- 5 hours ago
Died Before You Learned to Love Me
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00I died on my birthday. It was my sister's birthday too.
00:04But while she was surrounded by candlelight and family blessings,
00:07I was dying at the hands of a man my father once built behind bars.
00:10We came back for one thing only. Revenge.
00:13You-
00:21Aww, you hero daddies call it.
00:26Guess your precious heroes didn't forget about you, huh?
00:30Charlotte, where the hell are you?
00:32Charlotte, are you kidding me?
00:34This is our first real family day since you've been home and you're just-
00:36Not showing up?
00:38Do you have any idea how important today is?
00:41Charlotte.
00:46Just leave her, Richard. She's doing this on purpose.
00:50She's just trying to steal Sabrina's spotlight and make sure everyone is looking at her.
00:54She's always been this way.
00:57Are you serious?
00:58Fine. If you don't care about this family, stay gone. I don't wanna see you.
01:07Yes, I grabbed the wrong girl. You mean nothing to them.
01:16Oh, poor little sweetheart. You're useless now.
01:29Time to die.
01:31Haha!
01:37So, am I dead? Is this... my soul? Wait, why did I leave?
01:44Why am I in my own home?
01:49I was kidnapped at 5. By the time they found me, I was already 18.
01:53And when I finally came home, I wasn't a daughter anymore.
01:57Mom?
02:00Baby, you're back!
02:09Honey, take a seat.
02:12Here we go. Smells too good to wait.
02:15Dad?
02:19Right. I'm dead.
02:21Dad. They can't see me.
02:23They can't hear me.
02:25But I've been missing all this time.
02:26Didn't my own parents even care about me?
02:30Baby, you look wiped.
02:32You okay?
02:33I'm fine, Mom. I just had a long day.
02:36So nothing from Charlotte?
02:39Nope. I've left a dozen voicemails.
02:41She's completely ghosting us.
02:42God knows what kind of trouble she's looking for this time.
02:45Call her one last time.
02:46If she wants to play these games and ignore us, fine.
02:49Let her stay gone.
02:50We don't need that kind of drama in this house.
02:52Maybe she's still mad at me.
02:54It's my fault.
02:55I saw her getting to a car with some guy.
02:57They were making out right there.
02:58I begged her to come home, but she just screamed at me to get lost.
03:01She chose him over us, Mom.
03:05What?
03:06Dad! Mom!
03:07That's not true!
03:08Don't believe her!
03:09I told her if she kept doing that, parents be angry.
03:12But Charlotte told me to tell you both to go to hell.
03:14Charlotte is completely unhinged.
03:15She was raised by traffickers, and it's clear we can't teach a girl like that how to behave.
03:21Don't be mad, Mom.
03:23I won't be like Charlotte.
03:24I'll always stay with you.
03:27So this is what you think of me?
03:29I'm your real daughter.
03:30But why?
03:31I'm the outsider.
03:37What?
03:37Okay.
03:38I get it.
03:39We're on our way.
03:40They found a dismembered body behind the bar near our house.
03:42It's a major situation.
03:44We need to go.
03:45Now!
03:55Dad!
03:57Mom!
04:00That's me!
04:07I swear, I thought it was a pain.
04:09There was red stuff leaking out of the trash can.
04:13Then I open it.
04:14It was a bonding...
04:16Record the unseen statements and situation.
04:19Take the bartender back to the police station to make an official statement.
04:29Chief.
04:29Doctor.
04:30You all right?
04:30Yeah.
04:32This is the worst thing I've seen in my career.
04:35The body was dismembered.
04:36The head's missing.
04:37We can't identify her yet.
04:40Thanks.
04:41I'll take it from here.
04:52God, she's just a kid.
04:54None of this should have happened to her.
04:56Mom.
04:56It's me.
04:58Why can't you recognize me?
05:04Mom, look at the bracelet.
05:06I made two of these the year I came home.
05:09One for you and one for Sabrina.
05:11I gave them to you.
05:16What is wrong with you?
05:18You actually hit a blade inside that bracelet just to hurt your own sister?
05:22You are more dangerous than I thought.
05:26I didn't.
05:27I didn't.
05:28I swear I didn't.
05:30Enough.
05:31The evidence is right here and you're still making excuses.
05:38Just stay in there and reflect on what you've done.
05:40You're not coming out there until I'm absolutely sure Sabrina's all right.
05:46Come on, sweetheart.
05:48Mom's taking you to the hospital.
05:50Come on.
05:50Come on.
06:04This is critical evidence, Bagot.
06:15We can't miss anything that might help identify the victim.
06:18I should know you never cared about me.
06:20In your heart, Sabrina was always your only daughter.
06:23Dr. Emily, there's a phone.
06:25Probably the victims.
06:26But it's trashed.
06:28Bagot, recover any biological material first.
06:30Then send it to Tech to see if they can restore their data.
06:32Any updates?
06:33Nothing yet.
06:33It's a disaster.
06:35She was tortured before being dismembered, then dumped here like trash.
06:38No struggle, no bloodspray.
06:39This isn't where she died.
06:40It's just a dumping lab.
06:41This is insane.
06:42We need to find a primary scene and lock him down before the city panics.
06:46The killer's still on the loose.
06:48Look, you have two daughters at home.
06:49Keep them both inside.
06:50I'm not worried about Sabrina.
06:51She's a good girl.
06:52I just wish Charlotte was that easy to manage.
06:55Your leg acting up again?
06:56Yeah, the usual.
06:57Just an old injury.
06:59But Charlotte's been helping me with some therapy lately.
07:01Honestly, it's the first time I've felt any real improvement.
07:03Face it, Richard.
07:04You know she's the one who really cares about you, right?
