I Won’T Divorce—I’Ll Ruin His Dynasty | Full Series | Short Drama English - Vidéo Dailymotion

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Transcript

00:00:00The penthouse suite of the Ashford Club and a crystal chandelier lay shattered across the Persian carpet.

00:00:05I stood in a server's uniform, balancing a tray, and watched my husband, Alexander Whitmore,

00:00:11press Lily Ashworth against the floor-to-ceiling window and kiss her.

00:00:14His fingers dug into her waist, his suit jacket was already off, discarded over a chair.

00:00:19The strap of Lily's slip dress had slid halfway down her shoulder, pale skin glowing in the lamplight.

00:00:25She kept arching into him.

00:00:26Alex, not here. Someone will see.

00:00:30Who cares? She's pulling a double shift at her family's factory tonight. She won't come home.

00:00:35His voice was low and rough with wine as he bit her earlobe.

00:00:40I've waited three years for this.

00:00:42My nails bit into my palms. The glass of Romaine Conti on my tray, an $8,000 pour, didn't so

00:00:49much as tremble.

00:00:50So this was the three years he'd been waiting for, the night he finally slept with Lily.

00:00:55I almost laughed. Three years ago, Cole Brooks died under the rubble of the Black Ridge rescue site.

00:01:01I'd held his hand in the morgue and wept until I passed out, and Alexander Whitmore happened to walk by

00:01:06and handed me a handkerchief.

00:01:08I'm sorry for your loss.

00:01:09His sorry for your loss, it turned out, was meant as his own release.

00:01:13Lily finally noticed me. Her lips, still wet, pulled away from my husband's mouth, and her first instinct was to

00:01:19shrink into his arms.

00:01:21Alex, why is she here?

00:01:23Alexander turned. He saw me in my server's uniform, standing in the doorway, and his eyes slid from glaze to

00:01:30shock to a flicker of being caught.

00:01:32Nora, how can you-

00:01:33I set the tray on the entryway console, walked in, and locked the door behind me.

00:01:38Lily clutched her clothes nervously as I walked slowly toward her.

00:01:44You said I wouldn't be home tonight.

00:01:46Lily's dress, half undone, the metal of Alexander's loosened belt glinting painfully bright.

00:01:51Seems your intel's thin. Mother, no, forgive me, Mrs. Wiltmore, is hosting a dinner here tonight. She asked me to

00:01:58work it.

00:02:00She made you carry trays?

00:02:02Aunt Viviana, don't blame her. She's only just married in, it's only natural her feelings are unsettled.

00:02:07Mrs. Nolan is getting on in years. A few days in the country might do her good.

00:02:11You're too good-hearted. That's why people walk all over you.

00:02:16The husband being called away on the wedding night, that would unsettle anyone.

00:02:19But even so, taking it out on an old woman.

00:02:22Is that how you answer your elders?

00:02:24Mother, if you want to discuss manners, I'll answer.

00:02:27If you want to vent on behalf of Miss Ashfield, then say it plainly, and stop hiding behind the servants.

00:02:32The word mother caught Vivian in the throat.

00:02:35Nora, apologize.

00:02:36To whom?

00:02:37To my mother, and to Lily.

00:02:40Your reasons.

00:02:41You humiliated Lily yesterday.

00:02:43She came to serve me tea with no standing in this house, deliberately dropped the cup, and had her maid

00:02:48slander me in public.

00:02:50She was humiliated because she botched her own performance, not because I humiliated her.

00:02:55Who are you calling a performer?

00:02:57Whoever feels guilty is whoever I mean.

00:03:00The cousin's wife hid a smile behind her napkin, then caught herself.

00:03:04Grandfather said nothing the whole time.

00:03:05Alexander, you speak.

00:03:07Alexander was silent a moment.

00:03:09Yesterday, it was the people around Lily who ran their mouths.

00:03:13Lily's face went white.

00:03:14Vivian froze too.

00:03:15But Nora's punishment was too heavy.

00:03:17So the fault belongs to someone else, and the heaviness belongs to me.

00:03:21How do you want this settled?

00:03:22I looked at Lily.

00:03:23Mrs. Nolan can come back.

00:03:25But first, in front of everyone in this house, she names exactly who put those words in her mouth that

00:03:29day in the greenhouse.

00:03:30Madam, why must you keep cornering me?

00:03:32Because I don't care for having a bucket of filth dumped over my head.

00:03:35Volga!

00:03:35I'm vulgar.

00:03:37At least I don't do filthy things and then play clean.

00:03:39Nora, that's enough.

00:03:41It's not enough.

00:03:42I've lost my appetite for this meal.

00:03:44If you walk out that door, don't expect the Whitmore family to ever call you its daughter!

00:03:48I stopped.

00:03:49Whether this family calls me its daughter is not for you to decide alone.

00:03:53The marriage certificate says my name and Alexander's, not mine and Lily's.

00:03:57As I walked out of the dining room, I heard grandfather's cane strike the floor again.

00:04:01This time hard.

00:04:02It rained half the night.

00:04:04I sat in the study, going over the old ledgers the Sterling family had sent over, when Martha came in

00:04:09with a cup of tea.

00:04:09Madam, the young sir is spending tonight in the cottage.

00:04:12I turned a page.

00:04:14I know.

00:04:14She didn't leave.

00:04:16Grandfather's people asked what you'd like to take for tomorrow's homecoming visit.

00:04:19Prepare it to the letter of the list, not one item short.

00:04:22Martha nodded.

00:04:23Mrs. Whitfield had the list switched.

00:04:25She said the Sterlings don't need such fine things.

