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Every year, Ryan and Summer play their twisted April Fools’ dare game. 🎭 But this time, Ryan goes too far—he tricks Hayley into ending their marriage and chooses Summer instead. After a heartbreaking miscarriage, Hayley rebuilds her life as an independent author, while Ryan watches his company collapse and begs for the wife he threw away. 💔
https://reelslink.com/marketing/Om6n0T
👇Click to Find More HD EPs
https://g.shrinkrl.com/QDzUZB
🍁Notice: All videos by DramaRave are officially authorized.
Every year, Ryan and Summer play their twisted April Fools’ dare game. 🎭 But this time, Ryan goes too far—he tricks Hayley into ending their marriage and chooses Summer instead. After a heartbreaking miscarriage, Hayley rebuilds her life as an independent author, while Ryan watches his company collapse and begs for the wife he threw away. 💔
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:05Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayen played a game of truth or
00:00:11dare.
00:00:11Remember? Eighth grade? I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:00:17You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:00:24That was nothing.
00:00:25Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:00:31Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
00:00:39Whistles erupted all around.
00:00:41I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:00:46Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:00:48Why wouldn't I dare?
00:00:50He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:00:57Hayley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:01:00Play along with me.
00:01:02Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:01:07You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:01:10I stared at the man in front of me.
00:01:12For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:01:16This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:01:18I'm pregnant.
00:01:22Hayley, that's a brilliant move!
00:01:25Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:01:28You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
00:01:30Nice.
00:01:31You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:01:33Summer walked over.
00:01:35Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:01:38Please, Hayley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:01:44Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:01:47That's so low.
00:01:49Exactly.
00:01:51Let's go.
00:01:53Hurry up!
00:01:54If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:01:57How am I supposed to get the license, then?
00:01:59He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:02:02I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:02:04The Paddy Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of
00:02:09Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:02:12And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the
00:02:18company.
00:02:20Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
00:02:28On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:02:32When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement, but a thick
00:02:39stack of documents.
00:02:40The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:02:46He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:02:50Sign it.
00:02:51Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April Fool's joke.
00:02:57Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:03:03Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:03:05I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:03:08Fine.
00:03:10Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:03:15I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:03:18The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:03:24After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car and changed into it.
00:03:30Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:03:34The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
00:03:38I sat on a bench and watched it all.
00:03:41Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall,
00:03:45he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
00:03:50When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
00:03:55Being real was what mattered.
00:03:57Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
00:04:03With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
00:04:08Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:04:12Honey, see that?
00:04:14I won again this time.
00:04:16We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
00:04:19Don't be mad.
00:04:21It's just a keepsake.
00:04:22Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
00:04:26Take me back.
00:04:28I need to pack my things.
00:04:30I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:04:36Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way.
00:04:40Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat.
00:04:46She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
00:04:49With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the passenger seat onto
00:04:54the floor map.
00:04:56Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:04:59I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
00:05:02Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
00:05:06Stop throwing a tantrum.
00:05:08It's hard to get a car here.
00:05:09Sit down and behave.
00:05:18It's a beautiful night.
00:05:21We're looking for something dumb to do.
00:05:36Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:05:39Her fingertips brushed his Adam's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
00:05:46Ryan didn't move away.
00:05:48Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's back.
00:05:52Stop messing around.
00:05:54I'm driving.
00:05:55That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
00:05:59I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
00:06:05Today, this farce had to end.
00:06:08When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique diamond ring in her
00:06:14palm, her tone full of affection.
00:06:16This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
00:06:21Before Ryan.
00:06:23Mistake.
00:06:23Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
00:06:27Hayley, you're still here.
00:06:28Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:06:31Mom, we're joking.
00:06:33It's April Fool's Day.
00:06:34We're just playing around.
00:06:36Well, I wish it could stay that way forever.
00:06:38I didn't answer.
00:06:40I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
00:06:45I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
00:06:49Hayley, everyone's here today.
00:06:51Don't ruin the mood.
00:06:54Let's have dinner together tonight.
00:06:56Think of it as a celebration.
00:06:57The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
00:07:01I've invited the whole publishing to.
00:07:03Consider it a celebration dinner.
00:07:05I stopped moving.
00:07:06That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat.
00:07:09Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee and revisions.
00:07:12If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
00:07:18I closed the suitcase.
00:07:19Fine.
00:07:20After this dinner.
00:07:23Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
00:07:27I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
00:07:31Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
00:07:34She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
00:07:37I saw that Hayley ordered only ordinary dishes.
00:07:41There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
00:07:45I added a few dishes on my own.
00:07:47Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
00:07:51The housekeeper took the day off.
00:07:54Hayley, help out for a bit.
00:07:57The staff will be here soon.
00:07:59I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
00:08:03Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
00:08:07Forget it.
00:08:08One last meal.
00:08:12I walked into the kitchen.
00:08:14The churning in my stomach hadn't settled, and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
00:08:20Chop the vegetables.
00:08:21Turn on the stove.
00:08:24Heat the pan.
00:08:25Add olive oil.
00:08:27Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
00:08:30Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
00:08:32Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
00:08:36And don't overcook the kale.
00:08:38The editors arrived one after another.
00:08:40Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
00:08:44She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
00:08:47Emily, you're a guest.
00:08:49Just sit and wait for dinner.
00:08:51I'll worry about things in here.