07:06Just give her a call.
07:07Bring her back.
07:12I'll call her, but you better have a damn good explanation for all this when she gets here.
07:19The number you have reached is powered off.
07:21Please try again later.
07:24Unbelievable.
07:26She actually turned her phone off.
07:28Stop calling.
07:29If Charlotte wants to ruin her life, let her.
07:31I'm done wasting my energy on her.
07:32Do you really think I'm still out there just trying to spite you?
07:35Mom?
07:36Dad?
07:37I was already gone while you were singing happy birthday to Sabrina.
07:41I was already dead.
07:43And my body is right in front of you.
07:46I was already dead.
07:46I was already dead.
07:52I was already dead.
07:53And my body is right in front of you.
07:54Well, for a kid, I'm going to make whoever did this pay, I promise.
08:01I never felt a spark of gentleness from you while I was alive.
08:04And yet here you are, showing it all to my corpse.
08:11Hey, sweetheart.
08:12Remember what I told you?
08:14Tie up your hair while you're eating.
08:19You touched my hair with those corpse-handling hands.
08:21Gross!
08:22Gross!
08:22I'm going to have to wash my hair twice tonight.
08:30Are you crazy?
08:31Shut up, Sabrina!
08:32Mom's work is sacred.
08:33She helps the truth come to life.
08:35You don't have the right to look down on her.
08:37What the hell is wrong with you?
08:40Fine.
08:41You're going to regret this, bitch.
08:50What happened?
08:51I tried to get Charlotte to eat, but she just snapped.
08:54She called your food disgusting because she worked on carpses and then she completely flipped the table.
08:59She's lying!
09:01Enough!
09:02Stop blaming your sister.
09:04Sabrina would never lie.
09:06If you despise this family, then stay away.
09:09Don't come back.
09:10Get her out.
09:12Dad, please.
09:13Please.
09:14I didn't do anything.
09:16I didn't do anything.
09:44Your parents must be worried sick about you.
09:49Don't flatter yourself mom, they don't even know she's dead.
10:00Emily.
10:01We've got more remains by the bar's drainage system, I need you to confirm if they match
10:04a victim.
10:05Alright.
10:06Matches are victim perfectly.
10:07These new remains, the torso and limbs are complete, we're just missing the head wall.
10:10Then we keep searching.
10:11Expand the perimeter.
10:12Citywide, no gaps.
10:13We're going to bring you home.
10:14I promise.
10:27You little rat, you think you could run back to your parents?
10:36Mom, that's disgusting!
10:37What happened, honey?
10:38Look at her leg, it's creepy!
10:40Wear pants, Charlotte.
10:41Those scars are disturbing your sister.
10:43Just...
10:44Hide them!
10:47Fine.
10:49It's an old burn.
10:50God, this must have hurt like hell when it happened.
10:52But this shape...
10:53Why does it look so familiar?
10:55Yes, mom!
10:56That's me!
10:57That's me!
10:57If you'd really looked at me, even once, you would remember.
11:00Wait.
11:01Didn't Charlotte have a scar like this?
11:08Mom!
11:16You and dad didn't come home all night.
11:18I miss you so much, I had to come to see you.
11:22It's not safe lately.
11:24You shouldn't be out.
11:26I know, but...
11:27My piano competition is tomorrow.
11:29If I win, I make it to nationals.
11:30Could you and dad please come?
11:32It would mean everything to me.
11:33Sorry, baby.
11:34We're in the middle of a serious case.
11:35Mom, please!
11:36Alright, alright.
11:37I'll be there.
11:38I promise.
11:41So, is this dismemberment case really that bad?
11:44Have you figured out who the victim is yet?
11:47We haven't identified her yet.
11:49She's about your age.
11:50The body was cut into pieces.
11:51We still haven't found every part of her body.
11:52That's horrible!
11:53You always told me cases were confidential, mom.
11:55So why did Sabrina get a pass?
11:57Or was that just another excuse to shut me out?
11:59Wait.
12:00Sabrina, this case hasn't been released to the public.
12:03How did you know it was dismemberment?
12:04Dad told me to be careful.
12:06I got cues, so I looked it up online.
12:08People are talking.
12:10Don't read that stuff.
12:11You'll have nightmares.
12:13I'm not scared, mom.
12:15As long as I'm with you, I feel like nothing can hurt me.
12:17Mom, you never held me like that.
12:20Not once.
12:22Not before.
12:23Not now.
12:25And never again.
12:31We just got the results back from the phone.
12:33Fingerprints and DNA both match.
12:34It's hers.
12:35The victim is the owner.
12:37Okay.
12:37Get it to tech.
12:38Tell them to recover everything.
12:40Call logs, messages, deleted data.
12:42I want it all.
12:42Yes, ma'am.
12:49Wait.
12:50That model looks familiar.
13:14Oh, wow.
13:15You got a new phone?
13:16Seriously?
13:17Treating that piece of junk like it's a treasure?
13:20God, you really are as cheap as that phone.
13:26That's strange.
13:27I had $500 in here.
13:35Oh, mom.
13:37I just saw Charlotte holding a new phone.
13:39Do you think she might have used your money?
13:42Where did this come from?
13:45I bought it with my own money.
13:47I bought it with my own money.
13:47From my part-time job.
13:48Enough!
13:49A part-time job?
13:50From you?
13:51Please!
13:52Just admit it.
13:53You stole the money!
13:54I didn't steal anything!
13:56I swear!
14:00Stop lying!
14:01That money was supposed to be for you anyway.
14:04But clearly you don't deserve everything!
14:06Help me!
14:07Help me!
14:11From now on, you get nothing.
14:14No birthdays.
14:15No gifts.
