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00:06Jasper! Jasper! Jasper, hurry up! I can't take this pain much longer!
00:13I was still two weeks from my due date, but my water broke without warning.
00:18Contractions came one after another. I barely managed to wake my husband,
00:22grabbed the hospital bag I'd prepared long ago. All I could think about was making it to the hospital.
00:28Wait! Don't go yet. I haven't washed my hair.
00:35Okay, no rush. Go wash your head.
00:40Holly, calm down. I'll be done in no time. We agreed I'd be the baby's honoree aunt.
00:45I'm supposed to be the first one to see the baby. I can't exactly be in the keepsake pitters.
00:50With greasy hair, can I? Jasper, I'm going to wash my hair. You clean my Chanel red slates.
00:56I'm wearing them later.
00:59No problem.
01:02Without a second thought, Jasper drops the heavy hospital bag to the floor and crouches down to clean Anna's shoes.
01:09My parents hear that my water has broken and video call me immediately. Their faces are pale with panic.
01:15We've already contacted the hospital. Labor and delivery is ready for you. You need to get there as fast as
01:20possible.
01:21Holly, don't be scared. We will meet you there.
01:23A violent downward conjecture slams into me, bracing myself against the wall.
01:28I struggle to look at Jasper, still bent over Anna's shoes.
01:34Jasper, I'm already dilating. If we don't go to the hospital now, the baby and I could both be in
01:39danger.
01:42Labor doesn't happen that fast. Even if we get there, we'll just be sitting around waiting.
01:47Jane, don't be so dramatic.
01:50My water had already broken, and he was calling me dramatic.
01:53I watch him carefully flush Anna's shoes, and the last bit of hope I had left disappears.
01:59Fighting through the pain, my fingers trembling.
02:01You once told me you'd protect me and my baby, no matter what.
02:04I may only have half an hour left before I go into labor.
02:06Please come. You're the only one my baby can count on.
02:19Jasper, Jasper, Jasper, hurry up!
02:23I can't take this pain much longer!
02:25I was still two weeks from my due date, but my water broke without warning.
02:30Contractions came one after another.
02:32I barely managed to wake my husband, grab the hospital bag I'd prepared long ago.
02:37All I could think about was making it to the hospital.
02:40Wait! Don't go yet.
02:43I haven't washed my hair.
02:47Okay, no rush. Go wash your head.
02:53Holly, calm down. I'll be done in no time.
02:55We agreed I'd be the baby's honoree aunt.
02:57I'm supposed to be the first one to see the baby.
03:00I can't exactly be in the keepsake pitters.
03:02With greasy hair, can I?
03:04Jasper, I'm going to wash my hair.
03:06You clean my Chanel red slates.
03:09I'm wearing them later.
03:11No problem.
03:14Without a second thought, Jasper drops the heavy hospital bag to the floor
03:18and crouches down to clean Anna's shoes.
03:21My parents hear that my water has broken and video call me immediately.
03:26Their faces are pale with panic.
03:27We've already contacted the hospital.
03:29Labor and delivery is ready for you.
03:31You need to get there as fast as possible.
03:33Holly, don't be scared. We will meet you there.
03:35A violent downward conjecture slams into me, bracing myself against the wall.
03:40I struggle to look at Jasper, still bent over Anna's shoes.
03:46Jasper, I'm already dilating.
03:48If we don't go to the hospital now, the baby and I could both be in danger.
03:54Labor doesn't happen that fast.
03:57Even if we get there, we'll just be sitting around waiting.
04:01Don't be so dramatic.
04:02My water had already broken, and he was calling me dramatic.
04:06I watch him carefully flush Anna's shoes, and the last bit of hope I had left disappears.
04:11Fighting through the pain, my fingers trembling.
04:13You once told me you'd protect me and my baby, no matter what.
04:16I may only have half an hour left before I go into labor.
04:18Please come.
04:19You're the only one my baby can count on.
04:24My scream makes Jasper freeze for a second.
04:26Then his eyes harden with irritation.
04:29What is your problem now?
04:30Ever since you got pregnant, you act like the whole world is supposed to revolve around you.
04:34Anna's just washing her hair.
04:36You can't even wait a few minutes?
04:37You already agreed she'd be the baby's honoree aunt.
04:39The shouting from the living room reaches the bathroom.
04:42Anna comes harrying out in slippers, her hair dripping wet.
04:45Please, Holly.
04:46We already agreed I was going to be the baby's honoree aunt.
04:49These are supposed to be special keepsake photos.
04:52How am I supposed to be in them with greasy hair?
04:54I'll be done in a minute.
04:56The hairdryer roars to life.
04:57Jasper takes it from her hands.
04:59She'll take too long doing it herself.
05:00I'll dry it for her, and then we'll leave.
05:02I watch Jasper gently blow dry Anna's hair, and my chest aches.
05:06Late in pregnancy, I'd been swollen, exhausted, heavy on my feet.
05:12And he brushed me off every time, saying he was too tired from work.
05:16Memories come flooding back.
05:18Then another intense contraction hits me, and more amnionic fluid trickles down my legs.
05:23Martha quickly cleans me up.
05:25Then her face changes.
05:27Oh my god.
05:28Your amnionic fluid is turning yellow and cloudy.
05:31That's a very bad sign.
05:33We can't wait another second.
05:35The hairdryer drowns out Martha's warning.
05:37Neither of them hears a thing.
05:39Martha strides over and yanks the plug from the wall.
05:42She needs to go to the hospital.
05:44Now.
05:46Since when does the nanny get to interfere in the family's business?
05:49I just washed my hair.
05:51Why is she making such a big deal about it?
05:57Stay out of this.
05:58Stop getting in the way.
06:02My scream makes Jasper freeze for a second.
06:04Then his eyes harden with irritation.
06:07What is your problem now?
06:08Ever since you got pregnant, you act like the whole world is supposed to revolve around you.
06:12Anna's just washing her hair.
06:14You can't even wait a few minutes?
06:15You already agreed she'd be the baby's honoree aunt.
06:17The shouting from the living room reaches the bathroom.
06:20Anna comes harrying out in slippers, her hair dripping wet.
06:23Please, Holly.
06:24We already agreed I was going to be the baby's honoree aunt.
06:27These are supposed to be special keepsake photos.
06:30How am I supposed to be in them with greasy hair?
06:32I'll be done in a minute.
06:33The hairdryer roars to life.
06:35Jasper takes it from her hands.
06:37She'll take too long doing it herself.
06:38I'll dry it for her, and then we'll leave.
06:40I watched Jasper gently blow dry Anna's hair, and my chest aches.
06:44Late in pregnancy, I'd been swollen, exhausted, heavy on my feet.
06:50And he brushed me off every time, saying he was too tired from work.
06:54Memories come flooding back.