00:04:27Let me see it.

00:04:28On the list, the original heirloom diamond bracelet and two cases of vintage Bordeaux had been crossed out.

00:04:33I held the paper up to the light.

00:04:35Who switched it?

00:04:35Martha hesitated.

00:04:37Mrs. Whitlock, Mrs. Whitmore's steward.

00:04:39I stood.

00:04:40Take me to the storehouse.

00:04:41At the storehouse door, Mrs. Whitlock was directing men moving crates.

00:04:45Madam, still awake at this hour?

00:04:46Who decided the homecoming gifts?

00:04:48Mrs. Whitmore?

00:04:49Which Mrs. Whitmore?

00:04:50The young sir's mother, of course.

00:04:52I've married into this family.

00:04:54Who holds the keys to this household?

00:04:55Mrs. Whitlock smiled thinly.

00:04:57Madam has only just arrived.

00:04:58There's much she doesn't yet know.

00:05:00Mrs. Whitmore, out of consideration, is managing things for you for now.

00:05:03I asked who holds the keys.

00:05:05She didn't answer.

00:05:06Grandfather handed the keys to Madam this morning.

00:05:09I held out my hand.

00:05:10The keys.

00:05:11This storehouse has been Mrs. Whitmore's domain for 20 years.

00:05:14For Madam to simply take it with a word, that seems improper.

00:05:17Are you the Whitmore family's steward or Vivian Carlyle's dowry servant?

00:05:21Madam's words are harsh.

00:05:23Then let me say something pleasant.

00:05:24Open it now and take out everything on the original list, item by item.

00:05:29If you won't open it, I'll take these switched gifts back to my family tomorrow morning

00:05:33and have the press photograph exactly how the Whitmalls welcomed their new daughter-in-law.

00:05:38You're threatening the Whitmore family?

00:05:40Not a threat.

00:05:41A reminder.

00:05:42The Whitmalls care about their name.

00:05:45So do I.

00:05:46Nora.

00:05:47Behind me came Alexander's voice.

00:05:49He stood under a black umbrella in the rain.

00:05:51Sir, Madam means to force her way into the storehouse.

00:05:54I looked at Alexander.

00:05:55My homecoming gifts have been switched by your mother.

00:05:58He frowned.

00:05:59A few gifts.

00:06:00Do you have to make a scene?

00:06:01They're not just gifts.

00:06:02They're a face.

00:06:04Tomorrow I go home carrying cheap cloth and fruit.

00:06:06How do you think the Sterlings will see me?

00:06:08The Sterlings are reasonable Whitmalls.

00:06:10I laughed.

00:06:11So because the Sterlings are reasonable, the Whitmalls get to be graceless?

00:06:14The Sterlings were never the Whitmalls equal anyway.

00:06:17I turned to her.

00:06:18Slap her.

00:06:19A bodyguard stepped forward.

00:06:20Enough.

00:06:21It isn't enough.

00:06:22She's willing to insult my family to your face.

00:06:24Behind your back, she'll say the Whitmans married a bargain.

00:06:27Alexander, if you stop me now, do you want the whole city to know the Whitmalls couldn't

00:06:31even be bothered to give their bride a face?

00:06:33He stared at me, then looked at Mrs. Whitlock.

00:06:35Open the storehouse.

00:06:37Sir!

00:06:38Open it.

00:06:39The door still open.

00:06:40Martha checked the contents against the list, item by item.

00:06:43As I passed Mrs. Whitlock, she hissed,

00:06:45Don't be too pleased, madam.

00:06:46Mrs. Whitfield won't let you off.

00:06:47Then tell her not to send her servants to the front lines.

00:06:50She may not mind them getting dirty.

00:06:52I'd rather not stoil my hands.

00:06:54Mrs. Whitlock's face went iron-gray.

00:06:56Alexander stood in the rain, and for the first time, he didn't rush to anyone's defense.

00:07:00But I knew it wasn't me he was siding with.

00:07:02He was only afraid the Whitmores would lose face.

00:07:04On the day of the homecoming visit, Alexander was a full two hours late.

00:07:08The relatives at the Sterling house waited and waited, my Aunt Meredith's smile was wearing thin,

00:07:13and my cousin Gemma had peered through the front door three times.

00:07:16My mother sat in the living room, a cup of tea in her hands.

00:07:19Noah, shall we just start the lunch?

00:07:21I checked my watch.

00:07:22Ten more minutes.

00:07:23Brother-in-law must be so busy he forgot his own homecoming visit three days after the wedding.

00:07:27Nora, is it really that hard for you over at the Whitmalls?

00:07:29Gemma, watch your mouth.

00:07:31Your sister married into the Whitmalls.

00:07:33Half the city envies her.

00:07:34If you care so much about me, why don't you go stand at the door?

00:07:37You can be the first to greet Alexander when he arrives.

00:07:39No thanks.

00:07:40I don't want people thinking I want to marry into the Whitmans, too.

00:07:43There was the sound of a car outside.

00:07:45Alexander had finally arrived.

00:07:46He got out with Lily beside him.

00:07:49The whole yard went quiet.

00:07:50Lily clutched a gift box.

00:07:52Madam, I heard A was your homecoming visit, so I came to apologize to your mother.

00:07:58If I hadn't been unwell last night, Alex wouldn't have slept late, and he wouldn't be late today.

00:08:02Gemma's eyes lit up.

00:08:04Aunt Meredith's smile froze on her face.

00:08:06Nora, Lily means well.

00:08:08I walked up to Lily.

00:08:09By what right are you here?