14:15You don't deserve a single thing from this family!
14:24Mom, relax.
14:25It's just a phone.
14:25Everyone has one like that.
14:26Yeah.
14:27It's pretty common.
14:28There's no way it could be hers.
14:30Oh, mom.
14:31I really wanted Charlotte to be there at my competition, but I get it she stays away.
14:34She's always been so bitter about me stealing all your love.
14:37Okay.
14:38Unbelievable.
14:39I'm calling her right now.
14:40If she's not there tomorrow, I'll personally drag her back.
14:50Huh?
14:51It just powered on.
15:00Mom, just one more step.
15:02Just look closer.
15:05That phone.
15:07That's Charlotte's.
15:10She smiled when she noticed me.
15:12We're planning my new home theater.
15:13You should join us.
15:14I have lab reports to grade.
15:17We're divorced now.
15:18Whatever James does, whoever he's with, it's none of my business.
15:23Vicky's laugh tinkled like broken glass.
15:25Always buried in your books.
15:28James used to do my math homework when we were kids.
15:31You tutored me yourself, didn't you, James?
15:34My math skills are all thanks to you.
15:36Math was simpler than laundering casino profits.
15:39His eyes flicked briefly to me, a silent check for reaction.
15:42I kept my face carefully blank, staring at my feet.
15:46How touching.
15:47Their childhood bond still going strong after all these years.
15:50I'd just be here, counting the days until I could escape this charming reunion.
15:55By midnight, I was reviewing lab data when James entered our bedroom.
15:59The scent of whiskey and Vicky's clowing perfume clung to his shirt as he sat beside me on the bed.
16:05Still working?
16:06His fingers brushed my shoulder.
16:09Cough.
16:09Cough.
16:10Sophia?
16:11You're not pregnant, are you?
16:12My body stiffened instantly.
16:14Without thinking, my hand moved to my stomach pressing lightly against the flat surface as my heart raced.
16:20No, of course not.
16:22I answered quickly, my voice unsteady.
16:24The queasy feeling faded as fast as it had come, but the suspicion in James' eyes lingered for a second
16:30longer.
16:31Just then, a loud crash came from downstairs.
16:35James?
16:35Vicky's voice floated up the staircase, trembling.
16:38I heard glass breaking.
16:40I think someone's in the house.
16:42I felt James' body tense.
16:43Duty called.
16:44He was out of bed before I could speak, grabbing the pistol from his nightstand.
16:49Stay here.
16:50He ordered.
16:52Already halfway to the door.
16:55Turned out to be nothing.
16:57Just the housekeeper dropping a plate.
17:00But when James returned hours later, he went straight to the shower without a word.
17:04I pretended to be asleep.
17:06The next morning, I saw James sitting at the counter.
17:10He was casually flipping through my research institute application formus.
17:15My stomach tightened.
17:17Biomedical engineering?
17:18He held up the application to the Swiss Institute's application.
17:21His brow arched.
17:23When did you arrange this overseas project?
17:25I forced a shrug.
17:26My classmate asked me to grab the forms for her.
17:28My fingers curled into my palms.
17:30Out of sight, out of mind.
17:31But not before I caught the faint trembler in my pinky finger.
17:34Damn it.
17:35James turned a page, scanning the details.
17:40Zurich.
17:41You'd hate the snow.
17:45Of course he didn't remember.
17:47Two winters ago.
17:48I dragged him to a cabin in Vermont just to watch the flakes fall.
17:51He'd spent the whole time on the phone with his lawyers.
17:54I didn't respond.
17:55Just look at him coldly.
17:57He set down his coffee.
17:58His dark eyes locking onto mine with unsettling intensity.
18:01You don't need another degree.
18:03I could appoint you lead researcher at Moretti Medical tomorrow.
18:07That's the problem.
18:10Every achievement I had.
18:11Every paper.
18:13Every grant.
18:14Was shadowed by the Morelli name.
18:16I opened my mouth to retort when Vicky's laughter cut through the tension.
18:21Morning, darlings.
18:24James, the lawyers need us to review the new casino contracts before noon.
18:28Her slender fingers brushed against James' shoulder in a familiar gesture.
18:32James stood up, without another glance at my applications.
18:38We'll take it in the study.
18:39As they disappeared down the hall, I yanked the forms back.
18:43My hand steadied as I reached the marital status.
18:46Single.
18:48The research fellowship in Switzerland would last for four years.
18:51The director had emailed twice already, eager for me to start by fall.
18:55I sent accept before I could overthink it.
18:58The next two weeks blurred with thesis revisions and lab work.
19:03I barely thought of James.
19:06Until his call interrupted my Friday research meeting.
19:14I'm outside your lab.
19:16His voice crackled through the phone.
19:18Since when does James Morelli play chauffeur?
19:24His black sedan idled at the curb.
19:27I slipped into the leather seat, inhaling the familiar scent of his cologne and gun oil.
19:33You haven't been home.
19:36Lab's busy.
19:38Good.
19:43Vicky thought you were avoiding her.
19:45She's moving out next month.
19:47Says it's inappropriate now.
19:51Tell her not to bother, I don't care.
19:54He opened his mouth, probably to praise my maturity, but stopped when he noticed my closed eyes.
20:00I feigned sleep to avoid conversation, but the exhaustion was real.
20:04Ten days until Switzerland.
20:07I stood in the supermarket aisle, staring at the dried hawthorn slices in my hand.
20:11I hadn't eaten these since childhood, but lately my stomach churned at everything.
20:15The pregnancy test confirmed my fears.
20:19Twelve weeks along.
20:20Congratulations.
20:20Twelve weeks.
20:22That meant it happened during James and my last time together.
20:25Right before Vicky returned.