06:56Then another intense contraction hits me, and more amniotic fluid trickles down my legs.
07:01Martha quickly cleans me up, then her face changes.
07:05Oh my god.
07:06Your amniotic fluid is turning yellow and cloudy.
07:09That's a very bad sign.
07:11We can't wait another second.
07:13The hairdryer drowns out Martha's warning.
07:16Neither of them hears a thing.
07:17Martha strides over and yanks the plug from the wall.
07:20She needs to go to the hospital.
07:22Now.
07:24Since when does the nanny get to interfere in the family's business?
07:27I just washed my hair.
07:29Why is she making such a big deal about it?
07:35Stay out of this.
07:36Stop getting in the way.
07:40I wanted my mom to come help around the house, but Holly insisted on hiring a live-in nanny.
07:45There was nothing I could do.
07:46After that, they plug the hairdryer back in.
07:49Neither of them cares about me or the baby.
07:52Instead, they're complaining about the fact that I hired a nanny.
07:55Just then, another urgent call from the hospital comes in.
07:59It's 10.20 p.m.
08:01Where is the patient now?
08:02The labor and delivery team is ready and waiting.
08:04She needs to be at the hospital before 11 o'clock.
08:06Don't take any chances.
08:08Okay.
08:09We'll get there as soon as we can.
08:19I have to get to the hospital before 11 o'clock.
08:22Fine.
08:22Fine.
08:23We'll go now.
08:24Stop making such a huge deal out of everything.
08:26After I keep pushing him, Jasper finally grabs the hospital bag by the couch and we head for
08:31the front door.
08:32But before we can even step outside, Anna calls after us again.
08:36She touches her hair, looking annoyed.
08:39Oh no.
08:40I forgot to curl my hair.
08:41It'll look terrible in photos.
08:43Can you wait just a minute?
08:44It won't take long to curl it.
08:48Don't rush me.
08:49I'll be done in a second.
08:51I'm the honorary aunt.
08:52I need to look perfect for the photos.
08:54I want to be the first one to see the baby.
08:56If you're coming, hurry up.
08:57I don't have time for you to do your hair.
09:00At my protest, her hand freezes around the curling iron.
09:03In an instant, she switches to a wounded, tearful voice.
09:06It's not like I did it on purpose.
09:08I'm already going as fast as I can.
09:10Who knew your water would break and mess up all my plans?
09:12I'm stressed out too, you know?
09:14Jasper has already picked up the bag and the second he hears Anna's tearful voice, he stops
09:18cold.
09:18He turns to look at her red eyes and slams the bag onto the floor.
09:21Why do you keep rushing her?
09:22Didn't you hear her say she'd be done soon?
09:23Another intense contraction hits.
09:25I clutch the arm of the couch, barely able to stay upright, and force myself to repeat
09:29my plea.
09:29Jasper, my water broke.
09:31I'm already dilating.
09:32The doctor warned that if I don't get there soon...
09:38Before I can finish, Jasper storms over and slaps me.
09:42I fall back onto the couch, stunned and disoriented.
09:45The chandelier spins in my blurred vision.
09:47It takes several seconds before my sight finally clears.
09:52You just hit me?
09:54Marcia cries out, and the towel in her hand drops to the floor.
09:57Anna catches it all out of the corner of her eye.
09:59She pauses, suppressing a smile, then goes right back to curling her hair.
10:02So what if I hit you?
10:04You wouldn't stop nagging me.
10:05I've been putting up with you for long enough!
10:07He suddenly grabs my hair, yanking me up off the couch.
10:11The pain in my scalp is blinded.
10:13Tears flood my eyes instantly.
10:15His face was inches from mine.
10:17Bloodshot eyes and raged, heavy breathing.
10:20Look at you, Holly.
10:21You're unbearable.
10:22You're pregnant.
10:23So what?
10:24Does the whole world have to revolve around you?
10:27Anna just wants to curl her hair.
10:29Can't you wait?
10:30She's your friend and the baby's honorary aunt.
10:32Why can't you cut her some slack?
10:34Suspended halfway in the air by my hair, the baby inside me, feeling the pressure, kicks frantically.
10:42Fluid streams down my thighs.
10:46Martha lunges at Jasper, trying to pry his fingers from my hair.
10:50He drives his elbow into her chest.
10:52She stumbles back, hits the edge of the coffee table, and doubles over in pit.
10:56Sir, let her go.
10:58She's pregnant.
10:59You're going to hurt her.
11:00Shut up!
11:01One more word and you can pack your things and get out.
11:09Jasper, don't hit her!
11:11Holly's pregnant.
11:14But, Holly, you really shouldn't keep rushing him either.
11:17I'm only halfway done with my hair.
11:19Under the crushing pain, my vision starts to black out.
11:22With my hair still trapped in his grip, head back and stare at the shaking ceiling light.
11:25Fragments of the past flash through my mind, how he used to treat me so well before the wedding.
11:29Then slowly turned cold after we got married, lashing out whenever something upset him.
11:34I chose to believe his apologies every time.
11:37But now, my water has broken.
11:39I'm in labor, and my baby is in danger.
11:42And my husband is hurting me, just because another woman wants more time to curl her hair.
11:48I hit the sofa hard.
11:50Let me make this clear.
11:51We are not leaving until Anna is ready.
11:53And if you upsets her, you're not stepping foot outside this house.
11:57Martha struggles to her feet and throws herself in front of me.
12:01Arms spread wide like a hen shielding her chin.
12:03I look down.
12:05My pajama pants are soaked through with fluid and dark red blood, a horrifying mess between my legs.
12:10I grit my teeth and try to push myself up off the couch, but my body is trembling, too weak
12:16to move.
12:17Childbirth always involves blood.
12:20Stop playing the victim.
12:22I'm warning you, Holly.
12:24If you upset Anna, we'll settle this when we get home.
12:30Jasper, don't scare her.
12:32I'm almost done.
12:34Holly, just hang in there a little longer.
12:36I'll be done any second.
12:37She slips back into the bathroom and goes right on curling her bangs in the mirror, even humming to herself.
12:42Do you even know how dangerous this is?
12:44Baby's barely moving.
12:45Don't try that with me.
12:46Last time you fell, you were in unbearable pain.
12:49I took you to the hospital, and everything was fine.
12:51You wasted my entire day for nothing.
12:55I'm making myself clear.
12:57We're waiting until Anna's ready.
12:59If you can't wait, then find your own way to the hospital.
13:02Oh, and one more thing.
13:05He bends down close to me and lowers his voice so only I can hear him.
13:08If you dare leave this house without my permission and make me look bad, you'll regret it when you get
13:12back.
13:12He straights up and walks over to the bathroom door.
13:14Arms folded, he watches Anna curl her hair, his voice suddenly gentle as if he were a completely different man.
13:19No rush, Anna.
