The Little Mia Who Found Thornton | Full Series | Short Drama English - video Dailymotion

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Transcript

00:00:00On a rainy night, a three-and-a-half-year-old little girl stood at the main gate of Thornton

00:00:04Manor,

00:00:04clutching a rabbit plush toy.

00:00:06She tiptoed and pressed the doorbell, then said in a voice still carrying a milky lilt,

00:00:10I'm looking for Lucas Thornton.

00:00:12The butler opened the door and looked down at her.

00:00:15The little girl pulled a hospital bill from her backpack and added earnestly,

00:00:19Mom said, Dad owes me three years worth of milk money.

00:00:23Lucas walked to the entrance.

00:00:25The little girl looked up at him, her eyes rimmed red.

00:00:28Are you Lucas Thornton?

00:00:31Mama said if I nothing to cheer, I should use a U.A. blonde.

00:00:36A half hour ago, the Thornton Manor family dinner had never really felt like a family dinner.

00:00:41Twelve people sat at the long table, 26 dishes were laid out.

00:00:46From the start of the meal, the sound of a butter knife touching a porcelain plate had rung out only

00:00:51three times.

00:00:52Harold Thornton sat at the head of the table, his cane resting against his chair.

00:00:56In front of him lay a document.

00:00:58The first page read, Thornton Family Trust, beneficiary adjustment list.

00:01:03Marcus from the second branch, he lifted his red wine glass and swirled it gently twice.

00:01:08Dad, Penelope is older now.

00:01:10She's been working with the Charity Foundation all these years, and she has a good reputation outside.

00:01:15I think we should add her to the list this time.

00:01:17Beside him, Celeste chimed in immediately.

00:01:19Yes, Penelope is a Thornton.

00:01:22We can't keep letting outsiders laugh at us, for having no one of the next generation to hold up the

00:01:28family name.

00:01:30On the other side of the long table, Penelope wore a white dress.

00:01:33She was seven years old.

00:01:35Hearing the adults mention her, she promptly set down her spoon.

00:01:39Grandfather, I'll work hard.

00:01:41Harold didn't nod right away.

00:01:43He looked toward the other end of the long table.

00:01:45Lucas sat there, his suit cuffs immaculate, his plate nearly untouched.

00:01:50He was reviewing a merger agreement.

00:01:51The family dinner was only halfway through, and he had already turned to page 9.

00:01:55Harold frowned.

00:01:56Lucas.

00:01:57Lucas looked up.

00:01:58What do you think of the list?

00:02:02By the bylaws.

00:02:04Three words.

00:02:05No one at the table was surprised.

00:02:07Lucas had always been this way.

00:02:08If it could be quantified with numbers, he didn't discuss feelings.

00:02:12Lucas, not everything in this family can go by the bylaws.

00:02:16Penny is still a child of the Thornton family.

00:02:19Lucas was about to respond when the doorbell rang.

00:02:23Very soft, the butler paused.

00:02:25Thornton Manor had tight security.

00:02:27No one should be coming at this hour.

00:02:28It was still raining outside.

00:02:30Raindrops pounded against the floor-to-ceiling windows, the sound urgent and dense.

00:02:34The butler hurried out.

00:02:39Before long, he returned, his expression somewhat odd.

00:02:44Sir, there's a child at the door.

00:02:46Harold looked up.

00:02:47Whose?

00:02:48She's looking for Mr. Lucas Thornton.

00:02:51The long table fell silent.

00:02:53Marcus laughed first.

00:02:54Lucas, you have clients that young now?

00:02:56A child showing up at your doorstep.

00:02:59Seems like a pretty urgent client.

00:03:02Lucas ignored them.

00:03:03He set down his papers and rose to walk outside.

00:03:05When the estate gates opened, a gust of rain-scented air rushed in.

00:03:09At the entrance stood a little girl.

00:03:11Her hair was plastered to her forehead by the rain.

00:03:13She wore a faded little yellow raincoat and clutched an old rabbit plushie in her arm.

00:03:18The little girl looked up, her eyes very round.

00:03:20She glanced at the butler, then at Lucas walking out.

00:03:23Are you Lucas Thornton?

00:03:25Lucas stopped on the steps.

00:03:26Rarely did anyone address him by his full name.

00:03:28I am.

00:03:29The little girl hugged her rabbit tighter.

00:03:31Daddy, you owe me three years of child support money.

00:03:36Lucas' hands stilled on his cup.

00:03:38The people at the long table heard it too.

00:03:40Marcus laughed.

00:03:42Scammers are getting younger these days?

00:03:44The little girl flinched slightly at the word scammer.

00:03:47She said in a small voice,

00:03:48I'm not a scammer.

00:03:51Mommy said that when you owe money, you need a receipt.

00:03:55She tucked the rabbit under her arm and bent down to rummage through her small backpack.

00:03:59There wasn't much inside, a pack of crush crackers and a paper bundle wrapped in several layers of plastic.

00:04:03She unwrapped the bundle to reveal a crumpled hospital bill.

00:04:07See?

00:04:08Mom said this can be reimbursed.

00:04:10Lucas didn't take it.

00:04:11His gaze landed on the bill.

00:04:13At the very bottom was a handwritten note in the remarks column.

00:04:15Father's name, Lucas Thornton.

00:04:17The handwriting was faint, but Lucas recognized those three words.

00:04:21Ivy had written them.

00:04:23What's your mother's name?

00:04:24Ivy.

00:04:25Like the ivy plant and the rose.

00:04:29The words struck him like a soft tap on the ear from three years away.

00:04:33He did not move.

00:04:34Rainwater dripped from the eaves, drop by drop, hitting the edge of the step.

00:04:37Celeste had already walked over.

00:04:39She glanced at the child, then at the bill.

00:04:41Lucas, something this obvious could easily be fake.

00:04:44Forging documents isn't that hard these days.

00:04:48It is true.

00:04:49Mom said daddy hurts here on the left.

00:04:53And when it hurts, you can't drink cold water.

00:04:57Lucas's eyelashes flickered.

00:04:59That was an old injury from a car rollover when he was 18.

00:05:02Apart from the family doctor, few knew about it.

00:05:06Ivy knew.

00:05:06She used to always replace his iced water with warm water.

00:05:10Marcus's face darkened slightly.

00:05:12Harold gripped his cane and rose.

00:05:13He walked to the foyer and looked at Mia.

00:05:15Child, what's your name?

00:05:17Mia.

00:05:18Mom said it means mine.

00:05:20And it's short.

00:05:22Easy to remember.

00:05:23Harold's gaze fell on her neck.

00:05:25From under the collar of her raincoat, a small, old silver locket peeked out.

00:05:30The locket was tiny, strung on a fine chain.

00:05:33One edge was broken, clearly only half of a pair.

00:05:36Harold's hand slowly tightened on his cane.

00:05:38Where did you get this?

00:05:40Mom gave it to me.

00:05:41She said I mustn't lose it.

00:05:44Father, an old piece of jewelry proves nothing.

00:05:46Lots of Thornton things get lost and picked up by anyone.

00:05:50It wasn't picked up!

00:05:51Mom sewed it into my little coat!

00:05:53She paused there, and then her small stomach gave a very soft rumble.

00:05:57The foyer was so quiet that the sound was exceptionally clear.

00:06:01I didn't come to eat.

00:06:03I came for the reimbursement.

00:06:05Lucas finally reached out and took the bill.

00:06:07When the paper touched his palm, he realized his own hand was cold.

00:06:11Harold looked at the child's damp shoe tips.

00:06:14Come inside.

00:06:15Mia did not move.

00:06:16She looked up at Lucas.

00:06:18Is that okay?

00:06:19Lucas looked down at her.

00:06:20He had handled countless merger cases, signed contracts worth tens of billions.

00:06:25But at this moment, he did not know how to answer a child.

00:06:28After a long moment, he stepped aside.

00:06:31Come in.

00:06:32Mia hugged the rabbit and carefully stepped over the Thornton family's threshold.

00:06:35She walked two steps, then turned to look back at the rain,

00:06:39as if checking whether she had dirtied the carpet.

00:06:42Lucas noticed mud on the edges of her soles.

00:06:44He was about to call the butler for slippers when Mia squatted down

00:06:47and pulled a folded little handkerchief from her pocket.

00:06:50She tried to wipe her soles clean.

00:06:52Her hands were too small.

00:06:53After two wipes, she only smeared rain water onto the carpet instead.

00:06:57Celeste sighed lightly.

00:06:58This child.

00:07:00Who taught her to be like this?

00:07:02Enough.

00:07:03His voice was not loud.

00:07:04Celeste's smile stiffened.

00:07:06Mia raised her head.

00:07:07She did not know what she had done wrong, and tears quickly welled up in her eyes.

00:07:11Lucas crouched down.

00:07:12Awkwardly, he took the handkerchief from her hand.

00:07:15You don't need to clean the carpet.

00:07:16But mom said, if you dirty someone else's things, you have to pay.

00:07:21This is the Thornton house.

00:07:23Mia hugged the rabbit tighter.

00:07:25Then do I have to leave tomorrow?

00:07:27The question hung in the air.

00:07:29Lucas did not answer.

00:07:31Harold turned to the butler.

00:07:32Get dry towels and children's slippers.

00:07:35Sir, there are no children's slippers in the house.

00:07:39Thornton Manor was large.

00:07:40It had a wine cellar, a library, a cigar room, an entire floor of wardrobes.

00:07:46But not a single pair of slippers small enough for a child.

00:07:49It's okay, I can walk, Baird.

00:07:51Lucas stood up.

00:07:53Bring my slippers.

00:07:54Sir, they'll be far too big for her.

00:07:56Lucas looked at him.

00:07:58The butler immediately lowered his head.

00:07:59Right away, sir.

00:08:00Soon, a pair of dark gray men's slippers were brought over.

00:08:04When Mia put her feet in them, they only reached halfway.

00:08:07She took a step forward and the slipper fell off with a slap.

00:08:10She pressed her lips together and bent down to pick it up herself.

00:08:13Lucas watched her crouch down.

00:08:14At that moment, his gaze drifted back to the bill.

00:08:17The column for father's name was slightly smudged by rain, but still legible.

00:08:21Lucas Thornton.

00:08:22His name sat on that paper.

00:08:24It had sat there for three years.

00:08:26That night, no one at Thornton Manor ate dinner.

00:08:29The dishes on the long table were cleared away one by one.

00:08:33The dining room soon stood empty.

00:08:35Mia was taken to the small sitting room.

00:08:37The butler brought dry towels.

00:08:38She sat by herself at the very edge of the sofa,

00:08:41hugging the rabbit, her feet still in Lucas's oversized slippers.

00:08:44They were so big that her toes sank into them whenever she moved.

00:08:48Lucas sat across from her.

00:08:49Before him lay the bill, the half locket,

00:08:51and an old photograph found in the child's backpack.

