In those perpetually cold eyes, there was something different now.
00:57:33You're more than a nanny.
00:57:36You always have been.
00:57:38My heart was pounding, but I still said the rational thing.
00:57:41Mr. Carrington, there shouldn't be-
00:57:43I'm not confessing anything.
00:57:44I'm stating my position.
00:57:46You're someone I value, not just an employee.
00:57:50What happens next is up to you.
00:57:52He walked away.
00:57:53I stood there, blown by the wind for a long time.
00:57:58Serena, get a grip.
00:58:00Breathe.
00:58:02In.
00:58:03Forget it.
00:58:03Can't get a grip.
00:58:04The next several days, I threw myself into routine, spending time with Noah, looking after Noah, pouring all my focus
00:58:12into Noah.
00:58:13His progress was more and more obvious.
00:58:16Day 20.
00:58:17Ten days until Celeste's wedding.
00:58:19Her social media had turned into a wedding countdown channel.
00:58:22Daily countdown posts.
00:58:24Captions getting sappier by the day.
00:58:26Ten days until I'm Mrs. Thornton.
00:58:28My wedding dress was custom made in Paris.
00:58:31Only three in the world.
00:58:32I'd scroll past and close it.
00:58:34But that evening, a call came in.
00:58:36Stephen Wynn.
00:58:37Sarah, talk.
00:58:39Someone dug up my old gambling IOUs.
00:58:41And what happened back then?
00:58:43Sarah, don't do anything reckless.
00:58:45That's ancient history.
00:58:47What's the point of dragging it up now?
00:58:48Ancient history?
00:58:49Professor Stanton's reputation was destroyed.
00:58:53My future was destroyed.
00:58:55And you call it ancient history?
00:58:57I was desperate.
00:58:59You were desperate, so you sold your daughter's life.
00:59:04Stephen, did you think if I never found out, I'd never hold you accountable?
00:59:07Sarah, listen to me.
00:59:09If this comes out, your father could go to prison.
00:59:13You'd send your own father to prison?
00:59:15You destroyed my future.
00:59:17Did that bother you?
00:59:18Silence on the other end.
00:59:19Have you already talked to a lawyer?
00:59:21Guess.
00:59:22Serena, you ungrateful brat.
00:59:24I raised you for over 20 years?
00:59:27When did you ever raise me?
00:59:29Every cent of my tuition from childhood was earned by my mother's labor.
00:59:33You?
00:59:34Your money all went to gambling and supporting Celista's mother.
00:59:38Stephen, I'm giving you one last chance.
00:59:42Before Celesta's wedding, go to the police and confess everything about what happened back then.
00:59:46If you don't, what happened to me?
00:59:48Are you insane?
00:59:50Celesta's wedding is next week.
00:59:51You're pulling this now?
00:59:53Isn't that perfect timing?
00:59:56I hung up.
00:59:57My fingers trembled for a few seconds.
00:59:59Then steadied.
01:00:01Five minutes later, Celeste's call came through.
01:00:04Serena!
01:00:05What the hell do you think you're doing?
01:00:07So you know already?
01:00:08Your dad told you?
01:00:10You leave dad alone.
01:00:11Don't you dare.
01:00:13Celesta, who do you think you are?
01:00:15When you were driving that Porsche bought with the money my father got for selling me out?
01:00:19Bullshit!
01:00:20Zach bought that car!
01:00:22The down payment came from my father to your mother.
01:00:26And your mother to you.
01:00:29You think I can't trace that?
01:00:30Serena, what do you want?
01:00:32I don't want anything.
01:00:34I just want justice.
01:00:36Justice?
01:00:37A nanny like you?
01:00:38What gives you the right to talk about justice?
01:00:42Just wait.
01:00:44I hung up.
01:00:45This time, I didn't delete the number.
01:00:47Because the real show was still to come.
01:00:50Day 22.
01:00:51Eight days until Celeste's wedding.
01:00:53A package arrived at the estate.
01:00:56Miss Wynn, a delivery for you.
01:00:57I opened it.
01:00:58It was a maid of honor dress.
01:01:00Pink.
01:01:01Cheap fabric.
01:01:02Shoddy stitching.
01:01:03A card inside.
01:01:05Little sister.
01:01:06Got your dress ready.
01:01:07It was cheap, but I figured a nanny wouldn't mind.
