Presidents! Stop fighting for me

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Transcript

00:00:03Ethan Harlow

00:00:04I'd secretly bought a wedding dress

00:00:06Worked up every ounce of courage to propose to him

00:00:09But as luck would have it

00:00:10I was a few minutes late to the party that night

00:00:12I walked in just as he was talking with his friends

00:00:15I stood by the door

00:00:16Listening to the voices inside

00:00:18Quinn

00:00:19He lit a cigarette, grinned lazily

00:00:21Yeah, I'm over it

00:00:23Seven years, man

00:00:24Wouldn't you be?

00:00:26The others laughed along

00:00:27Fair point

00:00:28Seven years, even a guy

00:00:29The goddess gets old

00:00:30Though Quinn's genuinely stunning

00:00:33That body, too

00:00:34Remember Ethan's birthday last year?

00:00:36She wore that red dress

00:00:37And every guy in the room couldn't look away

00:00:40Seriously, Ethan

00:00:41You used to be so crazy about her

00:00:43You really done?

00:00:44Ethan's voice was flat

00:00:45When do I ever say things I don't mean?

00:00:48So

00:00:49You wouldn't mind if I went after Quinn?

00:00:51He blew out a smoke ring

00:00:52Barely interested

00:00:53Go for it

00:00:54As long as you're both fine with it

00:00:56Dude, have some self-respect

00:00:58You really want Ethan's leftovers?

00:01:00More laughter

00:01:01I didn't go into that room that night

00:01:02I texted him some excuse about a headache and went home

00:01:05Ethan didn't ask a single question

00:01:07Just hung up

00:01:08Whatever was left of my will to stay

00:01:09It died that night

00:01:39And I said, all right?

00:01:40You were so glad to be so close to you

00:01:40If you're not in school

00:01:40You were so glad to be here

00:01:40It isn't the only one

00:01:41But you were so glad to be here

00:01:41You were so glad to be here

00:01:41We've got a good one

00:01:59You were so glad to be here

00:01:59.

00:02:29.

00:03:01.

00:03:19Two days later, everyone in their circle was talking.

00:03:22Ethan was chasing some sophomore, performing arts school.

00:03:25Young, soft, naive.

00:03:27He always pursued others in a grand fashion,

00:03:29just like he did with me back then,

00:03:31showering them with flowers, fancy cars, and jewelry.

00:03:34The girl couldn't resist his advances at all.

00:03:36They soon got together.

00:03:37At a friend's dinner, Ethan walked right in with her on his arm.

00:03:40The room went quiet the moment he stepped through the door.

00:03:43A few of my closer girlfriends shot me worried looks.

00:03:45I smiled.

00:03:46Why'd everyone go quiet?

00:03:48What are you all staring at?

00:03:49Ethan settled the girl into a seat and finally looked at me.

00:03:52Quinn.

00:03:53Perfect timing.

00:03:54Let's just say it plainly.

00:03:55Sure.

00:03:56Go ahead.

00:03:56Mia's young.

00:03:58She's genuine.

00:03:59I actually like her.

00:04:00I don't want to do her wrong.

00:04:01I gripped my hands together.

00:04:02The ring on my finger pressed into the flesh.

00:04:04Deep and sharp.

00:04:05But I couldn't feel a thing.

00:04:07He stroked the girl's hair.

00:04:08She deserves love real.

00:04:09I nodded lightly.

00:04:10I understand.

00:04:11We can still be friends.

00:04:13Anything you need, just say the word.

00:04:15That's okay.

00:04:16I smiled.

00:04:17Stood up.

00:04:17If it's over, let's make it clean.

00:04:19No point confusing anyone.

00:04:20Ethan raised an eyebrow.

00:04:21Slightly surprised.

00:04:22Fair enough.

00:04:24You all enjoy the dinner.

00:04:25I'll head out.

00:04:27Want the driver to take you?

00:04:28No.

00:04:28I'll grab a ride.

00:04:29I walked out and pulled the door shut behind me.

00:04:31Through the gap, I heard someone ask,

00:04:33How long do you give her this time?

00:04:35Two days.

00:04:37She seemed actually upset this time.

00:04:40I'll say a week.

00:04:41Ethan laughed cold.

00:04:42Three days.

00:04:43She'll be crying back to me before then.

00:04:45Every single time.

00:04:47Getting tired of watching it.

00:04:49Yeah, because Quinn's obsessed with you.

00:04:51Everyone knows how far gone she is.

00:04:54I smiled bitterly to myself.

00:04:55Clutched my bag tighter.

00:04:57And walked fast toward the elevator.

00:05:15I'm starting to listen.

00:05:16I Hep C I'm trying to play with her.

00:05:21That is aель there for me in the locker room.

00:05:44No.

00:05:44No, we're going to ask.

00:05:45.

00:06:30Back at the apartment, I went to the back of the closet and lifted down the dress.

00:06:34I'd waited half a year for it.

00:06:36A custom order.

00:06:37No returns.

00:06:38Such a shame.

00:06:39I'd never get to wear it.

00:06:41I found a pair of scissors and cut it apart.

00:06:43It had no business being here anyway.

00:06:45Before I left, I took off the ring and set it on the coffee table.

00:06:48I didn't take much.

00:06:49My personal things.

00:06:51Everything else I left behind.

00:06:52I thought about it, then wrote him a note.

00:06:54The apartment and everything in it.

00:06:56Do whatever you want with it.

00:06:57Don't ask me.

00:06:58I booked the earliest flight to Miami.

00:07:00My best friend had moved there earlier that year.

00:07:02She dragged me out for shopping and afternoon coffee.

00:07:04That evening, there was a small get-together.

00:07:06Old classmates.

00:07:07Old friends.

00:07:08Midway through the drinks, the door swung open.

00:07:10A few of the girls immediately lit up.

00:07:12Lucas?

00:07:13Since when do you show up to things like this?

00:07:15Seriously, what brings you out tonight?

00:07:18Had a meeting next door.

00:07:19Heard there was a reunion.

00:07:21Figured I'd drop by.

00:07:22Lucas said this, never taking his eyes off me.

00:07:24My best friend pinched my arm.

00:07:26Quinn, he came for you.

00:07:28I looked at him through slightly unfocused eyes.

00:07:31Taller than Ethan by an inch or two.

00:07:32Black overcoat.

00:07:33Dark suit underneath.

00:07:35Sharp features.

00:07:36A great build.

00:07:37Legs that went on forever.

00:07:38I squinted at him for a moment, then shook my head.

00:07:41No way.

00:07:42We haven't talked in years.

00:07:44She wasn't listening.

00:07:45She called out to him directly.

