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00:00:00Colin and I were together for 10 years. He loved me to the bone, which was why every mistress he
00:00:04took was practically my double. When his mistress number 99 sent a text to provoke me, I vanished
00:00:09from New York without a trace for four years. Yet on the day of my return, he declared in front
00:00:14of
00:00:14everyone, after seeing so many knockoffs, even the original is nothing special. Everyone knew
00:00:20that three months ago, he dumped his entire harem for a college girl who looked nothing like me.
00:00:26Colin assumed I panicked and rushed back, terrified he'd actually fallen for someone else
00:00:31and desperate to win him back. Little did he know, four years had passed, and while he spent them
00:00:36searching the world for my stand-ins, I was already pregnant with my second child. With three days to
00:00:42go before Grandpa Harold's 80th birthday, I flew back alone. Reese was stuck tying up a massive
00:00:47corporate merger, unable to break away. Before I left, he squeezed my hand with quiet certainty.
00:00:53I'll make it before the banquet. Then we'll announce our marriage in front of everyone.
00:00:57I nodded with a smile, though a strange sensation lingered in my chest.
00:01:02After three years of secret marriage, we were finally stepping into the spotlight.
00:01:07The welcome dinner was hosted in the family mansion's banquet hall,
00:01:11illuminated like daylight by grand crystal chandeliers. Grandpa Harold sat at the head of the
00:01:16table, full of vigor, and gestured for me to join him.
00:01:19Charlotte, come sit by Grandpa.
00:01:21Moments after I took my seat, a stir broke out at the entrance as Colin saundered in.
00:01:27His shirt collar was wide open, practically flaunting a glaring lipstick stain along the rim.
00:01:33He gave the room a lazy once-over, his eyes lingering on me for a fraction of a second,
00:01:38before taking a seat across from me. Grandpa Harold looked between us and chuckled.
00:01:42Remember when you two used to run wild in the backyard as kids?
00:01:45Charlotte was always chasing after Colin. Colin complained about it,
00:01:49but when did he ever actually leave her behind?
00:01:50I lowered my eyes, tracing the rim of my glass.
00:01:53Youthfish foolishness, all in the past.
00:01:56Colin let out a scuff, idly tweeting his fresh silverware.
00:02:00He spoke lazily, his voice just loud enough for the whole table.
00:02:04Grandpa, stop playing matchmaker. I've already got someone new.
00:02:07A smirk crept onto his lips as his gaze locked onto mine.
00:02:10Besides, after seeing so many knockoffs, even the original is nothing special.
00:02:18The air at the table instantly froze, the servants bowing their heads in dread as the smile wiped clean off
00:02:24Grandpa Harold's face.
00:02:26I looked up, calmly meeting his provocative glare.
00:02:29Don't worry, I never intended to get back together anyway.
00:02:31That single sentence froze the mockery right off his face.
00:02:35Caught completely off guard, Colin's grip tightened so violently that the wine glass in his hand shattered with a sharp
00:02:41crunch.
00:02:42Glass shards dug into his palm as blood seeped through his fingers, soaking the snow-white table call in a
00:02:48brutal shade of red.
00:02:49Total dead silence fell over the room, while a storm of emotions trashed in his eyes.
00:02:53I raised my water glass, took a calm sip, and acted as if I hadn't seen a thing.
00:03:02The welcome dinner ended on a sour note.
00:03:06Fresh out of the shower back at the hotel, my phone vibrated incessantly.
00:03:10Opening it, social media was practically blowing up.
00:03:13Ten minutes ago, Colin had posted a photo, a pink diamond ring resting a velvet box, glowing softly under the
00:03:18lights.
00:03:19The caption had just four words, forever and always.
00:03:22The comment section erupted instantly.
00:03:24Almost all our mutual friends flooded in with wild banter and congratulations.
00:03:28Holy crap, getting together?
00:03:29Colin finally came to his senses?
00:03:31At Charlotte, why keep such big news from us?
00:03:33Congrats?
00:03:33I stared at the pink diamond for two seconds, my fingers hesitating over the screen, before typing a quick reply.
00:03:40Not me.
00:03:42Don't misunderstand, everyone.
00:03:43But my clarification hit the comments like a pebble in a lake, only stirring up bigger waves.
00:03:49She's shy, right?
00:03:51They never broke up in the first place.
00:03:53I put my phone down and rubbed my temples.
00:03:55Four years, and this crowd hadn't changed a bit.
00:03:58Forever obsessed with tying my name to Colin's.
00:04:01An hour later, my phone lit up again.
00:04:04Colin had edited the post.
00:04:05This time, the caption left no room for doubt.
00:04:08Forever and always to my wife, at Molly.
00:04:10Thank you for saying yes to my proposal.
00:04:13Beneath the pink diamond was a photo of holding hands, showing off a girl's delicate fingers and
00:04:18impaculate nail art.
00:04:20The comments went dead silent for a few seconds, before a fresh storm hit, the mood shifting
00:04:24faster than flipping a page.
00:04:26Someone looking for drama asked directly,
00:04:28What about Charlotte, then?
00:04:29Weren't you two?
00:04:30Colin replied instantly, as if he had the words ready all along.
00:04:33Even Prime State gets boring after a while.
00:04:36A moment later, he added another line.
00:04:38If any of you don't mind taking handy downs, feel free to jump right in.
00:04:41A throwaway remark, casually wrapping a cruel humiliation inside a joke.
00:04:45The comment section exploded in laughter.
00:04:48I stared at those words for three seconds.
00:04:50My knuckles tightened slightly, then slowly unclenched.
00:04:53Closing the app, I flipped the phone face down onto the nightstand with a sharp clack.
00:05:00The next day, a few old friends set up a dinner, calling it a welcome back party.
00:05:06But everyone knew they were worried I'd lose my mind over Colin's post and wanted to cheer
00:05:11me up.
00:05:12However, word got out.
00:05:14Not even ten minutes after I sat down, the private room door swung open, and Colin walked
00:05:18in with one hand in his pocket, accompanied by a glammed up girl, Molly.
00:05:21Scanning the room as if I didn't exist, he casually pulled out a chair and sat down.
00:05:26Leaving me out of a gathering like this?
00:05:29Not cold?
00:05:30Molly was over-the-top enthusiastic, clinging to my arm the moment she sat down, acting like
00:05:34my long-lost bestie.
00:05:35Colin told me all about your past, and I don't mind one bit.
00:05:38To meet you today, I nagged him all night.
00:05:42I didn't expect you to look even better in person.
00:05:44You don't look six years older than me at all.
00:05:48How do you maintain your skin?
00:05:50You must work so hard at it.
00:05:52Do you only use super expensive brands?
00:05:55Are you going to handle your girl or what?
00:05:58Not a chance.
00:05:59This little princess is way too high-maintainment.
00:06:02Hmm.
00:06:03Glad you know.
00:06:04When we were kids, Colin loved pampering people.
00:06:06But as he grew up, being catered to wherever he went gave him a nasty temper.
00:06:10And it had been forever since I saw him indulge anyone like this.
00:06:13Sorry, Charlotte.
00:06:14I didn't mean anything bad.
00:06:15Consider this my apology.
00:06:18Sorry, I can't drink.
00:06:19Charlotte, do you look down on me?
00:06:21Charlotte, I've been way too patient with you.
00:06:23You're taking this drink today.
00:06:23End of story.
00:06:24Hey, it's just one glass.
00:06:26Everyone here knows you can handle your booze.
00:06:28I'm pregnant.
00:06:29I really can't drink.
00:06:36This is that trending online prank, right?
00:06:39You can't fool me.
00:06:41Charlotte, don't scare us like that.
00:06:43My heart almost stopped.
00:06:44Sitting there, Molly swirled her glass slightly, her smart widening as if to say,
00:06:48Is that all you've got?
00:06:50Right then, Colin stood up.
00:06:52He reached out and snatched the glass from right in front of me, his fingers deliberately grazing the rim,
00:06:57a contemptible smart playing on his lips.
00:06:59All right, that's enough acting out.
00:07:01His voice was low and calm, like coaching a throwing a tantrum child.
00:07:04Faking a story like this just to get my attention?
00:07:07Isn't that a bit desperate?
00:07:08He tilted his head back and downed the glass in one go.
00:07:12Later in the party, someone suggested truth or dare, and with the drinks flowing, no one object.
00:07:18After a few rounds, the bottle stopped in front of Molly, who thought for a second before picking truth.
00:07:23A few turns later, the bottle spun lazily and landed straight on me.
00:07:28Molly's eyes lit up, clapping before anyone else could speak.
00:07:32Dare! I choose dare!
00:07:34Standing up, she scanned the men at the table with a sweet smile.
00:07:37How about Charlotte passes a piece of paper, mouth to mouth, with one of the guys here?
00:07:43The table instantly broke into wild hooting.
00:07:45It was a vicious move.
00:07:47Mouth to mouth paper passing might be framed as a party game, but it was dripping with intimacy.
00:07:52I glanced at her.
00:07:53Games like this were common among these rich trust fund kids, but I knew just how possessive the man at
00:07:57home was.
00:07:58As my mind drifted, a voice across from me spoke up first.