20:29My hands shook as I dialed James' number.
20:32A familiar ringtone echoed down the hallway.
20:34James stood twenty feet away,
20:36his black coat draped over Vicky's shoulders as she whispered something that made him smile.
20:45The doctor's voice carried through the cracked door.
20:49Avoid strenuous activity, and no intercourse for two months.
20:53Vicky was pregnant too.
20:54I'll make sure she rests.
20:56James said, that tender tone I rarely heard.
20:59I shot out of the stair hell like a bullet, desperate to escape, only to crash straight into a nurse
21:04carrying medical charts.
21:05The papers went flying as we collided, creating just enough noise to draw attention from down the hall.
21:10James emerged from the examination room just in time to see me scrambling to help pick up the scattered docu,
21:14my face burning with the effort to appear composed.
21:19Sophia?
21:20Why are you here?
21:26Stomach ache.
21:27I crumpled the ultrasound slip in my pocket.
21:32Vicky materialized beside him, clutching her own scan.
21:37James told me you skip meals.
21:40We should get her some ginger tea.
21:46I couldn't tear my eyes away from the ultrasound photo in Vicky's hand.
21:50The grainy black and white image seemed to pulse under the harsh hospital lights.
21:55Sophia, let me expli-
21:59James!
22:01We talked about this.
22:02I saw the conflict play out across his face, the way his muscles tensed, how his hand twitched before curling
22:08into a fist.
22:08Then Vicky pressed her cheek against his shoulder, whispering something that made him freeze, his arm dropped to his side
22:14like a dead weight.
22:15I turned away before they could see my face crumple.
22:20Behind me, I heard James take a half step forward.
22:24James!
22:29You promised!
22:35Outside, winter air slapped my face.
22:38My hand rested on my stomach.
22:40Still flat.
22:42But everything had changed.
22:44Sophia.
22:45Boss wants to see you at the gates.
22:47I spotted James leaning casually against his Mercedes.
22:50The morning sunlight softing his sharp features in a way that made my breath catch for a moment.
22:55I immediately averted my K's and nervously grabbed my clothes with my fingers as if it were something extremely important.
23:01Four years of marriage and my traitorish body still reacted to him like we were newlyweds.
23:05Old habits, I told myself firmly.
23:07Just muscle memory.
23:09Nothing more.
23:14Sophia.
23:14Sophia.
23:15Dinner tomorrow?
23:16Dante's.
23:17Eight o'clock.
23:19Dante's.
23:19The name alone sent acid creeping up my throat.
23:22That was where I'd sat for six hours on our anniversary.
23:25Staring at cold Oslo buoy while James handled business with Vicky.
23:31I'll be there.
23:32This dinner would serve a single purpose.
23:35Finalize the divorce.
23:40There's something I need to explain about what happened.
23:43Boss, it's Vicky.
23:44She cut her wrist.
23:45It's an emergency.
23:47Of course.
23:48Even our last dinner couldn't be just ours.
23:54What?!
23:56My vision tunneled until all I could see was James' retreating back, his coat flaring like a cape.
24:02Take her to the hospital.
24:08Just low blood sugar.
24:10Get her some orange juice.
24:13A jolt of panic shot through me as consciousness returned.
24:17If they discover the pregnancy, and considering the patient's condition-
24:25Yes, boss?
24:28Understood.
24:29On my way now, sir.
24:33Keep her here till New Year's if you want.
24:37Ah, you're awake.
24:38You're approximately thirteen weeks along.
24:40Baby's healthy, but given your collapse, we'll keep you forty-eight hours from monitoring.
24:46I didn't mention this to your companion earlier.
24:49I exhaled in quiet relief.
24:52No.
24:52And please keep it that way.
24:58Mr. and Mrs. Morelli are like royalty.
25:01They've turned Sweet 801 into a penthouse, rose petals, champagne, the works.
25:05Mr. Morelli hasn't left her side since admission.
25:07Would you expect less?
25:08Did you see how he carried her through the lobby?
25:10Like some romantic film?
25:11Ten years together, and he still treats her like a bride.
25:13Meanwhile, my husband forgets our anniversary.
25:15Their words cut deeper than any knife.
25:17There was no question.
25:18They could only be talking about James and Vicka.
25:20Of course he's devoted.
25:21Mrs. Morelli's finally giving him an heir.
25:24Mr. Morelli commanded an army of specialists at her slightest sigh.
25:28James treated Vicky like a queen.
25:30After two nights of observation with no complications, I was discharged.
25:34Stepping out of the hospital's automatic doors, I spotted Emma waiting by the curb.
25:37The Manali envelope clutched in her hands.
25:40Stepping through the hospital's sliding doors, my first stop was the courthouse to collect the divorce decree.
25:44By the time this reaches his desk, I thought, watching the clerk stamp the postmark,
25:49I'll be in Zurich.
25:51On the day of my departure, I stood nervously at the arrivals gate, scanning the crowd for my institute contact.
25:56Sophia?
25:57I turned to see a lanky man with gentle eyes pushing through the crowd.
26:00Eric, according to his badge, greeted me with a warmth that immediately put me at ease.
26:05Priority boarding is ready.
26:06The director insisted on VIP treatment for our star researcher.
26:10As Eric maneuvered toward me, his shoulder briefly blocked my view of a commotion near the VIP lounge,
26:16where James stood with Vicky clinging to his arm.
26:18Their backs turned as they greeted a group of Middle Eastern businessmen.
26:22At that precise moment, James stiffened.
26:25Did someone just call Sophia?
26:27Don't be ridiculous, James.
26:29Sophia is probably buried in lab right now, Vicky said as she pulled James toward a champagne reception.