00:08:54In the photo, Ivy stood in a hospital corridor, pale-faced,

00:08:57holding a newborn wrapped in a pink blanket, only a small face visible.

00:09:01On the back of the photo, a line was written,

00:09:03Mia's seventh day.

00:09:04Lucas stared at that line for a long time without turning the photo over.

00:09:08Marcus stood nearby.

00:09:10Lucas, based on just these things, it's not enough.

00:09:13Celeste nodded.

00:09:14Indeed.

00:09:15The child is pitiful, yes, but the Thornton family can't just acknowledge anyone casually.

00:09:20I'm not being casual.

00:09:22Mom said, I can only find Lucas Thornton.

00:09:25Lucas looked at her.

00:09:26Where is your mom now?

00:09:27Mia squeezed the rabbit's ears.

00:09:29She looked down and picked at the stitching on the rabbit.

00:09:32Mom fell asleep.

00:09:33Where did she fall asleep?

00:09:34Mia thought for a moment.

00:09:35The White House.

00:09:37Mrs. Dawson said Mom was tired.

00:09:39She needs to sleep for a very, very long time.

00:09:42She did not know that was called a ward, nor did she know what a death certificate was.

00:09:46She only remembered that when Ivy touched her head for the last time, her hand was very cold.

00:09:53Mia, from now on, you have to eat by yourself.

00:09:57If you have no food, go to the Thornton house.

00:10:00Find Lucas Thornton.

00:10:01He owes you.

00:10:02Mia did not say all of that.

00:10:03She only hugged the rabbit tighter.

00:10:05Lucas' Adam's apple moved.

00:10:07Harold sat in the single armchair, watching the child.

00:10:10Arrange a pernity test.

00:10:12Now.

00:10:13Father, it's far too late tonight.

00:10:16Harold tapped his cane on the floor.

00:10:18It's not late.

00:10:19Whether the Thornton family gains a child, or someone dares to use a child as a pawn, neither is a

00:10:26small matter.

00:10:27Wyatt walked over from the far end of the long table.

00:10:30He was the youngest Thornton's son, working in family legal affairs year-round.

00:10:34He spoke little, and his face was even more unreadable than Lucas's.

00:10:38He picked up the bill and examined it.

00:10:40I'll contact the testing center.

00:10:42Mia heard testing and grew nervous.

00:10:44She asked in a small voice,

00:10:46Do I need a shot?

00:10:47Just a few cells from inside your mouth.

00:10:49Mia looked even more confused.

00:10:51Wyatt rephrased it.

00:10:52A cotton squab.

00:10:53Just a gentle rub inside your mouth.

00:10:56Mia immediately covered her mouth.

00:10:58Will it scratch me?

00:10:59Wyatt paused.

00:11:00Clearly, he had never soothed a child before.

00:11:03No.

00:11:03Mia kept her hand over her mouth.

00:11:05Lucas watched her for a long moment.

00:11:07If you do it, I'll buy you milk, Peter.

00:11:09The words sounded odd.

00:11:11Mia, however, understood.

00:11:12She slowly lowered her hand.

00:11:14Just one can is enough.

00:11:16It's expensive.

00:11:17The butler brought a glass of warm milk and a half bowl of oatmeal porridge.

00:11:21Mia's eyes lit up at the sight of the porridge.

00:11:24She quickly controlled herself.

00:11:26Can I eat this?

00:11:27Lucas nodded.

00:11:28She picked up the spoon and ate in small mouthfuls.

00:11:31Very slowly.

00:11:32Very cleanly.

00:11:34Lucas watched her scrape the bottom of the bowl twice.

00:11:36Not a single grain left.

00:11:38Celeste stood by the door.

00:11:39Who taught such a young child to say all that?

00:11:41They really put some effort in.

00:11:43Mia looked up.

00:11:44A bit of porridge clung to the corner of her mouth.

00:11:46Mom taught me not to waste.

00:11:48Does that count as effort too?

00:11:50Celeste's smile thinned.

00:11:51Harold glanced at her.

00:11:53Celeste said no more.

00:11:54The paternity test personnel arrived late at night.

00:11:57When the cotton swab touched the inside of her cheek, Mia wrinkled her nose.

00:12:01Done?

00:12:01Yes.

00:12:02Mia let out a breath of relief.

00:12:05Does daddy have to do it too?

00:12:08Mia watched intently.

00:12:09After he finished, she asked very quietly.

00:12:12Did it hurt?

00:12:13Lucas looked at her.

00:12:14No.

00:12:14Oh.

00:12:15Mia nodded.

00:12:15Then you're braver than me.

00:12:17Wyatt bent to seal the sample bag.

00:12:18The corner of his mouth seemed to twitch.

00:12:21Lucas shot him a glance.

00:12:22And Wyatt immediately resumed his expressionless look.

00:12:25After the samples were sent off, Mia was placed in a guest room on the ground floor.

00:12:29But she was too afraid to sleep on the bed.

00:12:31She sat at the edge holding her rabbit.

00:12:33The butler made the bed for her.

00:12:35Miss Maya, you can sleep now.

00:12:36Mia looked up.

00:12:37Uncle, will I still be here tomorrow?

00:12:40Lucas stood at the door.

00:12:41He had heard.

00:12:42Yes.

00:12:42Mia turned to look at him.

00:12:44Do you keep your word?

00:12:45Lucas walked in.

00:12:46Yes.

00:12:46She thought for a moment, then asked.

00:12:49Then, when I wake up, I won't be outside the door, will I?

00:12:53This time, Lucas did not answer immediately.

00:12:55He walked to the bed and folded the duvet down a little.

00:12:58His motion was awkward.

00:12:59The corner was not neatly tucked.

00:13:01No.

00:13:02Mia finally climbed onto the bed.

00:13:04She put the rabbit on the inside of the pillow and occupied only a small edge of the mattress.

00:13:09Lucas watched her for a long time.

00:13:11Sleep in the middle.

00:13:12Mia shook her head.

00:13:13I'm afraid I'll wrinkle it.

00:13:15The sheets can be changed.

00:13:17Mia said softly.

00:13:18But mama said not to touch other people's things.

00:13:21This is the Thornton house.

00:13:23It's not someone else's home.

00:13:25Mia blinked.

00:13:25She was not quite sure she could believe it.

00:13:28But she slowly scooted a little toward the center of the bed.

00:13:31Lucas stood up and headed for the door.

00:13:33Just as he reached the threshold, a tiny voice came from behind him.

00:13:36Lucas, can you buy the smallest can of milk powder tomorrow?

00:13:40I don't drink much.

00:13:42I'll buy the big one.

00:13:44Mia thought for a moment.

00:13:45But do you have money?

00:13:47The butler at the door coughed quietly.

00:13:49Lucas was silent for a moment.

00:13:50Yes.

00:13:52Then don't borrow from Lone Sharks.

00:13:55For the first time, Lucas did not know what expression to wear.

00:13:58As he closed the door and stepped out, Wyatt stood at the end of the corridor.

00:14:02She doesn't seem coached.

00:14:04Lucas looked at him.

00:14:05Wyatt handed over his phone.

00:14:07Found Ivy's death record.

00:14:08Last month, the 27th, Fairville General Hospital.

00:14:11The screen was bright.

00:14:13Lucas saw Ivy's name and the cause of death column.

00:14:16The illness had dragged on for a long time.

00:14:19He held the phone, unmoving, for a long while.

00:14:22Wyatt added,

00:14:23The testing center is expediting.

00:14:25Earliest result by tomorrow morning.

00:14:26Lucas handed the phone back.

00:14:28Recheck everything.

00:14:29Where Ivy lived these three years, who took care of her, who paid for the child.

00:14:33Wyatt nodded.

00:14:34He was about to leave when the guest room door suddenly creaked open a crack.

00:14:38Mia poked her head out, clutching the rabbit.

00:14:39I wasn't eavesdropping.

00:14:41She paused.

00:14:42I just wanted to ask, where's the bathroom?

00:14:45Lucas turned around.

00:14:46I'll take you.

00:14:47Wyatt watched him bend down to find the child's slippers.

00:14:50One of the big gray slippers had fallen off again.

00:14:52Lucas crouched and pushed the slipper back to Mia's feet.

00:14:55His movements were still clumsy.

00:14:57Mia held the doorframe and reminded him softly,

00:15:00It's backwards.

00:15:01Lucas looked down.

00:15:02Indeed, he had put the slipper on backwards.

00:15:04Wyatt turned his head away.

00:15:06This time, he genuinely laughed.

00:15:08Tunchi or the next morning at 9 o'clock.

00:15:11The first round of paternity test results arrived at the Thornton house.

00:15:16Harold, Lucas, and Wyatt were in the study.

00:15:18Marcus and Celeste had also come.

00:15:21Mia sat on a small stool outside the study door.

00:15:24The butler gave her a small piece of cake.

00:15:27She didn't eat it.

00:15:28STR lysis support a biological relationship.

00:15:31Probability of paternity exceeds 99.99%.

00:15:35Lucas said nothing.

00:15:36He took the report, his gaze stopping on the line that read,

00:15:40Lucas Thornton is the biological father of Mia.

00:15:42Marcus' expression was sour.

00:15:45Celeste quickly spoke up.

00:15:46It's just the first preliminary result.

00:15:49These expedited reports, we should be cautious.

00:15:52Indeed, caution is warranted.

00:15:54Which is why I'd like to know why the rider seal on this test report matches the seal used on

00:15:59Thornton Medical's collaboration agreements from three years ago.

00:16:02This testing center changed its official seal two years ago.

00:16:06This report uses the old seal.

00:16:08Outside the study, Mia did not understand any of this.

00:16:11She only heard her own name.

00:16:13Hugging the rabbit, she crept closer to the gap in the door.

00:16:16It was quiet inside for a few seconds.

00:16:19Redo it.

00:16:20I've already arranged us a second institution.

00:16:23Celeste's smile faded.

00:16:24Mia looked down at her own little shoe tips.

00:16:27She did not know why the adult still needed to check.

00:16:30All she knew was that she did not seem to have been kept yet.

00:16:33She wrapped the little cake back into the napkin,

00:16:36thinking that if she was sent away later, she could take it with her to eat on the road.

00:16:39I wasn't stealing.

00:16:41The butler gave it to me.

00:16:44Why aren't you eating it?

00:16:47I'm afraid it'll be gone soon.

00:16:52Eat.

00:16:52Will I have one tomorrow too?

00:16:55Yes.

00:16:55And the day after?

00:16:56Yes.

00:16:57And the day after that?

00:16:58Every day.

00:16:59Mia stared into his eyes for a moment, as if judging whether she could trust his words.

00:17:03Finally, she took the cake.

00:17:05She took a small bite.

00:17:07Cream got on the tip of her nose.

00:17:08Lucas raised his hand.

00:17:13Brother, maybe you should learn how to handle a child first.

00:17:20Also, this afternoon, father wants to hold a small welcome banquet for her.