13:20Take your time.
13:21Be careful not to burn your hand.
13:23I curl up on the sofa, my body tremoring.
13:27Half my face is swollen and burning, blood trickling from my lip down my chin.
13:31Martha keeps wiping the blood and cloudy fluid from between my legs with a towel.
13:35Her hands shaking, tears dripping onto my thighs.
13:39Ma'am, we have to find a way.
13:41You need to get to a hospital right now.
13:43My baby gives me the faintest little kick as if silently calling out for help.
13:47Something inside me finally snaps.
13:52Anna finally finishes curling the last strand of hair.
13:55She admires her hairstyle in the mirror and picks up a dusty pose lipstick and fills in her lips.
14:00Jasper hands her a tissue.
14:01The two of them lean toward the mirror, debating whether she needs another layer of lip liner.
14:05And I lie on the couch, barely six feet away from them, soaked in blood and fluid.
14:09Half my face swollen and injured, like a battered old doll tossed aside.
14:12Polly, I can hear you.
14:14Don't be scared.
14:15I'm on my way.
14:15I press the phone tightly to my ear.
14:17It's the only lifeline I have left.
14:19Anna finally finishes getting ready.
14:22Takes several selfies in the mirror.
14:25Then turns to Jasper.
14:28I'm all done.
14:29We can go now.
14:32Weren't you in such a rush?
14:34Fine.
14:35Let's go.
14:36Happy now?
14:37He helps me into the car.
14:41On the way, the drive is brutal.
14:44Hard accelerations.
14:45Sudden breaks.
14:47The car is jotting the whole time.
14:49Sweat poured down my forehead.
14:51Martha keeps trying to get through to him from the back seat.
14:54Please drive more carefully.
14:55She can't handle the jotting.
14:58A minute ago, you people wouldn't wait one second.
15:01Now you want me to slow down?
15:02At last, we reach the hospital.
15:04An ER gurney is already waiting at the entrance,
15:06and the OR has been prepared in advance.
15:11Oh no.
15:12I forgot to put on my press-on nails.
15:14They'll look terrible in photos.
15:16Holly, wait for me.
15:17Just let me put them on real quick, and we'll take a group photo, okay?
15:19Hearing Anna's request, Jasper grabs the hospital gurney and holds it in place.
15:23Wait here.
15:24I'm barely consciousness.
15:25The pain's so intense, I can only force out a few broken words.
15:29Get away from me.
15:30Let go, please.
15:31Her amniotic fluid is severely contaminated.
15:33If it enters her bloodstream, it could turn fatal.
15:37Before 11 o'clock is our best window to save her.
15:40Every second counts.
15:43Jasper ignored every warning, still insisting on his way.
15:47Just wait a minute.
15:48She's already at the hospital.
15:50A few seconds won't hurt.
15:52Anna just wants one keepsake photo.
16:01Please, help her now.
16:07The moment I saw Zack arrive, all the tension in my body finally gave way.
16:12I blacked out, and a flood of old memories came rushing back.
16:17Years ago, we were young, and we thought love was all that mattered.
16:22Back then, Zack told me honestly, that love would only ever make up 10% of his life.
16:27He was leaving the country to study, and we'd be starting a long-distance relationship.
16:33I was young and stubborn then.
16:35I blocked him and cut off all contact.
16:39Later, I took on a work project way beyond what I could handle.
16:43Even getting a full night's sleep became a luxury.
16:46Only then did I realize that 10% was already the most he could give.
16:51Years later, we met again.
16:53He was already successful.
16:54And I was with Jasper, planning our wedding.
16:59On my wedding day, Zack never showed up.
17:02He just had someone deliver an extravagant wedding gift.
17:06At the end of the dream, Jasper and Zack stood on either side of me, both reaching out a hand,
17:13asking me to choose.
17:14This time, I walked toward Zack, without hesitation.
17:21When I opened my eyes again, three full days had passed.
17:29In a luxury private hospital room, my whole family is gathered around my bed.
17:34I slowly look around at all the familiar faces.
17:37Mom's swollen, bloodshot eyes.
17:40Dad's tightly clenched jaw.
17:41My brother's fist balled so tightly, his knuckles are white.
17:45My sister-in-law quietly wiping away her tears.
17:49Finally, my gaze lands on the bassinet beside the bed.
17:52A tiny baby is swaddled in a pink and blue blanket.
17:56Her wrinkled little face sleeps peacefully.
17:59And her mouth opens and closes now and then in an unconscious sucking reflex.
18:04This is the daughter I almost died giving birth to.
18:07I was unconscious for three days.
18:10This is the first time I've really gotten to see her.
18:14Zack stands on the other side of the hospital bassinet, awkwardly following the nurse's instructions on how to hold a
18:20newborn.
18:23Tall and broad-shouldered, he bends down stiffly now, knees flexed, both long arms hovering in midair, his fingers helplessly
18:30searching for where to go.
18:32The nurse tells him to support the baby's head.
18:34He moves with extreme care, as if he were holding a fragile glass object that could shatter at any second.
18:40Watching him fumble so earnestly, I can't help but smile.
18:43The smile pulls at my C-section incision, and a sharp pain shoots through my abdomen.
18:47I suck in a breath.
18:48Holly!
18:53Mom all but rushes to the bedside, gripping my hand tightly as big tears keep falling.
18:59Do you have any idea how scared I was?
19:02You had an amniotic fluid embolism.
19:04You were unconscious for three whole days.
19:07I thought I was going to lose you forever.
19:10She's so overwhelmed, her words come out broken and uneven.
19:14Her fingers are cold and trembling non-stop.
19:17I part my lips, but my throat is so dry it feels stuffed with cotton.
19:22My voice comes out coarse and broken.
19:24Mom, you're awake.
19:26That's all that matters.
19:28Mom wipes the tears off her face with unsteady hands and forces out a smile.
19:32I've already arranged for a postpartum doula to come to the house, and Martha will keep
19:37helping take care of you.
19:38I will never let you suffer like this again.
19:41I promise.
19:42All the emotions I've been holding back finally come pouring out.
19:46I grip Mom's hand and break down crying.
19:48Mom, it hurts so much.
19:50I'm so scared.
19:52I shake as I cry, finally letting out all the pain and hurt.
19:55I've carried through ten months of pregnancy and three years of marriage.
19:58Dad and brother's eyes are red.
20:00Dad deliberately turns his head away, his shoulders shaking non-stop.
20:04Brother clenches his fists so hard his nuggles crack.
20:10Mom cries for a long time before she can barely steady herself.
20:15She pulls out a few tissues, wipes both my face and hers clean,
20:20takes a deep breath, and starts to speak.
20:24A lot happened after they took you into surgery.
20:28You were unconscious, so you don't know what happened.
20:33Sister-in-law wraps an arm around Mom's shoulders, tears spilling down her own face, too.