00:08:11I'm only a guest of the Whitmalls.

00:08:13A guest of the Whitmalls come to apologize at the Sterling's homecoming lunch?

00:08:17You brought her here.

00:08:18Is the Sterling family's humiliation not yet big enough for you?

00:08:21She already apologized.

00:08:23She didn't apologize.

00:08:25She's telling everyone in this yard that you were late today because you were with her.

00:08:28Lily's tears threatened again.

00:08:30I didn't.

00:08:30My mother spoke.

00:08:32Mr. Whitmore, today is my daughter's homecoming.

00:08:35If you look down on the Sterling's, you were free not to come.

00:08:38Bringing an outsider with you?

00:08:40Is it because you think there's no one left in this house to answer for me?

00:08:43You misunderstand.

00:08:44Mom, brother-in-law means well, too.

00:08:47Miss Ashfield is so delicate, he couldn't just leave her by the side of the road.

00:08:51If you're so considerate, why don't you have Miss Ashfield over to your house for dinner tomorrow?

00:08:55Mrs. Sterling, this is the bracelet Alex picked out himself.

00:08:59My mother didn't take it.

00:09:00I took it instead and opened it.

00:09:01Inside was the very diamond bracelet I'd personally checked off in the storehouse yesterday.

00:09:06Only the box had been swapped for the pink velvet one Lily-like.

00:09:09You picked this?

00:09:10Alex was busy, so I chose it for him.

00:09:13You don't mind, do you, madam?

00:09:14I closed the box.

00:09:15The Whitmore homecoming gift, and you've turned it into a favor to hand out.

00:09:20Lily, tell me, are you a guest or the lady of the house?

00:09:24Lily's face went white.

00:09:26Nora, not in front of the elders.

00:09:28Throw this box away.

00:09:29Keep the bracelet.

00:09:30A box Miss Ashfield has touched has no place in the Sterling gift cabinet.

00:09:34Lily clutched her chest.

00:09:36Madam, why must you humiliate me like this?

00:09:38Humiliate you?

00:09:39You follow another woman's husband to her homecoming visit in a white dress,

00:09:43carrying the gift and claiming you chose it.

00:09:46If I were you, I'd have found a crack in the floor to crawl into.

00:09:49Somewhere among the relatives, someone couldn't hold back a laugh.

00:09:52Alexander's face went dark as a storm.

00:09:54Apologize.

00:09:55And who am I apologizing to this time?

00:09:57To Lily.

00:09:58My mother stepped to my side.

00:09:59Mr. Whitmore, my daughter will not be apologizing.

00:10:02Mrs. Sterling, this is between Nora and me.

00:10:05I am her mother.

00:10:06If she's been wronged, it's my business.

00:10:08Lily's tears rolled down.

00:10:09It's all my fault.

00:10:10I'll go.

00:10:11She turned and fled the yard.

00:10:12Alexander glanced at me, then went after her.

00:10:15The relatives all looked at me.

00:10:16My mother took my hand.

00:10:17Nora, come stay home for a few days.

00:10:20No.

00:10:20The lunch goes on.

00:10:21The gifts get received.

00:10:22Today, I wasn't the one who lost face.

00:10:24Nora, what good is a sharp tongue?

00:10:26Brother-in-law still ran after this.

00:10:27Say one more word, and I'll tell Aunt Meredith exactly what you spent the money I lent you last month

00:10:31on.

00:10:31What did you spend it on?

00:10:33Back at the estate, Vivian was waiting in the sitting room.

00:10:36Lily sat beside her, eyes swollen as if she'd just stopped crying.

00:10:39Alexander stood at the window.

00:10:41Vivian tossed a stack of photographs onto the coffee table.

00:10:44Nora, you've got real talent.

00:10:46You humiliate my son at your own homecoming, and you let the Sterlings bully Lily on top of it.

00:10:53They showed Lily running out of the Sterling yard with Alexander chasing after her to steady her.

00:10:57The angle was flattering, and it looked like I'd hounded a helpless girl to her breaking point.

00:11:02I set the photos down.

00:11:03Who took these?

00:11:04Vivian sneered.

00:11:05You care who took them?

00:11:07Half the wives in Ashford have already seen them.

00:11:10They're saying the new Mrs. Whitfield can't abide anyone else in the house.

00:11:14Aunt Viviana, don't blame her.

00:11:16She just cares too much about Alex.

00:11:19I looked at her.

00:11:20Call him Alex in that voice one more time.

00:11:22Lily shrank toward Vivian.

00:11:24You dare threaten her!

00:11:25She dares do it, why shouldn't I dare say it?

00:11:29Alexander turned around.

00:11:31Nora, you really did go too far today.

00:11:33I nodded.

00:11:34You bring her to my homecoming visit, that's not too far.

00:11:38I send her away, that's too far.

00:11:41Alexander, did Lily buy you that scale of yours?

00:11:45Ungrateful little-

00:11:46Mother!

00:11:47Starting today, she keeps her hands off the household accounts.

00:11:50Hand over the storehouse keys.

00:11:53Lily may not have a title, but she's a hundred times more sensible than this one.

00:11:58Let Lily manage things for me first.

00:12:00I looked at Alexander.

00:12:01Is that what you want, too?

00:12:03He was silent a few seconds.

00:12:05You've only just arrived.

00:12:06It's true, you shouldn't be managing too much.

00:12:09Madam, don't misunderstand.

00:12:10I'm only helping Aunt Vivian share the load.

00:12:13Once you're feeling better, I'll return everything to you.

00:12:15I set the keys on the coffee table.