00:17:24The results aren't all in yet.

00:17:26Father's decision is the child stays.

00:17:27As for who tampered the report and Ivy's records, we investigate everything together.

00:17:30Will there be food at the banquet?

00:17:32Yes.

00:17:33Then I can go.

00:17:34You don't have to go just for the food.

00:17:36But food is very important.

00:17:38Lucas did not speak again.

00:17:40Lucas, people can't live on contracts alone.

00:17:43You have to eat too.

00:17:44He hadn't listened then.

00:17:46Now, a child stood before him, cream on her nose, her eyes full of caution.

00:17:50She said food was important.

00:17:53Go buy children's slippers and clothes, toothbrush, utensils.

00:17:57Yes, sir.

00:17:58Should I buy a credit card too?

00:18:01You racing there?

00:18:02I'm joking.

00:18:03What's a credit card?

00:18:05Something you can use to buy milk powder.

00:18:09Can it buy carrots for Bunny to eat?

00:18:12Does it eat carrots?

00:18:13It used to.

00:18:14But then Mom didn't have money, so it stopped eating.

00:18:18No one spoke in the corridor.

00:18:20The toy rabbit was old.

00:18:22Its fabric frayed at the edges.

00:18:24Lucas looked at that rabbit.

00:18:26For the first time, he thought that even a stuffed toy could go hungry for three years.

00:18:30The acknowledgement banquet was set for three days later.

00:18:33The hall had been redecorated.

00:18:35Flowers, champagne, dessert tables.

00:18:37Everything was laid out with dignity.

00:18:39Mia changed into a new dress.

00:18:41It was pale yellow.

00:18:42Do I have to return this?

00:18:45Miss Mia, this was bought for you by Mr. Thornton.

00:18:50Then, if I get it dirty, do I have to pay for it?

00:18:54No, Miss Mia, you don't have to.

00:18:56Okay, then I won't pay.

00:18:59She picked up the rabbit and followed the butler downstairs.

00:19:02Lucas was waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs.

00:19:05He wasn't looking at any contracts today.

00:19:07Lucas, is my hair messy?

00:19:10Hmm.

00:19:11Is it rude?

00:19:13Lucas raised his hand, trying to clip it in.

00:19:15He tried to clip the hairpin into her hair.

00:19:17Lacking experience, he fumbled it and the hairpin slipped out.

00:19:21Wyatt walked past below.

00:19:23He stopped in his track.

00:19:25Brother, you put it on the bunny's ear.

00:19:28Bunny wants to be pretty too.

00:19:31Lucas took the clip off.

00:19:33This time, he moved much more slowly.

00:19:35Thank you, Daddy.

00:19:37Lucas' fingers paused.

00:19:39I forgot just now.

00:19:41Can I owe it to you?

00:19:44Yes.

00:19:45Only then did she breathe a sigh of relief.

00:19:47Quite a few people had already gathered in the hall.

00:19:49Harold sat at the head of the table.

00:19:51Little sister, you look so pretty today.

00:19:55Thank you, big sister.

00:19:57You've never been to this kind of banquet before, have you?

00:20:00No.

00:20:01Then don't touch things.

00:20:02These glasses are very expensive.

00:20:05I won't touch.

00:20:07And don't say random things either.

00:20:09Everyone here is an adult.

00:20:11I'll be quiet.

00:20:12Is that child really Lucas's?

00:20:14I heard the DNA test isn't fully confirmed yet.

00:20:17Didn't Ivy take the money and leave back then?

00:20:18Now sending the Kyde back?

00:20:20The timing is awfully convenient.

00:20:22The voices were not loud, but Mia heard her own name.

00:20:25She also heard her mother's name.

00:20:26She looked up to find Lucas.

00:20:28Celeste happened to block her path.

00:20:30Mia, why aren't you at the dessert table?

00:20:32I'm looking for Lucas.

00:20:34There are so many people here today.

00:20:35He's very busy.

00:20:36You need to be understanding.

00:20:37But mom said when there are lots of people, you have to stay close to an adult.

00:20:41Your mom sure taught you a lot.

00:20:42The moment she finished speaking, the lights in the banquet hall suddenly dimmed for an instant.

00:20:47The projection screen at the front lit up.

00:20:51Who put this up?

00:20:53What are the staff doing?

00:20:54So your mom really did take the money.

00:20:59Mom didn't.

00:21:00It says so on the screen.

00:21:03Can't you read?

00:21:04Mia's face turned pale.

00:21:06She stepped back, her heel catching on her skirt, nearly tripping.

00:21:10Lucas reached out and steadied her.

00:21:11Don't be afraid.

00:21:12Father, I didn't want this to happen today.

00:21:14But since the evidence is already out there, we can't pretend we didn't see it.

00:21:18Ivy took the Thornton family's money and left.

00:21:21That's a fact.

00:21:21And now a child suddenly shows up.

00:21:24Who's to say someone didn't coach her to come here?

00:21:26Celeste.

00:21:27Father, I'm only thinking of the Thornton name.

00:21:29If Penelope enters the fees and list, at worst they say we've masked the scythe.

00:21:32But dis-hired?

00:21:33Because what if people start calling her Lucas Illafiti Muir?

00:21:36Where does that leave the Thornton family rapation?

00:21:38Daddy?

00:21:40What's an illegitimate daughter?

00:21:46It's not a word you need to understand.

00:21:48But mom doesn't have money.

00:21:50In her bag, there was only $8.60.

00:21:54And a bus pass.

00:21:57Of course a child wouldn't know.

00:21:59Would adults tell her the truth about something like this?

00:22:02So your mom took the money and still sent you back to ask for more?

00:22:07No.

00:22:08Mom didn't.

00:22:10The stuffed rabbit slipped from her arms.

00:22:13The rabbit fell to the floor.

00:22:15Bunny, I'm sorry.

00:22:16I didn't mean to.

00:22:17The old fabric was already loose.

00:22:20With that fall, a small seam split open on the rabbit's belly.

00:22:23Don't move.

00:22:25Mia.

00:22:27Let me see it.

00:22:28Give it to him.

00:22:30It was an old voice recorder.

00:22:32The casing was heavily worn.

00:22:35Who gave this to you?

00:22:36Mom sewed it into Bunny's tummy.

00:22:39She said, Bunny can't be lost.

00:22:42An old recording pen?

00:22:44What could that possibly prove?

00:22:49Mia, if anyone at the Thornton house says your mother took money,

00:22:53give Bunny to Wyatt Thornton.

00:22:56Mommy?

00:22:58Remember, don't give it to anyone else.

00:23:02Only Wyatt.

00:23:03The projection screen was still bright.

00:23:05The $500,000 transfer receipt hung on the wall.

00:23:09But Ivy's voice from the recorder pressed down over the momos again and again.

00:23:14Harold struck his cane heavily against the floor.

00:23:17Close the doors.

00:23:18No one leaves today.

00:23:21The banquet hall doors were shut by the butler.

00:23:24As the heavy wooden door clicked shut, it made only a soft sound.

00:23:29Celeste's face went slightly pale.

00:23:31She quickly forced a smile.

00:23:32Dad, this isn't appropriate, is it?

00:23:34Since they're family, they should listen even more clearly.

00:23:37Celeste's lips moved, but she said no more.

00:23:40Wyatt placed the voice recorder in his palm.

00:23:42He did not continue playing it.

00:23:44Instead, he took a transparent evidence bag from the inner pocket of his suit jacket.

00:23:48His movements were practiced.

00:23:50Uncle, are you putting Mommy in there?

00:23:52Wyatt paused for a moment.

00:23:54He looked down at her.

00:23:55No, I'm protecting the recorder.

00:23:57Can Mommy still talk?

00:23:59Yes, but we have to listen slowly.

00:24:02Mia nodded.

00:24:03Then be gentle.

00:24:05Wyatt placed the recorder into the evidence bag.

00:24:08Lucas watched him.

00:24:09Play it.

00:24:10Wyatt shook his head.

00:24:12The original stays sealed.

00:24:14Playing it now only gives someone a chance to claim it was edited or swapped.

00:24:17You admit it could be edited.

00:24:19Then it's not evidence.

00:24:21I said we need to find out who did the editing.

00:24:24Celeste's smile faltered.

00:24:26Wyatt.

00:24:26Marcus stepped forward.

00:24:27You can say a lot of things at dinner, but not that.

00:24:30Don't worry, Marcus.

00:24:32I don't make claims.

00:24:33I investigate.

00:24:35He turned to the butler and spoke.

00:24:37Secure the banquet hall surveillance.

00:24:39Seal the projection computer, backgown accounts, and audio equipment for tonight.

00:24:42Everyone's phone will be temporarily registered on site.

00:24:45Wyatt Thornton.

00:24:46Are you treating us like criminals?

00:24:48If it's just a misunderstanding, registering a phone won't cost you a pound of flesh.

00:24:52The man was left speechless.

00:24:54Mia heard the word flesh and quickly checked her own hands.

00:24:57Lucas drew her a little closer to him.

00:25:00Not you.

00:25:01Mia gave a small O.

00:25:02O.

00:25:03Her hand was still clutching the rabbit.

00:25:05The rabbit's belly had split open with a bit of cotton showing.

00:25:08Lucas noticed.

00:25:09He turned to the butler.

00:25:11Needle and fire.

00:25:13The butler was startled.

00:25:14Sir?

00:25:14Lucas looked at him.

00:25:15The butler immediately went to find them.

00:25:17Before long, Lucas opened the box.

00:25:19Looking at the needle and thread inside, his brows furrowed slightly.

00:25:24Mia watched him too.

00:25:25Do you know how to sew?

00:25:27Lucas was silent.

00:25:28Wyatt stood to the side and said flatly.

00:25:30Brother, I suggest you don't let that rabbit suffer a second injury.

00:25:34Mia immediately hugged the rabbit back to her chest.

00:25:37Then, let's not sew it for now.

00:25:40It doesn't hurt.

00:25:42Lucas looked at the rabbit she was holding.

00:25:44He did not touch the sewing kit again.

00:25:46Send it for voice print analysis, editing trace detection, and storage chip reading.

00:25:49Yes, sir.

00:25:52Wait a moment.

00:25:54Several pairs of eyes in the hall turned to her.

00:25:56She managed to smile.

00:25:57I mean, the item was brought in by a child.

00:26:01Before it's sent out, we should at least confirm what's inside.

00:26:04What are you in a hurry for?

00:26:05I just think the process lacks transparency.

00:26:08Wyatt held up the evidence bag, its serial number clearly visible on the seal.

00:26:12From now on, I'm in charge for the process.

00:26:15If you want to review, you can bring in your lawyer.

00:26:19Mommy, I'm scared.

00:26:20It's okay.

00:26:22Don't be afraid.

00:26:24Hearing this, Mia tucked herself a little further behind Lucas.

00:26:28She was scared too.

00:26:29But no one had taught her what to say right now.

