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Hayley thought her marriage to Ryan was secure until a reckless April Fools' trick shattered her world. While Ryan was busy marrying his childhood sweetheart Summer, Hayley suffered a tragic miscarriage alone in the hospital. Refusing to remain a victim, she claims her copyrights and leaves him behind. Can a mother recover her dignity after losing her child to such a heartless betrayal?
https://reelslink.com/marketing/OAiX3j
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🍁Notice: All videos by Short Drama Zone are officially authorized.
Hayley thought her marriage to Ryan was secure until a reckless April Fools' trick shattered her world. While Ryan was busy marrying his childhood sweetheart Summer, Hayley suffered a tragic miscarriage alone in the hospital. Refusing to remain a victim, she claims her copyrights and leaves him behind. Can a mother recover her dignity after losing her child to such a heartless betrayal?
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00:00:05Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayan played
00:00:10a game of truth or dare. Remember? Eighth grade? I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:00:17You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:00:24That was nothing. Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day
00:00:28is basically our tradition. Then do you dare to go get a marriage license
00:00:36with me right now? Whistles erupted all around. I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching
00:00:44a pregnancy test. Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed. Why wouldn't I dare? He stood up,
00:00:51came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:00:57Haley, it's just an April Fool's joke. Play along with me. Go handle the divorce paperwork
00:01:03first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried. You know I can't back down in
00:01:09front of Summer. I stared at the man in front of me. For the sake of his so-called childhood
00:01:13game,
00:01:14I had compromised for five years. This time, I wasn't accepting it. I'm pregnant.
00:01:22Haley, that's a brilliant move!
00:01:24Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:01:28You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning? Nice. You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:01:33Summer walked over. Hearing our conversation, she laughed too. Please, Haley, if you can't
00:01:41handle the game, just say so. Using pregnancy as an excuse? That's so low.
00:01:48Exactly. Let's go.
00:01:53Hurry up. If were any later, City Hall will close. How am I supposed to get the license then?
00:01:59He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent. I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist. The pate
00:02:05Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of Dark
00:02:09Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list. And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was
00:02:16kissing Summer in front of every executive in the company. Every year, I had to endure the absurd
00:02:23pranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day. On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely
00:02:31fast.
00:02:32When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement,
00:02:38but a thick stack of documents. The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:02:46He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly. Sign it. Declare that our marriage was
00:02:53fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April Falls joke. Once you sign this,
00:02:59our relationship will legally have never existed. Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:03:05I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh. Fine. Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:03:14I signed my name without the slightest pause. The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage
00:03:21ended in absurdity. After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from
00:03:29the car and changed into it. Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:03:34The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby. I sat on a bench
00:03:39and watched it all. Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall,
00:03:44he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks. When I reminded him to
00:03:51change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging. Being real was what mattered.
00:03:57Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the
00:04:02camera. With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
00:04:07Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:04:12Honey, see that? I won again this time. We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
00:04:19Don't be mad. It's just a keepsake. Early pregnancy nausea churned through me,
00:04:24and I was almost too weak to keep standing. Take me back. I need to pack my things.
00:04:30I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:04:35Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way. Since Ryan and I are legally married now,
00:04:43of course I should sit in the passenger seat. She opened the door and sat down as if it was
00:04:48only
00:04:48natural. With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the
00:04:53passenger seat onto the floor map. Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:04:58I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare. Ryan caught up in a few steps,
00:05:04opened the back door, and shoved me inside. Stop throwing a tantrum. It's hard to get a car here.
00:05:09Sit down and behave.
00:05:18It's a beautiful night. We're looking for something dumb to do.
00:05:24Ryan took the next line in perfect sync. They looked at each other and burst out laughing,
00:05:30with a bottle of mineral water. The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
00:05:34Ryan, your collar is crooked. Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:05:40Her fingertips brushed his Adam's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
00:05:46Ryan didn't move away. Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other
00:05:50to steady Summer's back. Stop messing around. I'm driving. That was what he said, but his tone
00:05:57was full of indulgence. I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli. Today, this farce had
00:06:06to
00:06:06end. When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique
00:06:13diamond ring in her palm, her tone full of affection. This ring should have been on your hand five years
00:06:20ago, Summer. Before Ryan. Mistake. Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
00:06:26Haley, you're still here. Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:06:31Mom, we're joking. It's April Fool's Day. We're just playing around.
00:06:35Well, I wish it could stay that way, forever. I didn't answer. I walked around them,
00:06:42went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase. I had barely taken out two pieces
00:06:47of clothings when Ryan followed me in. Haley, everyone's here today. Don't ruin the mood.
00:06:53Let's have dinner together tonight. Think of it as a celebration. The final book in your Dark
00:06:58Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow. I've invited the whole publishing to. Consider it a celebration
00:07:04dinner. I stopped moving. That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat. Countless sleepless
00:07:10nights fueled by coffee and revisions. If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's
00:07:15pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected. I closed the suitcase. Fine. After this dinner.
00:07:23Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
00:07:27I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
00:07:31Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu. She gave the waiter
00:07:35several dish names directly. I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes. There's no way
00:07:42that can suit everyone's taste. I added a few dishes on my own. Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
00:07:51The housekeeper took the day off. Haley, help out for a bit. The staff will be here soon.
00:07:59I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room. Took a deep breath and swallowed
00:08:04both my words and the acid rising in my stomach. Forget it. One last meal.
00:08:12I walked into the kitchen. The churning in my stomach hadn't settled and waves of cramping
00:08:17started in my lower abdomen. Chop the vegetables. Turn on the stove. Heat the pan. Add olive oil.
00:08:26Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house. Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
00:08:32Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid. And don't overcook the kale. The editors arrived
00:08:39one after another. Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore. She rolled up
00:08:44her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables. Emily, you're a guest. Just sit and wait
00:08:50for dinner. I'll worry about things in here. After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
00:08:57Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room. I brought out the final dish
00:09:02of roasted ribs. Six dishes filled the table. Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
00:09:09Summer ran to open the door and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
00:09:14I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes. There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
00:09:23So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
00:09:32Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, face on the table was limited. Summer picked up
00:09:40the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together, into the nearby trash can
00:09:45to make room for her seafood. Ryan didn't think anything of it. He handed her a napkin to wipe her
00:09:50hands. You're always so thoughtful. I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward,
00:09:56but someone grabbed my sleeve. Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me,
00:10:01and lowered her voice. Haley, look at this. On the screen was the new book poster the marketing
00:10:06department had sent her for approval. In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart,
00:10:10Summer Bryant. I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
00:10:16Why? I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes. Ryan walked over, smiling as he said,
00:10:24Haley, this one's on me. I forgot to loop you in. I want you to share half the byline with
00:10:31her.