20:39Zach Quinn gently sets the baby down from his arms, walks to the bedside, and says nothing.
20:44He only reaches out and lays his hand softly over mine and Mom's clasped hands.
20:50His hand is warm, his palm rough with a thin layer of calluses, gently stroking the back of my hand.
20:57A lot happened after they took you into surgery.
21:00You were unconscious, so you don't know what happened.
21:04After Zach knocked Jasper down, he was still outside, screaming and cursing.
21:09Zach took Jasper and Anna outside to the alley beside the hospital.
21:13The two of them got into a serious fight.
21:16Jasper tried to rush back and interfere with the surgery, so Zach acted in self-defense to stop him.
21:22There are security cameras all over the hospital and the surrounding streets.
21:26I freeze, wincing as I accidentally pulled at my incision.
21:30Is he hurt badly?
21:34Brother cuts in from the side, a rare look of satisfaction crossing his face.
21:39I pulled the surveillance footage from around the hospital.
21:42Jasper had some injuries on his face, and Anna tried to get involved but was stopped.
21:46Hospital security got there fast, separated everyone, and took statements.
21:50They confirmed Zach was acting in self-defense to stop Jasper from causing more trouble.
21:54And all the footage has been preserved.
21:58Sister-in-law adds from the side.
22:00Zach's lawyer told me that Zach warned them not to harass you again.
22:04All the surveillance footage and evidence of Jasper abusing you have been preserved.
22:08If they keep this up, everything will be turned over to the police and the court.
22:14Dad gently shakes his head.
22:16Those two wouldn't dare call the police.
22:19They know perfectly well they're in the wrong.
22:25They brought it on themselves.
22:27Jasper coughs softly, the tips of his ears turning slightly red.
22:31He reaches out and gently squeezes my fingers, his voice lowered almost to a whisper.
22:37Holly, things were critical.
22:38I had to make sure you were safe.
22:40I squeeze his hand and look into his bloodshot eyes after three straight days at the hospital.
22:52For a split second, Zach panics.
22:55He hurriedly grabs tissues and wipes my cheeks, murmuring non-stop.
23:00Don't cry.
23:01Your incision is still healing.
23:03You shouldn't get too worked up.
23:05That only makes me cry harder.
23:07Mom smiles and pats the back of my hand.
23:09All right, you just woke up.
23:12You shouldn't get too worked up.
23:14Zach, get her some warm water.
23:16Not too hot.
23:17Zach lets go of my hand at once, stands, and goes to pour the water.
23:22I watch him walk away, feeling the wounds my marriage left behind slowly begin to heal.
23:27In the crib, Nora Ann lets out two soft little fusses, her tiny hands waving in the air, as
23:33if she's about to drift into a dream.
23:35Mom quickly leans in, lowering voice as she fondly studies the baby.
23:40Oh, this little one is just like her mama.
23:43Can't even stay still in her sleep.
23:45I turn my head and really look at my daughter for the first time.
23:49She's so tiny I could cradle her whole back in one hand.
23:53I'm almost afraid to touch her, that scared I'll be too clumsy and hurt her.
23:58Those long lashes, her soft pink skin, that tiny mouth opening and closing.
24:03My heart just melts.
24:05Have you picked a name for the baby yet?
24:10For a split second, Zach panics.
24:12He hurriedly grabs tissues and wipes my cheeks, murmuring nonstop.
24:17Don't cry.
24:18Your incision is still healing.
24:20You shouldn't get too worked up.
24:22That only makes me cry harder.
24:24Mom smiles and pats the back of my hand.
24:27All right.
24:27You just woke up.
24:29You shouldn't get too worked up.
24:31Zach, get her some warm water.
24:33Not too hot.
24:34Zach lets go of my hand at once, stands, and goes to pour the water.
24:39I watch him walk away, feeling the wounds my marriage left behind slowly begin to heal.
24:44In the crib, Nora Ann lets out two soft little fusses, her tiny hands waving in the air,
24:49as if she's about to drift into a dream.
24:52Mom quickly leans in, lowering voice as she fondly studies the baby.
24:57Oh, this little one is just like her mama.
25:00Can't even stay still in her sleep.
25:03I turn my head and really look at my daughter for the first time.
25:07She's so tiny I could cradle her whole back in one hand.
25:10I'm almost afraid to touch her.
25:12That scared I'll be too clumsy and hurt her.
25:15Those long lashes, her soft pink skin, that tiny mouth opening and closing.
25:20My heart just melts.
25:22Have you picked a name for the baby yet?
25:27Mom furrows her brow.
25:29You just woke up, and the first thing you want is your phone?
25:32It's important.
25:34My eyes are resolute.
25:36I'm filing for divorce right now.
25:38The hospital room goes dead silent for a few seconds.
25:42Zach is the first to react.
25:44He pulls my phone from the bedside drawer girl is little drawer.
25:47Before handing it to me, he hesitates for a beat.
25:50You're still weak.
25:51Maybe rest a few days before dealing with this.
25:54I can't wait one more day.
25:55I take the phone.
25:57My fingers are still trembling, but the unlock is decisive.
26:00I'm done with Jasper.
26:02Not a second more.
26:03I scroll through my contacts and find the divorce lawyer I met back in college.
26:08She's run her own firm for years and specializes in marital disputes.
26:11The call connects, and her crisp voice comes through.
26:15Holly, you're awake.
26:17I heard what happened.
26:18I was planning to come see you.
26:22Sarah, I want a divorce.
26:25As fast as possible.
26:26Can you bring the filing papers today?
26:28No problem.
26:30Send me your room number.
26:31I'll come in person.
26:32And what are your terms for the property division?
26:35I'm giving up my share of the marital assets.
26:38All I want is full custody of my daughter.
26:41I don't need him to pay child support.
26:45I just want every last tie between us severed.
26:53Mom furrows her brow.
26:55You just woke up, and the first thing you want is your phone?
26:59It's important.
27:00My eyes are resolute.
27:02I'm filing for divorce right now.
27:05The hospital room goes dead silent for a few seconds.
27:08Zach is the first to react.
27:10He pulls my phone from the bedside drawer girlisbittal drawer.
27:13Before handing it to me, he hesitates for a beat.
27:16You're still weak.
27:17Maybe rest a few days before dealing with this.
27:20I can't wait one more day.
27:22I take the phone.
27:23My fingers are still trembling, but the unlock is decisive.
27:27I'm done with Jasper.
27:28Not a second more.
27:30I scroll through my contacts and find the divorce lawyer I met back in college.
27:34She's run her own firm for years and specializes in marital disputes.
27:38The call connects, and her crisp voice comes through.
27:42Holly, you're awake.
27:44I heard what happened.
27:45I was planning to come see you.
27:49Sarah, I want a divorce.