26:35We disappeared into the shuffing queue before his gaze could sweep our direction.
26:39As we walked toward the gate, Eric animatedly described the lab's new two-fold on micro-soap.
26:44Dr. Laurent had it installed specifically for your protein research.
26:48He said, eyes bright with the kind of academic passion I'd nearly forgotten existed.
26:53Oh, and the team unanimously voted to adopt your preferred schedule.
26:56No morning meetings before nine, and absolutely no evening work.
26:59I pressed a hand to my sternum.
27:01These people, who'd never met me, had tried hard to anticipate my needs better than James ever hid in four
27:06years of marriage.
27:07For writing home.
27:08Eric and me a stack of postcards.
27:10The Alps glattering under cheap gloss, he said with an encouraging nod.
27:15The trash bins swallowed them whole.
27:17Eric blinked.
27:18No one to write to?
27:20I glanced back at the terminal windows, where the city skyline stood sharp against the dawn.
27:25Somewhere out there, James was probably reviewing Vicky's latest ultrasound photos over breakfast,
27:30her diamond-crusted hand resting on his arm.
27:33Not anymore.
27:34I said, turning towards the gate.
27:37Click to watch all episodes.
27:43It's Christmas Eve.
27:44My husband, Damien, just kicked our three-year-old daughter out of the car.
27:51Get out of the car!
27:52The current outside temperature is minus five degrees Celsius.
27:56All because his mistress's daughter didn't want to sit with a dirty kid.
28:01When the car pulled over on the highway shoulder, I thought Damien just needed a restroom break.
28:07Aurora is asleep.
28:09Don't wake her.
28:10Damien didn't even look back.
28:12He just tapped the steering wheel.
28:14Clara, take Aurora and get out of the car.
28:17What?
28:18Damien, it's fine.
28:20We can just squeeze in.
28:21But her daughter Briar started screaming.
28:24No!
28:24I won't sit with that dirty kid!
28:26She's coughing!
28:28Did you hear that?
28:29Get out.
28:30Mira is on her way.
28:31She'll be here in thirty minutes.
28:33Just wait here.
28:34I held my three-year-old daughter and watched him drive away.
28:38The taillights faded into the snow until they were gone.
28:42Mommy, where's Daddy?
28:44Aurora whispered.
28:45Her biometric wristband began to pulse with a yellow warning light.
28:50Daddy, went to Grandma's first.
28:53Auntie Mira is coming to get us.
28:55I hit the dial for a video call to Tina.
29:02Clara?
29:03Her background was a chaotic blur of noise and pulsing neon.
29:07She was at a party.
29:08Mira, Damien told you to pick us up.
29:10Where are you?
29:11Just wait.
29:12I'll come later.
29:13Mira, it's freezing!
29:15Aurora can't stay out here!
29:17My brother said Celeste and Briar can't be out in the cold.
29:20They had to get home.
29:21You're just waiting.
29:22It's not like you'll die.
29:23Aurora shivered in my arms.
29:25Mommy, I wanna go home.
29:29Soon, baby.
29:30We'll be home very soon.
29:32To dump his wife and child on a highway because another woman's kid called us dirty.
29:38Suddenly, headlights appeared.
29:40I waved like crazy.
29:42A black SUV pulled over.
29:45A black SUV pulled over.
29:49Need a hand?
29:50Please, can you give us a ride to the next service station?
29:54Get in.
29:55I reached for the door, but then a voice stopped me.
29:58Clara?
29:58It was Felix, Damien's bother.
30:01What are you doing here?
30:02Where's my brother?
30:03I quickly told him everything.
30:06Felix's face turned pale with rage.
30:08Is he insane?
30:10He left you and Aurora here?
30:12So Celeste's daughter matters.
30:14But his own doesn't?
30:15Owen, let them in.
30:17We'll squeeze.
30:17Please.
30:18But the car was full.
30:19There's no room.
30:20The driver said, looking worried.
30:23You guys go.
30:23I'll wait here.
30:25Felix pushed me toward the seat.
30:28Aurora's face is turning purple.
30:30She can't stay in the cold another second.
30:33Felix, it's freezing out there.
30:36What about you?
30:37I'm a grown man.
30:38I can handle a little cold.
30:40Take care of the kid first.
30:41Just go.
30:42The car started.
30:43I looked through the back window.
30:46Felix stood there alone in the blizzard.
30:48His figure grew smaller and smaller.
30:51Aurora fell asleep in my arms.
30:53But her face was a terrifying shade of red.
30:58Sir, can you go any faster?
30:59My daughter has a fever!
31:00The driver nodded and stepped on the gas.
31:03I tried to call Mira again.
31:05No signal.
31:06How much longer to the service station?
31:0920 kilometers.
31:11In this weather, at least 30 minutes.
31:14I held Aurora tighter.
31:16She was getting hotter by the second.
31:18She opened her eyes weakly.
31:20Suddenly, she started coughing.
31:23Her face turned a deep, sickly purple.
31:26Please!
31:27Please go faster!
31:28I'm trying!
31:29This is as fast as it goes!
31:31The roads are pure ice!
31:33I unzipped Aurora's coat.
31:35Her chest was heaving.
31:36Aurora, look at mommy!
31:38Don't close your eyes!
31:41I'll tell you a story.
31:43About the little rabbit.
31:44I began pounding on the car window like a mad woman.
31:48Help!
31:49My daughter is dying!
31:51Somebody help us!
31:54Help!
31:55But on the highway, there was nothing but wind and snow.
32:00Finally, the car pulled into a service station.
32:07Is there a doctor?
32:09My daughter is dying!
32:10Help us!
32:11The clerk froze.
32:13There's no doctor here.
32:14Call one!
32:15Now!