00:26:31Harold's gaze fell on the two children.

00:26:34One was held in her mother's arms.

00:26:35The other stood on her own, clutching a rabbit with a torn belly.

00:26:39His grip on his cane slowly tightened.

00:26:41Mia, come to grandpa.

00:26:44Mia looked up at Lucas.

00:26:45Lucas gave a slight nod.

00:26:46Only then did she walk over.

00:26:48There was no child seat beside Harold.

00:26:50The butler had to bring over a low stool.

00:26:52Mia sat on it, her feet just dangling.

00:26:55Harold noticed her shoes.

00:26:56He frowned.

00:26:58Shoes uncomfortable?

00:26:59Mia shook her head at once.

00:27:01No.

00:27:02They're comfortable.

00:27:03Buy new ones.

00:27:05Softer.

00:27:06These ones are fine too.

00:27:08The Thorntons can afford two pairs of shoes.

00:27:10Then don't borrow from Lone Hawks either.

00:27:13Several servants nearby could not hold back and burst out laughing.

00:27:16He gave a light cough.

00:27:17No, we won't.

00:27:19Lucas sat on the other side.

00:27:21He did not laugh.

00:27:22Ivy had sewn the voice recorder into the rabbit's belly.

00:27:25She knew she might not live to see Mia grow up.

00:27:27She also knew that a child was too young to explain things clearly.

00:27:30So she had only taught Mia one thing.

00:27:33Give it to Wyatt.

00:27:34Why did she choose you?

00:27:36Wyatt did not answer immediately.

00:27:37He took out his phone and pulled up an old record.

00:27:41I just had someone pull Ivy's communication records from three years ago.

00:27:46The night before she left the Thornton house, she sent me a message.

00:27:49You never told me.

00:27:51Wyatt turned his phone toward him.

00:27:52On the screen was a screenshot of the carrier's record.

00:27:55Sent time, August 17th, three years ago, 1142 p.m.

00:28:00Recipient, Wyatt Thornton.

00:28:03No, Wyatt lowered his voice.

00:28:04I never received it.

00:28:05Marcus frowned.

00:28:06Carrier records can be wrong too, can't they?

00:28:10Wyatt gave him a look.

00:28:15That's why I pulled my phone's back up.

00:28:18He turned to another page.

00:28:2023.46.

00:28:23Someone logged into my cloud.

00:28:25Lucas stared at the timings.

00:28:26Four minutes.

00:28:27Ivy sent out a plea.

00:28:29Four minutes later.

00:28:3023.47.

00:28:32The message was deleted.

00:28:33The login address is the intranet of Thornton Manor.

00:28:37There are so many people in this manor.

00:28:39Staff, security, guests.

00:28:41Anyone could have been on network.

00:28:43You can't pin this on family just because of an internal IP address.

00:28:46He handed his phone to his assistant.

00:28:48Pull all device login records on the manor's internal network for the night of August 17,

00:28:52three years ago.

00:28:53Focus on the second floor of the study and the east side guest room.

00:28:56Harold's face turned completely grim.

00:28:59That was the room Ivy had stayed in at the estate.

00:29:02What did mommy send you?

00:29:03Wyatt did not answer right away.

00:29:05He looked at the rabbit with its torn belly.

00:29:10We haven't found it yet.

00:29:12Mia lowered her head.

00:29:14Oh.

00:29:15After a moment she asked again.

00:29:16Did mommy reach out to you?

00:29:18Wyatt's throat tightened slightly.

00:29:21Yes.

00:29:22Mia stroked the rabbit's ear with her little hand.

00:29:26Then why didn't you come?

00:29:28The words were light, but they seemed to press down on Wyatt.

00:29:31He was silent for a long time.

00:29:33Lucas was silent too.

00:29:35That night Ivy had reached out to Wyatt.

00:29:37She might have reached out to him too.

00:29:39But none of those messages ever made it to the people who were meant to receive them.

00:29:43Harold steadied himself on his cane and stood up.

00:29:47Investigate.

00:29:48From the day Ivy entered this house.

00:29:51Transfers visitors, internal network staff, reassignments, everything.

00:29:56She still wanted to speak, but her phone suddenly buzzed.

00:29:58Wyatt's assistant hurried back.

00:30:00Mr. Wyatt, we have it.

00:30:01At 2346 that night, the device deleted the message connected to the manor's network.

00:30:05The device tag says, personal for this computer.

00:30:08Mia sat too far away to see clearly.

00:30:12Wyatt raised his eyes.

00:30:13His gaze traveled across the room and landed on Celeste.

00:30:16Last registered location of the device.

00:30:18Second floor, West Study.

00:30:20Celeste's lips went white.

00:30:22Harold's cane struck the floor with a heavy thud.

00:30:24The second floor, West Study at Thornton Manor.

00:30:27Three years ago, it was the room Celeste used for temporary bookkeeping.

00:30:32Mommy.

00:30:33The West Study on the second floor.

00:30:35Anyone could have gone in there three years ago.

00:30:38I was just doing temporary accounts.

00:30:39I wasn't the only one who used that computer.

00:30:42Which is why I didn't say it was you.

00:30:43I only said the device is registered under your name.

00:30:48Wyatt, don't make this ugly in front of the family.

00:30:51Was Ivy family too?

00:30:55Marcus was struck silent.

00:30:57She asked softly,

00:30:58Could Ivy come into the Thornton house?

00:31:01No one answered right away.

00:31:02Lucas looked at her.

00:31:04Mia tilted her face up.

00:31:05Mommy used to say she didn't have a home.

00:31:09So, did she ever come here?

00:31:12Harold's grip on his cane tightened.

00:31:14Harold remembered it clearly.

00:31:16Ivy's face was very pale that day.

00:31:18But she stood straight.

00:31:20She said,

00:31:21I'm not here for money.

00:31:22No one believed her then.

00:31:24Harold closed his eyes briefly.

00:31:26When he opened them again,

00:31:27he looked at the old butler.

00:31:29Get the visitor log from August three years ago.

00:31:33Sir, the paper logs are in the old archives.

00:31:35I'll go now.

00:31:36Harold said,

00:31:37I'll go myself.

00:31:38Dad, it's late.

00:31:40Your health...

00:31:40I'm not dead yet.

00:31:42The hall fell silent.

00:31:43She looked down and stroked the rabbit's ear.

00:31:46Lucas saw it.

00:31:47He walked over and crouched down.

00:31:51He didn't mean your mom.

00:31:53Mia nodded.

00:31:55I know.

00:31:55But Grandpa shouldn't say that word.

00:31:58Mia doesn't like it.

00:32:00Harold stopped in his tracks.

00:32:01He turned to look at the small child.

00:32:03After a moment,

00:32:04he lowered his voice.

00:32:07Okay.

00:32:08I won't say it.

00:32:10Your old archive room was at the rear of the manor.

00:32:13It was rarely opened.

00:32:15When the door was pushed open,

00:32:16dust rose into the air.

00:32:18The old butler put on white gloves

00:32:21and brought out a stack of ledgers.

00:32:23Harold sat at an old wooden table

00:32:25turning the pages one by one.

00:32:28Lucas stood beside him.

00:32:29Wyatt photographed each page with his phone as evidence.

00:32:32Mia had followed them in two.

00:32:34The butler had brought needle and thread.

00:32:36Lucas reached for them.

00:32:37Mia immediately hugged the rabbit closer to her chest

00:32:40and said very politely,

00:32:42Daddy, practice on other fabric first.

00:32:45Wyatt lowered his eyes,

00:32:46his shoulder twitching slightly.

00:32:47Lucas said nothing.

00:32:48He picked up an old rag nearby.

00:32:50The needle went in.

00:32:51Daddy, rabbit is still little.

00:32:54It can't afford trial and errors.

00:32:57Harold's hand paused mid-page turn.

00:32:59He didn't look up.

00:33:00Lucas put the needle and thread down.

00:33:02Let the butler do it.

00:33:04Mia let out a breath of relief.

00:33:05Thank you, Daddy.

00:33:06Lucas's fingers stilled.

00:33:08The old archive room was very quiet.

00:33:10Soon, the old butler pointed to one page.

00:33:13Sir, right here.

00:33:14August 17th.

00:33:15Ivy Winter.

00:33:16Time of entry.

00:33:179.17 a.m.

00:33:19Time of departure.

00:33:2111.58 p.m.

00:33:23The remarks column read,

00:33:24Received by the second madam.

00:33:26Harold stared at those four words.

00:33:28For a long while, he said nothing.

00:33:30Celeste stood at the doorway.

00:33:32Her face was paler than before.

00:33:34Dad, you had me handling the accounts back then.

00:33:36I just followed the rules in receiving her.

00:33:38You received her until 11.58 p.m.?

00:33:41She was emotional.

00:33:42She wouldn't leave.

00:33:43Why wouldn't she leave?

00:33:44What else could it be?

00:33:45She wanted to see you,

00:33:46but you were overseas.

00:33:48She couldn't reach you,

00:33:49so she just lingered at the manor.

00:33:52Mia heard the word hanging around

00:33:53and furrowed her little brow.

00:33:55Mommy wouldn't linger.

00:33:56You weren't even born yet.

00:33:58What do you know?

00:33:59Mommy said,

00:34:00Don't stay too long at other people's houses.

00:34:03Don't leave food on the plate.

00:34:05Return borrowed umbrellas.

00:34:07She wouldn't linger.

00:34:09Harold looked at her.

00:34:10Those eyes were too clear.

00:34:11So clear that he suddenly remembered Ivy three years ago,

00:34:15looking at him the same way.

00:34:16Ivy had placed a prenatal checkup report on the table.

00:34:19The Thorntons can't just take your word for it.

00:34:22Then investigate.

00:34:24Just don't only investigate me.

00:34:26Harold hadn't investigated back then.

00:34:29Celeste had handed over transfer records.

00:34:31He said Ivy was greedy.

00:34:33When Ivy left,

00:34:33she didn't even take her umbrella.

00:34:35Harold closed the ledger.

00:34:37First thing tomorrow,

00:34:40pull the records for that $500,000 transfer.

00:34:44No need to wait for morning.

00:34:46I already had finance pull the raw transaction logs.

00:34:49The money did come out of a Thornton family trust linked account.

00:34:52But the receiving account was in Ivy's name only.

00:34:55Three minutes after the funds arrived,

00:34:56they were split into four transfers.

00:34:58Three transfers went to Marcus's affiliated companies.

00:35:01The last one into a shell account linked to Celeste's family.

00:35:05You're lying!

00:35:06Bank statements.

00:35:09Tax IDs.

00:35:10Corporate registration changes.

00:35:12All here.

00:35:13Celeste couldn't stand steady and gripped the doorframe.

00:35:16Mia glanced at Penelope,

00:35:17then pulled out the half-eaten small cake from her little backpack.

00:35:22The cake was wrapped in a tissue,

00:35:23slightly squashed.