27:51As fast as possible.
27:53Can you bring the filing papers today?
27:55No problem.
27:56Send me your room number.
27:57I'll come in person.
27:58And what are your terms for the property division?
28:01I'm giving up my share of the marital assets.
28:04All I want is full custody of my daughter.
28:08I don't need him to pay child support.
28:11I just want every last tie between us severed.
28:21Understood.
28:22The call ends.
28:23The hospital room sinks back into silence.
28:25Mom looks at me like she wants to speak but can't.
28:28Dad rubs his palms together.
28:30Brother clenches his fusts.
28:32Sister-in-law's expression is complicated.
28:34Only Zach says nothing unnecessary.
28:36He simply offers me the glass of water again, quietly urging me to drink.
28:40I look into his calm eyes, and somehow, all the anger and hurt I've carried for the past
28:45three years don't seem so important anymore.
28:47An hour later, my lawyer strides into my hospital room with a briefcase in hand.
28:52She's wearing a sharply tailored black suit, her ponytail sleek and immaculate.
28:57She greets my family first, then heads straight to my bedside, and pulls a complete set of printed
29:03legal paperwork from her briefcase.
29:05Take a look.
29:07Everything was drafted according to your instructions.
29:10You'll have full custody of your daughter, and we've filed to terminate Jasper's visitation
29:15rights.
29:17You're waiving any claim to the house, car, and savings.
29:20We also confirm that the debts from his company are his sole responsibility and won't affect
29:25you.
29:28I take the papers with slightly trembling hands and read through them line by line, making
29:33sure everything is in order.
29:35The lawyer hands her a pen.
29:38You can sign.
29:45I grip the pen and sign my name at the bottom of both copies, carefully and deliberately.
29:51The moment I finish signing, I let out a long breath I'd been holding for years.
29:56It feels like a weight I've carried for three years has finally been lifted.
30:01Please take these to Jasper.
30:03Even if he refuses to cooperate, the court can still move forward.
30:08Brother takes the papers and nods to Mom and Dad.
30:12I'll go.
30:14Mom catches Brother by the arm.
30:17I'm coming with you, just in case Jasper tries to pull something.
30:21Sister-in-law rises to her feet.
30:23I'm coming too.
30:24He won't pull anything with all of us there.
30:27The three of them hurry out of the hospital room, and the room falls silent at once.
30:32The lawyer gathers the extra paperwork, then shakes my hand goodbye.
30:39Congratulations.
30:40Your new life starts now.
30:41I smile, my eyes welling with tears.
30:45Thank you so much, Sarah.
30:48After the lawyer leaves, the hospital room is quiet except for me, Zach Quinn, and Nora Ann
30:53asleep in her bassinet.
30:56The room feels strangely warm and quiet.
31:00I lean back against my pillows and sneak a glance at Zach.
31:07He walks to the baby's bassinet and carefully reaches out one finger to gently touch Nora's
31:13soft cheek.
31:15The baby wrinkles her tiny nose.
31:18Zach instantly pulls his hand back, tense and alarmed, terrified of waking her.
31:23I can't help laughing out loud.
31:26Zach turns to look at me, a little embarrassed.
31:30What are you laughing at?
31:31You.
31:33A big guy like you and one tiny baby has you all flustered.
31:37The tips of his ears turn red again.
31:40He mutters under his breath.
31:43That's different.
31:44She's your daughter.
31:46I want to make sure she's protected.
31:49I feel a warmth spread through me as I speak.
31:53Zach, scoot a little closer.
31:55There's something I want to tell you.
31:56He obediently sits down in the chair beside the hospital bed, his long legs awkwardly drawn in.
32:02The way he looks at me takes me back years to the way he used to sit by the library
32:07window,
32:08lost in a book.
32:10Zach, thank you.
32:11Really.
32:13If you hadn't gotten there when you did, Nora and I...
32:15Don't talk about what-ifs.
32:18He cuts me off, his tone utterly serious.
32:22There's no what-if.
32:23I got there.
32:25You both made it.
32:27That's all that matters.
32:33I sniff back my tears and keep going.
32:35But Zach, you know what my life looks like.
32:37I've been through a failed marriage, and I have a newborn daughter.
32:40My body's been through a C-section, and I'm not planning to have any more children.
32:45It wouldn't be fair to you.
32:47You deserve a life without all this baggage.
32:49You could meet someone, have children of your own, and build the kind of life you want.
32:54I choose my words carefully, saying everything that's been weighing on me.
32:58But the more I talk, the stranger his expression becomes.
33:02When I finish, he watches me in silence for three seconds.
33:06Then he reaches into the inner pocket of his coat,
33:09takes out a printed copy of a medical record,
33:11and gently places it on the bedside table.
33:15Take a look at this.
33:17Confused, I pick it up and flip through the pages.
33:20It's a printed copy of a hospital medical record.
33:24Zach's name is right there in black and white.
33:26Three years ago, he had a vasectomy overseas.
33:32I freeze.
33:34My mind goes completely blank.
33:38You.
33:39Three years after you blocked me, I had the procedure done abroad.
33:43He speaks evenly.
33:49I thought I'd never love anyone again, so I got snipped.
33:53Then I heard you were getting married,
33:56and I actually considered crashing the wedding.
34:01The day of, I went to the church by myself and sat there the whole day, just thinking.
34:07A faint, self-mocking smile touches his lips.
34:13It took me three full years to figure it out.
34:16Holly,
34:17you're the only one I've ever wanted.
34:19You don't want more kids,
34:20and I can't have them anymore.
34:22So Nora's a gift for both of us.
34:24I read the copy of the surgical record over and over,
34:28my eyes fixed on the date of the procedure.
34:30Three years ago, I was head over heels planning my wedding,
34:34convinced Jasper was the one.
34:36And far away, in another country,
34:38Zach made such a decision.
34:43How could you be so stupid?
34:45My shoulders keep shaking,
34:47and the tears won't stop falling.
34:49What if I never break free of this marriage?
34:52What if I never look back?
34:55Even then,
34:56I'd take it.
34:57He reaches up and gently wipes away the tears sliding down my face,
35:02his palm warm against my skin.
35:05I had the surgery,
35:07but that doesn't mean I'm done waiting for you.
35:12I'm crying too hard to say a word.
35:15All I can do is cling to his hand.
35:18Nora Ann is startled by my crying,
35:20and starts fussing and whimpering.
35:23Zach Quinn jumps up at once,
35:25and awkwardly scoops the baby into his arms,
35:27clumsily trying to soothe her.
35:31It's okay.
35:32Mommy's not upset.
35:33She's just really, really happy.
35:36Watching him stiffly rock the baby in his arms,
35:38I laugh through my tears and can't help teasing him.
35:42Zach, you're completely off-key.