01:01:10Wear it next Saturday.
01:01:12Celeste.
01:01:13I held that dress for ten seconds.
01:01:15Then threw it in the trash.
01:01:18That evening, Lucian came home.
01:01:20He called me into the study.
01:01:22Celeste's wedding.
01:01:23Are you going?
01:01:24Yes.
01:01:25Isn't she the bridesmaid?
01:01:27Then what is she doing as?
01:01:30The main event.
01:01:31What do you want to do?
01:01:32The evidence of Professor Stanton's framing.
01:01:35The bank records of Stephen taking the bribe.
01:01:37The source of Celeste's Porsche down payment.
01:01:40I want to expose all of it.
01:01:41At the wedding.
01:01:42You're sure?
01:01:43I'm sure.
01:01:45What do you need?
01:01:46A proper outfit.
01:01:49Aiden, arrange a full formal wardrobe for Miss Wynn.
01:01:52Anything else?
01:01:54I might need a lawyer.
01:01:55My entire legal team is at your disposal.
01:01:58And a driver?
01:01:59I'll take you myself.
01:02:01You?
01:02:02Personally?
01:02:03Yes.
01:02:03Why?
01:02:04Because if you walk in alone, they'll think you came to beg.
01:02:07But if you step out of my car, they won't even have the nerve to speak.
01:02:13I looked at him.
01:02:14This man.
01:02:15Cold as an iceberg.
01:02:17Yet every single thing he did felt like paving a road beneath my feet.
01:02:20Loopy and Carrington.
01:02:24Don't.
01:02:24Everything else can wait.
01:02:26Let's finish this first.
01:02:27Three days before the wedding.
01:02:29Aiden delivered the outfit.
01:02:31A black couture gown.
01:02:32Sharp tailoring.
01:02:34Fabric that clearly cost a fortune.
01:02:36Matching heels.
01:02:37A set of understated jewelry.
01:02:39Mr. Carrington chose everything personally.
01:02:41I tried it on.
01:02:42The person in the mirror made me pause.
01:02:45It had been a long time since I'd felt like this.
01:02:47Like a person.
01:02:48Not a nanny.
01:02:49Not a discarded ex-fiance.
01:02:51Not someone's accessory.
01:02:53Just me.
01:02:54Serena Wynn.
01:02:55Noah sat nearby looking up at me with his little face tilted.
01:02:59Nanny Sarah is so pretty.
01:03:03Where are you going?
01:03:04To do something important.
01:03:07What kind of thing?
01:03:09Chase away the bad guys.
01:03:11Like the rabbit defeating the big bad wolf in the story?
01:03:13Something like that.
01:03:15Then good luck.
01:03:15I crouched down and hugged him.
01:03:17Save me some dinner.
01:03:19Okay.
01:03:20Wedding day.
01:03:21Three o'clock in the afternoon.
01:03:23The Northport Grand Hotel.
01:03:25Zach Thornton and Celeste Wynn's wedding was booked at one of Northport's most expensive venues.
01:03:30About 300 guests were in attendance.
01:03:32Mostly from Northport's business and medical circles.
01:03:35Celeste had gone all out to make this the most talked about wedding in the city.
01:03:39She'd succeeded.
01:03:40Just not in the way she'd imagined.
01:03:42At 2.50pm, a black Maybach pulled up at the hotel's main entrance.
01:03:46Everyone saw it.
01:03:47Because the Maybach was followed by two black Mercedes sedans.
01:03:51The doors opened.
01:03:52Lucian Carrington stepped out first.
01:03:54He was dressed in a dark bespoke suit today.
01:03:57Hair swept back.
01:03:58The greeters at the hotel entrance froze.
01:04:00Is that Lucian Carrington?
01:04:02Lucian Carrington of Carrington Group?
01:04:04What's he doing here?
01:04:05This is the Thornton wedding.
01:04:06What's his connection to the Thorntons?
01:04:09Lucian walked to the other side of the car and opened the passenger door.
01:04:12He extended his hand.
01:04:13I took it and stepped out of the car.
01:04:15Black couture gown.
01:04:16Heels.
01:04:17Hair swept up.
01:04:18Standing beside Lucian Carrington, the hotel entrance fell silent.
01:04:22Then the buzz of whispers erupted like a swarm of bees.