00:07:46Lucas, could you do me a favor and drive Quinn home later?

00:07:50We've all been drinking, and I don't trust her in a taxi.

00:07:52I looked up at Lucas, startled.

00:07:54His eyes traveled across the room and settled on my face.

00:07:57Then I saw him nod.

00:08:00Sure.

00:08:00My best friend sat back down, leaned close to my ear.

00:08:03Quinn, after seven years with one man, it's time to move on and embrace a new life.

00:08:08Even Ethan has done it.

00:08:10Why can't you start a second chapter of your own?

00:08:13Besides, a man like Lucas?

00:08:15If you don't take your shot, it's practically a crime.

00:08:18What makes you think he'd even want to?

00:08:20Babe, the way he looked at you?

00:08:22Trust me, I've been through 18 of them.

00:08:24I know what I'm talking about.

00:08:45Lucas drove me back to the hotel.

00:08:47When we pulled up downstairs, I un-clipped my seatbelt.

00:08:51Thanks for the ride.

00:08:52Lucas glanced over at me.

00:08:53Don't mention it.

00:08:54I pushed the door open.

00:08:55Before I could think, I'd already spoken.

00:08:57Want to come up for a drink?

00:08:58He helped me walk toward the hotel.

00:09:00Lucas kissed me in the elevator.

00:09:02I was already tipsy, and he was demanding.

00:09:04Relentless.

00:09:05I nearly blacked out just from the kiss.

00:09:07There's a camera.

00:09:08I gasped, cheeks burning, legs so weak I had to hold onto his waist just to stay upright.

00:09:14Lucas glanced at the lens, turned me, shifted the angle, and kissed me again.

00:09:18When the door swiped open, he stopped and looked at me.

00:09:20Quinn, if you regret this, I'll still back off.

00:09:23Regret what?

00:09:24I tilted my face up at him, fingers looping around his tie, pulling him closer.

00:09:28You kissed my lips halfway to swollen?

00:09:30A little late to talk about backing off.

00:09:33Lucas laughed then.

00:09:34He reached out and brushed his thumb across my lower lip.

00:09:37And don't go blaming me later.

00:09:39Our first night together, Lucas didn't even make it to the bedroom.

00:09:42He pinned me against the wall, and it was rough enough to hurt a little.

00:09:45I bit down on his shoulder in protest.

00:09:47Lucas, what is wrong with you?

00:09:49Ever heard of being gentle?

00:09:50His warm hands pressed against my back.

00:09:52Then he was breathing against my neck.

00:09:54Quinn, I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:09:56I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:09:59I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:00I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:03I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:04I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:06I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:07I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:12I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:18I'm not sure I can hold back.

00:10:26.

00:10:57Five minutes later, I understood what he'd meant.

00:11:00He carried me to the bedroom.

00:11:02I buried my face in the pillow, laughing.

00:11:04Lucas, how long has it been for you?

00:11:07He gave me a look.

00:11:08A while. Work's been everything lately.

00:11:11I stared at him, the laughter fading.

00:11:13A moment later, tears came out of nowhere.

00:11:15I'm sorry. I shouldn't have...

00:11:18Quinn, don't.

00:11:20He fumbled to wipe my face, but the tears wouldn't stop.

00:11:23I shouldn't have dragged you into this.

00:11:24But you already did.

00:11:26He leaned down, cupped my face in his hands, steady, almost serious.

00:11:30Quinn, since you started this, you don't get to stop halfway.

00:11:54.

00:11:55.

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00:12:37.

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00:13:40.

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00:14:01.

00:14:03.

00:14:05.

00:14:11.

00:14:12.

00:14:23Serena of House Stavos, you are kind.

00:15:13No plans to, for now.

00:15:14We all miss you.

00:15:15Ryan's birthday's in a few days.

00:15:17Come celebrate.

00:15:18Tell him I'm sorry.

00:15:19I'll mail a gift.

00:15:20Alright, take care of yourself.

00:15:21Back in the city, Jamie handed the phone to Ethan.

00:15:24Look, maybe you should call her.

00:15:25She'll listen to you.

00:15:26Ethan stared coldly at the screen.

00:15:28Then he stubbed out his cigarette and stood.

00:15:30She can rot out there for all I care.

00:15:32Ethan, don't be angry.

00:15:34She's just hurting.

00:15:35She even took the ring off this time.

00:15:37It's really crushed, and honestly, it's your fault for pushing it so far with that girl.

00:15:40We already broke up!

00:15:41What more does she want?

00:15:42Ethan snapped, voice rising.

00:15:44Listen up.

00:15:45Nobody contacts her!

00:15:47Not for anything!

00:15:48Okay, okay, we won't.

00:15:49Calm down.

00:15:50You just got out of the hospital two days ago.

00:15:53Your stomach.

00:15:54She was around and your stomach never acted up.

00:15:56She leaves for five days and you do this to yourself.

00:15:59With every word from his friends, Ethan's expression went darker.

00:16:02Eventually, he grabbed his jacket and walked out, slamming the door.

00:16:05He hit the street.

00:16:06Cold air rushed in.

00:16:08The anger still burned in his chest.

00:16:09Seven days.

00:16:10No calls.

00:16:11No texts.

00:16:12Not even one.

00:16:13He pulled out his phone.

00:16:14Blocked her number.

00:16:22Lucas called just as I typed the last line and hit send.

00:16:25I've been writing columns for magazines since college.

00:16:27It turned out to be enough to make a living.

00:16:30Freelance life.

00:16:31Laptop, good wifi, and I could work from anywhere.

00:16:34So when it ended, I had no reason to stay in the city and hurt.

00:16:39Quinn, what do you want for dinner?

00:16:40His voice came through clearly.

00:16:42After an afternoon of work, something in me settled.

00:16:44I'm exhausted.

00:16:45You pick.

00:16:47How about steak?

00:16:49I know a place with a really good steak.

00:16:51You'll love it.

00:16:51I always like my steak rare.

00:16:53But Ethan used to say watching me eat it turned his stomach, so I stopped.

00:16:56Though I vaguely remembered Lucas preferring lighter food.

00:16:59Lucas, you don't have to do this for me.

00:17:01I'm not picky anymore.

00:17:02I actually want it too.

00:17:04Remember in college?

00:17:05There was that little joint near campus.

00:17:06The steak were amazing.

00:17:08Hearing him say that made me hungry for it too.

00:17:10That place was genuinely good.

00:17:12I ate there for four years and never got tired of it.

00:17:15Okay.

00:17:15Steak then.

00:17:17I'll come get you now.

00:17:18Sure.

00:17:21Lucas took me to a place that'd been in Miami for years.