00:08:01No.
00:08:02Colin paused, as if realizing he had lost his composure, and added,
00:08:06If she's playing, she plays with me, not anyone else.
00:08:10I could feel the possessiveness burning in his eyes hard as hard as he tried to hide it.
00:08:14I had no interest in playing along, but reading my resistance, he added with a smirk.
00:08:19What?
00:08:21Haven't seen me in four years, and now you're too scared?
00:08:24I stood up, catching Mally behind him, turning pain with rage, her fingers clenching tight, and gave a faint smile
00:08:31and nod.
00:08:32He stood, pinching a thin piece of napkin between his fingers.
00:08:37Facing each other, he leaned in, holding one end to my lips.
00:08:42As the distance closed, I could smell the faint woody scent on him.
00:08:46His eyes dropped to my mouth, his breath heavy with a sudden surge of heat.
00:08:50For a split second, it felt like years ago.
00:08:53Our first kiss on the balcony in early summer, the evening breeze, and his youthful face.
00:08:59Closer and closer, until I could almost count his eyelashes.
00:09:02Suddenly, my stomach chirped violently.
00:09:05Turning away, I doubled over and clamped a hand over my mouth, dry-hubbing again and again, as my whole
00:09:10body curled inward.
00:09:12The suffocating intimacy in the air was instantly shattered.
00:09:15The room froze.
00:09:17Colin remained bent over, paralyzed, the napkin still suspended in mid-air.
00:09:21All color drained from his face before rushing back in a furious flush.
00:09:25He stared at my profile, looking like he'd been slapped across the face,
00:09:30humiliation and utter shock practically overflowing from his eyes.
00:09:35I straighted up, took the water someone handed me, rinsed my mouth, and wiped my lips with a napkin.
00:09:40I murmured softly,
00:09:42Morning sickness.
00:09:44It's been pretty frequent lately.
00:09:46Dead silence.
00:09:47Colin stared at me, his eyes swirling with words he couldn't form.
00:09:50His atom-tone bobbed before he let out a cold sneer.
00:09:53Charlotte, if you can't handle the game, don't play.
00:09:56Making up an excuse like that to save face, is it really worth it?
00:09:58I looked up at him, neither confirming nor denying,
00:10:01just crumpling the napkin into a ball and placing it gently on the table.
00:10:05My bad.
00:10:06But if you think it's an excuse, then so be it.
00:10:15I didn't sleep well after getting home.
00:10:19Memories flooding in like a tide.
00:10:22Pulling me back years ago.
00:10:24The rusted gates of the orphanage.
00:10:26Peeling paint and the air smelling of bleach mixed with old wood.
00:10:30I cowered in the corner, watching a group of impeccably dressed strangers walk in with polite smiles.
00:10:36A little boy followed the elderly man, wearing a sharp suit with a neat bow tie.
00:10:40He scanned the room, his eyes locking onto me before he walked over.
00:10:44What's your name?
00:10:45Squatted down and tilted his head.
00:10:47He turned back and shouted to Harold.
00:10:49Grandpa, I want her.
00:10:50I only found out later that to get his grandfather to adopt me,
00:10:53this spoiled little boy promised to practice the piano diligently every day.
00:10:58When he practiced, I listened nearby.
00:11:00He'd deliberately play at breakneck speed, pulling faces at me whenever the teacher turned away.
00:11:06He'd sneak slices of cake in his pockets for me, grinning even when the butler caught and scolded him.
00:11:13After I was adopted into the Stirling family, I was terrified of the dark and couldn't sleep the first few
00:11:18nights,
00:11:18so he brought a pillow and laid right outside my door.
00:11:20Through the door, he bibbled stories to me all night, finally dropping his voice as if sharing a huge secret.
00:11:26Charlotte, I like you the most.
00:11:28When I woke up, the sun wasn't even up yet, and the sky outside was a dim gray.
00:11:32I stared at the ceiling for a long time before pulling myself out of those memories.
00:11:38Reaching for my phone, the screen lit up with a barrage of unread messages, almost all from Colin.
00:11:42What did you mean last night?
00:11:44Do you really have to make things so ugly?
00:11:46Fine, you're a big shot now.
00:11:47I scrolled through them from top to bottom.
00:11:50My expression changed before editing the chat without replying to a single one.
00:11:56Swiping into another chat window, Reese had sent a photo.
00:12:00Our daughter Chloe was sound asleep under the blanket, clutching that old plush toy with the fluffy rabbit ear,
00:12:06her rosy cheeks smeared with a trace of drool.
00:12:09The caption read,
00:12:10Finally got her to sleep.
00:12:12She misses you.
00:12:13I stared at the screen for a long time, gently tracing my thumb over my daughter's cheek in the photo
00:12:18as a soft smile spread across my face.
00:12:21Outside, the morning light was still faint, and the room was so quiet I could hear my own breathing.
00:12:26Setting the phone down, I touched my lower belly and closed my eyes.
00:12:29Whatever Colin thought didn't matter anymore.
00:12:34At 2 a.m. after the party wrapped up, Colin received a phone call.
00:12:37It was one of the friends from dinner, hesitating on the line before finally speaking up.
00:12:43Colin, something's been bogging me the whole ride back. I think I should tell you.
00:12:47What?
00:12:48When Charlotte bent down to pick up her lipstick as we left, her screen lit up.
00:12:51I caught a quick glimpse, a 3 or 4 year old girl holding a bunny plush.
00:12:55She looked just like Charlotte.
00:12:58Colin's grip on the phone tightened instantly.
00:13:01After hanging up, he sat smomeless in the dark living room.
00:13:07He and Charlotte had broken up 4 years ago.
00:13:10If that child really was hers, then the timing of the pregnancy.
00:13:13He closed his eyes, pressing his fingers to his temples as memories flashed like a film reel.
00:13:18Back then, they were still together, before the bitter fights broke out, when she still laughed in his arms.
00:13:24If she got pregnant during that time, the child had to be his.
00:13:28The thought struck him like lightning, leaving him utterly shell-shocked.
00:13:31Astonishment that wilded a disbelief and a wave of raw possessive surged through his chest.
00:13:37He bolted up and called his assistant, his voice shaming with barely suppressed excitement.
00:13:42Run a check. I want every record of Charlotte when she first went abroad.
00:13:46Immigration files, flight lags, hotel check-ins. Dig up everything.
00:13:52Sitting by the window, Colin tapped his knee absently, a smirk creeping onto his lips.
00:14:02Charlotte, you hid this deep. What a hell of a surprise.
00:14:06Half an hour later, the phone rang again.
00:14:09Boss, I came up empty.
00:14:10Her first six months abroad were wiped completely clean.
00:14:13The assistant said, sounding befouled.
00:14:15Customs, declarations, entry records, hotel logs, all erased. It's a total blank.
00:14:20Colin's hand froze around the phone.
00:14:22A second later, instead of disappointment, a slow smile spread across his face.
00:14:26An erased trail was the biggest dead giveaway.
00:14:29Why wipe it so thoroughly unless someone was covering for her?
00:14:31And why go to such lengths to hide a child unless she still couldn't let him go?
00:14:35He stood up and walked to the floor-to-ceiling window.
00:14:37Charlotte, you hid for four years, but you can't run forever.
00:14:44The mall was buzzing with shoppers as I strolled past the luxury boutiques, scanning the displays.
00:14:51Still undecided on a gift for Grandpa Harold's birthday.
00:14:55Right around the corner was a heritage leather shop.
00:14:59But before I could take a step, a waft of sickly sweet perfume drifted over.
00:15:05Charlotte! What a coincidence! Are you alone too?
00:15:09I didn't bring Colin with me either.
00:15:11Every time I try something on, he just says it looks great and swipes his card.
00:15:15It's honestly so annoying.
00:15:17Let's shop together.
00:15:20She casually plucked a limited edition handbag from the display and offered it to me.
00:15:26A bag easily worth six months of an average salary.
00:15:29Consider this a thank you gift from me.
00:15:31Colin used to be such a player.
00:15:32If you hadn't suffered through all his wild years for me,
00:15:35he never would have settled down the moment he met me.
00:15:38Honestly, I really should thank you.
00:15:40Growing up, I had so little.
00:15:42So whenever I find something I want, I hold on tight.
00:15:45You know that feeling better than anyone, right?
00:15:48Because you lost, but I didn't.
00:15:50You're the hundredth girl to say something like that to me.
00:15:52The previous 99 all said the exact same thing, that they were his last.
00:15:57None of them were.
00:15:58I hope you are.
00:16:00The smile on Molly's face frozen instantly.
00:16:03Without giving her another glance, I picked up the gift I had selected
00:16:06and walked straight out of the boutique.
00:16:08Five or six steps away, Molly's voice chased after me.
00:16:11Charlotte, what is that supposed to mean?
00:16:13I didn't turn back.
00:16:15As the elevator doors slid shut, I glanced down at the gift bag in my hand.
00:16:19Its ribbon tied in a neat, perfect knot.
00:16:21How absurd.
00:16:22Four years ago, those women stood before me throwing the same petty provocations,
00:16:26yet now they were long gone from Colin's life,
00:16:28leaving next barely a trace of their names.