35:45He turns back,
35:46his eyes soft and curved with a gentle smile.
35:49Then you're in charge of teaching Nora to sing.
35:51In the middle of the chaos,
35:53Zach Quinn pulls a small velvet jewelry box from his pocket,
35:56drops to one knee on the cold tile floor of the hospital room,
36:00and opens it.
36:01A diamond ring rests quietly inside.
36:05Holly.
36:06He lifts his hand.
36:08His voice isn't loud,
36:09but every word lands clear and firm.
36:12Will you marry me?
36:16I look at the man kneeling before me.
36:18He spent years waiting for me in silence,
36:21waiting from the bright, confident young man he once was,
36:25until faint lines touch the corners of his eyes,
36:28giving me all his tenderness,
36:30all his sincerity.
36:35I will.
36:39My voice is hoarse as I hold out my hand.
36:42The ring slides securely onto my finger.
36:45It fits perfectly.
36:46He rises,
36:48bends down and folds me gently into his arms,
36:50his chin resting on the top of my head
36:52as he speaks in a low voice.
36:54Don't ever push me away again, Holly.
36:57Bury myself in his embrace,
36:59tears streaming down my face.
37:01Nora Ann wails in her arms.
37:04A nurse pushes the door open,
37:06takes in the scene,
37:07then quietly closes it again.
37:12Soon after,
37:13mom calls,
37:14and she's livid.
37:16Jasper says he has to see you in person,
37:18or he won't sign the paperwork.
37:20Your brother almost got into a fight with him,
37:22but I stopped it.
37:23Anna was there too,
37:24stirring things up non-stop,
37:26saying some other man got into your head
37:28and telling Jasper not to give up.
37:30I hold the phone,
37:31perfectly calm inside.
37:33Mom, come back first.
37:35Even if he won't cooperate,
37:37the court can still grant the divorce without him.
37:39Stalling won't change anything.
37:43After hanging up,
37:45I turn to look at Zach.
37:46He's sweating,
37:48clumsily trying to change Nora's diaper,
37:50frowning at it like he can't tell
37:52which side is front and which is back.
37:54Zach.
37:58Yeah?
38:04You've lost so much weight.
38:07I don't respond.
38:09I just slide the divorce papers across the table to him.
38:13Please read them.
38:17Polly, please.
38:19Let me explain.
38:20That day,
38:21I completely lost my mind.
38:23I know I did something unforgivable.
38:25I swear I'll never see Anna again.
38:27I swear.
38:28I haven't slept in three days.
38:30All I see when I close my eyes
38:32is you suffering that day.
38:34I wasn't thinking straight.
38:36I did something I'll never forgive myself for.
38:45I raise my glass,
38:47take a sip,
38:48and say nothing.
38:50I just watch him perform.
38:52It took me a while,
38:53but I finally saw it.
38:55I'm weak.
38:56I loved having Anna around,
38:58looking up to me,
38:59needing me for everything.
39:01It made me feel important.
39:02But you,
39:03you were different.
39:05You were too independent.
39:07You went to your checkups alone,
39:09handled the nausea alone,
39:10never told me when you were in pain at night.
39:13I convinced myself you didn't need me.
39:16But the truth is,
39:18I couldn't handle not being needed.
39:25You've lost so much weight.
39:29I don't respond.
39:30I just slide the divorce papers
39:32across the table to him.
39:34Please read them.
39:39Holly, please,
39:40let me explain.
39:41That day,
39:42I completely lost my mind.
39:44I know I did something unforgivable.
39:46I swear,
39:47I'll never see Anna again.
39:49I swear.
39:50I haven't slept in three days.
39:52All I see when I close my eyes
39:53is you suffering that day.
39:55I wasn't thinking straight.
39:58I did something
39:59I'll never forgive myself for.
40:06I raise my glass,
40:08take a sip,
40:09and say nothing.
40:11I just watch him perform.
40:13It took me a while,
40:14but I finally saw it.
40:16I'm weak.
40:17I loved having Anna around,
40:19looking up to me,
40:21needing me for everything.
40:22It made me feel important.
40:24But you,
40:24you were different.
40:26You were too independent.
40:28You went to your checkups alone,
40:30handled the nausea alone,
40:32never told me when you were in pain at night.
40:34I convinced myself you didn't need me.
40:37But the truth is,
40:39I couldn't handle not being needed.
40:44I'm a bastard.
40:46Holly,
40:47the second I hit you,
40:48I regretted it.
40:49I really did love you once.
40:51I cut off his tearful confession,
40:54my voice calm.
40:55Jasper,
40:56you never loved me for who I was.
40:59What you wanted was the resources
41:01and connections my family could bring me.
41:03Just give me one more chance,
41:05one last chance.
41:06I'll send Anna away.
41:08I'll quit my job
41:09and stay home full time
41:10with you and the baby.
41:11I'll do anything you ask.
41:12You don't have any chances left.
41:16My tone stays cold.
41:18Sign it.
41:24I won't sign.
41:26Give me three more months.
41:27I'll prove I can change.
41:32Let go.
41:40On the way back to my room,
41:42I let out a soft sigh.
41:46What if he refuses to cooperate?
41:51Don't worry.
41:53The lawyer's got everything we need.
41:55Even if he doesn't show,
41:57the court can still grant the divorce.
42:00What we're going for next
42:01is getting his visitation rights revoked.
42:04Over the next few days,
42:07Jasper's company keeps getting hit.
42:12His main supplier pulls out.
42:15Banks tighten their lending.
42:16His company's funds are frozen.
42:19He calls everyone he can think of,
42:22but no one wants to get involved.
42:27His mother comes to the Klomplex,
42:29causing a scene,
42:30and is removed by security.
42:33On the third day,
42:35Jasper contacts my brother,
42:37agreeing to all terms.
42:38My brother brings back the signed papers,
42:41looking satisfied.
42:43He signed with shaking hands.
42:45Then he fell back in his chair,
42:47completely drained.
42:49Hmph.
42:50Too late for regrets now.
42:56The papers are all signed now.
42:58I lean back and look at the ring on my finger.
43:01Then I look at Nora, fast asleep.
43:04It all feels like a dream.
43:17By the flower bed near the hospital entrance,
43:20Jasper stands there alone.
43:22Old bruises still mark his face.
43:25He's thinner now,
43:26his eyes sunken deep.
43:31I'm not looking back.
43:38We're going home.
43:40The car merges into the city traffic,
43:43and golden sunlight pours through the window,
43:45warm and soft,
43:47wrapping around me and Nora as she sleeps.
43:49I look down at my ring,
43:51then at Zach behind the wheel.
43:52The sunlight catches his profile,
43:54and I notice the faint smile he's wearing.
43:57Zach?
43:58Yeah?
44:14By the flower bed near the hospital entrance,
44:17Jasper stands there alone.