00:10:32I already promised Summer in advance. You love me so much. You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
00:10:40I typed this out word by word, three years over three years. What gives you the right?
00:10:48What gives me the right? Money. Without me pouring money into marketing,
00:10:53your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer. I made you a best-selling author,
00:10:58and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody. Right now, the company needs to push Summer,
00:11:04and your book is the best springboard. It's that simple.
00:11:11The copyright is under my personal name. You have no right to add her name.
00:11:15If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
00:11:23The food is getting cold. Do we really have to talk about this right now?
00:11:32Everyone is waiting.
00:11:36Let's eat first. Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:11:42I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my power keys, and rushed out the door.
00:11:48By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
00:11:5480% of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her,
00:11:58and even gossiped about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
00:12:05My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
00:12:13Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
00:12:19Hayley, there's nothing I can do.
00:12:23Personally. Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
00:12:29Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
00:12:35Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
00:12:40He smoked a cigar in his office.
00:12:44A chill ran through me. Ryan's, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:12:49It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
00:12:51I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
00:12:57When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
00:13:01Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
00:13:04What gives you the right to do this? That book is my life's work!
00:13:10I'll say it again. We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
00:13:13Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
00:13:19Don't take it out on him, Hayley. We made this decision together.
00:13:26I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
00:13:32Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
00:13:39This has nothing to do with you.
00:13:41But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
00:13:47Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
00:13:52I hope you won't be jealous of her.
00:13:57I remember I just said it.
00:14:00Is your memory that bad?
00:14:04Oh, right.
00:14:06Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
00:14:09Maybe you should step out and cool off.
00:14:12I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
00:14:18I was already leaving tonight.
00:14:22Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
00:14:29Fine. You've got backbone.
00:14:32Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
00:14:34I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
00:14:39He called the security company directly.
00:14:42Two private security guards stood at the door looking awkward.
00:14:45I'm already divorced from this woman.
00:14:46She has now trespassed into my private residence to harass me and my wife.
00:14:53Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
00:14:57The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
00:15:01Hayley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
00:15:06I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
00:15:10As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
00:15:16The security guards pushed me out the gate.
00:15:18I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn, freshly swept by the sprinkler system.
00:15:21I braced myself against the ground, climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
00:15:26But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
00:15:29I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
00:15:32A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
00:15:36The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
00:15:39With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
00:15:44Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
00:15:47He opened the car door.
00:15:48When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
00:15:52Haley, what happened to you?
00:15:55He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
00:15:58But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
00:16:00It's almost midnight, husband.
00:16:02If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
00:16:05Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
00:16:07He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
00:16:10Help me.
00:16:12I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
00:16:14Haley, do me a favor.
00:16:16Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
00:16:18I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
00:16:20I checked.
00:16:21You only sprained your ankle.
00:16:23I'll call Emerging Services for you right now.
00:16:26He pulled me out of the passenger seat, casually took two $20 bills from his wallet,
00:16:30and stuffed them into my hand.
00:16:32I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
00:16:37Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
00:16:40I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
00:16:43Ryan!
00:16:46I'm pregnant with your child, you bastard!
00:16:49Only the sound of rain answered me.
00:16:51The car never even lit its brake lights again.
00:16:54My vision began to blur.
00:16:56A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
00:16:58The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
00:17:02Oh my god, Haley!
00:17:04She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
00:17:09The hospital emergency department.
00:17:11When I woke up in the observation room,
00:17:13a social worker wearing an ID badge came over and handed me a stack of papers.
00:17:17Ms. Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed,
00:17:21but transferring to a private room will require out-of-pocket payment.
00:17:24Also, when we tried to process your insurance,
00:17:27the system showed that your spouse medical coverage has been frozen.
00:17:42Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayan
00:17:47played a game of truth or dare.
00:17:49Remember?
00:17:50Eighth grade?
00:17:52I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:17:55You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:18:02That was nothing.
00:18:04Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:18:09Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
00:18:17Whistles erupted all around.
00:18:19I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:18:24Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:18:26Why wouldn't I dare?
00:18:28He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:18:35Haley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:18:38Play along with me.
00:18:40Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:18:45You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:18:48I stared at the man in front of me.
00:18:50For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:18:53This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:18:56I'm pregnant.
00:19:00Haley, that's a brilliant move!
00:19:02Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:19:06You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
00:19:08Nice.
00:19:09You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:19:11Summer walked over.
00:19:12Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:19:15Please, Haley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:19:22Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:19:25That's so low.
00:19:26Exactly.
00:19:29Let's go.
00:19:31Hurry up.
00:19:32If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:19:34How am I supposed to get the license, then?
00:19:37He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:19:40I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:19:42The Paddy Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first
00:19:47volume of Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:19:50And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was kissing Summer in front of every executive
00:19:56in the company.
00:19:58Every year, I had to endure the absurd pranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
00:20:06On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:20:10When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement,
00:20:16but a thick stack of documents.
00:20:18The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:20:24He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:20:28Sign it.
00:20:29Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was
00:20:33based on an April Fool's joke.
00:20:35Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:20:41Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:20:43I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:20:46Fine.
00:20:48Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:20:52I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:20:56The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:21:02After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car and changed into it.
00:21:08Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:21:12The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
00:21:15I sat on a bench and watched it all.
00:21:18Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall, he wore an old polo
00:21:24shirt,
00:21:24ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
00:21:28When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
00:21:33Being real was what mattered.
00:21:35Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
00:21:41With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
00:21:45Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:21:50Honey, see that?
00:21:52I won again this time.
00:21:54We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
00:21:57Don't be mad.
00:21:58It's just a keepsake.
00:22:00Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
00:22:04Take me back.
00:22:06I need to pack my things.
00:22:07I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:22:14Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way.
00:22:18Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat.
00:22:24She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
00:22:27With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows
00:22:31from the passenger seat onto the floor map.
00:22:33Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:22:36I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
00:22:40Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
00:22:44Stop throwing a tantrum.
00:22:46It's hard to get a car here.
00:22:47Sit down and behave.
00:22:50Bruno Maz's Mary Ude was playing in the car.
00:22:52Summer hummed along to the beat.
00:22:54When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
00:22:57It's a beautiful night, we're looking for something done to do.
00:23:02Ryan took the next line in perfect sync.
00:23:05They looked at each other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water.
00:23:09The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
00:23:12Ryan, your collar is crooked.
00:23:14Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:23:17Her fingertips brushed his atom's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
00:23:24Ryan didn't move away.
00:23:25Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's back.
00:23:30Stop messing around. I'm driving.
00:23:33That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
00:23:37I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
00:23:42Today, this farce had to end.
00:23:46When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand
00:23:49and gently placed the antique diamond ring in her palm, her tone full of affection.