32:16The signal tower was destroyed by the blizzard.
32:18We can't get a call out.
32:19My legs gave out.
32:21I almost collapsed.
32:23The shop owner searched through the back and found some medicine.
32:27Try this.
32:29Aurora lay on my lap.
32:31Her breath was so faint, it felt like it could snap at any second.
32:36I tried to feed her, but she didn't even have the strength to swallow.
32:40The owner couldn't watch anymore.
32:43I'll drive you to the nearest clinic.
32:46But the roads might be blocked.
32:48Go!
32:49We have to go now!
32:50The car crawled through the deep snow.
32:53With every bump, Aurora's body grew limp.
32:56Aurora, you said you wanted to see the Northern Lights, remember?
32:59Mommy will take you.
33:02We'll take the fastest train, all the way to the Arctic Circle.
33:06Her eyelashes fluttered, but she never opened her eyes.
33:12Suddenly, my watch vibrated.
33:14Signal!
33:15With trembling hands, I dialed Damien's video call.
33:18It rang for a long time.
33:21Finally, he picked up.
33:23Hello?
33:24The background was quiet.
33:26Damien!
33:27Aurora is sick.
33:28It's bad.
33:29Really bad.
33:30Where are you?
33:31On the way to a clinic.
33:33Please!
33:33You have to come!
33:34Didn't Mira pick you up yet?
33:39She didn't come!
33:40She never showed up!
33:42Possible.
33:42She just posted an update saying she's on her way.
33:45I opened the hologram projection on my watch.
33:48Mira's latest post from ten minutes ago.
33:50The location tag was at exit 87 on the interstate.
33:55112 kilometers away from us.
33:57She hadn't moved an inch.
33:59She was lying to you.
34:01And she was lying to me!
34:02Mira will be there soon.
34:04Just wait a little longer.
34:06Wait!
34:07We can't!
34:08Rorath is dying!
34:10Our daughter is dying, Damien!
34:13Clara, it's Christmas Eve.
34:14Don't say such unlucky things.
34:16No one is dying.
34:17Celesta and Briar just arrived.
34:19And my mom is very happy.
34:21Don't ruin the mood.
34:22Just go to the hospital when Mira gets there.
34:24Kids get fevers all the time.
34:26She's not gonna die.
34:26He hung up.
34:28As the projection faded, my blood turned to ice.
34:31The shop owner looked at me through the rear view mirror.
34:34Your husband?
34:35I nodded.
34:38Scumbag.
34:39Hang on tight.
34:40I'm taking a shortcut.
34:45We're not letting this baby die.
34:46The car turned onto a mountain road.
34:50Aurora's breathing was almost gone.
34:52I checked her heartbeat.
34:53It was so weak it felt like an illusion.
34:56I pulled a button-sized communicator from my inner pocket.
34:59My father had given it to me.
35:01He said that once I pressed it, his people would arrive within three hours.
35:07Finally, we reached the nearest medical station.
35:10I burst into the emergency room, clutching Aurora.
35:16Acute pneumonia!
35:20Heart rate is dropping!
35:22Prepare for recitation!
35:23I was stopped outside the emergency room.
35:26Through the glass, I watched the doctors intubate Aurora and hook her up to the monitors.
35:31She looked like she could vanish at any second.
35:35I collapsed in the corner, shaking.
35:37My watch rang again.
35:41Clara, where are you?
35:42My mom is waiting for dinner.
35:44I struggled to find my voice.
35:46The clinic?
35:48Aurora is being resuscitated.
35:50What?
35:51Why are you at a clinic?
35:52Where's Mira?
35:53She never came.
35:55Impossible.
35:56She just messaged me saying she picked you up.
35:58He sent me a screenshot.
35:59It was a blurry photo from 20 minutes ago.
36:02In the passenger seat was a woman's back, wearing a jacket just like mine.
36:06She's lying, Damien.
36:08Come to the clinic.
36:09Now.
36:10Are you lying just because you're jealous of Celeste?
36:13Daughter is still being resuscitated and you think this is jealous?!
36:16What else?
36:17Why would Mira need to lie to me?
36:19Damien, if Aurora dies today, I will never forgive you as long as I live.
36:23Whatever, Clara.
36:25That's your choice.
36:27The call disconnected.
36:29I listened to the dial tone and slowly slid down to the floor.
36:32The ER doors swung open.
36:34We saved her, but she was deprived of oxygen for too long.
36:37There's significant brain damage.
36:38It could affect her cognitive development.
36:41She might even face permanent paralysis.
36:43I leaned against the wall to keep from collapsing.
36:46How is that possible?
36:49She's so small!
36:51She's just a baby!
36:53We did our best.
36:55You need to admit her now.
36:56The follow-up treatments won't be cheap.
36:58I walked to the payment kiosk, moving like a ghost.
37:01I tapped my wrist against the sensor.
37:04Insufficient funds.
37:05Damien only gave me $3,000 a month, claiming it was more than enough for a child.
37:10I called him, my hands trembling.
37:13Aurora needs surgery.
37:15I need $50,000.
37:17$50,000?
37:19Clara, do I look like an ATM to you?
37:21Damien, she is your daughter!
37:23Are you going to transfer the money or not?
37:25No.
37:26If you're so capable, earn it yourself.
37:29After Christmas, we're filing for divorce.
37:31The house is mine.
37:32You didn't put a cent in, so you get nothing.
37:35I stood there, staring at the clerk through the glass.
37:39Can you start the treatment first?
37:41I'll pay you back. I promise.
37:44I'm sorry.
37:44Facility policy, no deposit, no admission.
37:49I walked out of the clinic and stood in the freezing snow.
37:52My hologram flared to life.