00:12:17Vivian gave a satisfied-

00:12:19You know your place, after all.

00:12:22Martha, bring out the three-trunks jewelry, the two cases of rare wine, and the four paintings that came in

00:12:26this afternoon.

00:12:27Vivian frowned.

00:12:28What are you doing?

00:12:30That's my dowry.

00:12:31The Whitmill keys I can hand over.

00:12:33But my own belongings I won't leave for Miss Ashwalt in to manage.

00:12:38Madam, that's not what I meant.

00:12:40You'd better hope it isn't.

00:12:41Because otherwise, I'll teach you that some people's things burn the hand that reaches for them.

00:12:46Must you make everything so ugly?

00:12:48Isn't the uglier one the person grabbing at the keys?

00:12:50A dowry kept in the Whitmore house is the Whitmore family's honor.

00:12:54You keep carroting it back and forth.

00:12:57Who exactly are you guarding against?

00:13:01Thieves.

00:13:01Lily's tears fell.

00:13:03Madam, are you calling me a thief?

00:13:05Whoever wants to steal, that's who I'm calling it.

00:13:07Alexander walked over to me.

00:13:09Nora, apologize to my mother.

00:13:12I looked up at him.

00:13:13No.

00:13:14Don't push me.

00:13:16I smiled.

00:13:17What can you do?

00:13:19Throw me out?

00:13:20Or elevate Lily in my place?

00:13:23Alexander, your grandfather is still alive.

00:13:26His face went completely dark.

00:13:28Outrageous!

00:13:29Utterly outrageous!

00:13:31Alexander snatched the keys from the coffee table and tossed them to Lily.

00:13:35The household affairs let Lily manage them for now.

00:13:38Lily caught the keys, tears, and a poorly hidden triumph in her eyes.

00:13:42She wanted me to see, with my own eyes, exactly what her son is.

00:13:48I crossed to the window and yanked the heavy velvet drapes open, letting the city lights

00:13:53pour in and expose every inch of Lily's bloodless face.

00:13:56Want a photo?

00:13:57My phone takes lovely pictures.

00:13:59I could send one straight to Grandfather Whitmore.

00:14:03Nora, have you lost your mind?

00:14:05I looked down at her.

00:14:07Why are you scared?

00:14:09When you were screwing my husband, did you think about today?

00:14:12You were halfway through him.

00:14:14Wasn't the whole point to rub it in my face one day?

00:14:16Well, here it is.

00:14:17Go on.

00:14:18Kiss him.

00:14:19Nora, don't.

00:14:21Let's talk.

00:14:22Talk?

00:14:22I pulled my hand back and wiped my sleeve in disgust.

00:14:26You've still got her lipstick on your mouth.

00:14:29Talk to me.

00:14:30You don't get to.

00:14:32Alex, I didn't mean to.

00:14:33She just burged in.

00:14:34Shut up.

00:14:35Lily, one more performance out of you, and I'll play those little sounds you were making

00:14:40for Grandfather Whitfear.

00:14:41Her lips wobbled, and she actually went quiet.

00:14:44What do you want?

00:14:44I watched the keys and didn't reach for them.

00:14:47Martha had the staff carry my dowry trunks out to the west wing.

00:14:51As they passed Lily, a corner of one trunk knocked open a crack.

00:14:54A small, tarnished copper tag rolled out.

00:14:56Lily glanced down, and her face changed in an instant.

00:14:59I bent, picked up the tag, and put it back in the trunk.

00:15:02Lily, do you know what that is?

00:15:03No.

00:15:04It just looked old.

00:15:06Old things have their uses.

00:15:08Half a month later, the Whitmores hosted a charity auction gala.

00:15:11Vivienne called me into the dressing room.

00:15:13You'll wear this tonight.

00:15:14The Whitmores keep a low profile.

00:15:16Don't turn up dressed to the nines and make a spectacle of yourself.

00:15:20Beside it hung Lily's pale gold gown.

00:15:22It's hem sewn with tiny pearls.

00:15:24Aunt Viviania, she's a new bride after all.

00:15:27If she dresses too plainly, people will talk.

00:15:30Why don't I lend her my shawl?

00:15:32Keep it for yourself.

00:15:34It hardly matters what she wears, as long as she doesn't bring trouble on the family.

00:15:38I ran a finger over the old gown sleeve.

00:15:40Who prepared this dress?

00:15:42Mrs. Whitlock.

00:15:44Bring her here.

00:15:45Mrs. Whitlock arrived quickly, a faint smugness in her eyes.

00:15:49Is Madam not satisfied?

00:15:50I held the gown up.

00:15:52There's an oil stain on the left sleeve.

00:15:54The waist has been re-sewed, and the shoulders don't sit right.

00:15:58You want me to wear this to a gala.

00:16:00Is it so people will say the Whitmores neglect their new bride, or so I'll make a fool of myself

00:16:06in public?

00:16:07Madam has sharp eyes.

00:16:09But Mrs. Whitlock asked for something low-key, so low-key was what I found.

00:16:15Lily hurried to smooth things over.

00:16:17Then let me give Madam my gown, and I'll wear the old one.

00:16:21You're not well.

00:16:22Don't put yourself out.

00:16:24I laugh.

00:16:25Miss Ashworth is so generous, offering only because she knows I'd never wear her clothes.

00:16:32Why does Madam always assume the worst of me?

00:16:35I looked at her.

00:16:36Because you don't exactly do the best.

00:16:38If you won't wear it, don't go.

00:16:40Then I won't.

00:16:41Alexander walked in just then.

00:16:43What are you kicking up now?