00:23:54This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
00:23:59Before Ryan. Mistake.
00:24:01Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
00:24:05Haley, you're still here.
00:24:06Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:24:09Mom, we're joking. It's April Fool's Day. We're just playing around.
00:24:13Well, I wish it could stay that way. Forever.
00:24:16I didn't answer.
00:24:18I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
00:24:23I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
00:24:27Haley, everyone's here today. Don't ruin the mood.
00:24:31Let's have dinner together tonight. Think of it as a celebration.
00:24:35The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
00:24:38I've invited the whole publishing team. Consider it a celebration dinner.
00:24:42I stopped moving. That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat. Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee
00:24:49and revisions.
00:24:50If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
00:24:56I closed the suitcase.
00:24:57Fine. After this dinner.
00:25:01Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
00:25:05I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
00:25:09Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu. She gave the waiter several dish
00:25:14names directly.
00:25:15I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes. There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
00:25:23I added a few dishes on my own. Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
00:25:29The housekeeper took the day off.
00:25:31Haley, help out for a bit.
00:25:34The staff will be here soon.
00:25:37I glanced at the editorial team chatting happily in the living room.
00:25:41Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
00:25:45Forget it. One last meal.
00:25:50I walked into the kitchen.
00:25:52The churning in my stomach hadn't settled and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
00:25:57Chop the vegetables. Turn on the stove.
00:26:01Heat the pan. Add olive oil.
00:26:05Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
00:26:08Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
00:26:10Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
00:26:14And don't overcook the kale.
00:26:16The editors arrived one after another.
00:26:18Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
00:26:21She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
00:26:25Emily, you're a guest.
00:26:27Just sit and wait for dinner.
00:26:29I'll worry about things in here.
00:26:31After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
00:26:34Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
00:26:38I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
00:26:42Six dishes filled the table.
00:26:44Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
00:26:47Summer ran to open the door and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
00:26:52I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
00:26:56There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
00:27:01So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
00:27:10Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, face on the table was limited.
00:27:17Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together,
00:27:21into the nearby trash can to make room for her seafood.
00:27:25Ryan didn't think anything of it.
00:27:26He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
00:27:29You're always so thoughtful.
00:27:31I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
00:27:36Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
00:27:41Haley, look at this.
00:27:42On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent her for approval.
00:27:46In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart, Summer Bryant.
00:27:50I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
00:27:54Why?
00:27:56I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
00:27:59Ryan walked over, smiling as he said,
00:28:02Haley, this one's on me. I forgot to loop you in.
00:28:06I want you to share half the byline with her.
00:28:10I already promised Summer in advance.
00:28:13You love me so much.
00:28:15You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
00:28:18I typed this out word by word, three years over three years.
00:28:23What gives you the right?
00:28:26What gives me the right?
00:28:28Money.
00:28:29Without me pouring money into marketing, your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
00:28:34I made you a best-selling author, and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody.
00:28:39Right now, the company needs to push Summer, and your book is the best springboard.
00:28:44It's that simple.
00:28:49The copyright is under my personal name.
00:28:51You have no right to add her name.
00:28:53If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
00:29:01The food is getting cold.
00:29:04Do we really have to talk about this right now?
00:29:10Everyone is waiting.
00:29:14Let's eat first.
00:29:16Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:29:20I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my car keys, and rushed out the door.
00:29:26By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
00:29:32Eighty percent of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her,
00:29:36and even gossip about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
00:29:43My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
00:29:51Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
00:29:57Haley, there's nothing I can do.
00:30:01Personally.
00:30:02Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
00:30:07Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
00:30:13Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
00:30:18He smoked a cigar in his office.
00:30:22A chill ran through me.
00:30:24Ryan's will talk tomorrow.
00:30:27It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
00:30:29I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
00:30:35When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
00:30:38Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
00:30:42What gives you the right to do this?
00:30:44That book is my life's work!
00:30:47I'll say it again.
00:30:49We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
00:30:51Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
00:30:57Don't take it out on him, Haley.
00:30:59We made this decision together.
00:31:04I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
00:31:10Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
00:31:16This has nothing to do with you.
00:31:19But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
00:31:24Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
00:31:30I hope you won't be jealous of her.
00:31:35I remember I just said it.
00:31:38Is your memory that bad?
00:31:42Oh, right.
00:31:44Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
00:31:47Maybe you should step out and cool off.
00:31:50I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
00:31:56I was already leaving tonight.
00:32:00Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
00:32:07Fine.
00:32:08You've got backbone.
00:32:10Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
00:32:12I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
00:32:17He called the security company directly.
00:32:20Two private security guards stood at the door, looking awkward.
00:32:23I'm already divorced from this woman.
00:32:24She has now trespassed into my private residence to harass me and my wife.
00:32:31Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
00:32:35The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
00:32:39Haley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
00:32:44I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
00:32:48As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
00:32:54The security guards pushed me out the gate.
00:32:55I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn, freshly swept by the sprinkler system.
00:32:59I braced myself against the ground, climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
00:33:04But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
00:33:07I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
00:33:10A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
00:33:14The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
00:33:17With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
00:33:22Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
00:33:25He opened the car door.
00:33:26When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
00:33:30Haley, what happened to you?
00:33:33He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
00:33:35But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
00:33:38It's almost midnight, husband.
00:33:40If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
00:33:43Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
00:33:45He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
00:33:48Help me.
00:33:50I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
00:33:52Haley, do me a favor.
00:33:53Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
00:33:56I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
00:33:58I checked.
00:33:59You only sprained your ankle.
00:34:01I'll call Emerging Services for you right now.
00:34:04He pulled me out of the passenger seat, casually took two $20 bills from his wallet,
00:34:08and stuffed them into my hand.
00:34:10I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
00:34:15Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
00:34:18I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
00:34:21Ryan!
00:34:24I'm pregnant with your child, you bastard!
00:34:27Only the sound of rain answered me.
00:34:29The car never even lit its brake lights again.
00:34:32My vision began to blur.
00:34:34A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
00:34:36The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
00:34:40Oh my god, Haley!
00:34:42She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
00:34:47The hospital emergency department.
00:34:49When I woke up in the observation room,
00:34:51a social worker wearing an ID badge came over and handed me a stack of papers.
00:34:55Ms. Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed, but transferring to a private room
00:35:00will require out-of-pocket payment.
00:35:02Also, when we tried to process your insurance, the system showed that your spouse's medical
00:35:06coverage has been frozen.
00:35:20Every April Fool's Day, my husband, Ryan Carter, and his childhood friend,
00:35:25Summer Brayan played a game of Truth or Dare.
00:35:27Remember?
00:35:28Eighth grade?