00:17:24Old and a little cramped, but always packed.

00:17:27And Lucas, in his tailored suit, sitting in that grimy booth, was a completely ridiculous visual.

00:17:32I watched him carefully wipe down my chair with a napkin.

00:17:34For someone like him, these small domestic gestures came surprisingly naturally.

00:17:39Lucas, your ex did a great job with you.

00:17:42I couldn't help saying it.

00:17:43In the beginning, when Ethan was still chasing me, I felt it.

00:17:47Being cared for.

00:17:48Being someone's priority.

00:17:49Then we moved in together the year after graduation.

00:17:52A little over a year.

00:17:53And I became the household.

00:17:55Managing his diet, his rest, his schedule.

00:17:58Like a wife before the wedding.

00:17:59But I understand now what I didn't then.

00:18:02I lost myself loving him.

00:18:03Forgot that you have to love yourself first.

00:18:05No wonder the love wore out.

00:18:07Lucas glanced up from tending the pot.

00:18:09Where'd you hear I had an ex?

00:18:17I paused.

00:18:18The girl who was always around you in college?

00:18:19Weren't you two childhood friends?

00:18:21You mean Sophie?

00:18:22He laughed once.

00:18:23We grew up together, yeah.

00:18:25But we never dated.

00:18:26I never felt that way about her.

00:18:28She was more like a little sister.

00:18:30So you haven't been with anyone all these years?

00:18:31Went on a few setups.

00:18:33It wasn't right, so...

00:18:35It ended.

00:18:36And after that, I looked down, thinking about that first night.

00:18:40Suddenly, it made complete sense.

00:18:42Quinn, I'll do better next time.

00:18:44His comment came out of nowhere.

00:18:45I blinked.

00:18:46Better at what?

00:18:47He turned his face away, cleared his throat quietly.

00:18:49His ears were deeply flushed.

00:18:51You'll see later.

00:18:52He kept his word.

00:18:53After dinner, back at the hotel, once he'd carried me out of the bathroom and onto the bed,

00:18:57I finally understood what he'd meant.

00:18:59By then, I was completely undone.

00:19:01Lucas.

00:19:02I tried to glare at him, but my eyes were misted over,

00:19:04which only made me look more helpless.

00:19:06His name in my mouth came out soft, nowhere near as angry as I wanted.

00:19:10Lucas bowed his head and kissed me softly.

00:19:12Quinn, is this okay?

00:19:13I shook my head, refused to answer.

00:19:15He didn't push, just kept kissing me, over and over, patient and unhurried.

00:19:20I couldn't hold out.

00:19:21Tears were leaking from the corners of my eyes.

00:19:23Lucas.

00:19:23My nails pressed into his lower back,

00:19:25and there was a sound in my voice I couldn't quite control.

00:19:28Quinn, tell me now.

00:19:30Is this okay?

00:19:31Lucas' own eyes had gone red, arms taut, sweat falling in drops.

00:19:35I gave in, voice small and wrecked.

00:19:37Yes.

00:19:38Yes, it is.

00:19:39As my last thought drifted away,

00:19:41Lucas put his lips to my ear and whispered very low,

00:19:43Quinn, if this is good,

00:19:46then promise you'll never leave me, okay?

00:20:01Anyway.

00:20:02사고 Bisous.

00:20:30I threw away.

00:20:31기다� acordes.

00:20:31I'll ask you.

00:20:31.

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00:25:01.

00:25:19The gift I'd sent from Miami made it to his party.

00:25:22Ethan sat on the couch, smoking, the bottle in front of him mostly empty. The gift had been chosen by

00:25:27Lucas and me together.

00:25:28.

00:25:28vintage pair of cufflinks from a high-end label Ryan loved. These are beautiful. Ryan laughed a

00:25:33little stiffly, reading Ethan's expression, and quickly had his girlfriend put them away. Let me

00:25:37see. Ethan spoke without warning. Ryan froze but handed the box over without a word. Ethan stared

00:25:42at the pair of cufflinks. The brand's logo was discreet, almost invisible, but Ethan stared at

00:25:46it for a long moment. Put them away. He closed the box and pushed it aside. Ryan exhaled with relief

00:25:51and reached for it. Ethan snatched the empty bottle from the table and smashed it against the

00:25:55coffee table. Glass scattered. A long gash opened across the back of his hand. The room erupted.

00:26:00What happened? Why did you? That's a bad cut. It won't stop bleeding. Hospital. Ethan stood there

00:26:05emotionless, face dark, still as stone. Quinn never bought anything from that label. His voice was low

00:26:10and frayed. Ryan smiled quickly. So what? Quinn probably just picked something at random. Not

00:26:14like your birthday. She'd been planning your gift for six months. Exactly. You know what she means

00:26:20to you. None of us combined are worth a tenth of what she feels for you. Ethan laughed sharply.

00:26:25Feels for me. The noise in the room bled away, one degree at a time. Ethan, should I call

00:26:30Quinn? We need to deal with that cut first. Ryan suddenly worked up the nerve, picked up

00:26:34his phone, and photographed Ethan's torn up hand, then sent it to Quinn on the spot. Ethan

00:26:39didn't stop him.

00:27:06The room went still. About ten seconds passed. Then Ryan's phone rang. See? I knew she loved you more

00:27:12than anything. Look, Ethan, it's Quinn! The others noticed it too. The tension in Ethan's face had eased,

00:27:18just slightly. You want to take it? Ryan held out the phone. Ethan didn't look at it. He turned

00:27:22away. I'll get it. I'll get it. Ryan said eagerly, putting it on speaker. When Quinn's voice came

00:27:27through, Ethan's jaw locked. Ryan, are you okay? Are you hurt? It's not me. It's Ethan's hand. You

00:27:32have no idea how bad it is. Blood everywhere. He won't stop. Ryan rambled on. The other end went

00:27:37quiet. Quinn, are you there? Maybe, maybe you should come back. Ethan won't go to the hospital. He can't

00:27:41just keep bleeding like this. Ryan. Her voice was still soft, still the same. Yeah? Yeah, I'm here.

00:27:46Go on. Ryan signaled frantically to Ethan. Don't tell me about him anymore. Ryan's smile collapsed.

00:27:51Quinn? And happy birthday, Ryan. Wait, Quinn, don't hang up! The line went dead. Ryan stood there

00:27:57holding the phone like it had burned him. He wanted to slap himself. What was he thinking? Getting

00:28:01involved. Now look at the mess. Silence. Ethan looked around at everyone and smiled lightly. You all go

00:28:06mute? No one dared speak. He smiled again. What, nobody's got anything to say? Ethan, don't get worked up.