01:04:25Who is that woman?
01:04:26She came with Lucian Carrington?
01:04:28She's stunning!
01:04:30Wait, does she look familiar?
01:04:32Isn't that Serena Wynn?
01:04:34Serena?
01:04:35Celeste's sister?
01:04:36The one who became a nanny?
01:04:38I heard the voices.
01:04:40I ignored them.
01:04:41Lucian walked beside me, his pace unhurried.
01:04:44We entered the hotel lobby.
01:04:45The person at the registration desk...
01:04:47Mr. Mr. Carrington.
01:04:49The ballroom was already filling up.
01:04:52Everyone was whispering.
01:04:53Celeste, wearing that one-of-only-three-in-the-world wedding dress,
01:04:57was standing near the stage talking to her makeup artist.
01:05:00She turned at the commotion at the entrance.
01:05:02The moment she saw me, her expression shifted.
01:05:05The moment she saw Lucian Carrington beside me,
01:05:07her expression collapsed entirely.
01:05:10Serena!
01:05:11Congratulations, sister.
01:05:13Zach walked over from the other side,
01:05:15dressed in his groom's tuxedo.
01:05:17When he saw Lucian Carrington, his stride visibly faltered.
01:05:21Mr. Mr. Carrington?
01:05:23What brings you here?
01:05:25Your bride invited me.
01:05:26Not welcome?
01:05:27Welcome! Of course you're welcome!
01:05:29Zach's demeanor instantly shifted to groveling deference.
01:05:32Lucian Carrington was the richest man in Northport.
01:05:35Why did you come with him?
01:05:37I told you. I work at his house.
01:05:39Work? Aren't you a nanny?
01:05:42A nanny is a job.
01:05:43What, does your wedding not welcome working people?
01:05:46She wanted to lash out, but with Lucian Carrington standing right there.
01:05:50Of course you're welcome.
01:05:52Sister.
01:05:53Glad you made it.
01:05:54When she turned and walked away, I saw her hands were shaking.
01:05:58The ceremony began at 3.30 sharp.
01:06:00The officiant on stage recited the standard lines.
01:06:03Stephen Wynn walked Celeste down the aisle.
01:06:05When he saw me, his whole body seized up.
01:06:07Then he saw Lucian Carrington next to me.
01:06:09His face went sheet white.
01:06:11The aisle walk, the ring exchange.
01:06:12Everything proceeded as scripted, until the officiant said,
01:06:16And now, a toast from a representative of the bride's family.
01:06:21Thank you all for coming to Zach's and my wedding.
01:06:23I'm especially happy today because my sister Serena is here.
01:06:27She looked at me.
01:06:29Some of you might not know, my sister recently started working as a nanny.
01:06:33The job's not glamorous, but I'm truly touched she could make it to her big sister's wedding.
01:06:39Celeste's face radiated smug superiority.
01:06:42She thought this was her stage.
01:06:44She thought she'd won.
01:06:45I stood up.
01:06:46Since my sister was so enthusiastic in introducing me, let me say a few words, too.
01:06:50Serena, what are you doing?
01:06:52I took the microphone.
01:06:54Good afternoon, everyone.
01:06:55I'm Serena Wynn, the bride Celise Wynn's sister.
01:06:58This certainly is an impressive wedding.
01:07:01The bride's dress is Paris couture.
01:07:03The planner is Northport's most expensive team.
01:07:06The venue is Northport's finest.
01:07:09But I have a question.
01:07:10The Porsche the bride drives, where did the down payment come from?
01:07:13Anyone know?
01:07:14$30,000 down, paid by my father, Stephen Wynn.
01:07:18But where did Stephen Wynn get the money?
01:07:21He's always claimed to be broke.
01:07:23Couldn't even contribute to my mother's medical.
01:07:26The room began buzzing.
01:07:27Serena, what nonsense are you spouting?
01:07:31I pulled out my phone and opened a document.
01:07:34Three years ago, Stephen Wynn had $50,000 in gambling debts.
01:07:39The debt collector was a man named Felix Morden, connected to the Northport medical system.
01:07:44Modern had a personal grudge against Professor Cedric Stanton of Northport University.
01:07:49He had Stephen fabricate evidence and file a false complaint,
01:07:52accusing Professor Stanton of academic fraud.
01:07:56Stephen received $50,000.