00:35:30I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:35:33You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:35:40That was nothing.
00:35:42Playing Truth or Dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:35:47Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
00:35:55Whistles erupted all around.
00:35:57I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:36:02Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:36:05Why wouldn't I dare?
00:36:06He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:36:13Haley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:36:16Play along with me.
00:36:18Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:36:23You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:36:26I stared at the man in front of me.
00:36:27For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:36:31This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:36:34I'm pregnant.
00:36:38Haley, that's a brilliant move!
00:36:40Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:36:44You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
00:36:46Nice.
00:36:47You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:36:49Summer walked over.
00:36:50Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:36:54Please, Haley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:37:00Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:37:03That's so low.
00:37:04Exactly.
00:37:07Let's go.
00:37:09Hurry up.
00:37:10If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:37:12How am I supposed to get the license then?
00:37:15He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:37:18I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:37:20The Paddy Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume
00:37:25of Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:37:28And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was kissing Summer in front of every executive in
00:37:34the company.
00:37:36Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
00:37:44On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:37:48When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement,
00:37:54but a thick stack of documents.
00:37:56The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:38:02He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:38:06Sign it.
00:38:07Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April
00:38:12Falls joke. Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:38:18Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:38:21I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:38:24Fine. Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:38:30I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:38:34The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:38:40After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car,
00:38:45and changed into it. Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:38:49The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
00:38:53I sat on a bench and watched it all. Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our
00:38:59marriage
00:38:59at City Hall, he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
00:39:06When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
00:39:11Being real was what mattered. Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's
00:39:16waist, smiling brightly at the camera. With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple
00:39:22from a reality show. Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:39:28Honey, see that? I won again this time. We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
00:39:35Don't be mad. It's just a keepsake. Early pregnancy nausea churned through me,
00:39:40and I was almost too weak to keep standing. Take me back. I need to pack my things.
00:39:45I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:39:51Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way. Since Ryan and I are legally married now,
00:39:59of course I should sit in the passenger seat. She opened the door and sat down as if it was
00:40:04only
00:40:04natural. With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the
00:40:09passenger seat onto the floor map. Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:40:14I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare. Ryan caught up in a few steps,
00:40:19opened the back door, and shoved me inside. Stop throwing a tantrum. It's hard to get a car here.
00:40:25Sit down and behave. Bruno Maz's Mary Ud was playing in the car. Summer hummed along to the beat.
00:40:32When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
00:40:35It's a beautiful night. We're looking for something dumb to do.
00:40:40Ryan took the next line in perfect sync. They looked at each other and burst out laughing,
00:40:45with a bottle of mineral water. The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
00:40:50Ryan, your collar is crooked. Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:40:55Her fingertips brushed his atom's belt and most of her body leaned over him.
00:41:01Ryan didn't move away. Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's
00:41:07back.
00:41:08Stop messing around. I'm driving. That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
00:41:15I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli. Today, this farce had to end.
00:41:24When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique
00:41:29diamond ring in her palm, her tone full of affection. This ring should have been on your hand five
00:41:35years ago, Summer. Before Ryan. Mistake. Then she turned her face toward me and her eyes went cold.
00:41:42Haley, you're still here. Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:41:47Mom, we're joking. It's April Fool's Day. We're just playing around.
00:41:51Well, I wish it could stay that way forever. I didn't answer. I walked around them, went straight
00:41:58into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase. I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when
00:42:03Ryan followed me in. Haley, everyone's here today. Don't ruin the mood. Let's have dinner together
00:42:10tonight. Think of it as a celebration. The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
00:42:16I've invited the whole publishing tomb. Consider it a celebration dinner.
00:42:21I stopped moving. That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat, countless sleepless nights
00:42:26fueled by coffee and revisions. If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and
00:42:32launch would inevitably be affected. I closed the suitcase. Fine. After this dinner. Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the
00:42:41living room to make calls and arrange everything. I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team
00:42:45I had built with my own hands. Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the
00:42:50menu.
00:42:50She gave the waiter several dish names directly. I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes.
00:42:57There's no way that can suit everyone's taste. I added a few dishes on my own. Anyway, I'm using
00:43:05my husband's card. The housekeeper took the day off. Haley, help out for a bit. The staff will be here
00:43:13soon.
00:43:15I glanced at the editorial team chatting happily in the living room, took a deep breath, and swallowed both my
00:43:21words and the acid rising in my stomach. Forget it. One last meal.
00:43:28I walked into the kitchen. The churning in my stomach hadn't settled, and waves of cramping started in my lower
00:43:34abdomen.
00:43:35Chop the vegetables. Turn on the stove.
00:43:39Heat the pan. Add olive oil. Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
00:43:46Add more lemon juice to the salmon. Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid. And don't overcook the
00:43:53kale. The editors arrived one after another. Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
00:43:59She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables. Emily, you're a guest.
00:44:05Just sit and wait for dinner. I'll worry about things in here. After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
00:44:12Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room. I brought out the final dish of
00:44:18roasted ribs. Six dishes filled the table. Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang. Summer ran to
00:44:26open the door, and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags. I saw that Haley only
00:44:31made home-style dishes. There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite. So I used my husband's credit
00:44:42card and ordered a few dishes myself. Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto,
00:44:53base on the table was limited. Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them,
00:44:58meat and bones together, into the nearby trash can, to make room for her seafood.
00:45:03Ryan didn't think anything of it. He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
00:45:07You're always so thoughtful.
00:45:09I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
00:45:14Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
00:45:19Haley, look at this. On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent
00:45:23her for approval. In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart, Summer Bryant.
00:45:28I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
00:45:33Why? I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
00:45:37Ryan walked over, smiling as he said,
00:45:40Haley, this one's on me. I forgot to loop you in.
00:45:44I want you to share half the byline with her. I already promised Summer in advance.
00:45:51You love me so much. You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
00:45:56I typed this out word by word, three years over three years. What gives you the right?
00:46:04What gives me the right? Money. Without me pouring money into marketing,
00:46:08your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer. I made you a best-selling author,
00:46:14and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody. Right now, the company needs to push Summer,
00:46:19and your book is the best springboard. It's that simple.
00:46:26The copyright is under my personal name. You have no right to add her name.
00:46:30If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
00:46:39The food is getting cold. Do we really have to talk about this right now?
00:46:48Everyone is waiting.
00:46:52Let's eat first. Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:46:58I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my power keys, and rushed out the door.
00:47:04By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
00:47:10Eighty percent of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her,
00:47:14and even gossiped about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
00:47:21My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
00:47:29Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
00:47:35Hayley, there's nothing I can do.
00:47:40Personally. Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
00:47:44Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
00:47:51Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
00:47:56He smoked a cigar in his office.
00:48:00A chill ran through me.