00:28:10The cut's bleeding more. Ethan, you know how Quinn is. From the corner, where she'd been sitting

00:28:14quietly through everything, Vera finally spoke. I've wanted to say this for a long time. What

00:28:19you did was cruel. Quinn's a woman. Women have pride. Even if you stopped loving her, you could

00:28:23have ended it cleanly. Who says I wanted it to end cleanly? Ethan smiled, sharp and cold. She gave

00:28:29me seven years. Seven years? You think that's nothing to me? Vera smiled very quietly. But did you

00:28:35ever stop to think? A girl only has so many seven years. What if Quinn never comes

00:28:40back? Impossible! No one caught it, but there was the faintest tremor at the end of that word.

00:28:45What's impossible in this world? Once the heart's been hurt badly enough, can you really warm it back

00:28:49up? Ethan, stop doing things you'll regret. Vera said nothing more. She picked up her bag and walked

00:28:55out. Across the room, Daniel watched her leave. His own wife of two years. His expression unreadable.

00:29:00Was she pitying Quinn? Defending her? Or was she talking about herself? Aren't you gonna go after her?

00:29:05Daniel curved his lips, lit a cigarette. She's not my wife tonight. My wife is on set.

00:29:10She's out of the production next month. You're gonna wreck yourself. His friend sighed.

00:29:14Daniel didn't respond. Vera and Quinn were different. Quinn had no family draining her,

00:29:19earned her own money. A breakup just meant a softer lifestyle for a while. But Vera had her family's

00:29:24debt behind her, and a brother bedridden at home. She couldn't leave him. She wouldn't dare,

00:29:28no matter how many chances she had.

00:29:35.

00:29:36.

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00:33:17.

00:33:17I just ended the call when Lucas wrapped his arms around me from behind.

00:33:20He rested his chin on the side of my neck and said nothing.

00:33:22I laughed softly.

00:33:23What?

00:33:24Quinn, are you going back?

00:33:26Back where?

00:33:27Back home.

00:33:28Not right now.

00:33:30Eventually, maybe.

00:33:31It's not like I did anything I need to run from.

00:33:34My family's there.

00:33:35My apartment's there.

00:33:36I'm not staying away forever.

00:33:38Lucas went quiet again.

00:33:45I caught up.

00:33:46Are you asking if I'm going to get back together with Ethan?

00:33:48Are you?

00:33:48If I say absolutely not, do you believe me?

00:33:52He lowered his eyes, that sharp nose brushing the side of my face.

00:33:55I want to.

00:33:56Lucas, I have a face and a spine.

00:33:58Do you still have feelings for him?

00:33:59I thought about it honestly.

00:34:00If I said there's nothing left, that wouldn't be true.

00:34:03It's been a long time.

00:34:05Lucas bit down on my shoulder, lightly.

00:34:07Don't say anymore, Quinn.

00:34:08Let me finish.

00:34:10But to say I still miss him, or that I can't let go, that's not right either.

00:34:14I touched his face gently.

00:34:15Leaving him didn't destroy me, so maybe I stopped loving him a long time ago.

00:34:20Maybe the moment he started coasting on this relationship, I'd already started preparing for the end.

00:34:24I won't.

00:34:25Won't what?

00:34:26I won't get distracted, won't play around, won't make you cry or hurt you.

00:34:31He held me tighter and tighter, and then he kissed me.

00:34:33Quinn, be with me for real.

00:34:40But I didn't kiss him back.

00:34:41In the end, I gently pushed him away.

00:34:43Lucas, I'm sorry.

00:34:46Why are you sorry?

00:34:47He looked down at me, his eyes faintly red.

00:34:50It's my issue.

00:34:51I looked away.

00:34:51I don't want to be in a relationship right now.

00:34:53Then what have we been doing?

00:34:55Lucas gripped my shoulders, voice unsteady.

00:34:57Quinn, what am I to you?

00:35:00I squeezed my hands tight and breathed.

00:35:02Think of it as two people getting what they need.

00:35:05If you want, we can keep things as they are.

00:35:07If you meet someone you actually want, you can end this whenever.

00:35:10Getting what they need, like I'm a tool for you.

00:35:13You can see it that way.

00:35:14I wouldn't look at him, afraid I'd cry if I did.

00:35:17Lucas, I'm truly sorry.

00:35:18If this arrangement makes you uncomfortable, I'll leave Miami right away.

00:35:22I swear I'll never bother you again.

00:35:25Quinn.

00:35:26His eyes burned red.

00:35:27He let go, stepped back slowly.

00:35:29Something in his expression was broken, even as he tried to smile.

00:35:32Quinn, you can't do this to me.

00:35:35Lucas.

00:35:36He turned, picked up his coat, and walked toward the door.

00:35:38I took one step after him, then stopped.

00:35:41He made it all the way to the door, hand on the knob.

00:35:43And then he turned and looked back at me, even managed a reassuring smile.

00:35:46Sorry, I just need a little time alone.

00:35:48I nodded.

00:35:49Go ahead, I won't bother you.

00:35:51Quinn, give me some time.

00:35:53I'll get back to you.

00:35:54He left.

00:35:55I sank slowly onto the couch.

00:35:57All the energy gone from my body.

00:35:58I felt something I couldn't name.

00:36:00It hurt in a way that wasn't pain, exactly.

00:36:02But I knew, clearly, that I couldn't do it.

00:36:04Couldn't throw myself into love again.

00:36:06Not like that.

00:36:07Not without walls.

00:36:07Not a new beginning.

00:36:08I was scared.

00:36:09Scared it would end the same way.

00:36:11Two people watching each other with contempt.

00:36:13The warmth gone cold.

00:36:14The cold gone freezing.

00:36:15I didn't want to go around again.

00:36:16I just shouldn't have gotten Lucas involved.

00:36:18If I'd known from the start that he had feelings for me.

00:36:20I never would have let him drive me home that night.

00:36:45So I just pode do that...

00:36:46The Odoo?

00:36:54Fire is now using Dr. B.

00:36:55Can my up 대표 signification?

00:36:56No.

00:37:04It's my favorite person.

00:37:04To this new head of the nightnytryseum,

00:37:04talking to me.

00:37:04No.

00:37:04Maybe that's not your head or not maybe nothing.

00:37:05Every time it's you.

00:37:14No.

00:37:15I want another

00:37:52It was past 3 a.m. when Lucas drove back to Quinn's hotel.

00:37:55He got out of the car but didn't go in.

00:37:57He leaned against the door and lit a cigarette.

00:37:59Countless windows glowing above him.

00:38:00He couldn't tell which one was hers.

00:38:02But knowing she was there.