01:07:59$30,000 of it was funneled through his wife Fiona to Celesta.
01:08:03That was the Porsche down payment.
01:08:05Professor Stanton was forced to resign because of this false accusation.
01:08:08His reputation was destroyed.
01:08:10And I, as Professor Stanton's student,
01:08:13had my internship canceled and my scholarship revaked.
01:08:17I looked at Stephen Wynn's ashen face in the audience.
01:08:21My future was sold by my own father for $50,000.
01:08:24And after selling it, he didn't spend a single SEM on my mother's treatment.
01:08:28You're lying!
01:08:29You're making this up!
01:08:31Here are the bank records.
01:08:32I cast my phone screen to the ballroom projector.
01:08:35Felix Mordenstein's transfer.
01:08:37Fiona Wine's transfer.
01:08:39Every transactioned, tan spawned, and stamped by the bank.
01:08:43300 pairs of eyes fixed on those numbers.
01:08:45It's impossible!
01:08:47I switched to the next page.
01:08:49Handwriting analysis of the complaint letter.
01:08:51The anonymous complaint against Professor Stanton was written by Stephen Wynn.
01:08:55In his own hand.
01:08:57Stephen Wynn's legs buckled.
01:08:59He grabbed the back of the chair to stay upright.
01:09:01Serena, you!
01:09:03I turned to Celeste.
01:09:05One last question.
01:09:06Your wedding dress.
01:09:08Your wedding-ness dress.
01:09:09Paris couture.
01:09:11One of only three in the world.
01:09:13Right?
01:09:14The designer is named Jean-Pierre.
01:09:17His Atelier was in the 8th apartment of Paris.
01:09:20I confirmed it.
01:09:21That Atelier closed last year.
01:09:23Your worldwide limited edition dress was made by a knockoff factory in a warehouse district.
01:09:29Production cost, $380.
01:09:33Celeste's face cycled between crimson and bone white.
01:09:36You!
01:09:38Celeste, you stole my fiancé.
01:09:40I could let that go.
01:09:41You took my wedding plans.
01:09:43I could let that go too.
01:09:45But you used the money my father got from selling my future to buy your car.
01:09:49And then mocked me in front of everyone for being a nanny.
01:09:52Do you have any shame at all?
01:09:54Total silence.
01:09:55Celeste's eyes welled up.
01:09:57Zack, say something!
01:09:58Zack stood to the side, his face drained of color, unable to form a single word.
01:10:03It wasn't that he didn't want to speak.
01:10:04It was that he saw Lucian Carrington sitting in the third row.
01:10:08Lucian's legs were elegantly crossed.
01:10:09His expression was mild.
01:10:11Lucian set down his wine glass and slowly rose.
01:10:13Mrs. Wayne.
01:10:15Mr. Carrington?
01:10:16Mrs. Celeste the wine.
01:10:17I have some news for you.
01:10:19Your fiancé, Zack Thornton's company applied to Carrington Group last month for a $3 million loan.
01:10:25Zack's face instantly lost all color.
01:10:27That loan had been approved.
01:10:29But after seeing how you treat my staff today, I've changed my mind.
01:10:33The loan is canceled.
01:10:34Additionally, Zack Torman's company's three contracts within the Carrington supply chain are terminated effective immediate.
01:10:41Zack's legs gave out.
01:10:42He dropped to his knees right there on the red carpet.
01:10:45Mr. Carrington!
01:10:46Mr. Carrington, this has nothing to do with Celeste!
01:10:49It was me!
01:10:50Nothing to do with your bride?
01:10:51So you and your bride, when your ex-fiancé was at her lowest point,
01:10:57repeatedly humiliating her, threatening her,
01:10:59forcing her to be your maid of honor that had nothing to do with either of you?
01:11:02Vests exchanged glances.
01:11:04Celeste stole her sister's fiancé?
01:11:06Oh my god, the Porsche down payment came from that?
01:11:09I know about the Stanton case.
01:11:11Academia always said it was a wrongful accusation.
01:11:14Serena?
01:11:15You ruined my wedding?
01:11:17Your wedding?
01:11:18You built it from the start using everything that was mine.
01:11:21My fiancé was mine.
01:11:22My wedding date was mine.
01:11:24My wedding planning was mine.
01:11:26You stripped me bare.