00:48:02Ryan's will talk tomorrow.
00:48:05It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
00:48:07I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
00:48:13When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
00:48:16Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
00:48:20What gives you the right to do this?
00:48:22That book is my life's work!
00:48:25I'll say it again.
00:48:27We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
00:48:29Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
00:48:34Don't take it out on him, Hayley.
00:48:37We made this decision together.
00:48:42I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
00:48:48Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
00:48:54This has nothing to do with you.
00:48:57But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
00:49:03Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
00:49:08I hope you won't be jealous of her.
00:49:13I remember I just said it.
00:49:16Is your memory that bad?
00:49:20Oh, right.
00:49:22Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
00:49:25Maybe you should step out and cool off.
00:49:28I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
00:49:34I was already leaving tonight.
00:49:38Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
00:49:45Fine.
00:49:46You've got backbone.
00:49:48Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter, I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
00:49:55He called the security company directly.
00:49:58Two private security guards stood at the door, looking awkward.
00:50:01I'm already divorced from this woman.
00:50:02She has now trespassed into my private residence to harass me and my wife.
00:50:09Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
00:50:13The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
00:50:17Haley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
00:50:22I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
00:50:25As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
00:50:32The security guards pushed me out the gate.
00:50:34I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn, freshly swept by the sprinkler system.
00:50:37I braced myself against the ground, climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
00:50:42But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
00:50:45I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
00:50:48A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
00:50:52The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
00:50:55With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
00:51:00Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
00:51:03He opened the car door.
00:51:04When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
00:51:08Haley, what happened to you?
00:51:11He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
00:51:13But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
00:51:16It's almost midnight, husband.
00:51:18If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
00:51:21Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
00:51:23He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
00:51:26Help me.
00:51:28I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
00:51:30Haley, do me a favor.
00:51:31Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
00:51:33I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
00:51:36I checked.
00:51:37You only sprained your ankle.
00:51:39I'll call Emerging Services for you right now.
00:51:42He pulled me out of the passenger seat, casually took two $20 bills from his wallet,
00:51:46and stuffed them into my hand.
00:51:48I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
00:51:53Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
00:51:56I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
00:51:59Ryan!
00:52:02I'm pregnant with your child, you bastard!
00:52:05Only the sound of rain answered me.
00:52:07The car never even lit its brake lights again.
00:52:10My vision began to blur.
00:52:11A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
00:52:14The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
00:52:18Oh my god, Haley!
00:52:20She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
00:52:25The hospital emergency department.
00:52:27When I woke up in the observation room,
00:52:29a social worker wearing an ID badge came over and handed me a stack of papers.
00:52:33Ms. Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed,
00:52:36but transferring to a private room will require out-of-pocket payment.
00:52:40Also, when we tried to process your insurance,
00:52:43the system showed that your spouse medical coverage has been frozen.
00:52:58Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayen
00:53:03played a game of truth or dare.
00:53:05Remember?
00:53:06Eighth grade?
00:53:07I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:53:11You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:53:18That was nothing.
00:53:19Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:53:25Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
00:53:33Whistles erupted all around.
00:53:35I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:53:39Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:53:42Why wouldn't I dare?
00:53:44He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:53:51Hayley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:53:54Play along with me.
00:53:55Go handle the divorce paperwork first,
00:53:57and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:54:01You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:54:04I stared at the man in front of me.
00:54:06For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:54:10This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:54:12I'm pregnant.
00:54:16Hayley, that's a brilliant move!
00:54:18Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:54:21You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
00:54:24Nice.
00:54:25You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:54:27Summer walked over.
00:54:28Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:54:32Please, Hayley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:54:38Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:54:41That's so low.
00:54:42Exactly.
00:54:45Let's go.
00:54:47Hurry up.
00:54:48If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:54:50How am I supposed to get the license then?
00:54:52He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:54:56I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:54:58The Paddy Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of
00:55:03Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:55:06And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the
00:55:12company.
00:55:13Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for summer on April Fool's Day.
00:55:21On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:55:26When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement, but a thick
00:55:33stack of documents.
00:55:34The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:55:40He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:55:44Sign it.
00:55:45Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April
00:55:50Falls joke. Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:55:56Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:55:59I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:56:02Fine. Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:56:08I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:56:12The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:56:18After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car,
00:56:23and changed into it. Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:56:27The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby. I sat on a bench
00:56:33and watched it all. Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall,
00:56:38he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks. When I reminded him
00:56:45to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging. Being real was what mattered.
00:56:50Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist,
00:56:55smiling brightly at the camera. With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple
00:57:00from a reality show. Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:57:05Honey, see that? I won again this time. We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning. Don't be
00:57:13mad. It's just a keepsake. Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep
00:57:19standing. Take me back. I need to pack my things. I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit
00:57:27down, Summer squeezed over. Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way. Since Ryan and I are legally
00:57:35married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat. She opened the door and sat down as if
00:57:41it was
00:57:42only natural. With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the
00:57:47passenger seat onto the floor map. Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:57:52I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare. Ryan caught up in a few steps,
00:57:57opened the back door, and shoved me inside. Stop throwing a tantrum. It's hard to get a car here.
00:58:03Sit down and behave. Bruno Maas' Mary Ud was playing in the car. Summer hummed along to the beat.
00:58:10When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it. It's a beautiful night.
00:58:15We're looking for something dumb to do. Ryan took the next line in perfect sync. They looked at each
00:58:22other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water. The two of them were as intimate
00:58:27as newlyweds. Ryan, your collar is crooked. Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:58:33Her fingertips brushed his atom's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
00:58:39Ryan didn't move away. Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady
00:58:44Summer's back. Stop messing around. I'm driving.
00:58:49That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
00:58:53I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
00:58:58Today, this farce had to end.
00:59:01When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique diamond ring
00:59:07in her palm, her tone full of affection.
00:59:10This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
00:59:15Before Ryan.
00:59:16Mistake.
00:59:17Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
00:59:20Hayley, you're still here.
00:59:22Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:59:25Mom, we're joking.
00:59:26It's April Fool's Day.
00:59:28We're just playing around.
00:59:29Well, I wish it could stay that way.
00:59:31Forever.
00:59:32I didn't answer.
00:59:34I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
00:59:39I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
00:59:43Hayley, everyone's here today.
00:59:45Don't ruin the mood.
00:59:47Let's have dinner together tonight.
00:59:49Think of it as a celebration.
00:59:51The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
00:59:54I've invited the whole publishing to.
00:59:56Consider it a celebration dinner.
00:59:58I stopped moving.
00:59:59That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat.
01:00:03Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee and revisions.
01:00:06If I burned everything down at this exact moment,
01:00:09tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
01:00:12I closed the suitcase.