00:08:53After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
00:08:57Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
00:09:00I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
00:09:04Six dishes filled the table.
00:09:06Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
00:09:09Summer ran to open the door, and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
00:09:14I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
00:09:19There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
00:09:24So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
00:09:33Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, face on the table was limited.
00:09:39Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together,
00:09:43into the nearby trash can to make room for her seafood.
00:09:47Ryan didn't think anything of it.
00:09:49He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
00:09:51You're always so thoughtful.
00:09:53I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
00:09:58Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
00:10:03Haley, look at this.
00:10:04On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent her for approval.
00:10:08In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart, Summer Bryant.
00:10:12I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
00:10:16Why?
00:10:18I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
00:10:21Ryan walked over, smiling as he said.
00:10:24Haley, this one's on me.
00:10:26I forgot to loop you in.
00:10:28I want you to share half the byline with her.
00:10:32I already promised Summer in advance.
00:10:35You love me so much.
00:10:38You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
00:10:40I type this out word by word, three years over three years.
00:10:45What gives you the right?
00:10:48What gives me the right?
00:10:50Money.
00:10:51Without me pouring money into marketing, your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
00:10:56I made you a best-selling author, and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody.
00:11:01Right now, the company needs to push Summer, and your book is the best springboard.
00:11:06It's that simple.
00:11:11The copyright is under my personal name.
00:11:13You have no right to add her name.
00:11:15If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
00:11:23The food is getting cold.
00:11:26Do we really have to talk about this right now?
00:11:32Everyone is waiting.
00:11:36Let's eat first.
00:11:39Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:11:42I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my power keys, and rushed out the door.
00:11:48By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
00:11:5380% of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her, and
00:11:59even gossiped about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
00:12:05My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
00:12:13Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
00:12:19Hayley, there's nothing I can do.
00:12:24Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
00:12:29Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
00:12:35Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
00:12:40He smoked a cigar in his office.
00:12:44A chill ran through me.
00:12:46Ryan's, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:12:49It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
00:12:51I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
00:12:57When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
00:13:01Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show this summer.
00:13:04What gives you the right to do this?
00:13:06That book is my life's work!
00:13:10I'll say it again.
00:13:11We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
00:13:14Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
00:13:19Don't take it out on him, Hayley.
00:13:21We made this decision together.
00:13:27I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
00:13:32Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
00:13:39This has nothing to do with you.
00:13:41But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
00:13:47Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
00:13:52I hope you won't be jealous of her.
00:13:57I remember I just said it.
00:14:00Is your memory that bad?
00:14:04Oh, right.
00:14:06Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
00:14:09Maybe you should step out and cool off.
00:14:12I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
00:14:18I was already leaving tonight.
00:14:22Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
00:14:29Fine.
00:14:30You've got backbone.
00:14:32Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
00:14:34I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
00:14:39He called the security company directly.
00:14:42Two private security guards stood at the door, looking awkward.
00:14:45I'm already divorced from this woman.
00:14:47She has now trespassed into my private residence
00:14:50to harass me and my wife.
00:14:53Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
00:14:57The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
00:15:01Hayley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
00:15:06I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
00:15:10As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
00:15:16The security guards pushed me out the gate.
00:15:18I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn,
00:15:20freshly swept by the sprinkler system.
00:15:22I braced myself against the ground,
00:15:23climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
00:15:26But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
00:15:29I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
00:15:32A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
00:15:36The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
00:15:39With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
00:15:44Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
00:15:47He opened the car door.
00:15:48When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
00:15:52Hayley, what happened to you?
00:15:55He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
00:15:58But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
00:16:00It's almost midnight, husband.
00:16:02If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
00:16:05Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
00:16:07He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
00:16:10Help me.
00:16:12I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
00:16:14Hayley, do me a favor.
00:16:16Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
00:16:18I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
00:16:20I checked.
00:16:21You only sprained your ankle.
00:16:23I'll call Emerging Services for you right now.
00:16:26He pulled me out of the passenger seat, casually took two $20 bills from his wallet, and stuffed
00:16:31them into my hand.
00:16:32I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
00:16:38Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
00:16:40I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
00:16:43Ryan!
00:16:46I'm pregnant with your child!
00:16:48You bastard!
00:16:50Only the sound of rain answered me.
00:16:51The car never even lit its brake lights again.
00:16:54My vision began to blur.
00:16:56A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
00:16:58The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
00:17:02Oh my god, Hayley!
00:17:04She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
00:17:10The hospital emergency department.
00:17:11When I woke up in the observation room, a social worker wearing an ID badge came over
00:17:16and handed me a stack of papers.
00:17:18Miss Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed, but transferring to a private room
00:17:23will require out-of-pocket payment.
00:17:25Also, when we tried to process your insurance, the system showed that your spouse's medical
00:17:29coverage has been frozen.
00:17:57And that is our stressors who had taken care of since breakfast
00:18:03And you can put that in every accident.
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00:27:18my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayen played a game of truth or dare.
00:27:24Remember?
00:27:25Eighth grade?
00:27:26I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:27:30You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:27:36That was nothing.
00:27:38Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:27:44Then do you dare to go get a marriage license?
00:27:49With me, right now?
00:27:52Whistles erupted all around.
00:27:54I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:27:58Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:28:01Why wouldn't I dare?
00:28:03He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:28:09Hayley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:28:12Play along with me.