00:16:30Number 100, how long will she last?
00:16:32Let her try.
00:16:35But Molly was right.
00:16:36I didn't just lose.
00:16:38I was terrified of getting burned again.
00:16:41Colin didn't start out rotten.
00:16:42When we first got together, he wished there were 25 hours a day just to cling to me.
00:16:47As he grew older, though, he got a taste of the raw privilege and power that money could buy.
00:16:52There was that night Colin got hammered and worried sick.
00:16:57I drove out at midnight to fetch him.
00:17:01Nobody in the private lounge knew I was outside.
00:17:03Colin, swapped girls lately?
00:17:06That starlet last time was pretty hot.
00:17:08Introduce me sometime.
00:17:12Give it a couple of days.
00:17:13I'm taking care of my lottie right now.
00:17:15Man, only Colin could pull off a schedule this packed.
00:17:18Right?
00:17:19Keeping a queen at home while chasing side bicks on the outside?
00:17:22Fuck off.
00:17:23None of them are even in the same league as my girl.
00:17:26I'm just trying everything out before I settle down and get hitched.
00:17:30The room erupted into wild cheers and laughter.
00:17:34My hand froze on the doorknob, never pushing the door open.
00:17:38Right then, my phone screen lit up with a text from an unknown number.
00:17:44Opening it revealed a photo.
00:17:45Two people on a hotel bed.
00:17:47The girl smiling in his arms.
00:17:48The caption read,
00:17:49Colin says you're just a trophy decoration at home.
00:17:51That was number 99.
00:17:53The 90th woman he slept with who came knocking on my door to rub it in.
00:17:55I stared at that message for a long time until the screen dimmed dark and I tapped it awake again.
00:18:00A violent nausea suddenly churned in my stomach and I rushed to the restroom.
00:18:03Clutching the sink as I threw up in agony.
00:18:05Colin came home at dawn, reeking of booze and unfamiliar perfume.
00:18:09Yet he was as gentle as ever.
00:18:11Showering clean, before slipping under the covers to wrap his arms around me from behind.
00:18:16Resting his chin in the crook of my neck.
00:18:17I lay in his arms with my eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling all night long.
00:18:22Why are you still awake, waiting for me?
00:18:25My phone lit up right on cue with a message from Recy.
00:18:28Brief and warm as always.
00:18:30Babe, almost wrapped up here.
00:18:31See you at the banquet.
00:18:32I miss you so much.
00:18:33Okay, miss you too.
00:18:36As I reached the corner of the mansion hallway, a figure stepped out from the shadows, blocking my path.
00:18:41Colin leaned against a pillar, hands in his pockets.
00:18:44A confident Mike smirk playing on his lips as if he'd been waiting for me.
00:18:47Charlotte, I know about the kid.
00:18:50I stopped in my tracks and looked up at him.
00:18:53You had my daughter and hid her for four years.
00:18:57He stepped closer, his eyes burning into mine, his tone completely certain.
00:19:03I checked the timeline.
00:19:06Right after you went abroad.
00:19:08You're overthinking it.
00:19:09I cut him off calmly, meeting his gaze squarely.
00:19:12That child has nothing to do with you.
00:19:14She's between me and my husband.
00:19:16Colin's expressions faltered for a second, like he'd been hit with something heavy.
00:19:19But he quickly smirked again and shook his head, as if stating an indisputable fact.
00:19:23You loved me for ten years, Charlotte.
00:19:25Ten years.
00:19:26You expect me to believe you moved on and married someone else in just a few months?
00:19:29His gaze softened and his voice dropped low, equal parts coaxing and arrogant.
00:19:33I know you're still holding a grudge over Molly.
00:19:36But think about it.
00:19:37That child is mine.
00:19:39My blood runs in her veins.
00:19:41Stepping closer, he pressed on in a whisper.
00:19:43Just come back to me and I'll dump Molly right now.
00:19:46We can start over, alright?
00:19:47His throat strained as he said those words.
00:19:49I stared at him, a man who calculated every move in business yet remained utterly delusional in love.
00:19:54So convinced I still loved him and that all my indifference was just an act.
00:19:58I felt no hatred, no resentment, not even a single ripple.
00:20:03I simply gave his hopeful eyes a calm glance, like looking at a complete stranger,
00:20:07then turned and walked toward my room.
00:20:09Charlotte!
00:20:10You'll come back begging me!
00:20:12You're carrying my child!
00:20:13You can't run forever!
00:20:15I didn't look back.
00:20:17At the end of the hallway, I turned the doorknob, stepped inside, and shut his roaring out behind me.
00:20:27The next morning, I felt the heavy atmosphere in the room.
00:20:30Grandpa Harold sat in the living room sipping tea, his face dark with displeasure.
00:20:33Colin stood nearby, sharply dressed in a suit with a cold, business-like expression, cutting straight to the point.
00:20:39Charlotte, staying here doesn't look right.
00:20:41Pack your things and move out today.
00:20:44My hand holding the water glass didn't pause as I took an unheardly sip.
00:20:48Grandpa Harold spoke up first.
00:20:50Colin, you're crossing the line.
00:20:53Charlotte rarely gets to come back.
00:20:55What's wrong with her staying for a few days?
00:20:58Grandpa, she's not my fiancé.
00:21:00What does it look like, her living under my roof?
00:21:03I lowered my eyes, a faint smirk touching my lips.
00:21:07So Colin was just throwing a tantrum because I refused to back down last night.
00:21:12I set my glass down, my tone casual.
00:21:16I only planned to stay temporarily anyway, and I was heading out today.
00:21:19Where?
00:21:21I casually threw out the name of the Upper East Side residence.
00:21:24This wasn't even a big deal to me.
00:21:26I had already packed my bags, planning to move into Reese's New York property today anyway.
00:21:31It was closer to the banquet hall and far more convenient.
00:21:34I grabbed my suitcase and walked toward the door when that insulsible voice chased after me again.
00:21:39Charlotte, you were adopted into the Storling family.
00:21:43Without us, you probably won't even have a roof over your head, will you?
00:21:46I paused, not turning back.
00:21:48The sarcasm in his voice became completely unvarnished.
00:21:51What, you actually think you're moving into that apartment?
00:21:54That's an Ashford family property.
00:21:56One square meter costs half a year of your salary.
00:21:58Can you even afford it?
00:21:59I couldn't help but chuckle softly.
00:22:01He still thought I was that helpless orphan living under the shadow of his family.
00:22:05Just as I was about to step out, I couldn't be bothered to argue with him.
00:22:08Yet a voice rang out from behind, and a crisp toddler voice pierced through the quiet morning air.
00:22:13Mommy!
00:22:24Aniston stood nearby holding Chloe, the morning light, planing a faint gold edge over his shoulders.
00:22:30The little one saw me and immediately opened her chubby arms, chirping sweetly.
00:22:35Mommy!
00:22:35Before I could even step forward, Aniston moved first, acting like he didn't see Colin standing
00:22:41right there.
00:22:42He carried the kid straight over and deliberately stopped right in front of him, bouncing the
00:22:47little girl in his arms and whispering.
00:22:49Chloe, what do you call me if you want ice cream?
00:22:52Daddy!
00:22:53That single word hit Colin like a sledgehammer.
00:22:56He froze on the spot, his face turning from a dark flush to deathly pale, his lips quivering
00:23:00without squeezing out a single word.
00:23:02I stepped forward and took my daughter from Aniston's arms.
00:23:04Chloe wrapped her arms around my neck, nudging her little face against my shoulder.
00:23:07I looked up at Colin, my tone calm.
00:23:09As you can see, the child isn't yours.
00:23:12With that, I turned, holding Chloe, opened the car door, and sat inside.
00:23:16Aniston walked around to the driver's seat and started the engine, its roar echoing loudly
00:23:20in the quiet morning air.
00:23:22In the rearview mirror, Colin was still standing at the estate gate.
00:23:25In the car, Aniston glanced at me through the rearview mirror and chuckled.
00:23:29His expression was priceless.
00:23:31I couldn't help crack a smile.
00:23:32You did that on purpose, didn't you?
00:23:35Of course, you only met Reese because of me.
00:23:37Besides, I'm the godfather.
00:23:39What's wrong with taking a little credit?
00:23:41I babbled in my arms, playing with her bunny toy's ears.
00:23:44I lowered my head, resting my chin on top of her head, listening to Aniston chatter aimlessly
00:23:50as my heart gradually softened.
00:23:53After taking Chloe and Anson for a tour around New York, we had dinner and got home by dusk.
00:23:57I stepped out of the car, carrying a sleeping Chloe, and as soon as I looked up, I saw a
00:24:01figure standing at the door.
00:24:02Colin leaned against the porch pillar, a nearly burned-out cigarette resting between his fingers.
00:24:06He looked up and saw me, his face turning so dark in the twilight it looked like it was
00:24:09about to drip water.
00:24:10Aniston followed behind me, frowning as he lowered his voice.
00:24:13Do you want me to stay?
00:24:13I shook my head and handed the child into his arms.
00:24:17Take Chloe upstairs first.
00:24:19I'll handle this.