01:00:13Fine.
01:00:14After this dinner.
01:00:16Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
01:00:21I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
01:00:25Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
01:00:28She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
01:00:31I saw that Hayley ordered only ordinary dishes.
01:00:35There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
01:00:39I added a few dishes on my own.
01:00:41Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
01:00:45The housekeeper took the day off.
01:00:47Hayley, help out for a bit.
01:00:50The staff will be here soon.
01:00:52I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
01:00:56Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
01:01:01Forget it.
01:01:02One last meal.
01:01:06I walked into the kitchen.
01:01:08The churning in my stomach hadn't settled, and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
01:01:13Chop the vegetables.
01:01:15Turn on the stove.
01:01:17Heat the pan.
01:01:19Add olive oil.
01:01:20Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
01:01:24Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
01:01:26Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
01:01:29And don't overcook the kale.
01:01:31The editors arrived one after another.
01:01:34Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
01:01:37She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
01:01:41Emily, you're a guest.
01:01:43Just sit and wait for dinner.
01:01:45I'll worry about things in here.
01:01:47After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
01:01:50Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
01:01:54I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
01:01:58Six dishes filled the table.
01:02:00Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
01:02:03Summer ran to open the door, and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
01:02:08I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
01:02:12There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
01:02:17So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
01:02:26Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, face on the table was limited.
01:02:33Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together, into the nearby
01:02:38trash can to make room for her seafood.
01:02:40Ryan didn't think anything of it.
01:02:42He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
01:02:45You're always so thoughtful.
01:02:47I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
01:02:52Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
01:02:57Haley, look at this.
01:02:58On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent her for approval.
01:03:01In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart.
01:03:04Summer Bryant.
01:03:06I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
01:03:10Why?
01:03:11I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
01:03:15Ryan walked over, smiling as he said,
01:03:18Haley, this one's on me.
01:03:19I forgot to loop you in.
01:03:22I want you to share half the byline with her.
01:03:26I already promised Summer in advance.
01:03:29You love me so much.
01:03:31You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
01:03:34I typed this out word by word, three years over three years.
01:03:38What gives you the right?
01:03:41What gives me the right?
01:03:43Money.
01:03:45Without me pouring money into marketing, your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
01:03:50I made you a best-selling author, and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody.
01:03:55Right now, the company needs to push Summer, and your book is the best springboard.
01:04:00It's that simple.
01:04:04The copyright is under my personal name.
01:04:07You have no right to add her name.
01:04:09If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
01:04:17The food is getting cold.
01:04:20Do we really have to talk about this right now?
01:04:26Everyone is waiting.
01:04:30Let's eat first.
01:04:32Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
01:04:36I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my car keys, and rushed out the door.
01:04:42By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
01:04:4780% of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her, and even gossiped about her
01:04:54and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
01:04:59My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
01:05:07Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
01:05:13Haley, there's nothing I can do.
01:05:16Personally.
01:05:18Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
01:05:22Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
01:05:29Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
01:05:34He smoked a cigar in his office.
01:05:38A chill ran through me.
01:05:40Ryan's, we'll talk tomorrow.
01:05:43It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
01:05:45I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
01:05:51When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
01:05:54Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in the summer.
01:05:58What gives you the right to do this?
01:06:00That book is my life's work!
01:06:03I'll say it again.
01:06:05We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
01:06:07Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
01:06:12Don't take it out on him, Haley.
01:06:15We made this decision together.
01:06:20I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
01:06:26Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
01:06:32This has nothing to do with you.
01:06:35But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
01:06:40Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
01:06:46I hope you won't be jealous of her.
01:06:51I remember I just said it.
01:06:54Is your memory that bad?
01:06:58Oh, right.
01:07:00Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
01:07:03Maybe you should step out and cool off.
01:07:06I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
01:07:11I was already leaving tonight.
01:07:16Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
01:07:23Fine.
01:07:24You've got backbone.
01:07:26Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
01:07:28I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
01:07:33He called the security company directly.
01:07:36Two private security guards stood at the door, looking awkward.
01:07:39I'm already divorced from this woman.
01:07:40She has now trespassed into my private residence
01:07:44to harass me and my wife.
01:07:47Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
01:07:51The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
01:07:55Haley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
01:08:00I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
01:08:03As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
01:08:09The security guards pushed me out the gate.
01:08:11I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn,
01:08:14freshly sweat by the sprinkler system.
01:08:15I braced myself against the ground,
01:08:17climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
01:08:19But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
01:08:23I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
01:08:26A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
01:08:30The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
01:08:33With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
01:08:38Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
01:08:41He opened the car door.
01:08:42When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
01:08:46Haley, what happened to you?
01:08:49He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
01:08:51But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
01:08:54It's almost midnight, husband.
01:08:55If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
01:08:59Ryan's hand stopped in miff air.
01:09:01He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
01:09:04Help me.
01:09:06I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
01:09:08Haley, do me a favor.
01:09:09Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
01:09:11I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
01:09:14I checked.
01:09:15You only sprained your ankle.
01:09:17I'll call emergency services for you right now.
01:09:20He pulled me out of the passenger seat, casually took two $20 bills from his wallet, and stuffed
01:09:25them into my hand.
01:09:26I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
01:09:31Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
01:09:34I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
01:09:37Ryan!
01:09:39I'm pregnant with your child!
01:09:42You bastard!
01:09:43Only the sound of rain answered me.
01:09:45The car never even lit its brake lights again.
01:09:48My vision began to blur.
01:09:49A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
01:09:52The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
01:09:56Oh my god, Haley!
01:09:58She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
01:10:03The hospital emergency department.
01:10:05When I woke up in the observation room, a social worker wearing an ID badge came over
01:10:10and handed me a stack of papers.
01:10:11Miss Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed, but transferring to a private room
01:10:16will require out-of-pocket payment.
01:10:18Also, when we tried to process your insurance, the system showed that your spouse medical coverage
01:10:23has been frozen.
01:10:36Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayen
01:10:41played a game of truth or dare.
01:10:43Remember?
01:10:44Eighth grade?
01:10:45I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
01:10:49You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
01:10:55That was nothing.
01:10:57Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
01:11:03Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
01:11:11Whistles erupted all around.
01:11:13I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
01:11:17Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
01:11:20Why wouldn't I dare?
01:11:22He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
01:11:29Hayley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
01:11:31Play along with me.
01:11:33Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
01:11:39You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
01:11:42I stared at the man in front of me.
01:11:43For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
01:11:48This time, I wasn't accepting it.
01:11:50I'm pregnant.
01:11:54Hayley, that's a brilliant move!
01:11:56Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
01:11:59You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
01:12:02Nice.
01:12:03You're better at April Fool's than I am.
01:12:05Summer walked over.