01:11:27All you've done today is return a fraction of what you took.
01:11:30I stepped off the stage.
01:11:31As I passed Stephen Wynn, he reached out to grab me.
01:11:35Stephen, a lawyer will contact you tomorrow.
01:11:38Either turn yourself in or wait for the summons.
01:11:41I walked to Lucien.
01:11:42Ready?
01:11:43Ready.
01:11:43He extended his hand.
01:11:45I took it.
01:11:45Together we walked out of the ballroom.
01:11:47Behind us, chaos.
01:11:48I didn't look back.
01:11:49Out of the hotel, into the Maybach.
01:11:51The moment the car started moving, I realized my hands were shaking.
01:11:54Lucien said nothing.
01:11:55He pulled a bottle of water from the car's cooler and handed it to me.
01:11:59You okay?
01:11:59Yeah.
01:12:01Satisfying?
01:12:01Hard to say.
01:12:02Not as satisfying as I imagined.
01:12:04Because you weren't doing it for satisfaction.
01:12:06You were doing it for justice.
01:12:08Lucien.
01:12:09Hmm?
01:12:09You canceled three million in loans and three supply chain contracts today.
01:12:14Isn't that a loss for you?
01:12:17Those projects were negligible.
01:12:19Zach's company is too small to matter to Carrington Group.
01:12:22Then why did you approve his loan in the first place?
01:12:24I didn't notice.
01:12:26Loans that size get approved by subordinates.
01:12:28Three million dollars to him was didn't notice money.
01:12:31It was the first time I concretely understood just how wealthy this man was.
01:12:35Back at the estate, Noah was sitting at the entrance waiting for me.
01:12:38The moment he saw me step out of the car, he ran.
01:12:41Nami, Sarah!
01:12:42You're back!
01:12:44I'm back.
01:12:45Did you defeat the big bad wolf?
01:12:47Defeated.
01:12:47He wrapped his arms around my neck and laughed.
01:12:50I laughed too.
01:12:51This was the moment that truly felt worth it.
01:12:54That night, Lucien unusually stayed on the first floor instead of going up to the third.
01:12:58He sat on the sofa reviewing documents while I read Noah a picture book nearby.
01:13:02Noah fell asleep leaning against me mid-story.
01:13:05I carried him upstairs.
01:13:06Lucien followed.
01:13:07I laid Noah in bed and tucked him in.
01:13:10He's getting more and more attached to you.
01:13:12That's a good thing.
01:13:13For him, it's a good thing.
01:13:15What about for you?
01:13:17What do you mean?
01:13:18Someday, you'll leave.
01:13:20You can't be a nanny forever.
01:13:22You have your career.
01:13:23Your future.
01:13:24Once Professor Stannin's case is overturned, your academic reputation will be restored.
01:13:29Institutions will come calling.
01:13:30I told you I'm not leaving.
01:13:32You said that to Noah.
01:13:33I'm saying it to you too.
01:13:35Serena?
01:13:36I'm not making some grand declaration.
01:13:39I'm just saying, right now, in this moment, I don't want to leave here.
01:13:42He looked at me for a long time.
01:13:44Then he smiled.
01:13:45Soft.
01:13:45Faint.
01:13:46But it was the first time I had ever seen him smile.
01:13:48Three days after the wedding incident, the internet exploded.
01:13:51Someone had filmed the wedding.
01:13:53All of it.
01:13:54What kind of father sells his daughter for 50 grand?
01:13:56Zach Thorman is the king of all jerks.
01:13:58The comments were unanimously on my side.
01:14:00Serena, you deserve so much better.
01:14:03Celeste's social media vanished completely.
01:14:06Zach's company stock dropped 30%.
01:14:08Stephen Wynn was summoned by the police.
01:14:10Everything was unfolding as it should, but the story wasn't over yet.
01:14:14That afternoon, the butler approached me with a grave expression.
01:14:18Miss Wynn, a woman named Lydia Carrington has delivered a legal notice to the estate.
01:14:23I took it and read, Lydia was demanding renewed custody of Noah.
01:14:27Her grounds, the nanny employed by Lucian Carrington, has a complicated personal background
01:14:32and chaotic family relationships, making her unsuitable to be around the child.
01:14:36She was using the wedding scandal as ammunition.
01:14:39My heart sank.
01:14:40Does Mr. Carrington know?