00:28:14Go handle the divorce paperwork first,
00:28:16and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:28:20You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:28:22I stared at the man in front of me.
00:28:24For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:28:28This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:28:31I'm pregnant.
00:28:34Hayley, that's a brilliant move.
00:28:37Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:28:40You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
00:28:43Nice.
00:28:44You're better at April Fool's than I am.
00:28:46Summer walked over.
00:28:47Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:28:49Please, Hayley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:28:56Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:28:59That's so low.
00:29:01Exactly.
00:29:03Let's go.
00:29:05Hurry up.
00:29:06If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:29:09How am I supposed to get the license, then?
00:29:11He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:29:15I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:29:17The pate-philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of
00:29:22Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:29:24And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me, was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the
00:29:31company.
00:29:32Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
00:29:40On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:29:44When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement, but a thick
00:29:52stack of documents.
00:29:52The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:29:59He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:30:02Sign it.
00:30:04Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April Fool's joke.
00:30:10Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:30:15Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:30:18I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:30:21Fine.
00:30:22Then I'll give you both what you want.
00:30:27I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:30:31The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:30:37After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car and changed into it.
00:30:43Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:30:46The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
00:30:50I sat on a bench and watched it all.
00:30:53Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall, he wore an old polo
00:30:58shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
00:31:02When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
00:31:08Being real was what mattered.
00:31:09Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
00:31:15With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
00:31:19Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:31:24Honey, see that?
00:31:26I won again this time.
00:31:28We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
00:31:31Don't be mad.
00:31:33It's just a keepsake.
00:31:34Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
00:31:38Take me back.
00:31:40I need to pack my things.
00:31:42I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:31:47Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way.
00:31:52Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat.
00:31:58She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
00:32:01With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the passenger seat onto
00:32:06the floor map.
00:32:08Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:32:11I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
00:32:14Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
00:32:18Stop throwing a tantrum.
00:32:20It's hard to get a car here.
00:32:22Sit down and behave.
00:32:24Bruno Maz's Mary Ude was playing in the car.
00:32:27Summer hummed along to the beat.
00:32:28When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
00:32:32It's a beautiful night.
00:32:34We're looking for something dumb to do.
00:32:37Ryan took the next line in perfect sync.
00:32:39They looked at each other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water.
00:32:44The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
00:32:47Ryan, your collar is crooked.
00:32:49Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
00:32:52Her fingertips brushed his atom's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
00:32:58Ryan didn't move away.
00:33:00Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's back.
00:33:04Stop messing around.
00:33:06I'm driving.
00:33:07That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
00:33:11I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
00:33:17Today, this farce had to end.
00:33:20When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique diamond ring in her
00:33:26palm, her tone full of affection.
00:33:28This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer, before Ryan.
00:33:35Mistake.
00:33:36Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
00:33:39Hayley, you're still here.
00:33:41Ryan walked over and stood between them.
00:33:43Mom, we're joking.
00:33:45It's April Fool's Day.
00:33:46We're just playing around.
00:33:48Well, I wish it could stay that way forever.
00:33:51I didn't answer.
00:33:53I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
00:33:58I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
00:34:01Hayley, everyone's here today.
00:34:04Don't ruin the mood.
00:34:06Let's have dinner together tonight.
00:34:08Think of it as a celebration.
00:34:09The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
00:34:13I've invited the whole publishing to.
00:34:15Consider it a celebration dinner.
00:34:17I stopped moving.
00:34:18That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat.
00:34:22Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee and revisions.
00:34:25If I burned everything down at this exact moment,
00:34:27tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
00:34:31I closed the suitcase.
00:34:32Fine.
00:34:33After this dinner.
00:34:35Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
00:34:39I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
00:34:43Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
00:34:47She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
00:34:50I saw that Hayley ordered only ordinary dishes.
00:34:53There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
00:34:58I added a few dishes on my own.
00:35:00Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
00:35:03The housekeeper took the day off.
00:35:06Hayley, help out for a bit.
00:35:09The staff will be here soon.
00:35:11I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
00:35:15Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
00:35:19Forget it.
00:35:20One last meal.
00:35:24I walked into the kitchen.
00:35:27The churning in my stomach hadn't settled, and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
00:35:32Chop the vegetables.
00:35:33Turn on the stove.
00:35:36Heat the pan.
00:35:38Add olive oil.
00:35:39Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
00:35:42Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
00:35:45Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
00:35:48And don't overcook the kale.
00:35:50The editors arrived one after another.
00:35:53Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
00:35:56She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
00:36:00Emily, you're a guest.
00:36:02Just sit and wait for dinner.
00:36:04I'll worry about things in here.
00:36:06After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
00:36:09Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
00:36:13I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
00:36:16Six dishes filled the table.
00:36:18Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
00:36:22Summer ran to open the door, and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
00:36:27I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
00:36:31There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
00:36:36So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
00:36:45Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, base on the table was limited.
00:36:51Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together, into the nearby
00:36:56trash can to make room for her seafood.
00:36:59Ryan didn't think anything of it.
00:37:01He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
00:37:03You're always so thoughtful.
00:37:06I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
00:37:11Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
00:37:15Haley, look at this.
00:37:16On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent her for approval.
00:37:20In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart.
00:37:23Summer Bryant.
00:37:24I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
00:37:28Why?
00:37:30I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
00:37:34Ryan walked over, smiling as he said,
00:37:36Haley, this one's on me.