00:35:25She walked over and held it out to Penelope.

00:35:28Don't cry.

00:35:30Penelope froze.

00:35:31Who wants your things?

00:35:33The cake fell to the floor,

00:35:35cream smeared across the old wooden planks.

00:35:38Mia looked down at it.

00:35:39She didn't cry.

00:35:40She crouched down,

00:35:42trying to wipe it up with a tissue.

00:35:43But Lucas picked her up first.

00:35:45It was the first time he had ever held a child.

00:35:49His movements were stiff.

00:35:50Mia's small body stiffened too for a moment.

00:35:53Then she carefully tucked her dirty hand against herself.

00:35:57Don't wipe it.

00:35:58Mia said softly,

00:35:58But it got dirty.

00:36:00Lucas turned his gaze to Celeste.

00:36:02The one who should clean it up isn't her.

00:36:04Celeste's face turned ashen.

00:36:06Seal it.

00:36:07Starting tomorrow,

00:36:08the second branch is suspended from the family trust.

00:36:10Harold handed the ledger to Wyatt.

00:36:12Marcus jerked his head up.

00:36:13Dad!

00:36:14I said suspended.

00:36:16Not negotiable.

00:36:18The manor did not grow quiet until the dead of night.

00:36:22Mia had been taken back to the guest room.

00:36:24After her bath,

00:36:25she changed into her little pajamas.

00:36:27Also newly bought,

00:36:29with two small rabbits embroidered on the cuffs.

00:36:32She sat on the bed,

00:36:33looking at the stuffed toy the butler had sewn up.

00:36:36The rabbit's belly now had a new line of stitching,

00:36:38neater than before.

00:36:39She touched it.

00:36:41Rabbit doesn't hurt anymore.

00:36:43It doesn't hurt anymore.

00:36:44Lucas stood at the door,

00:36:46holding a glass of warm milk.

00:36:47Mia looked at him.

00:36:49Daddy, do you know how to sing?

00:36:51That's okay.

00:36:52Mommy had things she didn't know how to do too.

00:36:54What did she sing?

00:36:55Mia hugged the rabbit and thought for a moment.

00:36:59Twinkle, twinkle, little star.

00:37:02The screen had just lit up when a wrinkled hand reached over from the side.

00:37:07Just passing by.

00:37:09Wyatt happened to be walking past in the hallway.

00:37:12He saw the tablet, then looked at Harold.

00:37:14He said nothing.

00:37:15Since you're all passing by, can you sing a little bit?

00:37:19Harold glanced at Lucas.

00:37:21Lucas glanced at Wyatt.

00:37:22Wyatt looked away.

00:37:23In the end, Harold turned the tablet's volume down to the lowest setting.

00:37:27A children's voice came through.

00:37:29Twinkle, twinkle, little star.

00:37:31How I wonder what you are.

00:37:33Mia lay down with the rabbit in her arms.

00:37:36She told me back then, don't just investigate her.

00:37:41You didn't.

00:37:43No, I didn't.

00:37:45Lucas said nothing in reply.

00:37:47Wyatt turned off the tablet.

00:37:49Keep it down.

00:37:50She just fell asleep.

00:37:51Harold shot him a look.

00:37:53This time, he didn't scold.

00:37:55Harold turned first.

00:37:57He was the first to turn, tapping his cane on the floor as he headed down the corridor to the

00:38:01right.

00:38:02His back was slightly hunched, making him look older than he had in the ballroom just hours before.

00:38:08Wyatt followed.

00:38:09Two seconds after Harold left, Wyatt also turned.

00:38:12He took the left.

00:38:13In the instant his back was to the camera, he could be seen letting out a faint sigh.

00:38:18Lucas was the last.

00:38:19Lucas was the last to leave the guest room doorway.

00:38:22He cast one final glance inside, then gently pulled the door shut.

00:38:26Mia turned over in her sleep, her little face shifting from one side to the other.

00:38:31She had kicked off a corner of the blanket.

00:38:33Her hand rested on the rabbit.

00:38:35Her right hand emerged from under the covers and lay naturally on the rabbit's stitched belly.

00:38:40Her fingers curled slightly as if checking that it was still there.

00:38:43The morning of Mia's first day at kindergarten threw the Thornton household into chaos for half a day.

00:38:49Not because of the child, but because of the adults.

00:38:53Lucas stood at the doorway of the children's room.

00:38:55Which one today?

00:38:56Either is fine.

00:38:58What does either is fine mean?

00:39:01It means it won't cost money.

00:39:03She means it won't affect her meal.

00:39:06You know a lot?

00:39:08Better at tying hair than you.

00:39:10Daddy, don't be mad.

00:39:12I can wear a hat.

00:39:14In the end, Mia came downstairs wearing a little yellow cap.

00:39:17Her hair wasn't tied properly.

00:39:19The cap pressed it down.

00:39:20A small yellow child's bowl had been set at the long table.

00:39:24Is this mine?

00:39:26Harold didn't look at her.

00:39:28The butler bought too many.

00:39:30Thank you, Grandpa.

00:39:32No talking while eating.

00:39:34Mia immediately shut her mouth.

00:39:36After two bites, she whispered,

00:39:38Grandpa, can I say thank you to the scrambled eggs?

00:39:42Yes.

00:39:45Wyatt nearly choked on his coffee.

00:39:47Lucas looked at him.

00:39:48Wyatt set his cup down.

00:39:50I'll warm up the car.

00:39:51Lucas was supposed to take her that day,

00:39:54but he had a shareholders meeting in the morning.

00:39:56Harold wasn't in good health,

00:39:58so Wyatt was reluctantly appointed as the kindergarten drop-off specialist.

00:40:02Mia wore her little rabbit backpack and held his hand.

00:40:05The teacher at the door crouched down with a smile.

00:40:08You must be Mia Thornton, right?

00:40:10Hello, teacher.

00:40:12Are you the father?

00:40:13No.

00:40:14This is Uncle Wyatt.

00:40:16He's a bit cold, but he's not bad.

00:40:18I complimented you.

00:40:21Wyatt handed over the enrolment forms.

00:40:23Mr Thornton, we also need you to fill out the parent-child activity preference form.

00:40:28First item, parent-child handicrafts.

00:40:30Second, parent-child sports day.

00:40:33Third, parent story time.

00:40:34Mandatory?

00:40:35At least one is recommended.

00:40:37It helps with integration.

00:40:38Uncle Wyatt, can you do hardy drafts?

00:40:41No.

00:40:42Then storytelling?

00:40:43No.

00:40:43Running?

00:40:44No.

00:40:46Yes?

00:40:47Then we'll run!

00:40:52I'll think about it.

00:40:55Uncle Wyatt?

00:40:56What?

00:40:57Will you come pick me up this afternoon?

00:41:02Yes.

00:41:03You won't forget?

00:41:04Only then did Mia go into the classroom.

00:41:07The morning went smoothly.

00:41:08But after nap time, things changed.

00:41:11When Mia woke up, she noticed all the children had gathered in a corner.

00:41:15No one had called her.

00:41:16She sat up with her little rabbit.

00:41:18My mom says I can't play with you.

00:41:21Why?

00:41:22My mom said you're here to take money.

00:41:25My dad said she is not really a Thornton kid.

00:41:29She is a wild kid.

00:41:32I'm not wild.

00:41:34I washed my hands today.

00:41:38She laughed.

00:41:39The child's laughter held no malice, yet Mia clutched her rabbit backpack tighter.

00:41:44When school let out in the afternoon, Wyatt stood at the gate on time.

00:41:48He noticed at once that Mia was walking out very slowly.

00:41:52Wyatt crouched down.

00:41:55Who hurt you?

00:41:57No.

00:41:58I just didn't make any friends today.

00:42:01Why?

00:42:02They said I'm a wild kid.

00:42:05Can a wild kid ride an Uncle Wyatt's car?

00:42:08Wyatt's face turned cold.

00:42:10He didn't lose his temper immediately.

00:42:13He took Mia's hand and walked straight into the principal's office.

00:42:16Mr. Thornton, is Mia having trouble adjusting?

00:42:20I need the classroom surveillance footage from after nap time today.

00:42:26That involves other children's privacy.

00:42:29Then let legal handle it.

00:42:31Ten minutes later, the footage was pulled up.

00:42:33In the video, several children were huddled in a corner.

00:42:36Their voices were unclear, but a little girl could be seen pulling out a folded piece of paper.

00:42:41The school pulled up the entrance surveillance.

00:42:43At 1.12 p.m., a driver in a baseball cap had entered the kindergarten,

00:42:47saying he was delivering materials for a charity event.

00:42:50Where did the paper come from?

00:42:53I don't know.

00:42:54The license plate was clearly visible.

00:42:56Wyatt noted the number.

00:42:58Mia stood beside him.

00:42:59Uncle Wyatt, I've seen this car before.

00:43:03Where?

00:43:04The family ceremony day.

00:43:06Penelope was in it.

00:43:08Wyatt copied the video.

00:43:13I need the gate log, the document bag, and the class material to real transfer records.

00:43:17Yes, yes, of course.

00:43:19Mia tugged at his sleeve.

00:43:20Uncle Wyatt, if I don't come to kindergarten, will it stop being so much trouble for you?

00:43:25Wyatt looked at her.

00:43:26The little girl's head was lowered.

00:43:28The trouble is the one who did the wrong thing.

00:43:32Not you.

00:43:34Mia slowly lifted her head.

00:43:37Can I still come tomorrow?

00:43:40Yes.

00:43:41I'll bring you.

00:43:43Footsteps sounded at the door.

00:43:45Mia turned.

00:43:46Mia's eyes brightened.

00:43:48Daddy.

00:43:48Lucas walked in.

00:43:50He looked at the child's eyes first, then at Wyatt.

00:43:55Who?

00:43:56The driver for Penelope's household.

00:43:58Wyatt handed him the license plate number.

00:44:02Starting tomorrow, Thornton Legal will handle this.

00:44:05I need a written statement on Mia's safety and reputation during her time here.

00:44:08Mia took Lucas' hand and walked out.

00:44:11At the door, she stopped and turned back to look at the little girl who had called her a wild

00:44:16child.

00:44:17This is for you.

00:44:18I'm not wild.

00:44:20You can call me Mia from now on.

00:44:22Her father felt guilty about it and apologized.

00:44:25We're sorry, Mia.

00:44:27It was our fault.

00:44:28It's alright.

00:44:29We won't let this happen again.

00:44:31We apologize to you.

00:44:32Where did you get those stickers?

00:44:35Mommy bought them.

00:44:36She said little rabbits know their way home.

00:44:40Did she have a lot of them?

00:44:42A whole sheet.

00:44:43She said important things get a rabbit on the back.

00:44:46Wyatt and Lucas exchanged a glance.

00:44:48On the back of anything important, Lucas pulled out his phone.

00:44:52Back to the manor.

00:44:53Check every paper Ivy left.