00:16:45She's complaining about the dress and refusing to attend the gala.

00:16:49Alexander glanced at the gown and frowned too.

00:16:51Get her another one.

00:16:52Alexander.

00:16:53There will be a lot of outsiders tonight.

00:16:55It's only when there are outsiders that you remember I'm Mrs. Whit for.

00:16:59He didn't answer.

00:17:01Alex, I won't go.

00:17:02Madam is unhappy whenever she sees me.

00:17:05And I don't want to make things hard for you.

00:17:08You must go.

00:17:09Mrs. Harlow asked for you by name tonight.

00:17:11She said that painting you donated last time showed real taste.

00:17:14Which painting?

00:17:16Lily's smile thinned.

00:17:17The Winter Ridge landscape from the cottage.

00:17:21Alex said it was just sitting there.

00:17:23Better to give it to a good cause.

00:17:25I looked at Alexander.

00:17:26That painting is my dowry.

00:17:28He went still.

00:17:29How can that be?

00:17:31It's always hung in the cottage.

00:17:32Because before the wedding, I sent it in to have the frame restored.

00:17:36And it was stored in the cottage temporarily.

00:17:38On the back of the painting is the Sterling family's blind stamp.

00:17:42It's one painting.

00:17:44Lily's doing a good bead and you're going to quibble?

00:17:46She took my property and donated it and somehow that made her tasteful.

00:17:50He was silent.

00:17:51I understood.

00:17:52He knew.

00:17:53Madam, I truly didn't know.

00:17:55If it bothers you, I'll repay you the money.

00:17:57You couldn't afford to.

00:17:59Vivian looked at me like I'd told a joke.

00:18:01One old painting and she can't afford it?

00:18:04I didn't explain.

00:18:05I'll go tonight.

00:18:07And that painting will go too.

00:18:09Lily's gaze flickered.

00:18:10It's already been delivered to the auction.

00:18:12Good.

00:18:14Then I'll ask, in front of everyone, whose it is.

00:18:17The gala was at the Ashford Club's grand ballroom.

00:18:20Lily swept in on Vivian's arm and a circle of wives gathered around to flatter her.

00:18:24Lily looks more like the Whitmore lady of the house every day.

00:18:28Vivian drank it in smiling.

00:18:30I walked over.

00:18:31Miss Ashford has even volunteered to certify temperament for me.

00:18:35How exhausting that must be.

00:18:37Before the bidding began, the host introduced the Winter Ridge painting.

00:18:41This piece was donated by Miss Lily Ashwell, reportedly taken down personally by Mr. Whitmore.

00:18:46Quite the story behind it.

00:18:47Applause rippled.

00:18:48Vivian's face was pure satisfaction.

00:18:51I raised my paddle.

00:18:52The host blinked.

00:18:53Mrs. Whitmore bids.

00:18:55Madam, if you like it, I can give it to you.

00:18:58There's no need to spend money here.

00:19:00I'm buying my own property to see how it was stolen and how it comes back to me.

00:19:07Nora, don't make a scene.

00:19:09Alexander looked at me, too.

00:19:10Sit down.

00:19:11I didn't sit.

00:19:12Host, please take the painting down and turn it over.

00:19:15The host glanced at the organizers.

00:19:17The organizer was Mrs. Harlow, Vivian's friend.

00:19:20She frowned.

00:19:21Mrs. Whitmore, auctions have rules.

00:19:25You can't just demand we flip a painting.

00:19:28On the back of this painting is the Sterling family's blind stamp.

00:19:31If it isn't there, I'll apologize to Miss Ashwith on the spot.

00:19:35If it is, Miss Ashford can explain, on the spot, how she came to deny dowry.

00:19:39Madam, I truly didn't know it was yours.

00:19:42Lily's face went white.

00:19:43Then why are you afraid to turn it over?

00:19:45I've watched Lily grow up.

00:19:47She doesn't steal.

00:19:50Then turn it over.

00:19:51A middle-aged man in glasses stepped forward.

00:19:55I'm tonight's appraiser.

00:19:56I can take a look.

00:19:58Mrs. Harlow hesitated.

00:19:59Lily suddenly clutched her temple.

00:20:02Alex, my heart's so much.

00:20:04Alexander stood to steady her.

00:20:06Watching it, I nearly laughed out loud.

00:20:08That old trick again.

00:20:10Turn it over.

00:20:11He took the painting down, pulled on gloves, and slowly flipped it to the back.

00:20:14In the lower right corner, clear as day, was a red blind stamp.

00:20:18The Sterling Crest.

00:20:19Mrs. Harlow's foundation couldn't cover her embarrassment.

00:20:22Vivian clutched her clutch and said nothing.

00:20:24I really didn't know.

00:20:27Alex, Mrs. Whitlock told me it was a spare painting from the storehouse.

00:20:31Mrs. Whitlock gave you my dowry, and you donated it to buy yourself a good name.

00:20:35You didn't know.

00:20:37And Alexander didn't know either.

00:20:39I only knew she wanted to donate a painting.

00:20:41So you personally took it down from the cottage for her?

00:20:44He said nothing.

00:20:45I walked to the front of the room.

00:20:47This painting isn't for sale.

00:20:48Mrs. Harlow, if you still mean to auction it, you'll need a certificate of ownership from me first.

00:20:53A misunderstanding.

00:20:54Just a misunderstanding.

00:20:56I took back the painting.

00:20:58Madam, you've proven it's yours.

00:21:00Why do you have to keep humiliating me in public?

00:21:03I turned.

00:21:04When you traded my property for applause, did you think about humiliating me?