37:54It was Felix.
37:56Clara! Where are you? Damien said Mira picked you guys up!
38:00Felix, do me a favor.
38:02If anything happens to me, take care of Aurora.
38:05What are you talking about?
38:07I have no money. Aurora has no hope.
38:09I can't keep her either.
38:11Just put her in the adoption system.
38:13At least she'll live.
38:14Clara, don't do anything reckless! Where are you? I'm coming now!
38:16Don't bother.
38:17I cut the connection and killed the hologram.
38:20I walked back to the ward.
38:21I'm sorry, baby, in the next life.
38:24Don't be mine.
38:26The clinic roof was a blur of wind and snow.
38:29From the edge, the world below looked tiny.
38:31One step, and the pain would finally end.
38:34I closed my eyes and let myself fall forward.
38:38Suddenly, a hand gripped my wrist.
38:41Suddenly, a hand gripped my wrist.
38:43A violent tug pulled me back.
38:45I collapsed onto the ground and looked up.
38:47Several men in black suits stood before me.
38:49Their leader, a man in his fifties, removed his sunglasses.
38:52His eyes were bloodshot.
38:53Clara!
38:56Dad!
38:57I was rushed onto a medical transport pod.
38:59Aurora was carried in right behind me, immediately taken over by a team of flight medics.
39:04Intracranial pressure is spiking.
39:05We need to operate now.
39:07Contact the main hospital.
39:08Open the neurosurgery green channel.
39:11Put the nano-repair team on standby.
39:13My father held my hand, his own trembling uncontrollably.
39:16I'm sorry, Clara. Dad was too late.
39:19I'm so sorry.
39:20Dad, I thought you were just a...
39:23farmer back in the village.
39:24He faltered, a bitter smile touching his lips.
39:29A farmer.
39:30That was a lie.
39:31You were so determined to marry Damien.
39:34I was afraid that if he knew we were wealthy, he'd only marry you for the money.
39:38So...
39:39I played poor for four years.
39:42I thought as long as he treated you well, it didn't matter if we lived simply.
39:46He looked at the unconscious Aurora, tears finally falling.
39:49But I never imagined...
39:50I never imagined they could be this heartless to abuse my granddaughter like this.
39:55Medical transport pod landed on the roof of Whitfield Medical Center.
39:58Aurora was rushed straight into surgery.
40:00The best specialists, the cutting-edge equipment, everything was ready.
40:04My father stood outside the operating room and dialed an encrypted channel.
40:08Vance Group.
40:09I want to see their stock hit rock bottom before the market opens tomorrow.
40:12Terminate all partnerships.
40:14Everything.
40:15And the banks...
40:17You know what to do.
40:19He hung up and sat beside me.
40:21Clara, I'm giving you two choices.
40:23First, divorce him.
40:25Take the money and take Aurora abroad.
40:29Never look back.
40:31Second, stay.
40:34Watch the Vance family crumble.
40:38Watch Damien crawl to his knees and beg for your mercy.
40:41I thought for a moment.
40:43The second one.
40:45But I have one condition.
40:47Name it.
40:48Prepare two bionic decoys.
40:50One identical to me, and one identical to Aurora.
40:54Make them look like they froze to death on the side of the highway.
40:58Dress them in the clothes we wore today, and put her bioband on the decoy.
41:02You want it?
41:04I want them to think I'm dead.
41:08Then, I want to see exactly how they celebrate.
41:11I want to watch them throw a party while Aurora and I are dead.
41:15My father remained silent for a long time before nodding.
41:19Fine.
41:19The bionic decoys were incredibly lifelike.
41:22One large, one small, lying in the snow on the highway.
41:26When found, they were already frozen solid.
41:28An automated road patrol drone discovered them and flagged the nearest highway patrol.
41:33Based on the ID found on the body, the police contacted Damien.
41:36The call came through while the Vance family was having Christmas dinner.
41:39The table was overflowing with food, filled with laughter.
41:43Celeste sat next to Damien, putting food on his plate.
41:45Priscilla beamed, stroking Briar's hair.
41:47Celeste is so much better.
41:49Even the daughter she raised are well-behaved.
41:51Unlike that brat Clara had.
41:53Always crying, never obedient.
41:55An absolute nuisance.
41:57Damien's wrist vibrated. He glanced at it, frowning.
42:00The police?
42:03Hello?
42:03Is this Mr. Damien Vance?
42:05Is your wife Clara currently on the highway with your daughter?
42:09Yes, why?
42:10We found two bodies by the roadside.
42:12Preliminary assessment suggests they froze to death.
42:15The female victim has an ID card identifying her as Clara.
42:18There is also a female child, approximately three years old.
42:21We need you to come and identify them.
42:23What did you say?!
42:24Sir, your wife and daughter.
42:27They didn't make it.
42:28Is this because you think you're the superstar of this academy?
42:31But we'll find out about that.
42:33Hey, class dismissed!
42:34Two more hours for you on the bar.
42:38I swear, sometimes I think that bitch messes up on purpose just so she can stay behind with him.
42:44Let's go.
42:45On your toes.
42:46Straight lines.
42:48And down.
42:50Chin up.
42:52By the time I get back, you better have this down perfect.
42:54Yes, Mr. Kate.
43:05What is this?
43:07No.
43:07Rachel, you're hurt.
43:08No, it's nothing.
43:09Look, your body is an instrument.
43:11And if you don't take care of it-
43:12It breaks.
43:13I know what you've told us.
43:15I can't let him know I got injured working those pole dancing shifts.
43:18I just-
43:19I've just been, like, really emotionally overwhelmed recently and-
43:23I know you said we have to put that into our performance, so I think I'm just still learning to
43:26do that.