00:24:20He glanced at me without another word, holding the child as he turned into the elevator.
00:24:24I stood in the twilight, separated from Colin by a short distance of silence.
00:24:27He stubbed out the cigarette bit, his Adam Apple bobbing before his voice came out raspy.
00:24:31Whose child is that, really?
00:24:35I ran a check.
00:24:36Colin spoke up.
00:24:37Four years ago, right after you went abroad, the records from the last hotel you stayed
00:24:41and showed Aniston was there that night.
00:24:43The next day, every single security footage from that hotel vanished.
00:24:46And Aniston even cleaned house, firing a huge chunk of his staff just to wipe out your paper
00:24:51track completely.
00:24:52His breath hitted as he talked faster, his chest heaving with untrolled rage in his eyes.
00:24:57Charlotte, tell me, you two stayed in the same hotel in the middle of the night and he wiped
00:25:02every frame of footage the next day.
00:25:04If that wasn't coercion, what was it?
00:25:06He clenched his fists, his voice trembling slightly.
00:25:09Did he force himself on you?
00:25:10I looked at him, staring into those eyes overflowing with pain and fury.
00:25:15With a wild imagination like that, it's honestly a shame he isn't writing screenpays.
00:25:19Did he threaten you?
00:25:20Say he'd hurt the child if you said a word?
00:25:22Colin stepped forward, his tone turning desperate.
00:25:25You don't have to be scared.
00:25:27I'm here now.
00:25:28You can tell me the truth.
00:25:29No.
00:25:30I spoke up, my voice flat without a single tremor.
00:25:34Looking straight into his eyes, I made every word crystal clear.
00:25:37Nobody can force me.
00:25:39And I would never bring a child into this world whose parents aren't in love.
00:25:43Colin opened his mouth as if trying to say something, his atoms apple bobbing, but no
00:25:47sound came out.
00:25:48Watching his face, I found it absurdly hilarious.
00:25:50In his eyes, I was forever that weak girl who needed to be protected and rescued.
00:25:55Back then, and even now.
00:25:56No matter how well I lived, he stubbornly believed my life after leaving him had to
00:26:00be pure hell, forced into silence and helpless to save myself.
00:26:04Colin.
00:26:04I called his name, my tone completely flat.
00:26:07Listen to me closely.
00:26:08What happened that night four years ago has nothing to do with you.
00:26:11The kid has nothing to do with you and my life as well.
00:26:14Every single word of the drama you just cooked up in your head isn't true.
00:26:17He froze on the spot, looking like someone had just dumped a bucket of ice water right
00:26:22over his head.
00:26:24Four years ago, avoiding Colin, I flew to Italy alone.
00:26:28Fresh out of the shower, I heard noise at the door.
00:26:32Keycard swiped.
00:26:34Anson stumbled in burning hot, eyes wild, clearly drugged.
00:26:40I grabbed an entryway vase and smashed it over his head before he could lunge.
00:26:44Knocked cold, I hog-tived him in the tub with my robe belt.
00:26:47When Reese arrived, I was spraying ice water on his head.
00:26:53Sorry about this.
00:26:54Let me.
00:26:55Reese, stop.
00:26:57Pills, shots, anything.
00:26:58Just give me something.
00:26:59I'm not a doctor.
00:27:00Cooling him down was smart.
00:27:02Good job.
00:27:03Really?
00:27:03I thought I was being rude.
00:27:04Toward a potentially dangerous male, you were plenty polite.
00:27:06Stop chatting, I'm dying here.
00:27:08Before leaving, Reese advised I change rooms.
00:27:10There might be airborne drugs here.
00:27:12My heart races whenever I look at you.
00:27:14Do you feel it too?
00:27:15I froze.
00:27:17It took a second to realize nobody had ever confessed love at first sight so uniquely.
00:27:23Next day, Anson came by to thank me and offered help.
00:27:26He's military background.
00:27:27He noticed you're being tailed and wants to fix it.
00:27:31Traveling alone?
00:27:33Yeah.
00:27:34Thanks, I'd appreciate that.
00:27:37No problem.
00:27:39Two months later, Reese and I married in California.
00:27:43Chloe was born the following spring.
00:27:46No coercion, no lingering grief, no tragic drama.
00:27:51I simply moved on to a new life.
00:27:54Snapping back, I stood by the door, watching Colin's frozen face as his lips trembled without
00:28:01a full word.
00:28:04Impossible.
00:28:06How could you?
00:28:07Staring at him without emotion, I said calmly.
00:28:13What's impossible?
00:28:14It's facts.
00:28:16Chloe belongs to my husband, conceived two months after I left.
00:28:19She's got nothing to do with you.
00:28:23You love him that much?
00:28:24Colin's voice was rospy and trembling, clinging to a last shred of desperate stubbornness.
00:28:30We were broken up for not even two months, and you fell in love with a complete stranger?
00:28:35How could you?
00:28:37I stopped at the turn of the stairs and looked back at him.
00:28:39His eyes were blood shut, his face a messy twangle of disbelief and pathetic grief.
00:28:43Looking at him, I almost wanted to laugh.
00:28:45He had the nerve to feel wronged.
00:28:46I spoke calmly, completely to bone of emotion, yet making every word brutally clear.
00:28:51When we were only two months into our relationship, didn't you already start cheating on me?
00:28:55The air was sucked clean out of the room.
00:28:57Colin opened his mouth, but his throat seemed choked with cotton, unable to squeeze out a
00:29:01single syllable.
00:29:02His eyes flickered, looked away, shifted back, and finally dropped.
00:29:06That perpeptly proud face finally cracked with guilt and shame.
00:29:09There was an endless line of women around you.
00:29:13Every single one of them came looking for me to rub it in my face.
00:29:17Did you really think you kept it so well hidden?
00:29:20If you could do it to me, why couldn't I move on?
00:29:23He snapped his head up as if trying to defend it himself, but meeting my cold gaze, he deflated
00:29:28like a popped balloon, his shoulders slowly slumping down.
00:29:31Watching him like that, I couldn't summon a single shred of emotion inside, not even a
00:29:36sense of satisfaction.
00:29:38I just gave him one last response.
00:29:40Appreciate what you have right in front of you and treat Molly well.
00:29:44Pausing, my voice softened slightly.
00:29:46Everyone has to move on, Colin.
00:29:48You should too.
00:29:49Standing below, he suddenly let out a laugh.
00:29:53A dry, rasping sound squeezed from deep in his throat.
00:30:01As he laughed, he lowered his head, his shoulders quivering as a tear slipped off his jaw and
00:30:06splashed onto the floor, barely visible.
00:30:09I turned and walked upstairs, my steps never pausing for a second.
00:30:14After that day, Colin evaporated from my life, never showing his face to me again.
00:30:18I was relieved to finally have peace, using the quiet to focus on preparing Grandpa Harold's
00:30:22birthday banquet, calling the hotel to confirm dishes, double-checking the schedule, and arranging
00:30:26seating.
00:30:38Everything running like clockwork.
00:30:43Every evening when I got home, Chloe would throw herself into my arms, babbling sweetly
00:30:49about whatever new game Anson had played with her.
00:30:52Life settled into a calm, smooth rhythm.
00:30:55Sitting on the couch, I looked at the recent call lugged.
00:30:59Everything was going smoothly on Reese's end.
00:31:02He said he'd be heading over in a couple of days.
00:31:07On the day of the banquet, the Grand Hall was dressed to impress, glittering under crystal
00:31:12chandeliers.
00:31:15Anson held Chloe, whose big eyes curiously scanned the crowd.
00:31:24She's so adorable, Charlotte.
00:31:26Yours?
00:31:31Yep, my daughter.
00:31:33Oh, she takes right after her daddy.
00:31:40Really?
00:31:41I think she's all Charlotte.
00:31:48Reese's ride just pulled up.
00:31:49I'll go grab him.
00:31:50Can you hold Chloe?
00:31:53Chloe?
00:31:53I barely settled Chloe, before high heels clicked against marble.
00:31:57Looking up, Molly sandered over, wine glass in hand.
00:32:02Charlotte, you look lovely tonight.
00:32:04What a cute girl.
00:32:04What's her name?
00:32:08Was that the Ashworth heir?
00:32:11I stayed quiet, gently patting Chloe's back.
00:32:13Molly's gaze locked over my shoulder, a sharp glint flashing in her eyes.
00:32:17Following her look to the entrance, an elegantly dressed couple walked in arm in arm, greeting
00:32:21guests.
00:32:22It was Mr. and Mrs. Ashford.
00:32:23They are Anson's parent.
00:32:25Molly smirked at me.
00:32:26I'm going to say hi to them.
00:32:27Excuse me.
00:32:28She glided over to the couple.
00:32:29I watched her approach, exchange pleasanties with Mrs. Ashford, then lean in with a casual
00:32:33question.
00:32:34Mrs. Ashford froze, shaking her head in total confusion.
00:32:37Molly smiled, thanked her, and stole back to the center of the hall.
00:32:40Noticed quite a few people watching us.
00:32:42She stood tall, took a slow sip of her wine, and raised her voice just enough to carry.
00:32:46Well, isn't this rich?