00:44:55Wyatt stows the USB drive and holds out his hand to Mia.

00:44:59Lucas walked at the front with Wyatt and Mia following behind.

00:45:02The light outside the window had faded from golden to the purplish hues of dusk.

00:45:08The three stepped out through the doorway.

00:45:10The Thorntons hadn't even made it back to the manor before the trending topics went up first.

00:45:15Hashtag Thornton illegitimate daughter.

00:45:17Hashtag three-year-old fighting over inheritance.

00:45:20Hashtag voice recorder at the family reunion dinner.

00:45:23Several hashtags clustered together, all accompanied by candid photos.

00:45:27Mia stood in the middle of the banquet hall, clutching the rabbit with its torn belly.

00:45:31Someone had cropped a shot of her with red-rimmed eyes.

00:45:34The comment section erupted.

00:45:36Some said the Thorntons had no class.

00:45:38Some said the child was pitiful.

00:45:40Others said,

00:45:41Money in wealthy families is so easy to get.

00:45:43A three-year-old already knows how to show up and claim kinship.

00:45:46Lucas sat in the back seat of the car.

00:45:48His tablet still displayed those screenshots.

00:45:50Mia sat in her new child safety seat, installed for the first time,

00:45:54and she wasn't quite used to it yet.

00:45:55Her little hands gripped the seatbelt.

00:45:57Daddy, why were they taking pictures of me?

00:46:01Lucas looked at her.

00:46:03She wasn't crying, just a bit bewildered.

00:46:05Because adults made mistakes, and they want to put the blame on you.

00:46:09Mia thought for a moment.

00:46:11Then can I push it back?

00:46:12Yes.

00:46:14Like this?

00:46:15That works too.

00:46:16The rest, I'll handle it.

00:46:18That afternoon, the Thornton press conference was moved up.

00:46:21It was not a business briefing.

00:46:23It was a family statement from the Thorntons.

00:46:25The media filled half the hall.

00:46:26The Marcus family was also summoned.

00:46:29Celeste had put on makeup, but the dark circles under her eyes could not be hidden.

00:46:33Penelope sat beside her and whispered,

00:46:35Mom, why are we here?

00:46:36Celeste squeezed her hand.

00:46:38Shut up.

00:46:39In the backstage lounge, Mia sat on the sofa.

00:46:42She did not want to go out.

00:46:43She held her rabbit and gently touched the new thread on its belly.

00:46:46Lucas crouched in front of her.

00:46:47If you don't want to go, you don't have to.

00:46:50But they're talking about me.

00:46:52If I don't go, will they keep talking?

00:46:54I'll handle it.

00:46:55Mom said, when you're called on, you have to answer.

00:47:00Wyatt was organizing documents and paused at her words.

00:47:03Harold sat in another chair.

00:47:05He wore a suit today, his cane resting by his knee.

00:47:07He looked at Mia.

00:47:08Are you scared?

00:47:09Yes.

00:47:10Then she added,

00:47:11But if I stand next to Daddy, I can be a little less afraid.

00:47:15Lucas reached out and straightened her hat.

00:47:18Then stand next to me.

00:47:19When the press conference began, all cameras aimed at the stage.

00:47:23Lucas walked out holding Mia's hand.

00:47:25Harold on the left, Wyatt on the right.

00:47:27Shutters clicked nonstop.

00:47:29Mia flinched at the noise.

00:47:30Lucas tightened his grip on her small hand.

00:47:32She looked up at him and slowly steadied herself.

00:47:35The host had barely finished the opening remarks when the first reporter raised a hand.

00:47:39Mr. Thornton, is this child your illegitimate daughter?

00:47:43Did her mother, Ivy Winter, took $50,000 from the Thorntons and leave?

00:47:48Does acknowledging her now involve changes to the family trust's inheritance?

00:47:52The questions came one after another.

00:47:54Mia heard $500,000 and her palms turned cold.

00:47:58First, Mia Thornton is my biological daughter.

00:48:01Second, Ivis Winter did not take a single cent from the Thorntons.

00:48:04Three, regarding the forged transfer and the dilution of a plea for help three years ago,

00:48:09the Thorntons have already filed a police report.

00:48:12A buzz swept through the audience.

00:48:14Celeste sat in the front row, pale.

00:48:16Marcus lowered his voice.

00:48:18He's lost his mind.

00:48:20Wyatt opened the first document.

00:48:22The screen lit up, not with last night's transfer screenshot,

00:48:26but with the bank's underlying ledger.

00:48:27The $50,000 was transferred out of the Thornton Family Trust's linked account.

00:48:32Within three minutes, it was split.

00:48:34It ended up in three companies and one personal account.

00:48:38Ivy Winter's account was merely a pass-through.

00:48:40Second page, corporate information.

00:48:42Third page, registration records of Celeste's family shell companies.

00:48:46Fourth page, financial reports of companies under Marcus's name.

00:48:50The cameras quickly turned to the front row.

00:48:52Celeste tried to duck her head.

00:48:53This is the internal network logon record from the Thornton estate on the night of August 17, three years ago.

00:48:58The plea for help that Ivy sent to me was deleted four minutes after it was sent.

00:49:02The device that deleted it was registered to the second floor West study.

00:49:06At that time, that study was being used temporarily by Mrs. Celeste Thornton.

00:49:12This is slander!

00:49:14I'm presenting records.

00:49:15Whether it's slander or not, the police will investigate.

00:49:19Mrs. Thornton, did you delete Ivy Winter's plea for help?

00:49:22Do you participate in the $50,000 transfer?

00:49:25And Mr. Marcus Thornton, why did your company receive this money?

00:49:28The scene grew chaotic.

00:49:30Mia shrank her shoulders.

00:49:31Lucas drew her closer.

00:49:32Harold picked up the microphone.

00:49:33His voice was not loud.

00:49:35But the moment he spoke, the hall gradually quieted.

00:49:37The Thorntons believed a forged transfer record back then.

00:49:40I bear responsibility for that.

00:49:42Ivy Winter's reputation will be formally restored by the Thorntons.

00:49:46And Mia's identity, no one needs to guess.

00:49:49The screen behind him switched to the Thornton Family Trust Charter.

00:49:52Wyatt highlighted one clause in red.

00:49:55First priority of the Thornton Family Trust.

00:49:57Direct line minor children of the main Thornton branch.

00:50:01Harold looked at the camera.

00:50:02Mia Thornton is Lucas Thornton's daughter.

00:50:05Effective to today, she enters the Thornton Family Trust as a primary protection beneficiary.

00:50:10A reporter pressed,

00:50:12Mr. Harold, does that mean she will become the Thornton heir?

00:50:15Harold did not dodge.

00:50:16She is the only direct line child of the main branch in this generation.

00:50:21Lucas took the microphone.

00:50:22He glanced down at Mia.

00:50:23She is not a legitimate daughter.

00:50:25She is my daughter.

00:50:27The shutter sounds grew denser.

00:50:29Mia looked up at him.

00:50:30Then can I be a Thornton?

00:50:32The hall fell silent for a moment.

00:50:34Lucas crouched down.

00:50:35He met her eyes.

00:50:36Yes.

00:50:37Will mommy know?

00:50:38Lucas's throat tightened.

00:50:39Yes.

00:50:40Mia hugged her rabbit to her chest.

00:50:42She gave a small smile.

00:50:43Then I want to write it to her.

00:50:45After the press conference, Celeste was trapped by the media in the hallway.

00:50:50She tried to leave with Penelope.

00:50:52Mrs. Thornton, the police are already on their way.

00:50:55What do you think you're doing?

00:50:56Wyatt approached.

00:50:58Assisting with the investigation.

00:50:59A little family history, and you're really taking it to the police?

00:51:03Not family history.

00:51:04Suspected forgery of evidence, misappropriation of funds, and violation of a minor's reputation rights.

00:51:10Celeste's legs gave way.

00:51:12Penelope burst into tears.

00:51:13Mia stood not far away.

00:51:15She watched Penelope cry, her fingers twisting the rabbit's ears.

00:51:19She wanted to go over.

00:51:21Mia.

00:51:22Mia looked up.

00:51:23She's crying too.

00:51:25Lucas said.

00:51:26That's not your fault.

00:51:27Mia thought for a moment, then reached into her backpack.

00:51:30Inside was a small rabbit sticker.

00:51:32She did not walk over.

00:51:33She only placed the sticker on the nearby table.

00:51:35For her.

00:51:36When she cries, she can look at the bunny.

00:51:39Aren't you angry?

00:51:39Yes, but mom said when kids do something wrong, adults have to teach them first.

00:51:46Her mom didn't teach her well.

00:51:49Wyatt heard that.

00:51:49He looked down at the documents in his hand and took a few seconds before continuing on.

00:51:54That evening, at the Thornton Manor dinner table, for the first time, a small place setting stood beside the four

00:52:01adult ones.

00:52:01A yellow bowl and a rabbit water cup.

00:52:04Mia sat beside Lucas.

00:52:06She ate a few bites, then looked up at everyone.

00:52:09Harold frowned.

00:52:10What are you looking at?

00:52:11Mia whispered.

00:52:12I'm counting to see if I'm still here tomorrow.

00:52:15Lucas placed peeled shrimp into her bowl.

00:52:18No need to count.

00:52:19Harold pushed an egg over as well.

00:52:21Eat.

00:52:21Wyatt put down his phone.

00:52:23I'll take you to kindergarten tomorrow.

00:52:24Mia's eyes lit up.

00:52:26Will you wear the animal costume?

00:52:30Wyatt paused.

00:52:31Lucas looked at him.

00:52:32What animal costume?

00:52:34Parent child sports day.

00:52:36Uncle Wyatt has to wear it.

00:52:37Harold coughed.

00:52:39Wyatt remained expressionless.

00:52:40I said I'll consider it.

00:52:42I know.

00:52:42Uncle Wyatt considers things slowly.

00:52:45Lucas drank water, the rim hiding his mouth.

00:52:48Harold picked up a newspaper.

00:52:50Wyatt glanced at them.

00:52:51Are you two very idle?

00:52:52I can be a little bunny.

00:52:54Uncle Wyatt can be the big bad wolf.

00:52:57Wyatt looked at her.

00:52:58Mia quickly added.

00:52:59But a good wolf.

00:53:01The table went quiet for a few seconds.

00:53:03Harold could not help it.

00:53:04He let out a soft laugh.

00:53:05Very faint.

00:53:06But everyone heard it.

00:53:07Mia heard it too.

00:53:08She looked at Harold.

00:53:09Grandpa, you can laugh.

00:53:11Eat your meal.

00:53:12Harold lifted the newspaper higher.

00:53:14Mia obediently lowered her head.

00:53:16In her yellow bowl, shrimp and scrambled eggs were piled high.

00:53:19Mommy, look.

00:53:19I have so much food.

00:53:22I have so much food.

00:53:22No one answered.

00:53:23But the lamp above the table burned very bright.