01:14:42Aiden has already informed him.
01:14:44Five minutes later, Lucian called.
01:14:46You saw the legal notice?
01:14:48Yes.
01:14:49Don't worry.
01:14:50She's not getting custody.
01:14:52But the grounds she cited?
01:14:53Those grounds won't hold up.
01:14:55Your personal background and your professional confidence are two separate things.
01:14:59The court looks at the quality of care provided to the child, not the Nancy's family drama.
01:15:06But?
01:15:07Serena, listen to me.
01:15:08Lydia's been fighting for visitation for three years and lost every time.
01:15:11The lawyer she hired now is someone I know.
01:15:13All flash, no substance.
01:15:15All right.
01:15:16Let me handle this.
01:15:16But I knew it wasn't that simple.
01:15:19Lydia's goal wasn't really Noah.
01:15:20It was money.
01:15:22Two days later.
01:15:23Lydia asked to meet me at a cafe.
01:15:24The butler was against it.
01:15:26Lucian was against it.
01:15:27If I don't go, she'll think I have something to hide.
01:15:29Lucian looked at me for a few seconds.
01:15:31Aiden goes with you.
01:15:32Fine.
01:15:33The cafe.
01:15:34Lydia sat by the window in a white dress.
01:15:36She was beautiful.
01:15:37The cold, aggressive kind of beautiful.
01:15:40Serena win.
01:15:41Finally.
01:15:42Face to face.
01:15:43Why did you want to meet?
01:15:45Straight to the point.
01:15:46I like that.
01:15:48Serena, I know all about you.
01:15:50Betrayed by your father.
01:15:52Abandoned by your fiancé.
01:15:54Desperate enough to become a nanny.
01:15:55Rough.
01:15:56So?
01:15:57So I'm giving you some advice.
01:15:59Leave the Carrington household.
01:16:01Why?
01:16:02Because your presence there only brings trouble for Noah.
01:16:04Look, your father is facing criminal charges.
01:16:06Your family is a mess.
01:16:07Eventually all of this will surface and what will the media write?
01:16:10The Carrington family nanny?
01:16:12Daughter of a convicted criminal?
01:16:13Do you think that's good for Noah?
01:16:14What are you really trying to say?
01:16:16Her smile faded.
01:16:17What I'm saying is, stay away from Lucian.
01:16:21He's my ex-husband.
01:16:22Noah is my son.
01:16:24You're an outsider.
01:16:25Don't meddle in our family affairs.
01:16:27You abandoned custody when Nathan was six months old.
01:16:31You left him alone in a mall for three hours.
01:16:35What right do you have to call this your family?
01:16:37That was an accident?
01:16:39An accident?
01:16:40You abandoned your child to go abroad with your lover.
01:16:44That's not an accident.
01:16:46That's abandonment.
01:16:47You.
01:16:48Lydia, I'm not leaving.
01:16:50Sue if you want.
01:16:51But you should know, Lucian has the best legal team in Northport.
01:16:55And you, you couldn't even sustain without relying on someone else's pocket.
01:16:58How do you know that?
01:16:59I don't need to explain how I know.
01:17:00I just need you to know that you can't afford to lose.
01:17:03If you actually cared about Noah, you wouldn't be using him as leverage to extort money.
01:17:08You've never cared about Noah.
01:17:09You only care about yourself.
01:17:11I walked out.
01:17:12Behind me came the sound of a coffee cup shattering.
01:17:14I didn't look back.
01:17:16Aiden was waiting outside.
01:17:17How did it go?
01:17:18Fine.
01:17:19She won't be back.
01:17:20How can you be sure?
01:17:22Because she's out of cards to play.
01:17:23And indeed, Lydia never returned.
01:17:26A week later, she withdrew her legal notice.
01:17:28The butler said she'd gone abroad.
01:17:29Where exactly?
01:17:31No one cared.
01:17:32Professor Cedric Stanton's case reached resolution three weeks later.
01:17:36Stephen Wynn confessed to fabricating evidence.
01:17:38Sentenced to two years.
01:17:40Felix Morden was sentenced to three years.
01:17:42Professor Stanton's name was formally cleared.
01:17:45Northport University issued a public statement acknowledging errors in the original investigation
01:17:49and formally apologized to Professor Stanton.
01:17:52Simultaneously, my academic record was reinstated.