00:37:38I forgot to loop you in.
00:37:41I want you to share half the byline with her.
00:37:44I already promised Summer in advance.
00:37:48You love me so much.
00:37:50You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
00:37:53I type this out word by word, three years over three years.
00:37:57What gives you the right?
00:38:00What gives me the right?
00:38:02Money.
00:38:03Without me pouring money into marketing, your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
00:38:08I made you a best-selling author, and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody.
00:38:13Right now, the company needs to push Summer, and your book is the best springboard.
00:38:19It's that simple.
00:38:23The copyright is under my personal name.
00:38:25You have no right to add her name.
00:38:27If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
00:38:35The food is getting cold.
00:38:38Do we really have to talk about this right now?
00:38:44Everyone is waiting.
00:38:49Let's eat first.
00:38:51Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
00:38:55I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my car keys, and rushed out the door.
00:39:00By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
00:39:0680% of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her, and
00:39:11even gossiped about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
00:39:18My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
00:39:26Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
00:39:32Hayley, there's nothing I can do.
00:39:37Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
00:39:41Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
00:39:47Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
00:39:53He smoked a cigar in his office.
00:39:56A chill ran through me.
00:39:59Ryan's we'll talk tomorrow.
00:40:01It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
00:40:04I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
00:40:09When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
00:40:13Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
00:40:17What gives you the right to do this?
00:40:18That book is my life's work!
00:40:22I'll say it again.
00:40:23We're only borrowing your fame for a while.
00:40:26Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
00:40:31Don't take it out on him, Hayley.
00:40:33We made this decision together.
00:40:39I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
00:40:44Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
00:40:51This has nothing to do with you.
00:40:54But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
00:40:59Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
00:41:05I hope you won't be jealous of her.
00:41:09I remember I just said it.
00:41:12Is your memory that bad?
00:41:17Oh, right.
00:41:18Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
00:41:22Maybe you should step out and cool off.
00:41:25I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
00:41:30I was already leaving tonight.
00:41:34Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
00:41:41Fine.
00:41:43You've got backbone.
00:41:45Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter, I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
00:41:52He called the security company directly.
00:41:54Two private security guards stood at the door, looking awkward.
00:41:57I'm already divorced from this woman.
00:41:59She has now trespassed into my private residence to harass me and my wife.
00:42:06Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
00:42:09The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
00:42:13Haley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
00:42:18I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
00:42:22As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
00:42:28The security guards pushed me out the gate.
00:42:30I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn, freshly sweat by the sprinkler system.
00:42:34I braced myself against the ground, climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
00:42:38But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
00:42:41I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
00:42:45A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
00:42:48The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
00:42:52With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
00:42:57Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
00:42:59He opened the car door.
00:43:00When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
00:43:05Haley, what happened to you?
00:43:07He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
00:43:10But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
00:43:12It's almost midnight, husband.
00:43:14If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
00:43:17Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
00:43:20He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
00:43:23Help me.
00:43:24I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
00:43:27Haley, do me a favor.
00:43:28Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
00:43:30I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
00:43:32I checked.
00:43:34You only sprained your ankle.
00:43:35I'll call emerging services for you right now.
00:43:38He pulled me out of the passenger seat,
00:43:40casually took two $20 bills from his wallet, and stuffed them into my hand.
00:43:44I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
00:43:50Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
00:43:52I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
00:43:56Ryan!
00:43:58I'm pregnant with your child!
00:44:00You bastard!
00:44:02Only the sound of rain answered me.
00:44:04The car never even lit its brake lights again.
00:44:06My vision began to blur.
00:44:08A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
00:44:11The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
00:44:14Oh my God, Haley!
00:44:17She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
00:44:22The hospital emergency department.
00:44:24When I woke up in the observation room,
00:44:26a social worker wearing an ID badge came over and handed me a stack of papers.
00:44:30Miss Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed,
00:44:33but transferring to a private room will require out-of-pocket payment.
00:44:37Also, when we tried to process your insurance,
00:44:39the system showed that your spouse's medical coverage has been frozen.
00:44:45The hospital emergency department.
00:44:45The hospital emergency department.
00:44:49The hospital emergency department.
00:44:50The hospital emergency department.
00:44:51The hospital emergency department.
00:44:52The hospital emergency department.
00:44:52The hospital emergency department.
00:44:53The hospital emergency department.
00:44:53The hospital emergency department.
00:44:53The hospital emergency department.
00:44:53The hospital emergency department.
00:44:53The hospital emergency department.
00:44:54The hospital emergency department.
00:44:55The hospital emergency department.
00:44:55The hospital emergency department.
00:44:56The hospital emergency department.
00:44:56The hospital emergency department.
00:44:58The hospital emergency department.
00:45:00The hospital emergency department.
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00:54:30On April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayen played a game of truth or
00:54:35dare.
00:54:36Remember, 8th grade, I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
00:54:42You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
00:54:49That was nothing. Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
00:54:56Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
00:55:04Whistles erupted all around.
00:55:06I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
00:55:11Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
00:55:13Why wouldn't I dare?
00:55:15He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
00:55:21Haley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
00:55:25Play along with me.
00:55:26Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
00:55:32You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
00:55:35I stared at the man in front of me.
00:55:36For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
00:55:40This time, I wasn't accepting it.
00:55:43I'm pregnant.