00:38:03Knowing she was in the same city as him.

00:38:05Knowing that if he walked through those doors, in 10 minutes he'd see her.

00:38:08That was enough.

00:38:09Something like contentment.

00:38:10It hadn't taken him two days to figure it out.

00:38:12Quietly, he talked himself down.

00:38:14Quinn had just come out of something long and damaging.

00:38:16Not wanting to dive back into a relationship made complete sense.

00:38:19Being disappointed in men, in love, in the idea of marriage, made even more sense.

00:38:23Maybe he'd pushed too hard.

00:38:24He shouldn't have cornered her like that.

00:38:26If keeping things loose made her feel lighter, easier, he didn't need a label.

00:38:29What's worse than wanting someone and never having them?

00:38:31Maybe a year and a half ago, when he found out Quinn had moved in with him.

00:38:34That was when he genuinely decided to let go.

00:38:37So he'd tried the setups.

00:38:38Tried to meet someone new.

00:38:39Tried to move forward.

00:38:40Couldn't do it.

00:38:41Recognized that quickly.

00:38:42Cut it off.

00:38:42After that, no matter how much pressure came from his family, he never went back down

00:38:46that road.

00:38:46If Quinn hadn't left Ethan and come to Miami, if she hadn't invited him up that night,

00:38:50he probably would have stayed alone his whole life.

00:38:52Lucas stubbed out the cigarette.

00:38:53His eyes went still and settled.

00:38:55But Quinn did come to Miami.

00:38:56And she did ask him up.

00:38:57If the girl he'd loved for years came to him and he let her slip away anyway, then Lucas

00:39:01Shaw, you don't deserve the happiness you want.

00:39:18Can't do it.

00:39:41He knew he had her hands.

00:39:42Tomorrow's life.

00:39:42The dream.

00:39:42.

00:40:12.

00:40:43The night before I was set to leave Miami, I went out for drinks with my best friend.

00:40:46So, how's things with Lucas?

00:40:48She looked me over.

00:40:49Look at you. That glow.

00:40:51Your skin's been absolutely luminous all week. He's been good for you.

00:40:55I should stop. I don't want a relationship. I don't want to get married.

00:40:59Quinn, why are you punishing yourself for someone else's mistakes?

00:41:02And it's not fair to Lucas either.

00:41:03The saying goes, one person plants the tree, another enjoys the shade. Fine.

00:41:07But that doesn't mean the person who planted the tree gets to leave a storm behind for the next one.

00:41:10Ethan was terrible. But Lucas is a good man. One worth something real.

00:41:13Why should Ethan's garbage keep you from giving Lucas a real chance?

00:41:17It's not that I'm biased against him.

00:41:19I just haven't gotten over the damage yet.

00:41:21You haven't gotten over the damage.

00:41:23Babe, Ethan spent seven years running you down and you don't even know it.

00:41:27You think you're not worth being loved?

00:41:28I stared at her. Was she right?

00:41:30The exhaustion of the back and forth. The constant anxiety.

00:41:33The feeling of never being enough. Never being secure.

00:41:36So now my guard was up against everyone. Against the whole world.

00:41:38Convinced that no one would ever love me without conditions.

00:41:41But why shouldn't I deserve that?

00:41:42The ones who waste your love. Let them choke on it.

00:41:44The ones who love honestly. The universe opens a window for them.

00:41:47Babe, do you know how incredible you are?

00:41:49My best friend pulled me in. Swayed gently.

00:41:51You're gorgeous. You have an amazing body.

00:41:53You were making your own money since sophomore year.

00:41:56Paid your own rent and practically kept me fed too.

00:41:58You're talented and driven and kind.

00:42:00If I were a man, I'd fight anyone to marry you.

00:42:03You deserve to be loved, Quinn. Genuinely loved. By the right person.

00:42:08Not ground down and wasted on someone like Ethan.

00:42:10Trust me on this. He will regret it.

00:42:13For the rest of his life, he won't be able to shake losing you.

00:42:16Now, call Lucas. And cancel your flight home.

00:42:18Don't think I don't know you already rebooked it.

00:42:20My eyes were getting hot.

00:42:21But what if Lucas and I end up in the same place?

00:42:24What if it ends the same way?

00:42:25It won't. How do you know?

00:42:26Because a man with that kind of self-control, who's never settled for less,

00:42:29will not be stupid enough to throw away the girl he actually chose.

00:42:32He's not Ethan.

00:42:33I shook my head. He wasn't. He really wasn't.

00:42:35So, call him. You have no idea how happy it'll make him.

00:43:06I thought Lucas would be happy.

00:43:08I didn't think a man in his late 20s running a company could be that happy over a phone call.

00:43:12Like a kid on Christmas morning, my best friend beamed at me.

00:43:15Quinn? Happy?

00:43:16I nodded slowly.

00:43:17I think, yeah. Really happy.

00:43:19See? You're happy. Lucas is happier.

00:43:23What else is there to figure out?

00:43:24Then she laughed.

00:43:25Honestly? I just keep thinking about how miserable Ethan's going to be.

00:43:29That alone puts me in a great mood.

00:43:31Who knows? He's probably already moved on.

00:43:34I smiled faintly.

00:43:35Let's stop talking about him.

00:43:36In that moment, I could say it with no weight at all.

00:43:38Like he was just a name. Someone with no claim on me anymore.

00:43:41Lucas' car pulled up downstairs just as I stepped out of the bar.

00:43:44He stood in the night air with his arms open.

00:43:47I stopped and looked at him.

00:43:48Honestly, he was striking.

00:43:50Every feature exactly what I'd want.

00:43:51Men can like whoever they want.

00:43:53Overlap if they choose.

00:43:54The world hardly blinks.

00:43:55So why can't I, after a real ending, start something new?

00:43:58I walked toward him.

00:43:59He walked toward me.

00:44:00People moved around us.

00:44:02We kissed like no one was watching.

00:44:03His heart was pounding so fast.

00:44:05I reached up and touched the back of his neck.

00:44:07Burning hot.

00:44:08He was still warm when I pressed my forehead to his.

00:44:10Slightly breathless.

00:44:11Voiceless.

00:44:12Quinn, do I have a fever?

00:44:14Maybe.

00:44:15Too much touching and this happens.

00:44:17I laughed and kissed under his chin.

00:44:19Maybe more of this and you'll be cured?

00:44:22His ears went redder.

00:44:23He cupped my face, eyes open and searching.

00:44:25Quinn, what am I to you right now?

00:44:27I teased him.

00:44:28What do you think?

00:44:30A hugger or a boyfriend?

00:44:31He asked, then immediately shook his head, pressing his face into my neck.