00:21:08We'll talk when we're home.

00:21:09Don't bother.

00:21:10It's all been said clearly enough tonight.

00:21:12Nora, do you have to stand against me?

00:21:14I didn't cross over to the other side.

00:21:16You never stood on mine.

00:21:17After the gala, Vivian raged through the estate.

00:21:20She smashed two coffee cups and pointed at me.

00:21:23You've dragged the Whitmore name through the dirt!

00:21:26I handed the Winter Ridge painting to Martha.

00:21:28The ones who dragged it through the dirt are the people who stole a painting.

00:21:32Mrs. Whitlock knelt on the floor, sobbing messily.

00:21:34Mrs. Whitlock, sir, I truly didn't know it was Madam's dowry.

00:21:40Miss Ashton said the painting had hung in the cottage for years, so I believed it was hers.

00:21:46Mrs. Whitlock, how can you say that?

00:21:48You're the one who told me no one wanted the painting.

00:21:52Miss Ashton, I've served Mrs. Whitlock for 20 years.

00:21:55I wouldn't dare lie like that.

00:21:57But that day, you said the Madam had so much dowry she'd never notice one missing painting.

00:22:04Alex, I didn't.

00:22:06She's afraid of being punished, so she's shifting the blame onto me.

00:22:09Alexander looked at Mrs. Whitlock.

00:22:11Do you have proof?

00:22:12I don't.

00:22:14I knew it.

00:22:15The Madam won't let it go.

00:22:17Now even the servants know they can dump their filth on me.

00:22:21Lily, don't cry.

00:22:22I looked at Mrs. Whitlock.

00:22:24What you just said, can you say it again?

00:22:26I can't. I must have misremembered.

00:22:28Lily let out a breath.

00:22:30Nora, that's enough.

00:22:31They collude to take my dowry, and that's enough for you?

00:22:33The painting's been returned.

00:22:34And my name.

00:22:35What do you want, Lily to kneel to you?

00:22:37Whether she kneels doesn't matter.

00:22:38I only want the Whitmans to release a statement that the Winter Ridge painting is Sterling Downery

00:22:42and that Miss Ashberth donated it by mistake.

00:22:44No.

00:22:45Why not?

00:22:46Because people will think I coveted Madam's things.

00:22:49I'll have a statement drafted, but keep the wording gentle.

00:22:52Vivian stared at him, shocked.

00:22:54Alexander!

00:22:55It's already blown up tonight.

00:22:57Not explaining will look worse.

00:22:59Lily's tears stopped.

00:23:00She stared at him.

00:23:02Alex, you don't believe me either?

00:23:04He was silent.

00:23:05That silence cut deeper than any scolding.

00:23:08Lily suddenly clutched her head and crumpled backward.

00:23:11Get a doctor!

00:23:12Alexander instinctively reached to catch her.

00:23:14I didn't stop him.

00:23:16Mrs. Whitlock nearly told the truth just now.

00:23:19She will.

00:23:20Lily's headache turned up nothing.

00:23:21The doctor came and went.

00:23:23The next morning, the statement was never released.

00:23:26Instead, Lily sent out a handwritten letter of apology saying she'd taken the Winter Ridge painting by accident

00:23:31and that it was only Madam's deep-seated prejudice that had turned a small matter into a storm.

00:23:37Once the letter circulated, the wives of Ashford were buzzing again.

00:23:41I sat at the breakfast table reading the words on my phone.

00:23:44Martha was livid.

00:23:45She's turning it back on you.

00:23:47I set the phone down.

00:23:48Does Alexander know about this?

00:23:50I know.

00:23:51His voice came from the doorway.

00:23:52I looked up.

00:23:53He looked like he hadn't slept.

00:23:54She's not well.

00:23:56She can't take the public attacks.

00:23:58I had her send the apology at her first to quiet things down.

00:24:02So I can take it?

00:24:03Nora, you're stronger than she is.

00:24:05I looked at him and for a moment the word struck me as almost funny.

00:24:10So being wronged is my fault because I don't collapse.

00:24:13He didn't argue.

00:24:14I lifted my oatmeal and took a bite.

00:24:16Fine.

00:24:17I'll remember that.

00:24:18A few days later, at an important Whitmore Industries partnership dinner...

00:24:23Alex was up late last night.

00:24:26I just helped tidy up the wording.

00:24:28Miss Ashworth is a real partner.

00:24:31Mr. Whitmore is a lucky man.

00:24:33Alexander didn't correct them.

00:24:34I sat nearby looking at the cover of that proposal.

00:24:37I'd spent the entire previous night putting it together.

00:24:40Alexander had brought it home saying the company needed it urgently

00:24:43and asked me to look over the wording.

00:24:45I looked and I revised.

00:24:47Now the credit belonged to Lily.

00:24:48Lily came over with a wine glass.

00:24:50You don't mind, do you, madam?

00:24:52Alex said you didn't understand these things, so I stepped in to help.

00:24:55I looked at her.

00:24:56Which page did you revise?

00:24:58Her smile flickered.

00:24:59Many of the details.

00:25:01Name one.

00:25:03Madam, this is a business occasion.

00:25:05Don't make it difficult.

00:25:07I picked up the proposal from the table.

00:25:09If you helped Alexander revise it, then when the partners ask, you should be able to answer.

00:25:12Alexander came over, voice low.

00:25:15Nora, not here.

00:25:16Mrs. Whitmore knows proposals, too?

00:25:19Madam doesn't really deal with these things.

00:25:21I reached into his trouser pocket, pulled out his car keys and, for good measure,

00:25:25wrenched his loose and felt buckle back into place so hard the metal clipped his stomach.