00:55:47Haley, that's a brilliant move!
00:55:49Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
00:55:52You made up a pregnancy just without me from winning?
00:55:55Nice.
00:55:56You're better at April Fools than I am.
00:55:58Summer walked over.
00:55:59Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
00:56:03Please, Haley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
00:56:09Using pregnancy as an excuse?
00:56:12That's so low.
00:56:13Exactly.
00:56:16Let's go.
00:56:18Hurry up!
00:56:19If we're any later, City Hall will close.
00:56:21How am I supposed to get the license then?
00:56:23He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
00:56:27I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
00:56:29The Pate Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself the day after the first volume of
00:56:34Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
00:56:37And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the
00:56:43company.
00:56:44Every year, I had to endure the absurd tranks he played on me for summer on April Fool's Day.
00:56:52On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
00:56:57When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement, but a thick
00:57:04stack of documents.
00:57:05The title read, Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
00:57:11He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
00:57:15Sign it.
00:57:16Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an AprilFalls joke.
00:57:22Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
00:57:27Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
00:57:30I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
00:57:33Fine.
00:57:35Then I'll give you both.
00:57:36What you want.
00:57:39I signed my name without the slightest pause.
00:57:43The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
00:57:49After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car, and changed into it.
00:57:55Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
00:57:58The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passersby.
00:58:02I sat on a bench and watched it all.
00:58:05Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall, he wore an old polo
00:58:10shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
00:58:15When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
00:58:20Being real was what mattered.
00:58:21Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
00:58:28With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
00:58:32Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
00:58:36Honey, see that? I won again this time. We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning. Don't be mad. It's just
00:58:46a keepsake.
00:58:46Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
00:58:51Take me back. I need to pack my things.
00:58:54I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
00:59:00Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way. Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course
00:59:08I should sit in the passenger seat.
00:59:10She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
00:59:14With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the passenger seat onto
00:59:19the floor map.
00:59:20Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
00:59:23I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
00:59:27Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
00:59:31Stop throwing a tantrum. It's hard to get a car here. Sit down and behave.
00:59:36Bruno Maz's Mary Ud was playing in the car. Summer hummed along to the beat.
00:59:41When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
00:59:44It's a beautiful night. We're looking for something dumb to do.
00:59:49Ryan took the next line in perfect sync.
00:59:52They looked at each other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water.
00:59:56The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
00:59:59Ryan, your collar is crooked.
01:00:01Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
01:00:04Her fingertips brushed his atom's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
01:00:10Ryan didn't move away. Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's
01:00:16back.
01:00:17Stop messing around. I'm driving.
01:00:20That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
01:00:24I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
01:00:29Today, this farce had to end.
01:00:32When we pushed open the front door, Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique diamond ring in her
01:00:38palm, her tone full of affection.
01:00:41This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
01:00:46Before Ryan.
01:00:47Mistake.
01:00:48Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
01:00:51Haley, you're still here.
01:00:53Ryan walked over and stood between them.
01:00:56Mom, we're joking. It's April Fool's Day. We're just playing around.
01:01:00Well, I wish it could stay that way. Forever.
01:01:03I didn't answer. I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
01:01:10I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
01:01:14Haley, everyone's here today. Don't ruin the mood.
01:01:18Let's have dinner together tonight. Think of it as a celebration.
01:01:22The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
01:01:25I've invited the whole publishing tomb. Consider it a celebration dinner.
01:01:30I stopped moving. That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat.
01:01:34Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee and revisions.
01:01:37If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
01:01:43I closed the suitcase.
01:01:44Fine. After this dinner.
01:01:47Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
01:01:51I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
01:01:56Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
01:01:59She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
01:02:02I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes.
01:02:06There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
01:02:10I added a few dishes on my own.
01:02:12Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
01:02:16The housekeeper took the day off.
01:02:18Haley, help out for a bit.
01:02:21The staff will be here soon.
01:02:24I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
01:02:27Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
01:02:32Forget it.
01:02:33One last meal.
01:02:37I walked into the kitchen.
01:02:39The churning in my stomach hadn't settled and waves of cramping started in my lower abdomen.
01:02:44Chop the vegetables.
01:02:46Turn on the stove.
01:02:48Heat the pan.
01:02:50Add olive oil.
01:02:51Summer stood to the side, every inch the lady of the house.
01:02:55Add more lemon juice to the salmon.
01:02:57Ryan has hated fishiness since he was a kid.
01:03:00And don't overcook the kale.
01:03:02The editors arrived one after another.
01:03:05Emily, the executive editor, couldn't stand watching anymore.
01:03:08She rolled up her sleeves and came into the kitchen to help wash vegetables.
01:03:12Emily, you're a guest.
01:03:14Just sit and wait for dinner.
01:03:16I'll worry about things in here.
01:03:18After all, tonight I'm the hostess.
01:03:21Emily flushed with embarrassment and retreated to the living room.
01:03:25I brought out the final dish of roasted ribs.
01:03:28Six dishes filled the table.
01:03:31Just as I untied my apron, the doorbell rang.
01:03:34Summer ran to open the door and several delivery workers came in carrying large insulated bags.
01:03:39I saw that Haley only made home-style dishes.
01:03:43There's no way they'll satisfy everyone's appetite.
01:03:48So, I used my husband's credit card and ordered a few dishes myself.
01:03:57Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, black truffle risotto, base on the table was limited.