00:44:34Never mind, I don't want to know right now.

00:44:35I wrapped my arms around his waist and pulled him closer.

00:44:38You sure you don't want to know?

00:44:39Boyfriend.

00:44:43Yeah.

00:45:13I want to know.

00:45:13I told you about to know.

00:45:13I asked, no, let me go.

00:45:13.

00:46:07Ethan's car stopped at the mouth of an alley.

00:46:09He got out and walked into the narrow street on foot.

00:46:11At the end of it lived an old tailor.

00:46:12His family had been in the trade for generations.

00:46:15Old world craft.

00:46:16Long retired.

00:46:17No longer taking clients.

00:46:18But Ethan had ways of getting to him.

00:46:20Quinn's shredded wedding dress had been brought here two weeks ago.

00:46:22Today it was nearly finished.

00:46:24He walked and thought.

00:46:25Ryan had been right.

00:46:26Every girl dreams of wearing a dress and marrying the person she loves.

00:46:29Seven years together and he'd never once thought about proposing.

00:46:32He'd never imagined Quinn would have thought about proposing to him.

00:46:34He'd been a wreck these past weeks.

00:46:36He knew it.

00:46:37But the other women had never meant anything.

00:46:38A moment's impulse.

00:46:39Nothing more.

00:46:40Even Mia, the one who'd actually triggered Quinn walking out.

00:46:43She lasted three days before he was already over it.

00:46:45He kept thinking about Quinn.

00:46:46Seven years had made him lazy.

00:46:47Complacent.

00:46:48He'd taken it all for granted.

00:46:49But some people are like the air.

00:46:51You don't notice until they're gone.

00:46:52Since Quinn left, he couldn't focus on anything.

00:46:54He'd be with his friends and she'd be in the back of his mind the whole time.

00:46:57Especially when he drank.

00:46:58If Quinn were there, she'd fake scold him and try to slow him down.

00:47:00And if she couldn't stop him, she'd be up at 3am making soup.

00:47:03Letting him put his head in her lap.

00:47:05Rubbing his temples with her hands.

00:47:06Her fingers were soft.

00:47:07The little complaints she'd mutter.

00:47:08The way she'd fuss over him.

00:47:10It had annoyed him back then.

00:47:11Now he'd give anything to hear it again.

00:47:12This time, when Quinn came home, he'd propose.

00:47:14He'd always known how much she wanted to marry him.

00:47:16Give her that and she'd feel safe.

00:47:18She'd forgive him.

00:47:19She would.

00:47:30She'd forgive him.

00:48:00She'd forgive him.

00:48:30She'd forgive him.

00:49:00.

00:49:33.

00:49:34.

00:49:35.

00:49:36.

00:49:37.

00:49:39.

00:49:40.

00:49:59The old man's work was remarkable.

00:50:01The dress looked almost exactly as it had before.

00:50:03Ethan paid him and was heading out when his phone rang.

00:50:06His pulse spiked slightly until he saw Ryan's name on the screen.

00:50:09His heart slowed back down.

00:50:10Ethan.

00:50:10There's something I need to tell you.

00:50:12I wanted to think it over first.

00:50:14Go ahead.

00:50:14Just don't freak out, okay?

00:50:16It's probably just rumors.

00:50:17Could be nothing at all.

00:50:19What is it?

00:50:20It's about Quinn.

00:50:21Actually, forget it.

00:50:22I'm probably 80% sure it's someone making stuff up.

00:50:24Ryan, since when do you talk like this?

00:50:26What happened to Quinn?

00:50:27Did she come back?

00:50:29Ethan.

00:50:29Ryan suddenly felt sick.

00:50:30Of all the rumors that could have gotten out, why did it have to be Lucas Shaw?

00:50:34Ethan had been at each other's throats with Lucas for years.

00:50:36Two years ago, they'd gone head to head over a major contract.

00:50:39Ethan's company lost.

00:50:40First time he'd ever tasted defeat.

00:50:41It had poisoned what was already a tense relationship into something close to hatred.

00:50:44I said, don't freak out.

00:50:46This is all second hand, there's no confirmation.

00:50:48Someone spotted Quinn in Miami.

00:50:49Ethan's grip on the phone tightened.

00:50:51His voice stayed controlled, barely.

00:50:53So she's in Miami.

00:50:54So what?

00:50:54She was with Lucas Shaw.

00:50:56Could just be dinner.

00:50:57Probably nothing.

00:50:58Got it.

00:50:58Ethan.

00:50:58Nothing else.

00:50:59I'm hanging up.

00:51:00The call cut off.

00:51:01Ethan stood in the narrow street, shopping bag in hand.

00:51:03The bag holding the dress Quinn had bought.

00:51:05He walked, step by step, through the cold of early winter.

00:51:08All the way to the mouth of the alley.

00:51:09Back to his car.

00:51:10He stopped.

00:51:11A quiet smile crossed his face.

00:51:12Slow.

00:51:13Faint.

00:51:13Laced with something sharp and bitter.

00:51:15And then, without hesitation, he dropped the elegant shopping bag into the trash can at

00:51:19the curb.

00:51:30Or the okeing.

00:51:30The we do not see to the cat.

00:51:31How are we running back?

00:51:37So what is it possible for me to go to the wall?

00:51:40And then, if I put the mask on.

00:51:48The suit, the hair, the hair has gone to the Kennedy and the Effacian, where I went to the

00:51:48test, the head off.

00:51:48I've got the hair.

00:51:48He's got the hair, the hair.

00:51:48You've got the hair.

00:51:58.

00:52:28.

00:52:58.

00:53:28.

00:53:58.

00:54:28.

00:54:31.

00:54:32.