00:25:30I want you and your mistress to understand one thing.

00:25:33Taking the title of Mrs. Whitman is easy.

00:25:37Getting me out of it?

00:25:39You'll have to flay me alive first.

00:25:41I turned for the door, the curtains billowing in the night air behind me.

00:25:45Lily finally burst into tears.

00:25:47Alex, she's terrifying.

00:25:49Nora, if you walk out that door tonight, our marriage is over.

00:25:53I stopped, looked back, and smiled.

00:25:56Our marriage was over the moment you pinned Lily to that window and started undoing her dress.

00:26:00But don't worry.

00:26:02I'm not divorcing you.

00:26:04I'm staying in the Whitmore family.

00:26:07And slowly, bit by bit, I'm going to dismantle everything you love.

00:26:14Starting tonight.

00:26:15The door shut behind me.

00:26:17Alone in the empty corridor, I leaned against the wall and stared down at my shaking hands.

00:26:22The glass of Romaine Conti finally hit the floor.

00:26:26The wine spread across the marble, deep purple-red, like the blood on Cole's rescue uniform three years ago.

00:26:32Mr. Sullivan, the payment schedule you asked about, the original draft, said it too rigidly.

00:26:37I changed it last night to two-stage acceptance, to guard against materials not being ready up front.

00:26:42Since Meshwethel says she revised it, let her explain why.

00:26:45Miss Ashmov?

00:26:46Lily's face went pale.

00:26:48I revised the wording.

00:26:49I turned another page.

00:26:51Page seven.

00:26:52Under breach of contract, I added a clause.

00:26:53If Whitmore Industries delays delivery, it can't hide behind force battalion.

00:26:58Miss Ashfield?

00:26:59Do you think that clause should stay?

00:27:01Alex.

00:27:03Alexander's face was already grim.

00:27:05Mr. Sullivan took the proposal and studied it closely.

00:27:08Keep that clause.

00:27:09Miss, Mrs. Whitmore, did you used to do legal work?

00:27:11I used to review contracts for the family.

00:27:14Madam, why must you steal my credit in front of everyone?

00:27:17I laugh.

00:27:18Steal?

00:27:19When you hold something stolen long enough, do you start believing it's yours?

00:27:24Enough.

00:27:25That word is meant for her.

00:27:27Lily suddenly tipped her wine glass over her own dress.

00:27:30She gasped.

00:27:31Everyone turned.

00:27:32Madam, if you dislike me, just say so.

00:27:34Why splash me?

00:27:36Miss Ashdon, the glass was in your own hand.

00:27:38Lily froze.

00:27:39The assistant adjusted his glasses.

00:27:41I've been standing here the whole time.

00:27:43I saw it clearly.

00:27:44Mr. Whitmore, let's table today's discussion.

00:27:47An unsettled household makes for messy business.

00:27:51He left, taking his people with him.

00:27:52Lily panicked.

00:27:53Alex, I didn't mean to.

00:27:55I'm just so afraid of her.

00:27:57Alexander didn't move to comfort her.

00:27:59He looked at me, voice hoarse.

00:28:01You really did revise the proposal?

00:28:03When you handed it to me, didn't you know?

00:28:05The color drained from his face.

00:28:06I stood and walked out.

00:28:08Madam, are you happy now?

00:28:09The deal's gone, satisfied?

00:28:11I stopped.

00:28:12The deal's gone because you're an idiot.

00:28:15Stop dumping every bucket of filth on my head.

00:28:18News that Mr. Sullivan had paused the deal, reached the estate, and Vivian laid all the

00:28:22blame on me.

00:28:23If you hadn't humiliated Lily at that dinner, would Sutherland have walked?

00:28:27If she hadn't stolen credit and staged a wine spill, would Sullivan have walked?

00:28:31Lily had cried all night.

00:28:33Her voice was raw.

00:28:34Aunt Vivian, don't say any more.

00:28:36It's my fault.

00:28:37I shouldn't have helped Alex.

00:28:40Madam already hates me.

00:28:41Everything I do is wrong.

00:28:43Vivian's heart broke for her.

00:28:45Grandfather was wheeled in.

00:28:46Who wrote the proposal?

00:28:48It's Alexander's company work.

00:28:50Of course Alexander wrote it.

00:28:52Grandfather looked at Alexander.

00:28:53You tell me.

00:28:54The original draft was the company's.

00:28:57Nora revised the key part.

00:28:58Alexander, why are you siding with her?

00:29:01It's the truth.

00:29:02Why do you understand these things?

00:29:04I poured myself some tea.

00:29:06The Sterlings are in trade.

00:29:08Humble beginnings.

00:29:09We had to read everything ourselves.

00:29:10He studied me a long time.

00:29:12You go handle Mr. Sullivan.

00:29:14Vivian objected at once.

00:29:16Father, she's a woman who's only just married in.

00:29:19How can she represent the Whitmorns in negotiations?

00:29:22She made the mess.

00:29:23She cleans it up.

00:29:25The words were unkind, but they gave me a standing.

00:29:28Grandfather, Madam's prejudice against me runs too deep.

00:29:30And Mr. Sullivan saw her lose her temper at the dinner zone eyes.

00:29:33It'll only be harder for her to close the deal.

00:29:35You're so worried.

00:29:35Why don't you go?

00:29:36She bit her lip.

00:29:37I'm afraid I'd only make a mess.

00:29:39Your self-knowledge is refreshingly accurate.

00:29:41Vivian slammed the tape.

00:29:42Nora!