01:04:04Summer picked up the roasted ribs I had just made and dumped them, meat and bones together, into the nearby
01:04:09trash can to make room for her seafood.
01:04:11Ryan didn't think anything of it.
01:04:13He handed her a napkin to wipe her hands.
01:04:15You're always so thoughtful.
01:04:18I could no longer bear it and was about to step forward, but someone grabbed my sleeve.
01:04:23Emily leaned close to me, pushed her phone screen towards me, and lowered her voice.
01:04:28Haley, look at this.
01:04:29On the screen was the new book poster the marketing department had sent her for approval.
01:04:32In the author field, one name had been added before Haley Hart, Summer Bryant.
01:04:37I snatched up the phone and put it right in front of Ryan.
01:04:41Why?
01:04:42I turned my head and looked straight into Ryan's eyes.
01:04:46Ryan walked over, smiling as he said.
01:04:49Haley, this one's on me.
01:04:50I forgot to loop you in.
01:04:53I want you to share half the byline with her.
01:04:57I already promised Summer in advance.
01:05:00You love me so much.
01:05:02You'll help with this tiny favor, right?
01:05:05I typed this out word by word, three years over three years.
01:05:09What gives you the right?
01:05:12What gives me the right?
01:05:14Money.
01:05:16Without me pouring money into marketing, your manuscripts would still be sitting in a drawer.
01:05:21I made you a best-selling author, and I can turn you back into an ordinary nobody.
01:05:26Right now, the company needs to push Summer, and your book is the best springboard.
01:05:31It's that simple.
01:05:35The copyright is under my personal name.
01:05:38You have no right to add her name.
01:05:40If you dare do this, I'll see you in court.
01:05:48The food is getting cold.
01:05:51Do we really have to talk about this right now?
01:05:57Everyone is waiting.
01:06:01Let's eat first.
01:06:03Whatever it is, we'll talk tomorrow.
01:06:07I ignored the table full of people, grabbed my power keys, and rushed out the door.
01:06:13By the time I got to the publishing house, the giant poster had already been hung.
01:06:1880% of the entire layout was Summer, with a long personal introduction beside her,
01:06:23and even gossiped about her and Ryan vacationing in the Hamptons.
01:06:30My name was squeezed into a corner, so small it was almost invisible.
01:06:38Derek, the head of the publishing house, was Ryan's fraternity brother from Yale.
01:06:44Haley, there's nothing I can do.
01:06:47Personally.
01:06:49Ryan called personally and ordered us to print overnight.
01:06:53Besides, Carter Publishing belongs to you two as a couple.
01:07:00Does it really matter whose name is on it, as long as it makes money?
01:07:05He smoked a cigar in his office.
01:07:09A chill ran through me.
01:07:11Ryan's, we'll talk tomorrow.
01:07:14It was nothing but a delaying tactic.
01:07:16I turned and went downstairs, then speeded all the way back to the Carter house.
01:07:21When I pushed open the door, the dinner was already over.
01:07:25Ryan was sitting on the sofa watching a new Netflix show in Summer.
01:07:29What gives you the right to do this?
01:07:31That book is my life's work!
01:07:34I'll say it again, we're only borrowing your fame for a while.
01:07:38Once Summer gets popular, I'll have her name removed from the reprint.
01:07:43Don't take it out on him, Haley.
01:07:45We made this decision together.
01:07:51I was only helping him share the pressure at work.
01:07:57Some things really have been hard for you to handle lately.
01:08:03This has nothing to do with you.
01:08:06But Ryan pulled her tightly into his arms and protected her completely.
01:08:12Pushing Summer forward is the company's established strategy.
01:08:17I hope you won't be jealous of her.
01:08:21I remember I just said it.
01:08:25Is your memory that bad?
01:08:29Oh, right.
01:08:30Tonight, Summer is Mrs. Carter.
01:08:34Maybe you should step out and cool off.
01:08:37I pulled the judgment from my bag and threw it straight in his face.
01:08:43I was already leaving tonight.
01:08:47Now, there's not even a final thread left between us.
01:08:54Fine.
01:08:55You've got backbone.
01:08:57Since you don't want to be Mrs. Carter,
01:08:59I'll freeze your joint account and supplemental credit cards right now.
01:09:04He called the security company directly.
01:09:07Two private security guards stood at the door looking awkward.
01:09:10I'm already divorced from this woman.
01:09:11She has now trespassed into my private residence to harass me and my wife.
01:09:18Please remove her and make sure she leaves my private property.
01:09:22The guards had no choice but to forcefully drag me out.
01:09:26Haley Hart, without me, you can't even afford a motel.
01:09:31I'll be waiting for you to come crawling back tomorrow to remarry me.
01:09:34As for that book, consider it your wedding gift to Summer today.
01:09:40The security guards pushed me out the gate.
01:09:42I stumbled and fell into a muddy patch of lawn, freshly swept by the sprinkler system.
01:09:46I braced myself against the ground, climbed up, held my stomach, and walked to the roadside.
01:09:50But an out-of-control dodge pickup came bearing straight towards me around the corner.
01:09:54I avoided the collision, but the momentum threw me hard onto the asphalt.
01:09:57A sharp spasm shot through my abdomen, more violent than any pain before.
01:10:01The 911 dispatcher said the ambulance would take another 45 minutes.