00:32:47Anis plays doting dad to Charlotte's kid like she's his own, but I just asked his parents.
00:32:53And they have zero clue they even have a granddaughter.
00:33:01She paused, her voice carrying clearly across nearby tables.
00:33:05So, whose kid is this, really?
00:33:07You claim she's yours, Charlotte, but who's the father?
00:33:11Tilting her head, she put on a sickeningly sweet act.
00:33:14Which lucky guy is it?
00:33:16As her words landed, the surrounding chatter died instantly, and every eye in the room snapped
00:33:22onto me.
00:33:23Molly's words were a stone tinned to quiet water, sending sharp ripples through the crowd.
00:33:30The murmurs swelled quickly as people leaned in to gossip, their eyes darting between
00:33:34me and Chloe in my arms.
00:33:36Standing nearby, Anis' parents clearly caught the commotion.
00:33:40Mrs. Ashford knit her brows and whispered to her husband, receiving only a puzzled shake
00:33:44of his head.
00:33:45Even if Anson lives abroad, if the kid were his, how could the Ashfords not know?
00:33:49Could she be a secret child he never brought home?
00:33:52Or maybe Charlotte tricked him into playing stepdad.
00:33:54She was adopted from an orphanage, after all.
00:33:56What kind of upbringing could an orphan have?
00:34:00The quiet insults multiplied, washing over me like a heavy tide.
00:34:05Some gave pitiful glances, while others gloated, as if thinking.
00:34:10The Sterling family's adopted charity case sure brought shame on them with her scandalous
00:34:14secret life.
00:34:15Seeing me stay quiet, Molly pressed her advantage, pitching her voice louder.
00:34:20And what about the baby in your belly?
00:34:23Whose stray seed is that?
00:34:25Just as the whispers grew loud enough to drown out the live band, the grand doors of the hall
00:34:32swung open.
00:34:33Framed against the bright entryway, a tall figure stepped inside with steady, unhurried strides.
00:34:39Sharp in a tailored suit, his towering silhouette was bathed in light, flanked by none other than
00:34:45Anson, the man everyone had just been talking about.
00:34:48Reese walked right up to me and stopped, his broad palm resting naturally against my waist.
00:34:54Chloe's eyes instantly lit up, and she threw her chubby arms toward him.
00:35:00Daddy!
00:35:03The air in the grand hall was sucked dry in an instant.
00:35:07I felt Reese's warm palm wrap securely aground my hand, with a steady, reassuring grip.
00:35:13Charlotte is my wife, and Chloe is our daughter.
00:35:16Does anyone have an objection?
00:35:24Oh my god, Charlotte, you really went all out.
00:35:28Hiring an actor like this couldn't have come cheap.
00:35:35Molly's right.
00:35:36I've been in the New York for years, and I've never heard of you.
00:35:41Hey, hey, any of you recognize this guy?
00:35:52Charlotte, you really are desperate to avoid me, aren't you?
00:35:55Hiring an extra to put on this little show?
00:35:57Do you think this is a movie set?
00:35:58Even if you're just an adopted daughter, letting some nobody pose as a son-in-law to the Strittling family
00:36:04is pathetic.
00:36:05The crowd pressed closer, the ridicule mounting from every corner.
00:36:10I stayed silent, noticing Anson standing off to the side out of the corner of my eye,
00:36:16his mouth twiggling as he fought back a laugh.
00:36:20Just then, a commotion broke out near the side doors.
00:36:23Colin's grandfather, a heavyweight titan whose name could shake the entire business world,
00:36:28hurried into the room with several elder dignitaries,
00:36:31looking solemn and urgent as if rushing to put out a massive fire.
00:36:35Grandpa Harold cut through the crowd and stopped right in front of Reese.
00:36:43Everyone leaned in, expecting him to put this imposter in his place and back up his grandson.
00:36:50Instead, Harold whipped around, his glare like a blade cutting straight into Colin.
00:36:54You embarrassment! Apologize to Mr. Thorne right now!
00:36:57The snickering young socialists froze, their faces turning pale as if doused in ice water.
00:37:02Ollie's smirk completely shattered, her lips quivering without making a sound.
00:37:08Why should I?
00:37:09Colin had never suffered such humiliation in his life, especially before a crowd.
00:37:14Harold slammed his cane into Colin's leg.
00:37:20You brat! This is the CEO of the Thorne Group!
00:37:23Whispers broke out nearby.
00:37:25The defense giant? The military's top young contractor, Reese Thorne?
00:37:28Charlotte's husband is him?
00:37:29No wonder she dumped Colin. Lucky her. Adopted by the Sterlings, now married into the Thorns.
00:37:34Colin clenched his fists, knuckles cracking softly.
00:37:38His profile was strained tight, jaw trembling.
00:37:40He finally squeezed out.
00:37:42My apologies. Please forgive me, Mr. Thorne.
00:37:45The stunned crowd hushed.
00:37:48Elders rushed over with smiles to smooth things over,
00:37:51waving for drink refups and guiding guests back to the center.
00:37:54Unbothered by the scene, Reese smoothly took the way out offered by Harold.
00:37:58His voice calm and steady.
00:38:01Don't be alarmed, everyone.
00:38:02I'm just here accompanying my wife.
00:38:04Please enjoy the party.
00:38:06With those simple words, the tension dissolved instantly.
00:38:08Music resumed and glasses clinked as if nothing happened.
00:38:11Cowering pale in the corner, Molly couldn't even keep her glass steady.
00:38:14I squeezed Reese's warm hand, my heart finally settling.
00:38:18He reached down to tickle Chloe's chin.
00:38:20She giggled and threw her arms around him, chirping.
00:38:22Daddy, hold me!
00:38:24Reese scooped her onto his arm effortlessly.
00:38:26A tall man holding a little girl in a yellow dress, his wife right by his side.
00:38:30Out of the corner of my eye, Colin remained frozen in place, his gaze glued on.
00:38:37A crowd quickly gathered around Reese.
00:38:40Business figures who had been cold on lookers moments ago swarmed over with wine glasses,
00:38:45smiles plastered on their faces.
00:38:47Mr. Thorne, what an honor!
00:38:49We've long heard of the Thorne group.
00:38:52Seeing you in person is truly remarkable.
00:38:55Flattery poured like water, but Reese handled it effortlessly with a polite smile.
00:39:01Holding his glass, his other hand rested naturally around my waist,
00:39:06making our relationship crystal clear.
00:39:10Mr. Thorne, could you share with us the story of how you and Miss Charlotte first met?
00:39:15When someone pried into how we met, he glanced at me with a smile.
00:39:22When destiny calls, you just meet.
00:39:26A smooth, airtight answer.
00:39:28Standing beside him, I almost laughed.
00:39:31Several of these people had egged Malian earlier, but now acted like they'd supported us all along.
00:39:37People in business flip faster than pages in a book.
00:39:40Anison sauntered over with champagne, standing casually beside Reese and tissing loud enough for everyone to hear.
00:39:47A bit snobbish, aren't we?
00:39:48A minute ago you thought I was the stepdad, now you have collective amnesia.
00:39:52Want me to remind you who laughed the loudest?
00:39:55Anison, you're joke-joking.
00:39:57My friend here never jokes.
00:40:02Indeed.
00:40:03For instance, that lady earlier seemed to have quite a misunderstanding.
00:40:08I didn't...
00:40:09Why are you still here?
00:40:11Haven't you humiliated us enough?
00:40:12Let me take you out of here.
00:40:17Come on, kiddo.
00:40:18Godfad's taking you for treats.
00:40:20Your parents have business to handle tonight.
00:40:24After the banquet drama, the scene quieted down for a while.
00:40:27The gossing looks turned into cautious polinisty.
00:40:31Friends finally believed I was truly remarried, had a child, and lived well.
00:40:35A week later, I went to the clinic alone for a routine checkup.
00:40:39On the ultrasound, the little embryo had grown with a strong, healthy heartbeat.
00:40:43Staring at the blurry shatty-o on the screen, I couldn't help but smile.
00:40:47Finishing up, I packed my papers, stepped out of the clinic, and rounded the corner into a familiar face.
00:40:52Charlotte? It really is you!
00:40:54Gabby hurried over in her heels, pleasantly surprised.
00:40:56An old friend who was always candid and direct, she stood by the hallway window, catching up.
00:41:00Looking me up and down, she eyed my checkup bag with a smirk.
00:41:03Look at you, moving fast!
00:41:05After that scene at the banquet, I thought you were putting on an act.
00:41:08Seeing you three together made me a believer.
00:41:10I smiled without replying.
00:41:12Lowering her voice, she shifted gears.
00:41:14Speaking of drama, do you know what's going on at Colin's place?
00:41:18I raised an eyebrow, staying indifferent.
00:41:20Gabby spilled it all at once.
00:41:22His girlfriend, Molly, got pregnant.
00:41:24She threw a fit to marry him, using the baby as leverage.
00:41:28But guess what?
00:41:29Colin flat out refused, ditching her and the kid.
00:41:31I expected as much, but stayed silent.
00:41:33Gabby sighed with nostalgia.
00:41:35Honestly, everyone used to think you two were endgame.
00:41:38Who knew you'd part ways like this?