00:53:26Ivy's old rental was in the south of the city.

00:53:30An old apartment building with narrow hallways and peeling wall paint.

00:53:34Lucas stood at the door.

00:53:35It took him two tries to turn the key.

00:53:37The key had been given to him by Mrs. Dawson, Ivy's neighbor for the last two years, and the

00:53:43one who had brought Mia to the Thornton's doorstep.

00:53:46Ivy said before she left, if Mia found you, I should give the key to Mr. Thornton.

00:53:51Lucas took the key.

00:53:52Why didn't she come to the Thornton family sooner?

00:53:59Lucas did not argue.

00:54:00The door swung open.

00:54:02The room was tiny.

00:54:03One bed.

00:54:04One old table.

00:54:05Half a wardrobe.

00:54:07By the window hung faded children's clothes.

00:54:10Mia let go of Lucas's hand as soon as she entered.

00:54:13She ran to the bed.

00:54:14This is mommy's bed.

00:54:16This is mine.

00:54:18Mommy said kids can't eat cookies sitting on the bed because crumbs will fall.

00:54:22Lucas stood at the doorway.

00:54:24The room was so small he could see all of Ivy's three years of life without taking more than

00:54:29a few steps.

00:54:30On the table sat a tin box.

00:54:32Wyatt put on gloves and opened it.

00:54:35Inside, medical records, payment receipts, the rental contract, a few photographs, and

00:54:41a whole sheet of little rabbit stickers.

00:54:44Several missing.

00:54:45This is where mommy keeps important things.

00:54:48Wyatt flipped through the papers one by one.

00:54:50Sure enough, several documents had little rabbits stuck on the back.

00:54:54The first, Ivy's prenatal checkup report.

00:54:57The second, a copy of Mia's birth certificate.

00:55:00The third, an unsent legal consultation record.

00:55:03The fourth, a handwritten list.

00:55:06Lucas picked up the list.

00:55:07The handwriting was fine.

00:55:08It recorded every expense over three years.

00:55:12Formula, medicine, rent, daycare, rabbit repairs.

00:55:16Each item had an amount.

00:55:18The last line was written by Ivy.

00:55:20What I owe Mia is more than this.

00:55:22Lucas's fingertip rested on that line.

00:55:24The edge of the paper bore watermarks.

00:55:27Rain or tears.

00:55:28Mia leaned over the small table.

00:55:30She saw the line but could not read it all.

00:55:32Dad, what does this say?

00:55:34Lucas folded the paper.

00:55:35It says you were a very good kid when you were little.

00:55:38Really?

00:55:39Mommy said I was good too.

00:55:41Mrs. Dawson wiped tears nearby.

00:55:43She would never say you were bad.

00:55:46Even when she was so sick, she couldn't get out of bed.

00:55:50She was still afraid you'd go hungry.

00:55:52Mia looked up.

00:55:53Mrs. Dawson, why are you crying?

00:55:56Mrs. Dawson crouched down and hugged her.

00:55:58Auntie got dust in her eyes.

00:56:00Mia reached out and blew.

00:56:01A blow will make it better.

00:56:03Mrs. Dawson cried even harder.

00:56:06Lucas walked to the windowsill.

00:56:08A small pot of dried mint sat there.

00:56:11The soil had cracked.

00:56:12Next to it was an empty formula tin filled with loose change.

00:56:16Lucas picked up the tin.

00:56:18A little rabbit sticker was pasted on the bottom.

00:56:20He Wyatt came over.

00:56:21Open it.

00:56:22The bottom was double layered.

00:56:24Wyatt pried it open with a small knife.

00:56:26Inside was a folded piece of paper.

00:56:28A hospital visitation record from three years ago.

00:56:31The day Mia was born.

00:56:32Lucas had indeed been abroad.

00:56:34But one name appeared on the visitor log.

00:56:37Celeste Thornton.

00:56:38The date?

00:56:38The day after Mia's birth.

00:56:40Ivy mentioned that a very elegant woman came to see her at the hospital.

00:56:44That woman said Mr. Thornton had already signed away his custody.

00:56:47And that the child had no status and would only be mocked in the Thornton family.

00:56:51Lucas's knuckles tightened.

00:56:52Did she believe it?

00:56:54She didn't believe it.

00:56:56That's why she kept all the evidence.

00:56:58Mia dragged a box from under the bed.

00:57:00Dad, this is Mommy's too.

00:57:03Inside was a tiny baby outfit.

00:57:05Sewn into the inner lining was a small cloth pouch.

00:57:09Wyatt cut it open.

00:57:10Inside was the other half of a locket.

00:57:15When Harold received the call while sitting in the manor's living room, he went straight to the rental.

00:57:20Half an hour later, he arrived.

00:57:21When he saw that half locket, he looked sad.

00:57:26Lucas took out the other half of the pendant.

00:57:28The two halves fit together perfectly.

00:57:30In the middle was carved a tiny L.

00:57:32Harold sat on the old chair, silent, for a long time.

00:57:35That locket had been custom made by him when Lucas was born.

00:57:39Later, when Lucas came of age, Harold split it in two.

00:57:42One half for Lucas, the other reserved for the next generation of Thorntons.

00:57:45Lucas's half had been lost three years ago.

00:57:48He said he misplaced it.

00:57:49It had been in Ivy's hands all along.

00:57:52Harold looked at Mia.

00:57:53What else did your mother say?

00:57:56Mom said, the locket is a ticket.

00:57:59Harold's eyes reddened.

00:58:00He turned his face aside and cleared his throat.

00:58:02What else did she say?

00:58:05She said Lucas is very busy at work.

00:58:09She said Wyatt looks fierce but is reasonable.

00:58:13She said Grandpa doesn't like to laugh.

00:58:16Mom was wrong.

00:58:18Grandpa smiled yesterday.

00:58:20What else did she say about me?

00:58:22She said Grandpa can be wrong.

00:58:24Harold looked down at her.

00:58:26How did she can be wrong?

00:58:27Everyone can be wrong.

00:58:28But if adults are wrong, they have to say sorry to the kid.

00:58:31Mom said I have to do this too.

00:58:34Harold looked at her.

00:58:35That sentence was not meant for the child.

00:58:37It was meant for them.

00:58:39The old man steadied himself with his cane and slowly rose.

00:58:43He walked to Mia.

00:58:44Then he bent down, a difficult move for him.

00:58:46His knees were bad.

00:58:48Grandpa, be careful.

00:58:49Mia.

00:58:51Grandpa was wrong.

00:58:53Mia froze.

00:58:54She had never heard such a big grown-up say they were wrong.

00:58:57Then you'll change it next time.

00:59:00Change.

00:59:00Lucas stood by the window, still holding onto that handwritten list.

00:59:04Mia suddenly walked over to him.

00:59:07Dad.

00:59:08Lucas looked down.

00:59:11Mia tilted her face up.

00:59:13Why didn't you come find me back then?

00:59:16The air in the room seemed to press down.

00:59:19Lucas crouched down.

00:59:20This time, he did not explain with work, misunderstandings, or evidence.

00:59:24He looked into her eyes.

00:59:25Because I was wrong.

00:59:28Mrs. Dawson turned away.

00:59:30Even Wyatt said nothing.

00:59:32You can be wrong, too?

00:59:34Yes.

00:59:34Then will you change it next time?

00:59:36Change.

00:59:39Then take this one.

00:59:40Stick it so you'll remember.

00:59:42Lucas looked at the rabbit on his cuff.

00:59:44Utterly mismatched with his black suit.

00:59:46But he did not peel it off.

00:59:47Wyatt's phone rang.

00:59:49He answered, and his face turned cold.

00:59:51Celeste has produced a statement.

00:59:53Lucas stood up.

00:59:54What statement?

00:59:55Wyatt sent the file to their group chat.

00:59:57Lucas Thornton signed waiver of custody from three years ago.

01:00:00Harold snatched the phone.

01:00:01On the paper, in black and white, was the signature Lucas Thornton.

01:00:06The date, the third day after Mia's birth.

01:00:09Celeste's lawyer relayed her message.

01:00:11If the Thornton family continues to pursue this, she will make this statement public.

01:00:15Lucas stared at the document expressionless.

01:00:18Mia came over to look.

01:00:19She could not read the words, but she spotted a faint pale pink in the corner on the back.

01:00:24She pointed with her little finger.

01:00:26Daddy, there's a bunny here.

01:00:30Wyatt enlarged the image immediately.

01:00:32On the back of the declaration, a very faint rabbit sticker mark showed through.

01:00:37Mrs. Dawson suddenly said,

01:00:38The things Ivy put bunny stickers on were never meant for bad people to see.

01:00:42Wyatt looked at Lucas.

01:00:44Where's the original?

01:00:45Lucas fastened his cufflink.

01:00:47Tell her to send it over.

01:00:48Harold leaned on his cane, his voice deep.

01:00:50This time, I'll see it myself.

01:00:53Celeste arrived at the manor with the statement after dark.

01:00:56She did not bring Penelope, only her lawyer.

01:00:59Marcus followed, his face grim.

01:01:02In the living room, Harold, Lucas, and Wyatt were waiting.

01:01:05Mia sat on the small chair beside Lucas, holding her rabbit, its belly sewn up, and her little yellow hat

01:01:11beside her.

01:01:12Celeste placed the document on the table.

01:01:14Dad, I don't want to take this to the extreme, but this statement was signed by Lucas himself, in black

01:01:19and white.

01:01:20He gave up custody back then.

01:01:22Ivy taking the child away wasn't something we forced.

01:01:25Wyatt did not touch it immediately.

01:01:28He put on gloves, photographed it, and assigned a number.

01:01:32Celeste grew irritated.

01:01:33Wyatt, you don't need to act like you're investigating a case.

01:01:36This is family business.

01:01:38Wyatt examined the paper without looking up.

01:01:40From the moment you forged that transfer, it stopped being family business.

01:01:44Celeste's face darkened.

01:01:45Lucas picked up the document.

01:01:47The signature did resemble his.

01:01:49The strokes, the connections, the habits.

01:01:52Harold frowned.

01:01:53Lucas?

01:01:54Lucas said,

01:01:54I never sign this.

01:01:56Who would admit to signing something like that?

01:01:58Lucas, it wouldn't have been strange if you hadn't wanted the kid back then.

01:02:01Mia looked up at Lucas.

01:02:02She did not cry.

01:02:03She only gripped her rabbit's ears tighter.

01:02:05Lucas set the document down.

01:02:07Examine it.

01:02:08Wyatt had already begun examining it.

01:02:10The paper number is from Thornton's internal legal paper stock from three years ago.

01:02:13But this batch didn't come into vacratory until September of that year.

01:02:16Celeste's expression shifted slightly.

01:02:18The statement date is August 20th.

01:02:21The paper arrived in September.

01:02:22You couldn't have signed it in August.

01:02:24The lawyer's face changed, too.