00:54:32quinn left ethan sent her a text it went through no response the message read thinking about selling

00:54:37the apartment what do you want to do with your clothes maybe he forgot she'd left a note saying

00:54:41to deal with everything herself dispose of it all however he liked or maybe it was intentional

00:54:45an excuse to reach out maybe ethan told himself he was giving her a way back in she was smart

00:54:49she'd know to take the out his temper looked bad but he wasn't that hard to deal with quinn never

00:54:54replied the apartment didn't sell her clothes and everything else stayed exactly as they were

00:54:57like she'd never left ethan came back late nights after going out lay down in her bed

00:55:02stared at the ceiling until almost dawn the third month after she left same as always

00:55:06late and still when the clock hands crept toward midnight ethan dialed her number

00:55:21the second month after quinn left

00:55:27quinn had been careful quiet a good girl in the old-fashioned sense her family was ordinary but

00:55:31comfortable her parents adored her and because she'd been beautiful since she was young they'd

00:55:35kept a close eye on her it wasn't until the fall after graduation that quinn moved in with ethan he

00:55:39still remembered that night she'd been shaking from head to toe her skin flushed everywhere a deep

00:55:44burning pink she was breathtaking fragile beneath him in a way that made his chest ache when it was

00:55:48over she cried for a long time over and over she said ethan you're not allowed to hurt me not

00:55:53now not

00:55:54ever you have to be good to me you have to marry me ethan we're gonna be together forever right

00:56:01the

00:56:01girl who'd believed all of that who trusted with her whole self that she'd end up with the man she

00:56:05loved he'd lost her a long time ago long enough that he couldn't even recall the last time they'd

00:56:09said goodbye what had her face looked like did she smile and nod or did her eyes go red the

00:56:13phone rang

00:56:14for a while he'd almost given up then it connected in that moment what he wanted to say was quinn

00:56:18come home but what came out of his mouth was quinn you've made your point come home his pathetic

00:56:24idiotic words were cut off by a man's low laugh that laugh landed like cold concrete ethan went rigid

00:56:29like he'd been encased in ice and couldn't move ethan you snooze you lose can't let a girl stew

00:56:35overnight or someone else steps in lucas shaw ethan said the name through clenched teeth blood rushing

00:56:42into his eyes it's me put quinn on now his eyes looked flooded he gripped the phone

00:56:48voice shaking low lucas if you took advantage of you come to the phone lucas lowered his head and

00:56:54pressed a soft kiss to his girl's temple quinn's lashes were still wet her mouth in a small pout

00:56:58eyes closed but everything on her face said one thing i was hurt his chest clenched he kissed the

00:57:04corner of her eye drew away the tear that sat there she's asleep upset with me i have to kiss

00:57:08her awake

00:57:08first lucas ethan's voice went dead silent lucas ended the call turned off his phone he brought his

00:57:14lips down to quinn's softly hey wake up

00:57:55i thought about what it would be like to see ethan again he came from money and he knew it

00:57:59pride ran

00:58:00deep in him we'd ended things without a scene if we ever crossed paths he'd probably look right

00:58:04through me or we'd exchange a polite meaningless smile my family was in the city we had mutual

00:58:08friends it wasn't realistic to think we'd never be in the same room again but i never expected that

00:58:12never expected to see him come undone like that the day it happened i'd slept well and woken up in

00:58:17a good mood i was wearing a new blush pink cashmere dress makeup done feeling like myself again warm

00:58:22and whole like a ripe peach in september i had my hand tucked in lucas's arm we were laughing about

00:58:26something as we pushed through the revolving door and there was ethan stepping out of a car i stopped

00:58:30my feet stopped with me lucas's warm fingers closed around mine ethan's shirt was wrinkled no tie

00:58:35the exhaustion on his face was plain his brow heavy the whites of his eyes shot through with red

00:58:40people moved past us on both sides a fountain not far off played something cheerful the whole

00:58:44moment felt like a slow motion shot from a movie except i wasn't watching i was in it ethan looked

00:58:49more undone than i'd ever seen him lucas moved instinctively stepping slightly in front of me

00:58:53but ethan's expression was perfectly calm he said my name the way he used to back when things were

00:58:57good soft warm quinn i stood there and didn't move the music from the fountain kept playing and yet

00:59:03something in me ached quietly i didn't quite know why maybe for the girl who'd overheard those words that

00:59:08night maybe for the girl who'd gotten a breakup handed to her without warning maybe most of all

00:59:12for the girl who'd loved foolishly for seven years and let go in seven days quinn i came to bring

00:59:16you

00:59:17home he hadn't looked at lucas once his eyes were on my face and they were soft in a way

00:59:21i'd almost

00:59:21forgotten i couldn't even remember the last time he'd looked at me like that before we fell apart

00:59:25he stopped about a meter in front of me quinn come home we get married we do it right this

00:59:31time he

00:59:32meant every word he was so serious i almost let myself believe that the ethan who'd said he was giving

00:59:36another girl something real had been a figment of my imagination but it was too late ethan a broken

00:59:41heart doesn't reassemble itself and the new one that had grown up from the wreckage it already

00:59:44belonged to someone else

01:00:07again three that had grown up to him i'm just going toiss usual whatever reason for the idea that

01:00:36was what they needed to pick it up now and we're talking to someone else man still

01:00:36.

01:01:06.

01:01:36.

01:02:06.

01:02:36.

01:03:06.

01:03:36.

01:04:06.

01:04:08.

01:04:11.

01:04:12.

01:04:23I shook my head gently.

01:04:24Ethan, please go.

01:04:27Quinn, I never touched Mia.

01:04:29Three days and I ended it.

01:04:31The dress you bought, I had it repaired.

01:04:33And our rings, I kept them both.

01:04:36Quinn, I had a custom ring made.

01:04:38I mean this-

01:04:39His eyes were getting redder.

01:04:40His voice had the faintest tremor.

01:04:42He held out a small velvet box, held it out to me like an offering.

01:04:45Everything in his face was careful, hoping, terrified.

01:04:48Looking at him, I couldn't pretend it didn't hurt at all.

01:04:51But it was only that, just a little hurt.

01:04:53Ethan, I have a boyfriend.

01:04:55I tightened my hand around Lucas's and stepped out from behind him to stand beside him, shoulder to shoulder.

01:05:00The color drained out of Ethan's face in an instant.

01:05:02His gaze dropped slowly and stopped.

01:05:05On our intertwined fingers, the matching bands on our ring fingers.

01:05:08Just like it had been with us, once.

01:05:10Quinn, are you serious?

01:05:11I took a breath, turned to look at Lucas and nodded.

01:05:14Yes, completely serious.

01:05:16Ethan laughed softly, just once.

01:05:18You think he's serious about you?

01:05:20You think you know how much of this is real?

01:05:22Two years ago, he fought me tooth and nail over a deal.

01:05:25And now he's going after you.

01:05:26Quinn, don't you think there's something in that?

01:05:28Some other motive?

01:05:29Can he honestly say he's pursuing you with absolutely nothing to prove to me?

01:05:32Quinn, you've always been too trusting.

01:05:34All men are the same in the end.

01:05:36You were with me for seven years.

01:05:37You know how much happened between us.

01:05:39You think Lucas won't care?

01:05:40You think it won't matter to him in the end?

01:05:42You think he's actually gonna stay?

01:05:43That you'll get your happy ending with him?

01:05:44Aren't you afraid that being with him just leads you to another seven years exactly like this one?

01:05:52I shook my head gently.

01:05:54Ethan, please go.

01:05:56Quinn, I never touched Mia.