01:10:04With no other choice, I leaned against a street lamp and dialed my emergency contact.
01:10:09Ryan was close, so he arrived quickly.
01:10:12He opened the car door.
01:10:13When his gaze touched the blood on the hem of my skirt, his steps faltered.
01:10:17Haley, what happened to you?
01:10:20He bent down, ready to carry me into the car.
01:10:22But Summer's message popped up on his phone screen.
01:10:25It's almost midnight, husband.
01:10:26If you don't come now, this round counts as your loss.
01:10:30Ryan's hands stopped in miff air.
01:10:32He stared at the center display, then turned to look at me.
01:10:35Help me.
01:10:37I clutched his cuff with all my strength.
01:10:39Haley, do me a favor.
01:10:40Ryan plied my fingers open one by one.
01:10:42I've never lost at this stupid game in my entire life.
01:10:45I checked.
01:10:46You only sprained your ankle.
01:10:48I'll call Emerging Services for you right now.
01:10:51He pulled me out of the passenger seat,
01:10:53casually took two $20 bills from his wallet, and stuffed them into my hand.
01:10:57I'll come see you at the hospital in a bit.
01:11:02Exhaust from the tailpipe blasted into my face.
01:11:05I lay in the puddle and screamed at the receding taillights.
01:11:08Ryan!
01:11:10I'm pregnant with your child, you bastard!
01:11:14Only the sound of rain answered me.
01:11:16The car never even lit its brake lights again.
01:11:19My vision began to blur.
01:11:20A white Toyota Camry stopped by the road.
01:11:23The window rolled down, revealing Emily's exhausted face.
01:11:26Oh my God, Haley!
01:11:29She rushed out of the car and half-dragged, half-carried me into the back seat.
01:11:34The hospital emergency department.
01:11:36When I woke up in the observation room,
01:11:38a social worker wearing an ID badge came over and handed me a stack of papers.
01:11:42Miss Hart, your emergency treatment has been completed,
01:11:45but transferring to a private room will require out-of-pocket payment.
01:11:49Also, when we tried to process your insurance,
01:11:52the system showed that your spouse's medical coverage has been frozen.
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01:21:42Every April Fool's Day, my husband Ryan Carter and his childhood friend Summer Brayan played a game of truth or
01:21:48dare.
01:21:48Remember, eighth grade?
01:21:51I asked if you dared to skip the math exam.
01:21:54You tore the answer sheet paper airplane straight into pieces.
01:22:01That was nothing.
01:22:03Playing truth or dare on April Fool's Day is basically our tradition.
01:22:08Then do you dare to go get a marriage license with me right now?
01:22:16Whistles erupted all around.
01:22:19I stood in the doorway, my fingertips pinching a pregnancy test.
01:22:23Ryan turned to look at me, then laughed.
01:22:26Why wouldn't I dare?
01:22:27He stood up, came over, grabbed my arm, and dragged me into the hallway outside.
01:22:34Haley, it's just an April Fool's joke.
01:22:37Play along with me.
01:22:39Go handle the divorce paperwork first, and tomorrow morning we'll go to City Hall and get remarried.
01:22:44You know I can't back down in front of Summer.
01:22:47I stared at the man in front of me.
01:22:49For the sake of his so-called childhood game, I had compromised for five years.
01:22:53This time, I wasn't accepting it.
01:22:55I'm pregnant.
01:22:59Haley, that's a brilliant move!
01:23:02Ryan froze for half a beat, then burst out laughing.
01:23:05You made up a pregnancy, just stopped me from winning?
01:23:07Nice.
01:23:08You're better at April Fool's than I am.
01:23:10Summer walked over.
01:23:12Hearing our conversation, she laughed too.
01:23:15Please, Haley, if you can't handle the game, just say so.
01:23:21Using pregnancy as an excuse?
01:23:24That's so low.
01:23:26Exactly.
01:23:28Let's go.
01:23:30Hurry up!
01:23:31If we're any later, City Hall will close.
01:23:34How am I supposed to get the license, then?
01:23:36He dragged me outside, his steps long and urgent.
01:23:39I glanced at the hand gripping my wrist.
01:23:41The Paddy Philippe on his wrist was the gift he had bought himself
01:23:45the day after the first volume of Dark Whispers hit number one on the bestseller list.
01:23:49And that April Fool's Day, the gift he gave me,
01:23:52was kissing Summer in front of every executive in the company.
01:23:57Every year, I had to endure the absurd thanks he played on me for Summer on April Fool's Day.
01:24:05On the way to City Hall, Ryan drove insanely fast.
01:24:09When we arrived at City Hall, what Ryan pulled from his briefcase was not a divorce agreement,
01:24:15but a thick stack of documents.
01:24:17The title read,
01:24:19Petition for Marriage Annulment and Waiver of All Rights.
01:24:23He slapped the documents in front of me and spoke quickly.
01:24:26Sign it.
01:24:28Declare that our marriage was fraudulent from the beginning because it was based on an April
01:24:33Falls joke.
01:24:34Once you sign this, our relationship will legally have never existed.
01:24:40Then I can register my marriage with Summer legally.
01:24:42I picked up the pen and let out a cold laugh.
01:24:45Fine.
01:24:47Then I'll give you both what you want.