01:02:27Celeste quickly said,

01:02:28Then it must be a copy that was made later.

01:02:31Fine.

01:02:32Then let's look at the signature.

01:02:33On the screen, Lucas's signature appeared enlarged many times.

01:02:37Wyatt pulled up another document.

01:02:39On August 20th, Lucas was in Switzerland.

01:02:41This is his hospital admission record from that day.

01:02:43Racing injury, infection, high fever, IV in his right hand.

01:02:47This is the overseas authorization document he signed that same day.

01:02:50It was signed with his left hand.

01:02:51But your waiver of custody was signed with the right hand.

01:02:55Celeste's lips lost color.

01:02:56Marcus's forehead beaded with sweat.

01:02:58That only proves he could have signed it later.

01:03:01Wyatt looked up.

01:03:01A later signing would also have an authorization record.

01:03:04There is none.

01:03:05The living room fell silent.

01:03:07Mia did not understand the legal jargon.

01:03:09She stared at the rabbit mark on the back of the paper.

01:03:12She gently tugged Lucas's cuff.

01:03:14Daddy.

01:03:15Lucas looked down.

01:03:16What is it?

01:03:17Mia pointed at the paper.

01:03:18Mommy's bunny isn't here.

01:03:20What do you mean?

01:03:21When mommy puts a bunny sticker on something, she always sticks it behind the words.

01:03:26She said so the bunny can watch over the important words.

01:03:29This one is stuck on an empty spot.

01:03:31Mommy wouldn't stick it like that.

01:03:33Wyatt held the paper up to the light.

01:03:35She stepped closer and glanced at it.

01:03:37Yes, Ivy had a habit with her stickers.

01:03:39She'd stick them behind the line she thought was important.

01:03:42She said she was afraid she'd forget later and if she flipped it over she'd know which

01:03:46line mattered.

01:03:47Wyatt turned the paper over.

01:03:48The adhesive residue corresponded to a blank area.

01:03:51But below the last paragraph of the declaration, there was a faint cut mark.

01:03:55He picked up a magnifying glass.

01:03:57This paper has been cut.

01:03:59Lucas looked at Celeste.

01:04:00Celeste stepped back.

01:04:01Wyatt continued.

01:04:02The original position of the sticker should correspond to another piece of text.

01:04:06Someone cut out away the original text and left the sticker residue on the back.

01:04:10Harold's pain struck the floor heavily.

01:04:12Where is the original text?

01:04:14Celeste said nothing.

01:04:15Dad, this is all just speculation from Wyatt.

01:04:18Wyatt ignored him.

01:04:20He opened the scanned documents from the tin box and record found in the rental.

01:04:24Paper stock number, edge texture, adhesive residue position, all matched.

01:04:29Wyatt superimposed the two images on the screen.

01:04:31The gaps aligned.

01:04:33The original line emerged.

01:04:34It was not a custody waiver.

01:04:36It was a question Ivy had written to her lawyer.

01:04:39If the child's father is kept in the dark, how can the mother preserve the child's right

01:04:43to identity?

01:04:44Mia could not read the words, but she saw the adults were silent.

01:04:47She asked softly,

01:04:49What does mommy's writing say?

01:04:52Lucas crouched down.

01:04:53She was protecting you.

01:04:56Mia blinked.

01:04:57Mommy always protected me.

01:04:59That light sentence made several people in the room fall silent again.

01:05:03Celeste suddenly let out a dry laugh.

01:05:05Protect?

01:05:06If she really wanted to protect, she should have stayed away from the Thornton family.

01:05:10What rights does she have to come back with a hide and take from the Thorntons?

01:05:15So you admit that what you fear is her coming back?

01:05:19Celeste went pale.

01:05:20Wyatt pulled out his phone.

01:05:23It's recorded.

01:05:25Celeste clamped her mouth shut.

01:05:26Car sounds came from outside.

01:05:28The butler hurried in.

01:05:30Sir, the police are here.

01:05:32Celeste could no longer stand steady.

01:05:34Marcus held her up.

01:05:35Harold did not look at them again.

01:05:38Investigate however it needs to be investigated.

01:05:40The Thornton family's face is saved by covering up its shame.

01:05:46Instead of going to great lengths to cover it up, face everything head on.

01:05:52After the police entered, Wyatt handed over the evidence one by one.

01:05:56The voice recorder, the access log copies, the internal network records, the bank statements,

01:06:01the original declaration, and the documents found in the rental.

01:06:04When Celeste was taken away, Penelope ran in from somewhere.

01:06:08Mommy!

01:06:10Celeste did not scold her this time.

01:06:12She bent down to touch her daughter's face, but her hand stopped halfway when the officer

01:06:16reminded her.

01:06:17Penelope sobbed breathlessly.

01:06:19Mia stood beside Lucas.

01:06:20She watched Penelope, then looked at her own rabbit.

01:06:23In the end, she placed her little rabbit sticker on the coffee table.

01:06:27She did not hand it over.

01:06:29She just left it there.

01:06:30After Celeste was taken away, Penelope was picked up by relatives from the second branch.

01:06:34Marcus remained at the manor.

01:06:36Harold announced in front of everyone that all trust privileges of the second branch were

01:06:40suspended.

01:06:41Dad, are you really going to throw us out just for a child who just came back?

01:06:45It's not for the child.

01:06:46It's for what you've done.

01:06:47Marcus tried to argue further.

01:06:49Harold raised his hand.

01:06:50How much you've taken from the trust over the years, Wyatt will investigate line by line.

01:06:55Lucas, are you just going to stand there and watch?

01:06:58Lucas stood under the living room light, the pink little rabbit still on his cuff.

01:07:02I've been watching for three years.

01:07:04I'm done watching now.

01:07:06Marcus's lips moved, but no words came out.

01:07:08A few days later, the Thorntons issued an official statement.

01:07:12Ivy Winter had never received money from the Thorntons.

01:07:15All defamatory content would be prosecuted.

01:07:18Mia's birth records were fully supplemented.

01:07:21Custody, household registration, and trust protection list, all finalized.

01:07:26Harold personally placed the half locket into a new little box labeled with Mia's name.

01:07:31Mia studied it for a long time.

01:07:33Grandpa, is this a ticket?

01:07:35Harold asked.

01:07:36What ticket?

01:07:37Mia said seriously.

01:07:38The ticket home.

01:07:39Harold pushed the box toward her.

01:07:41It's not a ticket.

01:07:42It's yours.

01:07:43Mia touched the box.

01:07:45Then can I leave it here?

01:07:47I'm afraid I'll lose it.

01:07:49Yes.

01:07:50The Thornton family will keep it safe for you.

01:07:52Mia thought.

01:07:54Then the Thornton family shouldn't lose me.

01:07:57Harold's throat tightened.

01:08:00It won't.

01:08:02That evening, the manor kitchen was busy.

01:08:05Not for a banquet, just dinner.

01:08:07Mia sat in her booster seat with her yellow bowl before her.

01:08:10Lucas stood behind her, holding a comb.

01:08:12He had practiced for three days, but the braid still leaned to one side.

01:08:16Mia touched it.

01:08:17Daddy, this looks like a little tail.

01:08:19Lucas looked.

01:08:20Take it out and do it again.

01:08:21Mia quickly protected her head.

01:08:24No need.

01:08:25A little tail can come to the table today, too.

01:08:29Wyatt came in with the kindergarten pickup card and placed it by the entrance.

01:08:33Mia's eyes were sharp.

01:08:35Uncle Wyatt, will you pick me up tomorrow?

01:08:40Hmm.

01:08:41What about the animal costume?

01:08:43Wyatt paused.

01:08:45Lucas was serving her food and froze mid-motion.

01:08:48Harold lifted his teacup, the rim hiding his mouth.

01:08:52The parent-child sports day costume confirmation form.

01:08:55Parent roll.

01:08:56Big bad wolf.

01:08:57Child roll.

01:08:58Little rabbit.

01:09:00Really?

01:09:02Wyatt folded the notice.

01:09:03Only once.

01:09:05Mia nodded.

01:09:05A good wolf only wears it once.

01:09:08Lucas put vegetables in her bowl.

01:09:10Eat first.

01:09:11Mia took a few bites, then suddenly looked up at Lucas.

01:09:14Daddy?

01:09:15Can I still come home tomorrow?

01:09:18Lucas' fork stopped.

01:09:19She had asked this many times, always with such caution, as if afraid the answer might change.

01:09:25Lucas set down his fork.

01:09:26This is your home.

01:09:28Mia looked at him.

01:09:30What about mommy?

01:09:31Lucas looked up.

01:09:33On the small cabinet beside the dining room sat Ivy's photograph.

01:09:36She was holding newborn Mia.

01:09:38Harold had had it reframed, placed not in a corner, but where the light could reach it.

01:09:43Lucas said,

01:09:44Mommy is home too.

01:09:46She got down from her chair, walked to the photo with her rabbit, and touched the frame gently.

01:09:51Mommy, Daddy bought a big can of formula he didn't borrow from Lone Hark's.

01:09:56Wyatt turned his face away.

01:09:57Harold coughed.

01:09:58Lucas smiled faintly.

01:10:00Her eyes curved.

01:10:01Daddy, you can smile!

01:10:03Lucas walked over and picked her up.

01:10:05Mia rested on his shoulder, still clutching her rabbit.

01:10:08Can I eat here every day?

01:10:10Yes.

01:10:10Can I sleep here every day?

01:10:12Yes.

01:10:13Can I put bunny in the middle of the bed?

01:10:16Yes.

01:10:17Mia thought for a long time.

01:10:18Finally, she asked.

01:10:19Can I be bad?

01:10:20The dining room went quiet.

01:10:22Harold put down his teacup.

01:10:23Wyatt looked at Lucas.

01:10:24Lucas carried her to the table.

01:10:26Yes.

01:10:27Really?

01:10:28Really.

01:10:29But before you're bad, you have to eat first.

01:10:33Then I'll have two bowls.

01:10:35Harold frowned.

01:10:36Kids can't overeat.

01:10:37Mia nodded.

01:10:38One and a half bowls, then.

01:10:40Wyatt pushed her water cup over.

01:10:42Drink some water first.

01:10:43Mia looked at each of them, then suddenly laughed.

01:10:46You're so noisy.

01:10:47While the butler was carrying over soup.

01:10:49He paused at her words.

01:10:50Thornton Manor had not been this noisy for many years.

01:10:53Before, it had everything.

01:10:55Documents, rules, bylaws, silence.

01:10:58Now, it had one child, an old rabbit, a yellow bowl, and the kindergarten pickup card by the entrance.

01:11:04After drinking her water, Mia carefully set the cup down.

01:11:08She looked at Ivy's photo and said softly,

01:11:10Mommy, I'm home.

01:11:12The courtyard lights glowed one by one.

01:11:14Not for a banquet, but so that a child waking in the night would not lose her way.

The Little Mia Who Found Thornton | Full Series | Short Drama English

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