01:12:06Hearing our conversation, she laughed, too.
01:12:10Please, Hayley.
01:12:12If you can't handle the game, just say so.
01:12:16Using pregnancy as an excuse?
01:12:19That's so low.
01:12:20Exactly.
01:12:23Let's go.
01:12:25Hurry up.
01:12:26If we're any later, City Hall will close.
01:12:28How am I supposed to get the license, then?
01:12:30He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
01:12:34I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
01:12:36The Pate Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of
01:12:41Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
01:12:43And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me, was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the
01:12:50company.
01:12:51Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
01:12:59On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
01:13:04When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement, but a thick
01:13:11stack of documents.
01:13:12The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
01:13:18He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
01:13:22Sign it.
01:13:23Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April Fool's joke.
01:13:29Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
01:13:34Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
01:13:37I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
01:13:40Fine. Then I'll give you both what you want.
01:13:46I signed my name without the slightest pause.
01:13:50The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
01:13:56After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car and changed into it.
01:14:02Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
01:14:05The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
01:14:09I sat on a bench and watched it all.
01:14:12Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall,
01:14:16he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
01:14:22When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
01:14:27Being real was what mattered.
01:14:28Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
01:14:35With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
01:14:39Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
01:14:44Honey, see that?
01:14:46I won again this time.
01:14:48We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
01:14:51Don't be mad.
01:14:52It's just a keepsake.
01:14:53Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
01:14:58Take me back.
01:14:59I need to pack my things.
01:15:01I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
01:15:07Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way.
01:15:12Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat.
01:15:17She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
01:15:20With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the passenger seat onto
01:15:26the floor map.
01:15:27Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
01:15:30I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
01:15:34Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
01:15:38Stop throwing a tantrum.
01:15:39It's hard to get a car here.
01:15:41Sit down and behave.
01:15:43Bruno Maas' Mary Ud was playing in the car.
01:15:46Summer hummed along to the beat.
01:15:48When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
01:15:51It's a beautiful night.
01:15:53We're looking for something dumb to do.
01:15:56Ryan took the next line in perfect sync.
01:15:59They looked at each other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water.
01:16:03The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
01:16:06Ryan, your collar is crooked.
01:16:08Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
01:16:11Her fingertips brushed his Adam's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
01:16:17Ryan didn't move away.
01:16:19Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's back.
01:16:24Stop messing around.
01:16:25I'm driving.
01:16:27That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
01:16:31I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
01:16:36Today, this farce had to end.
01:16:39When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the
01:16:44antique diamond ring in her palm, her tone full of affection.
01:16:48This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
01:16:52Before Ryan.
01:16:54Mistake.
01:16:55Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
01:16:58Haley, you're still here.
01:17:00Ryan walked over and stood between them.
01:17:03Mom, we're joking.
01:17:04It's April Fool's Day.
01:17:06We're just playing around.
01:17:07Well, I wish it could stay that way forever.
01:17:10I didn't answer.
01:17:12I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
01:17:17I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
01:17:20Haley, everyone's here today.
01:17:23Don't ruin the mood.
01:17:25Let's have dinner together tonight.
01:17:27Think of it as a celebration.
01:17:29The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
01:17:32I've invited the whole publishing to.
01:17:34Consider it a celebration dinner.
01:17:36I stopped moving.
01:17:38That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat.
01:17:41Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee and revisions.
01:17:44If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
01:17:50I closed the suitcase.
01:17:51Fine.
01:17:52After this dinner.
01:17:54Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
01:17:59I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
01:18:03Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
01:18:06She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
01:18:09I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes.
01:18:13There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
01:18:17I added a few dishes on my own.
01:18:19Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
01:18:22The housekeeper took the day off.
01:18:25Haley, help out for a bit.
01:18:28The staff will be here soon.
01:18:30I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
01:18:34Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
01:18:38Forget it.
01:18:39One last meal.
01:18:44I walked into the kitchen.
01:18:46The churning in my stomach hadn't settled,
01:18:48and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
01:18:51Chop the vegetables.
01:18:53Turn on the stove.
01:18:55Heat the pan.
01:18:57Add olive oil.
01:18:58Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
01:19:02Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
01:19:04Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
01:19:08And don't overcook the kale.
01:19:09The editors arrived one after another.
01:19:12Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
01:19:15She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
01:19:19Emily, you're a guest.
01:19:21Just sit and wait for dinner.
01:19:23I'll worry about things in here.
01:19:25After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
01:19:28Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
01:19:31I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
01:19:35Six dishes filled the table.
01:19:37Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
01:19:41Summer ran to open the door,
01:19:42and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
01:19:46I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
01:19:50There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
01:19:55So, I used my husband's credit card
01:19:59and ordered a few dishes myself.
01:20:04Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto.
01:20:09Face on the table was limited.
01:20:11Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made
01:20:13and dumped them, meat and bones together,
01:20:15into the nearby trash can to make room for her seafood.
01:20:18Ryan didn't think anything of it.
01:20:20He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
01:20:23You're always so thoughtful.
01:20:25I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward,
01:20:28but someone grabbed my sleeve.
01:20:30Emily leaned close to me,
01:20:32pushed her phone screen towards me,
01:20:33and lowered her voice.
01:20:35Haley, look at this.
01:20:36On the screen was the new book poster
01:20:37the marketing department had sent her for approval.
01:20:39In the author field,
01:20:40one name had been added before Haley Hart,
01:20:42Summer Bryant.
01:20:44I snatched up the phone
01:20:45and put it right in front of Ryan.
01:20:48Why?
01:20:49I turned my head
01:20:50and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
01:20:53Ryan walked over,
01:20:54smiling as he said,
01:20:56Haley, this one's on me.
01:20:57I forgot to loop you in.
01:21:00I want you to share half
01:21:02the byline with her.
01:21:04I already promised Summer in advance.
01:21:07You love me so much.
01:21:09You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
01:21:12I type this out word by word,
01:21:14three years over three years.
01:21:16What gives you the right?
01:21:19What gives me the right?
01:21:21Money.
01:21:22Without me pouring money into marketing,
01:21:24your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
01:21:28I made you a best-selling author
01:21:30and I can turn you back
01:21:31into an ordinary nobody.
01:21:33Right now,
01:21:34the company needs to push Summer
01:21:35and your book
01:21:36is the best springboard.
01:21:38It's that simple.
01:21:42The copyright is under my personal name.
01:21:45You have no right to add her name.
01:21:47If you dare do this,
01:21:48I'll see you in court.
01:21:55The food is getting cold.
01:21:58Do we really have to talk about this right now?
01:22:01No.
01:22:04Everyone is waiting.
01:22:08Let's eat first.
01:22:10Whatever it is,
01:22:11we'll talk tomorrow.