01:17:55Northport University awarded me my honors certificate and scholarship retroactively.
01:18:00Three top-tier medical research institutions sent me invitations.
01:18:04Northport's largest children's hospital also extended an offer to bring me on as a special
01:18:09consultant in pediatric psychology.
01:18:11The day the news broke, I was at the estate drawing with Noah.
01:18:14Noah drew a picture, a house, a tall figure, a short figure, and a gray rabbit.
01:18:19But this time, there was another person beside the short figure.
01:18:22Who's this?
01:18:24Nami Sera.
01:18:25Daddy.
01:18:28Noah.
01:18:30Bunny.
01:18:32Then he drew a crooked, wobbly line circling all four figures together.
01:18:36Family.
01:18:37I looked at that drawing, my throat tight.
01:18:40Noah.
01:18:41Hmm?
01:18:43You drew it beautifully.
01:18:44I don't know how long Lucien had been standing in the doorway, but when he walked over, he picked
01:18:48up that drawing and looked at it for a long time.
01:18:51Noah.
01:18:52Do you want Nanny Sera to stay here forever?
01:18:56Yes!
01:18:57Then ask her if she wants to.
01:19:01Nanny Sera.
01:19:02Will you stay here forever?
01:19:04I looked at Noah, then at Lucien.
01:19:06Yes.
01:19:08Noah let out a cheer and threw himself into my arms.
01:19:11Lucien stood up.
01:19:12I stood up too.
01:19:13We faced each other.
01:19:14So?
01:19:15So what?
01:19:16You're willing to stay.
01:19:17Forever.
01:19:18I said yes.
01:19:20Then your job title.
01:19:22What about it?
01:19:23Can we change it?
01:19:24Change it to what?
01:19:25He extended his hand.
01:19:29Let's start with Mrs. Carrington.
01:19:30I looked at his hand, long fingers, well-defined knuckles, palm up.
01:19:35A year ago, I was crouched in a hospital hallway with $300 to my name.
01:19:40Six months ago, I walked into this estate as the ninth nanny.
01:19:43Three months ago, a child who couldn't speak called me nanny for the first time.
01:19:47And now, this man, once cold as an iceberg, in front of his son, was reaching out his hand
01:19:52to me.
01:19:52I took it.
01:19:53His hand was warm.
01:19:54Five years later.
01:19:56Northport.
01:19:56I stood before the Northport Children's Medical Center and looked up at the golden
01:20:00plaque by the entrance.
01:20:02Serena Wynn Center for Child Psychology.
01:20:04This research center, bearing my name, was one of the largest early intervention facilities
01:20:10for childhood autism in the country.
01:20:12Over 20,000 children treated annually.
01:20:14Three years ago, my paper was accepted by a top international journal.
01:20:18Two years ago, I received the highest honor in the international field of child psychology.
01:20:22One year ago, I was appointed Northport University's youngest visiting professor.
01:20:27Professor Cedric Stanton serves as the center's honorary advisor, flying in for a week every
01:20:32month.
01:20:33Sarah, you've surpassed everything I ever achieved.
01:20:37Noah is nine now.
01:20:38He attends Northport's best elementary school, top of his class.
01:20:42He's no longer afraid of strangers, no longer afraid of being abandoned.
01:20:46He has friends.
01:20:47He has hobbies.
01:20:48He laughs.
01:20:49He draws.
01:20:49His drawings cover an entire wall of the bedroom Lucian and I share.
01:20:53His favorite thing to draw is still the family.
01:20:55Only now, the picture includes one more tiny figure.
01:20:58His little sister.
01:21:00Lucian named her Luna Carrington.
01:21:02Luna is two years old.
01:21:03Round and soft as a mochi dumpling.
01:21:05She inherited Lucian's looks and my personality.
01:21:08Beautiful and stubborn.
01:21:10Noah absolutely dotes on her.
01:21:12The first thing he does every day after school is go check on his sister.
01:21:15Did Luna cry today?
01:21:17No.
01:21:18No.
01:21:19Good.
01:21:20The butler is still the same butler.
01:21:21Mrs. Carrington, I've served this household for 20 years.
01:21:25These last five have been the happiest of them all.
01:21:28Stephen Wynn was released from prison.
01:21:30He had someone deliver a letter to me.
01:21:31I never opened it.