00:41:40Before she finished, I caught a figure down the hall out of the corner of my eye.
00:41:44Molly stumbled out of the office.
00:41:46Pale-faced, clutching a crumpled paper.
00:41:48Pre-op checkup forms.
00:41:49Anyone could tell what she was there for.
00:41:51She spotted me and froze, turning even pelker.
00:41:54I thought she'd steer clear after the banquet.
00:41:56But after a moment's hesitation, she gripped her papers tighter and walked straight towards me.
00:42:03When she stepped up to me, the air in the hallway tightened instantly.
00:42:09Charlotte, you must be feeling pretty smug, aren't you?
00:42:14He won't even acknowledge his child.
00:42:16Yet he's still obsessed with a married woman carrying another man's baby.
00:42:24Stop making a scene.
00:42:26Come with me.
00:42:27Making a scene?
00:42:31I'm pregnant with your baby.
00:42:33And you won't even look at me the second you see Charlotte.
00:42:36All you care about is stopping me from bothering her.
00:42:38Who is actually in your head?
00:42:41We'll talk about this at home.
00:42:42Talk where?
00:42:44You love Charlotte that much?
00:42:46If you loved her so damn much, why couldn't you stop cheating on her over and over?
00:42:50Enough!
00:42:52Charlotte, that's all in the past.
00:42:54I've changed.
00:42:55I really have.
00:42:56I'll never make those mistakes again.
00:42:58Even he seemed stunned by his own words.
00:43:01Standing beside him, Molly let out a sudden laugh.
00:43:04She looked at me, her gaze turning twisted, like she was looking at a joke.
00:43:08Charlotte, guess what I overheard outside the exam room?
00:43:11My heart flickered, but my face stayed calm.
00:43:14Without waiting for my answer, she pressed on.
00:43:17Four years ago, you were pregnant once before, weren't you?
00:43:20The hallway fell dead quiet.
00:43:23Her tone carried a reckless satisfaction.
00:43:26I heard you tell the doctor that you had an abortion four years ago.
00:43:30Right around the time you left New York, wasn't it?
00:43:38He froze, turning his head slowly like a puppet stripped of all its strings.
00:43:44His eyes, always so full of pride, were now filled with utter disbelief.
00:43:50Is it true?
00:43:51Four years ago, you aborted our child?
00:43:54The air in the corridor frozen.
00:43:56Everyone held their breath, their eyes fixed on me.
00:43:59Calmly meeting his gaze, I gave a simple nod.
00:44:02There was nothing to hide, that's the fact.
00:44:04That wasn't even a month along.
00:44:07The moment I caught you cheating, I decided to terminate it.
00:44:12I told you before, I won't bring a child into this world whose parents aren't in love.
00:44:18I love you!
00:44:19I love you, Charlotte!
00:44:21Why didn't you tell me?
00:44:23You just did it to hurt me, didn't you?
00:44:25You hated me, so you aborted the baby on purpose, then turned around to have a kid with some random
00:44:30guy just to drive a knife through my heart?
00:44:33Watching his hysterical outburst, a profound quiet settled inside me.
00:44:39Even at this stage, all he could think about was himself.
00:44:42His pain, his grievances, his damaged pride.
00:44:45He would never see the version of me who crouched on the bathroom floor throwing up controllably,
00:44:50staring at the flirtation photos on his phone making that decision all alone.
00:44:53Listen to me, Colin.
00:44:55Aborting that child was never about getting back at you.
00:44:57He froze as if slapped hard across the face.
00:45:01I looked down, pulled out my phone, and opened my contacts right in front of him.
00:45:06Finding that familiar name, I tapped delete, then added him to my block list.
00:45:12Sharp and decisive, I never looked up once.
00:45:16A pop-up flashed at the top of the screen, contact blocked.
00:45:20Slipping my phone away, I turned and walked down the hallway,
00:45:23with unhurried steps, never once looking back.
00:45:28Over the next few days, eager to leave New York,
00:45:32I started packing.
00:45:34And occasionally took Chloe out.
00:45:37The little girl had the time of her life playing with dogs in Central Park.
00:45:42Sitting on a bench watching her.
00:45:47I managed to shut out all the chaotic drama for a while.
00:45:53However, gossip always has a way of finding you.
00:45:58First came messages from a few friends.
00:46:01Charlotte, have you heard?
00:46:02Colin's gone off the deep end,
00:46:04throwing the entire Sterkling family's resources at your husband's company.
00:46:08But it in turn has hijacked several of their core projects.
00:46:11Their stock's been crashing for days, and the board is losing its mind.
00:46:16Then social media blew up.
00:46:18After her abortion, Molly used private audio recordings
00:46:22to demand a massive breakup settlement from Colin,
00:46:25making it a public scandal and the joke of the town.
00:46:28Eventually, even Grandpa Harold spoke out,
00:46:31publicly railing against Colin for ruining a winning hand
00:46:35and threatening to strip his inheritance.
00:46:37I locked my phone screen and let out a long sigh.
00:46:42Reading the updates brought no satisfaction,
00:46:45only a quiet, hollow melancholy.
00:46:47The innocent boy who used to chase me around the old family backyard
00:46:51and the man who had ruined his own life
00:46:54felt like two different people cleaved apart by time.
00:46:58I shook my head to clear the thought,
00:47:00wanting nothing more than to leave this mess behind.
00:47:05Knowing I was stressed,
00:47:06Reese never bored me with business feuds.
00:47:09Returning home each night,
00:47:10he'd offer a simple everything's good
00:47:12before ruffling Chloe's hair
00:47:13and spinning her in the air,
00:47:15making her squeal with joy.
00:47:16Watching them, the languoring heaviness in my chest
00:47:19gradually melted away.
00:47:20The afternoon before our departure,
00:47:22I was walking with Chloe
00:47:23when a black sedan caught my eye at the street corner.
00:47:27Parked quietly under the shade of sycamore trees,
00:47:29its low-profile silhouette reflected the dosk on its tinted windows,
00:47:33hiding whoever was inside.
00:47:36I stared at the car for a couple of seconds,
00:47:38my heart skipping a beat.
00:47:39Shifting my gaze away,
00:47:40I took Chloe's hand and headed home,
00:47:43laughing off my paranoia.
00:47:45It was our last day.
00:47:47What could possibly go wrong now?
00:47:51The next day,
00:47:52as Reese and I were relaxing in the living room,
00:47:55the nanny burst through the door.
00:47:57Chloe!
00:47:59She's gone!
00:48:00Clutched in her hand was a piece of paper with crumpled edges,
00:48:03looking as though it had been hastily shoved into her palm.
00:48:06My fingers trembled as I took it,
00:48:08my fingertip turning icy the moment my eyes swept over the text.
00:48:12Charlotte must come alone to the old estate in the western suburbs
00:48:14to trade for the girl.
00:48:16No police.
00:48:17Do not bring Reese.
00:48:18There was no signature at the bottom,
00:48:19but I recognized the handwriting and tone instantly.
00:48:22My heart seized violently,
00:48:24as if gripped tight by a frozen fist.
00:48:27Chloe.
00:48:27My Chloe.
00:48:29Don't panic.
00:48:30Reese pressed his hand onto my shoulder,
00:48:32steady and warm through my clothes.
00:48:33He wouldn't dare actually hurt the child.
00:48:35He was already pulling out his phone,
00:48:37dialing as he spone a calm, disciplined tone,
00:48:39as if deploying a tactical routine.
00:48:40Deploy Team B to the perimeter of the old estate.
00:48:42Set up checkpoints at every intersection along the route.
00:48:45Trace the signal.
00:48:45Give me a location in three minutes.
00:48:47Turning back to me,
00:48:48his eyes were grave.
00:48:49Charlotte, I'll handle this.
00:48:51You stay.
00:48:53I have to go.
00:48:54I interrupted,
00:48:55my voice surprisingly steady.
00:48:57The note said I have to go alone.
00:49:00If I don't show up,
00:49:01he's capable of anything.
00:49:03Reese stared at me,
00:49:04silent for a brief second.
00:49:06Finally, he nodded.
00:49:07All right, go.
00:49:08Your personal safety comes first.
00:49:10Don't worry about anything else.
00:49:12He grasped my hand,
00:49:14his voice deep and resolute.
00:49:16I'll be right behind you with my team
00:49:17to make sure nothing goes wrong.
00:49:19Half an hour later,
00:49:21I stood before the iron gates of the estate
00:49:22in the Western Squirbs.
00:49:24It was an old property belonging to Colin's family,
00:49:27abandoned for years.
00:49:28Talking a deep breath,
00:49:29I shoved open the rusted iron gates,
00:49:32the hinges screeching sharply.
00:49:33The living room was dimly lit,
00:49:35save for a few murky yellow rames
00:49:37leaking from a single window.
00:49:39Dust modals drifted through the beams of light,
00:49:41and the air smelled heavily of old wood.
00:49:44Colin sat on a worn wooden chair
00:49:46right in the center,
00:49:47his back to me,
00:49:48his spine stiff and straight
00:49:49as if he had been waiting for this moment forever.
00:49:52My voice cut through the empty room.
00:49:54Where is my Chloe?