01:22:14I ignored the table full of people,
01:22:16grabbed my power keys
01:22:17and rushed out the door.
01:22:20By the time I got to the publishing house,
01:22:22the giant poster
01:22:23had already been hung.
01:22:26Eighty percent of the entire layout was Summer,
01:22:28with a long personal introduction beside her
01:22:30and even gossiped about her and Ryan
01:22:32vacationing in the Hamptons.
01:22:37My name was squeezed into a corner,
01:22:39so small it was almost invisible.
01:22:45Derek, the head of the publishing house,
01:22:47was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
01:22:51Hayley, there's nothing I can do.
01:22:54Personally.
01:22:56Ryan called personally
01:22:57and ordered us to print overnight.
01:23:00Besides,
01:23:01Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
01:23:06Does it really matter whose name is on it,
01:23:09as long as it makes money?
01:23:12He smoked a cigar in his office.
01:23:16A chill ran through me.
01:23:18Ryan's will talk tomorrow.
01:23:21It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
01:23:23I turned and went downstairs,
01:23:25then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
01:23:28When I pushed open the door,
01:23:30the dinner was already over.
01:23:32Ryan was sitting on the sofa
01:23:34watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
01:23:36What gives you the right to do this?
01:23:38That book is my life's work!
01:23:41I'll say it again.
01:23:43We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
01:23:45Once Summer gets popular,
01:23:46I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
01:23:50Don't take it out on him, Hayley.
01:23:52We made this decision together.
01:23:58I was only helping him share
01:24:00the pressure at work.
01:24:04Some things really have been hard
01:24:05for you to handle lately.
01:24:10This has nothing to do with you.
01:24:13But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms
01:24:15and protected her completely.
01:24:18Pushing Summer forward
01:24:20is the company's established strategy.
01:24:24I hope you won't be jealous of her.
01:24:28I remember I just said it.
01:24:32Is your memory that bad?
01:24:36Oh, right.
01:24:38Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
01:24:41Maybe you should step out and cool off.
01:24:44I pulled the judgment from my bag
01:24:46and threw it straight in his face.
01:24:50I was already leaving tonight.
01:24:54Now, there's not even a final thread
01:24:56left between us.
01:25:01Fine.
01:25:02You've got backbone.
01:25:04Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
01:25:06I'll freeze your joint account
01:25:08and supplemental credit cards right now.
01:25:11He called the security company directly.
01:25:14Two private security guards
01:25:15stood at the door, looking awkward.
01:25:17I'm already divorced from this woman.
01:25:18She has now trespassed
01:25:20into my private residence
01:25:21to harass me and my wife.
01:25:25Please remove her
01:25:26and make sure she leaves
01:25:27my private property.
01:25:29The guards had no choice
01:25:30but to forcefully drag me out.
01:25:33Haley Hart, without me,
01:25:34you can't even afford a motel.
01:25:38I'll be waiting for you
01:25:39to come crawling back tomorrow
01:25:40to remarry me.
01:25:41As for that book,
01:25:43consider it your wedding gift
01:25:44to Summer today.
01:25:47The security guards
01:25:48pushed me out the gate.
01:25:49I stumbled and fell
01:25:50into a muddy patch of lawn
01:25:51freshly swept
01:25:52by the sprinkler system.
01:25:53I braced myself
01:25:54against the ground,
01:25:55climbed up,
01:25:56held my stomach,
01:25:56and walked to the roadside.
01:25:57But an out-of-control dodge pickup
01:25:59came bearing straight towards me
01:26:00around the corner.
01:26:01I avoided the collision
01:26:02but the momentum threw me
01:26:03hard onto the asphalt.
01:26:04A sharp spasm
01:26:05shot through my abdomen,
01:26:06more violent
01:26:07than any pain before.
01:26:08The 911 dispatcher
01:26:09said the ambulance
01:26:09would take another 45 minutes.
01:26:11With no other choice,
01:26:12I leaned against a street lamp
01:26:13and dialed my emergency contact.
01:26:16Ryan was close
01:26:17so he arrived quickly.
01:26:19He opened the car door.
01:26:20When his gaze touched the blood
01:26:21on the hem of my skirt,
01:26:22his steps faltered.
01:26:24Haley,
01:26:24what happened to you?
01:26:27He bent down,
01:26:28ready to carry me
01:26:29into the car.
01:26:29But Summer's message
01:26:30popped up on his phone screen.
01:26:32It's almost midnight, husband.
01:26:33If you don't come now,
01:26:35this round counts as your loss.
01:26:37Ryan's hand stopped in miff air.
01:26:39He stared at the center display,
01:26:41then turned to look at me.
01:26:42Help me.
01:26:44I clutched his cuff
01:26:45with all my strength.
01:26:46Haley, do me a favor.
01:26:47Ryan plied my fingers open
01:26:49one by one.
01:26:49I've never lost at this stupid game
01:26:51in my entire life.
01:26:52I checked.
01:26:53You only sprained your ankle.
01:26:54I'll call emerging services
01:26:56for you right now.
01:26:58He pulled me out
01:26:59of the passenger seat,
01:27:00casually took two $20 bills
01:27:01from his wallet
01:27:02and stuffed them into my hand.
01:27:04I'll come see you
01:27:04at the hospital in a bit.
01:27:09Exhaust from the tailpipe
01:27:10blasted into my face.
01:27:12I lay in the puddle
01:27:13and screamed
01:27:13at the receding taillights.
01:27:15Ryan!
01:27:18I'm pregnant with your child!
01:27:20You bastard!
01:27:21Only the sound of rain
01:27:22answered me.
01:27:23The car never even lit
01:27:24its brake lights again.
01:27:26My vision began to blur.
01:27:28A white Toyota Camry
01:27:29stopped by the road.
01:27:30The window rolled down,
01:27:32revealing Emily's
01:27:32exhausted face.
01:27:34Oh my God!
01:27:34Haley!
01:27:36She rushed out of the car
01:27:37and half-dragged,
01:27:39half-carried me
01:27:39into the back seat.
01:27:41The hospital emergency department.
01:27:43When I woke up
01:27:44in the observation room,
01:27:45a social worker
01:27:46wearing an ID badge
01:27:47came over and handed me
01:27:48a stack of papers.
01:27:49Miss Hart,
01:27:50your emergency treatment
01:27:51has been completed,
01:27:52but transferring
01:27:53to a private room
01:27:54will require
01:27:55out-of-pocket payment.
01:27:56Also,
01:27:57when we tried to process
01:27:58your insurance,
01:27:59the system showed
01:27:59that your spouse's
01:28:00medical coverage
01:28:01has been frozen.