01:05:58Three days and I ended it.

01:06:00The dress you bought, I had it repaired.

01:06:07The fountain music stopped. Ethan stopped.

01:06:09A silence settled over me.

01:06:10Then came the smallest sound, like something very fine and thin,

01:06:13quietly breaking.

01:06:15And after that sound?

01:06:16Relief.

01:06:17Lightness.

01:06:17Whatever last piece of grief I'd been carrying was gone.

01:06:20Nothing left to lose now.

01:06:21It's just such a waste, I thought.

01:06:23Why does living always come with things you regret?

01:06:25Before today, I didn't regret loving Ethan.

01:06:27Good or bad, it was mine.

01:06:28It happened.

01:06:29But in this moment, I couldn't help grieving it.

01:06:31Seven years and I'd never seen clearly.

01:06:33Ethan, at his core, had never really looked at me.

01:06:35Not the way I deserved to be seen.

01:06:37Lucas pulled me into his arms, his eyes full of something pained.

01:06:40I was a little pale, but I smiled and shook my head.

01:06:42I'm okay.

01:06:43Come on, wait by the car.

01:06:44I've got this.

01:06:45I want to be here with you.

01:06:47I held his hand and wouldn't let go.

01:06:48Lucas looked at me for a long moment, then bowed his head and kissed me hard.

01:06:52Quinn, everything I've ever done, I've done with a clear conscience.

01:06:54No regrets.

01:06:56But right now, right now I genuinely regret not taking you from him when I had the chance.

01:07:01What gives you the right?

01:07:02Ethan cut in.

01:07:02Going after someone when they're at their lowest?

01:07:04What kind of man does that make you, Lucas?

01:07:06Ethan, you didn't deserve a single year of what Quinn gave you.

01:07:09Not one.

01:07:10Maybe those words finally broke something in Ethan.

01:07:12He lost control in a way he never had before.

01:07:14Words he'd never have said otherwise.

01:07:16Oh yeah?

01:07:17And you, Lucas?

01:07:18You go after a woman who spent seven years with me.

01:07:22What right do you have to stand there and lecture me?

01:07:25Tell me the truth.

01:07:25Do you actually love Quinn?

01:07:27Or do you love the idea of having something that was mine?

01:07:38Lucas put his fist through Ethan's face.

01:07:40Ethan wasn't one to absorb him.

01:07:41He came back swimming.

01:07:42They went at each other until both of them were marked up, split and bruised.

01:07:46Security rushed over, finally managed to get between them.

01:07:49The two men stood there breathing hard, still glaring at each other, not giving an inch.

01:07:53Can we stop now?

01:07:54I was furious and scared, and my voice broke a little.

01:07:57Quinn.

01:07:57Ethan's face was cold.

01:07:58You saw it.

01:07:59Lucas threw the first punch.

01:08:01I'm not letting this go.

01:08:03Yes, he did.

01:08:04Mr. Harlow, I'll have him apologize to you.

01:08:06Whatever you want to do next, we'll cooperate.

01:08:09Quinn, he said it first!

01:08:10Lucas started immediately.

01:08:11I pressed my hand lightly over his, then turned back, calm.

01:08:14Mr. Harlow, I'll apologize on his behalf.

01:08:17You're defending him?

01:08:18Just like that?

01:08:19Ethan stepped toward me slowly.

01:08:20He hit me, Quinn.

01:08:21What would you like us to do about it?

01:08:23Quinn, I'm hurt.

01:08:24He gestured at his face.

01:08:26You can see this, right?

01:08:27This really hurts.

01:08:28I looked at it.

01:08:29We'll call you an ambulance.

01:08:30We'll cover everything.

01:08:32You know that's not what I want.

01:08:33He reached for my arm.

01:08:34I stepped back.

01:08:35Quinn!

01:08:35Everything Ethan had been holding up cracked all at once.

01:08:38The way he looked at me.

01:08:39Loss.

01:08:40Bare and unguarded.

01:08:41But my chest was still and quiet.

01:08:42Genuinely still.

01:08:43Lucas made a sharp sound.

01:08:44Quinn, am I gonna be scarred?

01:08:46I turned fast.

01:08:47His lip was split.

01:08:48His eye was swelling.

01:08:49His jaw had blood on it and it looked worse than it was.

01:08:51I reached into my bag for a tissue and started cleaning it.

01:08:53Ow.

01:08:54Quinn, gently, gently.

01:08:55He winced and grimaced dramatically.

01:08:57Serves you right.

01:08:58I said quietly.

01:08:59But I was careful.

01:09:00You're going to need stitches.

01:09:01Then come with me.

01:09:02I pass out around needles.

01:09:04I gave him a look, but I nodded.

01:09:05Lucas immediately pulled me into a hug.

01:09:07And I need you to kiss it.

01:09:08Right here.

01:09:09It's killing me.

01:09:10I rose slowly on my toes and pressed my lips, gently, right to the wound.

01:09:37Ethan didn't say anything more.

01:09:38The late son stretched his shadow long and quiet behind him.

01:09:41Maybe it was the moment Quinn dabbed at Lucas's face.

01:09:44Maybe it was the moment she kissed him there, softly.

01:09:46That was when Ethan finally understood it.

01:09:48Quinn did not love him anymore.

01:09:50What Vera had asked that night had turned out to be true.

01:09:52Quinn was not coming back to him.

01:09:54He'd thought he was the one who could walk away from seven years easily.

01:09:56He'd thought he was the one who'd always held the upper hand.

01:09:59He'd thought he was always going to come out ahead.

01:10:01But standing here now, he understood.

01:10:02The one who couldn't let go was him.

01:10:04Quinn had been the string that held the kite to the sky.

01:10:06The string snapped and the kite lost its way.

01:10:09It was never going to find home again.

01:10:54I watched Ethan turn and walk back to his car.

01:10:56I watched that solitary figure disappear.

01:10:58The sun at dusk slid below the horizon all at once.

01:11:01The sky shifted to a pale soft blue.

01:11:03His car pulled away and got smaller.

01:11:05I felt like I could see it.

01:11:06All seven years, from 17 to 24.

01:11:09Rushing away with that car.

01:11:10Gone.

01:11:10From this day on, I knew.

01:11:12His name would be like any ordinary name in the world.

01:11:14I wouldn't try to forget it.

01:11:16I just wouldn't think of it on my own.

01:11:17Quinn.

01:11:18Lucas wrapped me in his arms quietly.

01:11:20I turned and looked up at him, smiling lightly.

01:11:22Let's go.

01:11:23Hospital.

01:11:26Hospital.

01:11:27Hospital.

01:11:28You

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