00:49:55He didn't answer immediately.
00:49:56Silence hung between us like a brick wall.
00:50:00He turned around slowly,
00:50:02his thumb tracing his phone screen,
00:50:04a cold sther smirk on his lips.
00:50:07In the dim light,
00:50:08his face looked completely unfamiliar.
00:50:10You came.
00:50:11He said casually,
00:50:13as if making small talk.
00:50:14Sit.
00:50:15Let's talk.
00:50:16I didn't move,
00:50:17standing my ground.
00:50:18Where is Chloe?
00:50:19He glanced down at his phone.
00:50:21Don't worry,
00:50:22she's fine.
00:50:23Someone is watching her,
00:50:24and the moment I hit send on this text,
00:50:27they'll act.
00:50:27He paused,
00:50:29looking up at me.
00:50:29So sit down nicely,
00:50:31and listen to my terms.
00:50:32I stared at him in silence,
00:50:34taking my silence as tomtid agreement,
00:50:36his tone relaxed slightly,
00:50:38even softening with desperate eagerness.
00:50:40Charlotte,
00:50:41get a divorce.
00:50:42Leave him.
00:50:43Stay with me,
00:50:44and we can rebuild our family.
00:50:46He leaned forward,
00:50:47his voice dropping low.
00:50:48I swear I'll never mess around again.
00:50:51I'll spend the rest of my life
00:50:52making it up to you and the child.
00:50:54I was a jerk before,
00:50:56but I've changed.
00:50:57I really have.
00:50:58Changed?
00:50:59I interrupted,
00:51:00my voice flat,
00:51:02yet sharp with icy contempt.
00:51:03Colin,
00:51:04you're using my daughter
00:51:05as a bargain chip
00:51:06to blackrail me.
00:51:08You call that changed?
00:51:09His face fell,
00:51:10but he scrambled
00:51:11to defend himself again.
00:51:13Seeing through him,
00:51:14I shook my head.
00:51:15Whatever game you're playing,
00:51:17using a child as average
00:51:18makes you a despicable coward.
00:51:20He snapped,
00:51:21lunging toward me
00:51:22as if losing control completely.
00:51:24You protect him that much?
00:51:25You love him that much?
00:51:27I stepped aside
00:51:28to dodge his hand.
00:51:29Right at that second,
00:51:30the doors burst open.
00:51:31Colin froze,
00:51:32his fingers inches from me,
00:51:34as Reese stormed in,
00:51:35shoving him aside
00:51:36and shielding me
00:51:37behind his broad back.
00:51:38Mommy!
00:51:39From behind us
00:51:40came a clear bright
00:51:41I turned abruptly.
00:51:42Annison walked in
00:51:43holding an unharmed Chloe.
00:51:45Steading,
00:51:45Annon scoffed.
00:51:46Honestly, Colin,
00:51:47your kidnapping skills
00:51:48are amateur hour.
00:51:50These pathetic tricks
00:51:51don't stand a chance
00:51:52against Reese.
00:51:52Colin's pupils shrunk
00:51:54in horror.
00:51:54He scrambled to hit
00:51:55his phone screen,
00:51:56but two guards tackled him,
00:51:57pinning his arms
00:51:58behind his back.
00:51:59The phone clattered
00:51:59to the floor,
00:52:00screen shattering.
00:52:01Reese's face was stone cold,
00:52:03his voice low
00:52:04and uncompromising.
00:52:05Call the police.
00:52:06Press kidnapping charges.
00:52:08No!
00:52:08Colin choked out,
00:52:09struggling uselessly
00:52:10against the guards.
00:52:11Just then,
00:52:12rapid footsteps
00:52:13and the heavy thud
00:52:14of a cane
00:52:14echoed from the entrance.
00:52:15A frail,
00:52:16yet imposing fur gear
00:52:17rushed across the threshold.
00:52:19It was Harold,
00:52:19face grim.
00:52:20He looked at his
00:52:21restrained grandson,
00:52:22then at Chloe and my harms.
00:52:23His lips quivered,
00:52:24ending in a heavy,
00:52:25defated sigh.
00:52:30Harold,
00:52:31standing in the doorway
00:52:32with his cane,
00:52:33trembled with rage
00:52:34at the sight of his grandson,
00:52:36pinned down by two guards.
00:52:38He slammed his cane
00:52:39against the floor twice,
00:52:42his voice rasty and heavy.
00:52:43You absolute disgrace!
00:52:45The shout struck the silent air
00:52:47like a hammer.
00:52:48Pinned by his shoulders,
00:52:49Colin hung his head,
00:52:50unable to squeeze out
00:52:50a single word.
00:52:51Taking a deep breath,
00:52:53Harold turned toward us.
00:52:54The anger drained
00:52:55from his face,
00:52:56replaced by a weary,
00:52:57guilty expression.
00:52:58His cloudy eyes
00:52:59filled with desperate pleading.
00:53:01He stepped closer,
00:53:02lowering his voice.
00:53:02Mr. Thorne,
00:53:03Charlotte,
00:53:04my useless grandson
00:53:05has brought you
00:53:06so much trouble.
00:53:06He paused.
00:53:07Please,
00:53:08give him one last chance
00:53:09to turn things around,
00:53:10won't you?
00:53:10He wasn't like this
00:53:11when he was little.
00:53:12He looked at me,
00:53:13a complex warmth
00:53:14in his eyes.
00:53:15Charlotte,
00:53:16you remember,
00:53:16don't you?
00:53:17Back at the orphanage,
00:53:19it was him
00:53:20who insisted
00:53:21on bringing you home.
00:53:22I stood frozen,
00:53:23unable to answer
00:53:24right away.
00:53:25A flood of memories
00:53:26rushed back.
00:53:26The iron gates
00:53:27of the orphanage,
00:53:28the sound of a boy
00:53:29sitting outside
00:53:29my bedroom door
00:53:30with a pillow,
00:53:31telling me stories.
00:53:32Summers in the old
00:53:33estate's backyard
00:53:34and Harold's warm smile
00:53:35across the dinner table.
00:53:37A bittersweet tangle
00:53:38of emotions
00:53:39filled my chest.
00:53:40How did Colin and I
00:53:41end up like this?
00:53:42After a long silence,
00:53:44I spoke softly,
00:53:45reaching out
00:53:45to grasp Reese's arm.
00:53:47Reese looked down at me,
00:53:48making no move
00:53:49to stop me,
00:53:49quietly waiting
00:53:50for my decision.
00:53:51I faced Harold.
00:53:52Grandpa,
00:53:54I remember your kindness
00:53:55and I remember
00:53:56everything you've done
00:53:57for me over the years.
00:53:58I paused.
00:53:59For your sake
00:54:00and because Chloe
00:54:01wasn't physically harmed,
00:54:02I won't press
00:54:03criminal charges.
00:54:06His eyes lit up,
00:54:07words of thanks
00:54:07tumbling out.
00:54:08My tone shifted,
00:54:09calm yet resolute,
00:54:10but he must sign
00:54:10a lifetime restraining agreement.
00:54:12Meeting his gaze,
00:54:13I made every word
00:54:14crystal clear.
00:54:14From this day on,
00:54:15he is never to disturb
00:54:16my family's life
00:54:17in any way,
00:54:17shape,
00:54:18or form.
00:54:19That is my bottom line.
00:54:20Harold froze for a moment
00:54:22before nodding firmly.
00:54:24Apologize!
00:54:24Sign it!
00:54:25You bastard!
00:54:26How much longer
00:54:27are you gonna ruin everything?
00:54:28Released from the guard's grip,
00:54:30Colin left with his assistant
00:54:31by his side.
00:54:34As the setting sun
00:54:35dipped below the horizon,
00:54:37Reese opened the car door.
00:54:39I slipped into the passenger seat
00:54:40holding Chloe,
00:54:41who was already drowsy,
00:54:42her soft,
00:54:43even breaths
00:54:44resting against my shoulder.
00:54:46The engine started,
00:54:46and the old estate
00:54:47shrank in the rearview mirror,
00:54:49eventually vanishing
00:54:50into the dusk.
00:54:53As the car pulled away
00:54:54from the old estate
00:54:55in the western suburbs
00:54:56and traveled quite a distance,
00:54:58the tension inside the car
00:54:59finally began to ease.
00:55:01Holding the sleeping Chloe
00:55:03in my arms,
00:55:04my fingertips unconsciously
00:55:06stroked her back.
00:55:07Her breathing was steady,
00:55:08her tiny face
00:55:09buried in the crook of my neck.
00:55:11A warm, soft bundle.
00:55:13Yet the lingering terror
00:55:14in my chest
00:55:15hadn't fully vanished,
00:55:17like a cold chill
00:55:18left behind
00:55:19after the tide recedes.
00:55:21Reese suddenly spoke,
00:55:22his voice quiet
00:55:23but resonant.
00:55:24We're not going
00:55:24to the airport yet.
00:55:25I looked up at him
00:55:26in surprise.
00:55:27Sitting beside me,
00:55:28his eyes rested on my face,
00:55:30as if he had turned
00:55:31this decision over
00:55:32in his mind
00:55:32countless times.