01:21:33Fiona and Celeste left Northport long ago.
01:21:36Celeste's wedding to Zach never happened.
01:21:38After the disaster at the ceremony, Zach's company went bankrupt within six months.
01:21:42He now runs a tiny firm in a small town, scraping by.
01:21:45Celeste left him.
01:21:47She married a minor businessman.
01:21:49Where it is, things are unremarkable.
01:21:51I saw her in the news once.
01:21:52She'd put on a lot of weight.
01:21:54Standing at the entrance of a housing complex, screaming at someone.
01:21:58I closed the page.
01:21:59Still thinking about her?
01:22:01No.
01:22:02I just suddenly thought, if she hadn't stolen Zachrack then, I might have married him.
01:22:06And then?
01:22:07And then there would be no you.
01:22:09He smiled.
01:22:10He smiled a lot more than he did five years ago, and warmer.
01:22:14Serena.
01:22:14Hmm?
01:22:15That nancy job you applied for, it wasn't actually a public listing.
01:22:19What do you mean?
01:22:21That job listing was posted at Professor Stanton's request.
01:22:24Professor Stanton?
01:22:26When you hit rock bottom, Professor Stanton reached out to me.
01:22:30He told me about a student of his, the most gifted person he'd ever taught, who was going
01:22:35through a terrible time.
01:22:36He asked me to help.
01:22:37So, from the very beginning, it wasn't a coincidence?
01:22:41The nancy position was real.
01:22:43The $50,000 salary was real.
01:22:45Noah genuinely needed a good caregiver.
01:22:47But the listing was targeted.
01:22:48Sent only to you.
01:22:50Professor Stanton said you would come.
01:22:52That you would definitely come.
01:22:54Because you were the most resilient person he'd ever known.
01:22:57And you?
01:22:58Did you decide to keep me the first time we met?
01:23:01No.
01:23:03Then when?
01:23:04The night you asked whether you could get an advance on your salary.
01:23:07Just because I asked about an advance?
01:23:10Because at your hardest moment, you didn't cry or beg.
01:23:13You sent one message.
01:23:15Asking if salary could be advanced, calm, controlled.
01:23:18In that moment, I thought, this person cannot be broken.
01:23:21The sunlight through the window is beautiful.
01:23:23Luna is babbling in the living room.
01:23:25Noah's voice floats down from upstairs.
01:23:27Luna threw bunny again!
01:23:28The butler is in the kitchen preparing dinner.
01:23:31I lean against Lucian's shoulder.
01:23:33Lucian.
01:23:33Hmm?
01:23:34That piece of candy you gave me back then, what brand was it?
01:23:37You still remember?
01:23:38I remember.
01:23:39I ate it.
01:23:41That candy was left by my mother.
01:23:42Before she passed, she left me a jar of candy.
01:23:45Said whenever something sad happened, eat one.
01:23:47I never did.
01:23:48But you gave one to me.
01:23:50Because you needed it more than I did.
01:23:52I reached out and traced a word on his palm with my finger.
01:23:55What word?
01:23:56Home.
01:23:57He wrapped his hand around mine, holding it tight in his palm.
01:24:00Very tight.
01:24:01Very warm.
01:24:01Outside the window, the sunset has turned the lake to gold.
01:24:05That gray stuffed rabbit still sits on Noah's nightstand.
01:24:08Beside it now is a smaller pink rabbit.
01:24:11Luna's.
01:24:12On the windowsill, three origami rabbits.
01:24:14One big, one medium, one small.
01:24:17Folded by our family.
01:24:18The one with one long ear and one short ear.
01:24:21That's Lucian's.
01:24:22After five years, he still can't fold them right.
01:24:24But Noah says,
01:24:25Daddy's ratties is the prettiest.
01:24:27Luna reaches for the rabbits.
01:24:29Can't quite reach.
01:24:30Noah gets them down for her.
01:24:32Here.
01:24:33Don't throw them again.
01:24:35I stand in the doorway, watching them.
01:24:37Lucian comes up behind me and rests his chin on top of my head.
01:24:41What are you thinking about?
01:24:42I'm thinking,
01:24:43the Serena who was crouched in that hospital hallway with $300 to her name
01:24:47could never have dreamed of a day like this.
01:24:48She didn't need to dream.
01:24:50She just needed to walk in.