44:19Old bruises still mark his face.
44:21He's thinner now,
44:22his eyes sunken deep.
44:27I'm not looking back.
44:35We're going home.
44:36The car merges into the city traffic,
44:39and golden sunlight pours through the window,
44:41warm and soft,
44:43wrapping around me and Nora as she sleeps.
44:45I look down at my ring,
44:47then at Zach behind the wheel.
44:49The sunlight catches his profile,
44:50and I notice the faint smile he's wearing.
44:54Zach?
44:55Yeah?
45:02Zach, you seriously need to be dealt with.
45:05Hey, hey, I'm driving.
45:06I'm driving.
45:08She's crying.
45:09Is she hungry,
45:10or is her diaper wet?
45:11Holly, check on her.
45:12Keep your eyes on the road.
45:13Let me calm her down.
45:16I scoop Nora up,
45:18holding her close.
45:19Her tiny body is warm against my chest.
45:22The crying fades into soft breaths,
45:25and soon she's asleep.
45:28The car winds into a tranquil residential area,
45:31and comes to a stop at a house with its own little garden.
45:37We're here.
45:39I step out.
45:40Zach take Nora from my arms,
45:42cradling her like she's the most fragile thing in the world.
45:50This house...
45:51I had it prepared ahead of time.
45:57Zach, you seriously need to be dealt with.
45:59Hey, hey, I'm driving.
46:03She's crying.
46:04Is she hungry, or is her diaper wet?
46:06Holly, check on her.
46:07Keep your eyes on the road.
46:08Let me calm her down.
46:11I scoop Nora up,
46:13holding her close.
46:14Her tiny body is warm against my chest.
46:17The crying fades into soft breaths,
46:20and soon she's asleep.
46:23The car winds into a tranquil residential area,
46:26and comes to a stop at a house with its own little garden.
46:32We're here.
46:33I step out.
46:35Zach take Nora from my arms,
46:37cradling her like she's the most fragile thing in the world.
46:45This house...
46:46I had it prepared ahead of time.
46:54I have nothing left.
46:57My account's been shut down.
46:59The hundred thousand followers I worked so hard to build are gone.
47:02Why are you blaming any of this on me?
47:04Isn't it your fault?
47:06It was your ex-wife and her new man using their connections to crush us.
47:10I covered for you every step of the way.
47:13I helped you dodge your responsibilities at home,
47:16and now you're dumping every bit of the blame on me.
47:21Let's be real.
47:22Did you really do all this for me?
47:24You loved living in someone else's home.
47:26You enjoyed the thrill of tearing apart another woman's marriage.
47:29If you hadn't moved in,
47:31if you hadn't kept stirring things up,
47:32we never would have ended up like this.
47:35You're seriously turning this around on me?
47:37Jasper, take a good hard look at yourself.
47:39Your startup was built on the Hart family's backing.
47:42Now that you've lost that support,
47:44you're nothing.
47:50I have nothing left.
47:52My account's been shut down.
47:54The hundred thousand followers I worked so hard to build are gone.
47:57Why are you blaming any of this on me?
47:59Isn't it your fault?
48:01It was your ex-wife and her new man
48:03using their connections to crush us.
48:05I covered for you every step of the way.
48:08I helped you dodge your responsibilities at home,
48:11and now you're dumping every bit of the blame on me.
48:16Let's be real.
48:17Did you really do all this for me?
48:19You loved living in someone else's home.
48:21You enjoyed the thrill of tearing apart another woman's marriage.
48:24If you hadn't moved in,
48:26if you hadn't kept stirring things up,
48:27we never would have ended up like this.
48:30You're seriously turning this around on me?
48:32Jasper, take a good hard look at yourself.
48:34Your startup was built on the Hart family's backing.
48:37Now that you've lost that support,
48:39you're nothing.
48:41Anna goes back to her hometown,
48:43but her family has already turned her old room into a storage room.
48:47When her father sees her come back,
48:49he tears into her in front of everyone.
48:51She spends the night crouched outside the front door,
48:54then drags her suitcase away from home again the next morning.
48:57After that, she drifts from city to city,
49:00scraping by in low-wage service jobs,
49:02and getting fired over and over after clashing with employers.
49:07With a criminal record,
49:08Jasper is shut out of any decent job.
49:11He tries delivering food for a while,
49:13but gets into a crash and breaks his leg.
49:15The recovery takes three months.
49:17Then he tries construction,
49:18but can't handle the heavy work.
49:20He quits and moves back in with his mother,
49:23who does nothing but complain and curse everyone all day.
49:27Jasper just lies around all day,
49:30glued to his phone.
49:31He's gained weight,
49:32and his eyes are blank.
49:33There is nothing left of the confident,
49:36driven man he used to be.
49:37He gets into drugs,
49:39gets arrested a few times for using in public.
49:41He bounces around,
49:43survives on welfare.
49:44I hear most of it from my brother.
49:47On a rainy day,
49:48I curl up in a beanbag chair by the floor-to-ceiling windows,
49:52reading a parenting book
49:53while Nora sleeps peacefully in my arms.
49:57What are you reading?
49:58A parenting book.
50:00Nora's going to start teething soon.
50:02So I need to learn how to take care of her baby teeth.
50:06My mom worries about everything.
50:09She's thoughtful.
50:10I rest my head lightly against his shoulder.
50:13My brother just texted.
50:15Another update on Jasper.
50:17Just ignore it.
50:19Your brother loves gossip a little too much.
50:21Don't let the past drain you.
50:23I can't help laughing.
50:24You're really not curious how they're doing now?
50:27Not at all.
50:30Their lives have nothing to do with us anymore.
50:33All we need to do is live our own life well.
50:36I hear most of it from my brother.
50:39On a rainy day,
50:40I curl up in a beanbag chair by the floor-to-ceiling windows,
50:44reading a parenting book while Nora sleeps peacefully in my arms.
50:49What are you reading?
50:50A parenting book.
50:52Nora's going to start teething soon,
50:54so I need to learn how to take care of her baby teeth.
50:58My mom worries about everything.
51:01She's thoughtful.
51:02I rest my head lightly against his shoulder.
51:05My brother just texted.
51:07Another update on Jasper.
51:09Just ignore it.
51:11Your brother loves gossip a little too much.
51:13Don't let the past drain you.
51:15I can't help laughing.
51:16You're really not curious how they're doing now?
51:19Not at all.
51:22Their lives have nothing to do with us anymore.
51:24All we need to do is live our own life well.
51:32This little one's got some strength.
51:35A light rain taps softly against the window outside,
51:38fogging the glass with a thin veil of mist.
51:41In the garden,
51:42the roses glow even brighter under the rain,
51:45and the wind chime on the porch sways in the wet breeze,
51:48letting out a muted hollow chime.