43:27So it's my fault then?
43:30No, that's not what I meant.
43:33Mr. Kane, what are you doing?!
43:36How far are you going to let me go before you stop lying?
43:45Mr. Kane, what are you doing?
43:46The Giselle selections are tomorrow.
43:48And if you want to reclaim your title, spread your legs and stay quiet.
43:56You say that to all of your students?
44:01Look, tomorrow's the first round.
44:04I don't want you to disappoint me.
44:06Yes.
44:26Amanda, what are you doing here?
44:31Oh, I just need to resell my pointe shoes.
44:34Tomorrow's audition is huge.
44:36Everything needs to be perfect.
44:38But we're all rooting for you.
44:40Good luck.
44:41I'll see you tomorrow.
44:47Okay, girls, this is the first round of auditions for Giselle.
44:50And as you know, the artistic director of the New York City Ballet attends our graduation show every year, scouting
44:57for new talents.
44:58If you land the lead for Queen Giselle, you might just catch her eye.
45:02Break a leg.
45:11Dammit, I'm up soon.
45:13No time to change shoes.
45:15I am.
45:16My neighbors.
45:18Welcome, everyone, to the first round of the Giselle auditions.
45:43finally someone with some talent yeah but still not near the beginning
45:54my goodness now that is talent you've done remarkable work with her elias i think our
46:01giselle's just revealed herself hasn't she are you out of your fucking mind you're the
46:10one who said not to disappoint you yeah well i don't remember telling you to destroy your
46:14entire career over one performance i gave you exactly what you wanted that was perfection
46:21you have no room in your heart for flaws this is the price oh is this what you think this
46:29is all
46:29about you think you know me now yeah i do i've known you since i was 17. what
46:38you decide our entire lives over one mistake this wasn't about your dancing you were beautiful today
46:47i'm not talking about tonight
46:51mr kane what exactly did i do wrong you missed an arabesque i don't know what's worse you missing
46:59it you're not realizing you did you don't belong in ballet
47:08nothing i ever do is good enough for you the only thing that matters right now is your foot
47:14okay you can deal with your emotions i'm done trying to please you
47:28quite a showing you made today thanks help me settle that me and tracy
47:36yeah what's that how many dicks you had to suck to win today tracy says two i'm guessing we're like
47:42five
47:44you know what amanda one of these days you're gonna wake up miserable and alone and old and you're
47:50gonna blame the entire world for your shitty fucking life but in reality it's all your fault
47:57rachel dimbo wants you in his office yes i'll be there right away
48:05sir you wanted to see me please sit down
48:13your performance today was impressive but talent alone doesn't make a lead that requires sacrifices
48:21i'm i'm willing to do what it takes good i'm glad we have an understanding
48:28no sir i'm sorry i think there's been a misunderstanding i i really need to leave i
48:32you're a smart girl if you know that opportunities like this are extremely rare
48:40so
48:49amanda what are you doing here mr kane uh nothing
48:56is there a problem the dean asks not to be disturbed
48:59mr kane please rachel get out of my way of course not she already went home
49:13you can say goodbye to your title you're never gonna work again you understand me i'll make sure
49:19of that you're one to talk everyone at the entire academy knows very well about the extracurricular
49:26activities between you two i just wanted a taste for myself you don't ever touch a hair on her head
49:33you understand why you just don't want to share do you elias what is that are you jealous
49:41shit you know damn well the way of the world if she isn't willing to go that far for her
49:46career
49:47she'll get nowhere she'll get nowhere you have a daughter do you understand how would you feel if
49:53that was her you got one more chance what else the next time you can explain to the police
50:00and you know what you know how they treat pervs in jail
50:11amanda
50:17hey don't let me catch you again you got it we've got it put these on
50:26look i'm not letting one of my students walk out of here looking like she got harassed change
50:41here let me help you
50:44who gave you all these bruises and don't you dare lie
50:48i got injured during my part time
50:54what if i tell him the truth he'd be disgusted disappointed in me waitressing
51:01i waitress at a bar
51:05you have a scholarship and juilliard pays for almost everything i have some unavoidable expenses
51:13and you got those bruises washing dishes
51:22hello
51:22miss i'm afraid your mother's surgery may not proceed as scheduled
51:26what why not your father came in person he's insisting the deposit be transferred out
51:32no no no do not agree to anything i will be right there
51:37oh finally caught you selfish little bitch your old man is struggling to make ends meet
51:44and this is what you spend the money on putting your half-died mother into a private clinic
51:54looks like your teacher has come to play hero you wouldn't want him to know you're a pole dancer right
52:03be a good girl no funny business tell him everything's all right
52:09be careful what you say or your mother is gonna pay for your fuck-ups
52:17uh mr kane uh sorry i i must have um dialed you by mistake i'm sorry for bothering you
52:23where are you i'll be there in a minute no no no no need no need everything is okay really
52:28i promise it was just uh it was just a couple of some drunk guys um but they left so
52:32everything's
52:33everything's fine i promise
52:37good girl now get back on stage and shake that pretty little ass
52:44yeah gentlemen tonight you're about to witness a very special performance
52:52by our top dancer give it up everybody make some noise
53:08is that rachel
53:18no i'm just losing my mind rachel would never work in a dump like this
53:23but this girl the way she moves that grace she's a real ballerina how is that possible
53:40gentlemen i apologize for the inconvenience but i'm about to make it up to you guys we are about to
53:49auction of our headliners virginity get your money ready boys because the highest bidder wins a private
53:59left dance and she will be sure to leave you satisfied one thousand dollars three thousand dollars five
54:08thousand come on guys you know what she's worth anyone want a bit higher going once going twice
54:19fifty thousand dollars
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