01:24:51I signed my name without the slightest pause.
01:24:55The City Hall seal came down and five years of marriage ended in absurdity.
01:25:01After getting the judgment, Ryan turned around, took a brand new Armani suit from the car and changed into it.
01:25:07Summer pulled a white veil from the trunk and pinned it into her hair.
01:25:11The two of them stood on the steps of City Hall, drawing looks from passers-by.
01:25:15I sat on a bench and watched it all.
01:25:18Five years ago, on the day Ryan and I registered our marriage at City Hall,
01:25:22he wore an old polo shirt, ripped jeans, and beat up sneakers with no socks.
01:25:27When I reminded him to change, he said true love didn't need all that superficial packaging.
01:25:32Being real was what mattered.
01:25:34Now, he stood in a crisp suit, his arm wrapped tightly around Summer's waist, smiling brightly at the camera.
01:25:40With a click, the image froze, looking just like a perfect couple from a reality show.
01:25:45Not long after, Ryan walked up to me holding two marriage certificates.
01:25:49Honey, see that?
01:25:51I won again this time.
01:25:53We'll get remarried first thing tomorrow morning.
01:25:56Don't be mad.
01:25:57It's just a keepsake.
01:25:59Early pregnancy nausea churned through me, and I was almost too weak to keep standing.
01:26:03Take me back.
01:26:05I need to pack my things.
01:26:07I opened the passenger door, but before I could sit down, Summer squeezed over.
01:26:13Haley, if we're acting, we should go all the way.
01:26:17Since Ryan and I are legally married now, of course I should sit in the passenger seat.
01:26:23She opened the door and sat down as if it was only natural.
01:26:26With one casual sweep of her hand, she knocked my yoga mat and lumbar pillows from the passenger seat onto
01:26:31the floor map.
01:26:33Ryan stood at the front of the car and gave me an apologetic gesture.
01:26:36I turned and walked toward the south line, ready to call a rideshare.
01:26:39Ryan caught up in a few steps, opened the back door, and shoved me inside.
01:26:43Stop throwing a tantrum.
01:26:45It's hard to get a car here.
01:26:46Sit down and behave.
01:26:49Bruno Maz's Mary Ud was playing in the car.
01:26:51Summer hummed along to the beat.
01:26:53When it reached the high note, she grabbed Ryan's sleeve and shook it.
01:26:56It's a beautiful night.
01:26:58We're looking for something dumb to do.
01:27:02Ryan took the next line in perfect sync.
01:27:04They looked at each other and burst out laughing, with a bottle of mineral water.
01:27:08The two of them were as intimate as newlyweds.
01:27:11Ryan, your collar is crooked.
01:27:14Summer turned sideways and reached out to fix Ryan's tie.
01:27:17Her fingertips brushed his Adam's belt, and most of her body leaned over him.
01:27:23Ryan didn't move away.
01:27:25Instead, he held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to steady Summer's back.
01:27:29Stop messing around. I'm driving.
01:27:32That was what he said, but his tone was full of indulgence.
01:27:36I closed my eyes and placed my hand over my lower eboli.
01:27:41Today, this farce had to end.
01:27:45When we pushed open the front door,
01:27:47Catherine lifted Summer's hand and gently placed the antique diamond ring in her palm,
01:27:51her tone full of affection.
01:27:53This ring should have been on your hand five years ago, Summer.
01:27:58Before Ryan.
01:28:00Mistake.
01:28:00Then she turned her face toward me, and her eyes went cold.
01:28:04Haley, you're still here.
01:28:05Ryan walked over and stood between them.
01:28:08Mom, we're joking. It's April Fool's Day. We're just playing around.
01:28:12Well, I wish it could stay that way, forever.
01:28:15I didn't answer.
01:28:17I walked around them, went straight into the master bedroom, and pulled out a suitcase.
01:28:22I had barely taken out two pieces of clothings when Ryan followed me in.
01:28:26Haley, everyone's here today. Don't ruin the mood.
01:28:31Let's have dinner together tonight. Think of it as a celebration.
01:28:34The final book in your Dark Whispers trilogy launches tomorrow.
01:28:38I've invited the whole publishing to. Consider it a celebration dinner.
01:28:41I stopped moving. That novel had taken three years of my blood and sweat. Countless sleepless nights fueled by coffee
01:28:48and revisions.
01:28:49If I burned everything down at this exact moment, tomorrow's pre-sales and launch would inevitably be affected.
01:28:55I closed the suitcase.
01:28:56Fine. After this dinner.
01:29:00Ryan beamed, turned, and went to the living room to make calls and arrange everything.
01:29:04I would treat it as a farewell dinner with the team I had built with my own hands.
01:29:08Not long after, in the dining room, Summer didn't even look at the menu.
01:29:11She gave the waiter several dish names directly.
01:29:14I saw that Haley ordered only ordinary dishes.
01:29:18There's no way that can suit everyone's taste.
01:29:22I added a few dishes on my own.
01:29:25Anyway, I'm using my husband's card.
01:29:28The housekeeper took the day off.
01:29:31Haley, help out for a bit.
01:29:34The staff will be here soon.
01:29:36I glanced at the editorial team, chatting happily in the living room.
01:29:40Took a deep breath and swallowed both my words and the acid rising in my stomach.
01:29:44Forget it.
01:29:45One last meal.