51:52Everything that once drove me to despair
51:55now feels distant,
51:56like faded photographs.
51:58Their outlines remain,
52:00but their edges no longer cut.
52:02Zach?
52:02Yeah?
52:03I'm getting sleepy.
52:12What are you doing?
52:13I can walk on my own.
52:14You said you were sleepy.
52:16I can walk by myself.
52:18No.
52:19I just want to hold you.
52:21I loop my arms around his neck
52:23and bury my cheek in the hollow of it.
52:25He smells like clean laundry
52:27and a hint of the kitchen,
52:29warm,
52:29steady,
52:30and safe.
52:39The sheer curtains in the bedroom
52:41are a soft pink,
52:43chosen by Zach's mother.
52:44They sway gently in the breeze,
52:47damp with rain.
52:55Go to sleep.
52:58I let my eyes fall shut,
53:00the rain whispers outside,
53:02and against Zach's chest,
53:03I can feel his heartbeat,
53:04calm and strong.
53:06I mumble under my breath.
53:07No more Anna updates.
53:10Fine.
53:11And don't bring up Jasper, either.
53:13You got it.
53:16You don't get to change.
53:25I'll stay the same, Holly.
53:27You don't have to worry about that.
53:29I tuck myself closer into his arms,
53:31the corners of my mouth lifting
53:32before I even realize it.
53:34The rain is still coming down.
53:36The wind is slowing.
53:38In the next room,
53:39Nora is fast asleep.
53:41Tonight,
53:41I finally let my guard down
53:43and sleep.
53:45Life now is simple,
53:47warm,
53:48and full.
53:50Zach takes an extended leave
53:51from work
53:52and spends most of his time
53:53with Nora and me.
53:55He learns from the nurses
53:56how to feed,
53:58burp,
53:59diaper,
54:00and bathe Nora.
54:02His notebook is crammed
54:03with careful,
54:04detailed notes
54:05on every step.
54:07The private postpartum center
54:09picks the model family member
54:11and Zach wins,
54:12without a doubt.
54:13At the award ceremony,
54:15he goes outstage
54:16holding Nora
54:17while the crowd cheers
54:18and applauds.
54:21He's always helping out
54:22when he sees
54:23other families struggling.
54:25Everyone at the center
54:27knows him
54:27as the model partner.
54:35My mom visits often,
54:37always showing up
54:38with bags full
54:39of baby supplies.
54:43This is an heirloom
54:44passed down
54:45through the generations.
54:46Today,
54:47it finally goes
54:49to the next one.
54:51I'm overwhelmed.
54:53It's too much.
54:54I want to say no.
54:56But Zach squeezes my hand
54:57under the table
54:58and whispers,
54:59just take it.
55:00Don't disappoint him.
55:03The banquet hall is packed.
55:05People are chatting,
55:07glasses are clinking,
55:08it's a real celebration.
55:10Holding Nora
55:11at the head table
55:12as everyone offers
55:13their blessings.
55:14I feel strangely dazed.
55:17Just three months ago,
55:18I was fighting for my life
55:19on an operating table.
55:21Now I'm holding
55:22my healthy daughter
55:23in my arms,
55:24with a man beside me
55:26who loves me
55:27with his whole heart.
55:29What are you thinking about?
55:31I was just thinking
55:32how lucky I am.
55:33I turn to look at him,
55:35a small smile
55:36touching my lips.
55:43This is an heirloom
55:44passed down
55:45through the generations.
55:47Today,
55:47it finally goes
55:49to the next one.
55:52I'm overwhelmed.
55:53It's too much.
55:54I want to say no.
55:56But Zach squeezes my hand
55:57under the table
55:58and whispers,
55:59just take it.
56:00Don't disappoint him.
56:03The banquet hall is packed.
56:05People are chatting.
56:07Glasses are clinking.
56:08It's a real celebration.
56:10Holding Nora
56:11at the head table
56:12as everyone offers
56:13their blessings.
56:14I feel strangely dazed.
56:17Just three months ago,
56:18I was fighting for my life
56:20on an operating table.
56:21Now I'm holding
56:22my healthy daughter
56:23in my arms,
56:25with a man beside me
56:26who loves me
56:27with his whole heart.
56:29What are you thinking about?
56:31I was just thinking
56:32how lucky I am.
56:33I turn to look at him,
56:35a small smile
56:36touching my lips.
56:40As the banquet's winding down,
56:42Zach's mother
56:43pulls me aside
56:44and quietly slips
56:45a bank card
56:45into my hand.
56:46Sweetheart,
56:47this is for you.
56:48Taking care of a baby
56:49is hard.
56:50Get yourself
56:51whatever you want.
56:52Don't be shy about it.
56:53This is too generous.
56:54I can't accept it.
56:56Take it.
56:57If you refuse,
56:58then you're rejecting me
56:59as your elder.
57:01I want to say no,
57:02but I can't.
57:03So I just take it.
57:10Your mom is really wonderful.
57:12I mean it with all my heart.
57:16My mother is kind by nature.
57:18Your parents are the same.
57:19I remember my mom
57:21and my mother-in-law
57:21at the banquet,
57:22sitting side by side,
57:24chatting about babies
57:25like old friends.
57:25It was such a sweet scene.
57:28The two moms get along
57:29so well,
57:30if we ever fight,
57:31neither of us
57:32is going to have anyone
57:33in our corner.
57:34I say it half-jokingly.
57:37I sit in the rocking chair
57:38on the porch
57:39with a book in my hands.
57:40The wind chimes
57:41ring softly in the breeze,
57:43and the sweet scent
57:44of flowers
57:44drifts everywhere.
57:46Zach plucks
57:46the most vibrant
57:47red rose in bloom,
57:48walks over to me,
57:49and gently tucks it
57:51behind my ear.
57:52Beautiful.
57:52He steps back
57:53two paces
57:54and looks me over
57:55with quiet satisfaction.
57:57Zach?
57:58Yeah?
58:00I set down the book
58:01in my hands
58:02and look up at him.
58:03Sunlight pours down
58:04from behind him,
58:05tracing his whole body
58:06in a soft golden glow.
58:08His eyes are still
58:09bright and clear,
58:10just like that boy
58:11by the library window
58:12all those years ago.
58:13Thank you for coming for me,
58:14no matter the cost.
58:15He crouches down
58:16until his eyes
58:17are level with mine,
58:18then lightly brushes
58:19the flower petals
58:20by my ear
58:20with his fingertips.
58:22Holly,
58:22I never left.
58:24Inside the playpen,
58:25Nora Ann giggles
58:26and waves her tiny hands
58:27in the air.
58:28I look at the ring
58:29on my finger,
58:30then at the man
58:31who's always there.
58:32The darkness is gone.
58:33What's left is light,
58:35and all the days
58:36we'll have together.
58:37Ha ha ha!
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