00:55:34Taking my hand,
00:55:35his thumb gently
00:55:36rubbed my knuckles.
00:55:37I want to hold
00:55:38a proper,
00:55:39formal wedding for us
00:55:40in New York.
00:55:41I froze.
00:55:42He continued.
00:55:43Keeping our marriage
00:55:44secret before
00:55:44was because of
00:55:45my sensitive position.
00:55:46I was afraid
00:55:47people with ill intent
00:55:48would target you
00:55:49and our daughter.
00:55:50His gaze was calm
00:55:51and deep
00:55:52as he looked at me.
00:55:53But now,
00:55:53I am completely certain
00:55:54I can protect you both.
00:55:56Besides,
00:55:56he paused,
00:55:57a rare trace
00:55:58of humor
00:55:58in his tone.
00:55:59I've had more than
00:56:00enough of people
00:56:01eyeing my wife.
00:56:02Looking at him,
00:56:03a surge of heat
00:56:04caught in my throat,
00:56:05rendering me speechless.
00:56:07He simply held my hand,
00:56:08his thumb gently brushing
00:56:10the base of my ring finger
00:56:11as if he could already
00:56:12see where the ring belonged.
00:56:14Halfway through our journey,
00:56:15the car pulled over
00:56:16to the curb.
00:56:18The door opened,
00:56:19revealing another vehicle
00:56:21waiting quietly
00:56:22at the corner.
00:56:23Anson strode over
00:56:24and took Chloe
00:56:24from my arms,
00:56:25grumbling.
00:56:27Great,
00:56:27I'm the full-time
00:56:28babysitter again.
00:56:29You two get your romance
00:56:30and I get duty, right?
00:56:32Despite his incessant
00:56:33complaining,
00:56:34he took Chloe
00:56:34with gentle care,
00:56:36whispered a soft word
00:56:37to soothe her,
00:56:38and turned to get
00:56:39into the other car.
00:56:40As the door shut,
00:56:41only the two of us
00:56:42remained in the car.
00:56:43Dusk poured in
00:56:44through the windows,
00:56:45casting a warm glow
00:56:46over his profile.
00:56:48He leaned over,
00:56:49wrapping an arm
00:56:49around waist
00:56:50to pull me gently
00:56:50and into his chest,
00:56:52and lowered his head
00:56:53to kiss me.
00:56:53As he pulled back,
00:56:54his nose brushed
00:56:55against mine,
00:56:57his voice low
00:56:58and lingering.
00:56:59How about next month?
00:57:00He paused.
00:57:01I can't wait any longer
00:57:02to let everyone
00:57:03knows you are my wife.
00:57:05On the wedding day,
00:57:07a private estate
00:57:08in the New York suburbs
00:57:09was decorated
00:57:09like a white garden,
00:57:11scattered in crowds,
00:57:12dressed in glamorous attire.
00:57:14Half an hour
00:57:14before the ceremony began,
00:57:15I was sitting in the dressing room
00:57:17when Anson knocked
00:57:18and walked in.
00:57:19Hey, security just reported
00:57:20that Colin is here,
00:57:21alone,
00:57:22standing at the estate entrance.
00:57:23The eyebrow pencil
00:57:24in my hand paused.
00:57:25He's not causing trouble,
00:57:26just said he wants
00:57:27to see you one last time
00:57:28to apologize in person
00:57:29and leave right after.
00:57:30I had someone show him
00:57:30to the side hall.
00:57:31See him if you want.
00:57:32If not,
00:57:33I'll have security
00:57:34send him away.
00:57:35I went silent for a moment,
00:57:36then nodded
00:57:37and told him to bring him in.
00:57:39Colin was wearing
00:57:40a dark gray suit.
00:57:42Seeing him again
00:57:42after a few days,
00:57:44he had grown noticeably thinner,
00:57:46completely stripped
00:57:46of his former arrogant swagger.
00:57:48You look beautiful today.
00:57:52Cheating back then
00:57:53was me being a bastard.
00:57:56Kidnapping the child
00:57:56was even more unforgivable
00:57:57on my part.
00:58:02I used to think
00:58:03that even if you ran,
00:58:04I'd always find a way
00:58:05to win you back.
00:58:06Only later did I realize
00:58:07that once you destroy something
00:58:09with your own hands,
00:58:09you can never go back.
00:58:15I used to picture
00:58:16countless times
00:58:16what our wedding day
00:58:17would be like.
00:58:18What dress you'd wear,
00:58:20where we'd hold it,
00:58:21who we'd invite.
00:58:22But in the end,
00:58:24it isn't you and me.
00:58:28I came today
00:58:29just to apologize to you.
00:58:31I'll leave for an overseas branch
00:58:32and I won't ever come back.
00:58:39I accept your apology.
00:58:40The past has long
00:58:41turned the page,
00:58:42so go live your own life
00:58:44well too.
00:58:46May we both move on.
00:58:47He said nothing more
00:58:48and I didn't linger either.
00:58:50I stood up
00:58:50and pushed open
00:58:51the dressing room door.
00:58:57As the wedding ceremony
00:58:59officially began,
00:59:01Chloe wore a tiny
00:59:02snow white two dress
00:59:03with a puffy skirt.
00:59:05She clutched my train,
00:59:07taking two steps,
00:59:08before looking up
00:59:09to grin at me,
00:59:10whispering,
00:59:10Mommy, am I walking good?
00:59:12My lips curled
00:59:13into a gentle smile
00:59:14as I let out a soft
00:59:15mm-hmm.
00:59:17Standing at the other end
00:59:18of the altar,
00:59:18Reese's gaze cut through
00:59:20the entire flower arch,
00:59:21resting entirely on me,
00:59:23watching every step I took
00:59:24as I held up my dress.
00:59:26His eyes were
00:59:27impossibly gentle,
00:59:28a faint smile
00:59:29touching his lips
00:59:30as if watching a dream
00:59:31he had waited
00:59:32an eternity
00:59:33to see come true.
00:59:34When I reached him,
00:59:36he reached out his hand
00:59:37to take mine.
00:59:38Chloe let go of my dress,
00:59:39scooped up by Anison
00:59:41from the side,
00:59:42while still calling out
00:59:43in her baby voice,
00:59:44Daddy, I brought Mommy!
00:59:46A wave of laughter
00:59:47swept through the crowd.
00:59:49Then came the vows.
00:59:50Taking the ring,
00:59:52Reese didn't put it on me
00:59:53right away.
00:59:53He looked at me
00:59:54with a calm gaze,
00:59:55his voice neither loud
00:59:56nor swash,
00:59:57speaking word by word,
00:59:59as if stating a truth
01:00:00long since settled.
01:00:01I, Reese,
01:00:02take you, Charlotte,
01:00:03to be my wife.
01:00:05For richer or for poorer,
01:00:07in sickness and in health,
01:00:09I promise to protect you
01:00:10and remain faithful to you
01:00:12until the end of life.
01:00:14When it was my turn,
01:00:15I met those quiet eyes
01:00:17and spoke.
01:00:17I, Charlotte,
01:00:18take you, Reesey,
01:00:19to be my husband.
01:00:21In good times and in bad,
01:00:22in youth and in old age,
01:00:24I promise to stay by your side
01:00:27and trust you
01:00:27until death do us part.
01:00:29The corner of his mouth
01:00:31curved ever so slightly
01:00:32and he lowered his head,
01:00:34slowly sliding the ring
01:00:36onto the base of my finger,
01:00:37a perfect fit.
01:00:38The ceremony was complete.
01:00:40Applause and cheers
01:00:42erupted across the lawn
01:00:43as we kissed beneath
01:00:45everyone's blessings.
01:00:47Afterward,
01:00:47the three of us
01:00:48took family photos
01:00:49on the lawn.
01:00:51Chloe rode on Reese's shoulders,
01:00:53giggling nonstop
01:00:54as her little hands
01:00:55tugged at his hair.
01:00:56Anson held the camera,
01:00:58his mouth never stopping.
01:00:59All right,
01:01:00look here, Chloe.
01:01:01Stop pulling your dad's hair.
01:01:03Yes, right there, Charlotte.
01:01:04Lean a bit closer to Reese.
01:01:05He snapped several shots,
01:01:07scrolling through them
01:01:08with a smirk.
01:01:09Not bad.
01:01:09My photography skills
01:01:10are practically good enough
01:01:11to open a studio.
01:01:13The setting sun
01:01:13painted the entire lawn
01:01:15in a warm orange-gold hue.
01:01:17Leaning against Reese's shoulder,
01:01:18I watched Chloe
01:01:20chase bubbles
01:01:20across the grass,
01:01:21her dress fluttering,
01:01:23her laughter bright and clear.
01:01:24Gently resting my hand
01:01:26over the slight swell
01:01:27of my belly,
01:01:28feeling the subtle movements within.
01:01:33A profound clarity
01:01:35and peace
01:01:36settled deep in my heart.
01:01:37I had finally stepped
01:01:39completely out of the shadows.
01:01:40What I held in my hands
01:01:42was a real,
01:01:43grounded happiness.
01:01:44For the rest of my life,
01:01:46the road ahead
01:01:47would be smooth
01:01:48and clear.
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