00:29:43But Grandfather coughed and Vivian fell silent.

00:29:46I'll go with you tomorrow.

00:29:47If you come, Mr. Sullivan will only remember the red wine.

00:29:50Lily's face went white again.

00:29:51The next day, I went to Sullivan Group alone.

00:29:54Nora.

00:29:55Mrs. Whitmore?

00:29:56Mr. Sullivan said he can give you ten minutes.

00:29:58I nodded.

00:29:59In the conference room, Mr. Sullivan didn't rise.

00:30:01Mrs. Whitmore, I admired your revisions the other night.

00:30:04But a partnership isn't built on a few lines.

00:30:07I didn't come to beg on behalf of the Whitmorters.

00:30:08I came to tell you Whitmore Industries has a problem in its materials supply.

00:30:11If you proceed as planned, you'll be the one who loses.

00:30:13His eyes changed.

00:30:15Do you know what you're saying?

00:30:16I do.

00:30:17You're undermining your own husband.

00:30:19I'm saving both houses.

00:30:21If the materials problem isn't fixed, it blows up eventually.

00:30:25Proof?

00:30:25I slid over a photocopy of a test report.

00:30:28I'll let you look at it, but I'm taking it back.

00:30:29You can verify it yourself.

00:30:31He studied it for half a minute, his face darkening.

00:30:33Who gave you this?

00:30:34The Whitmore storehouse.

00:30:36Mr. Sullivan pressed the intercom.

00:30:37Get procurement in here.

00:30:39Half an hour later.

00:30:39Mrs. Whitmore, I won't cancel the deal, but I want Whitmore to change its materials supplier.

00:30:44Fine.

00:30:45Can you make that call?

00:30:47You tell me, can I?

00:30:50Alexander dragged me to the underground garage.

00:30:52You're investigating Whitmore's materials?

00:30:55I'm investigating the Whitmore storehouse.

00:30:57Nora, do you have any idea how badly this could hurt the company if it got out?

00:31:01I buckled my seatbelt.

00:31:03Using false materials will hurt worse when something actually goes wrong.

00:31:06He stared at me.

00:31:07Where did that test report come from?

00:31:09You should be asking where the materials came from.

00:31:11Whitmore's procurement has always been handled by my uncle.

00:31:14All the more reason to investigate.

00:31:17The car license and the Whitmians are too deeply tangled.

00:31:21Don't touch that thread.

00:31:22I laughed.

00:31:23Is that a reminder or a warning?

00:31:25He didn't answer.

00:31:26The garage light fell across his tired face.

00:31:29The click of heels came from the elevator.

00:31:32Lily arrived.

00:31:32Alex, Aunt Viviana asked me to bring you some soup.

00:31:35How did you know I was at Sullivan Group?

00:31:37Lily's eyes flickered.

00:31:38Mrs. Whitlock said you'd come this way.

00:31:40I was afraid you hadn't eaten.

00:31:42I opened the door and got out.

00:31:43Mrs. Whitlock was punished and set to menial work in the backyard, and she still gets word

00:31:47faster than the front desk.

00:31:49Madam, are you going to make an issue of my bringing soup too?

00:31:52I looked at the thermos in her hand.

00:31:54What did you put in it?

00:31:55Her face changed.

00:31:57What do you mean?

00:31:58Nothing.

00:31:59You've had headaches for years.

00:32:00You've taken a lot of medicine.

00:32:01It's natural the soup would smell of herbs.

00:32:04Alexander took the thermos and opened it, sniffing.

00:32:06His face went dark.

00:32:07Lily said quickly,

00:32:08It's just a calming broth.

00:32:10Aunt Viviania drinks it too.

00:32:12Then send it to Mrs. Whitfield.

00:32:14Lily's tears welled again.

00:32:16Madam, I know you hate me, but you can't keep thinking the worst of me.

00:32:21Lily, Alex hasn't been sleeping well.

00:32:23I was only worried about him.

00:32:25Alexander screwed the lid back on.

00:32:27Don't bring me soup anymore.

00:32:29Lily froze.

00:32:30Alex?

00:32:31And stop having Mrs. Whitlock track my movements.

00:32:34Lily's tears hung on her lashes, not falling.

00:32:36I walked to the elevator.

00:32:38Alexander called after me.

00:32:40Nora, wait!

00:32:40I didn't stop.

00:32:41Behind me, Lily's voice broke.

00:32:43Alex, is it because of her that you don't believe me anymore?

00:32:47Just before the doors closed, I heard him say,

00:32:50Lily, I just want the truth.

00:32:52Back at the estate, Vivian was waiting in the sitting room.

00:32:55The thermos sat on the table.

00:32:57Lily had already collapsed into tears beside her.

00:33:00Aunt Viviana, I only brought him soup.

00:33:02And Madam said I drugged it.

00:33:04And now Alex suspects me too.

00:33:06Vivian hurled a teacup at my feet.

00:33:08Nora, will it never end?

00:33:10Lily grew up in this house.

00:33:12If she had evil in her, it would have shown long ago.

00:33:14I looked at the broken porcelain.

00:33:16And evil doesn't keep a timetable.

00:33:18You investigate the materials, the soup, the painting.

00:33:22Did the Whitmans marry a daughter-in-law or a police detective?

00:33:25If this house is clean, why fear me looking?

00:33:29Alexander, listen to her.

00:33:31Today she dares investigate your uncle.

00:33:33Tomorrow she'll turn the whole family inside out.

00:33:35Alexander looked at her.

00:33:37Mother, I'll look into the materials myself.

00:33:40Vivian froze.

00:33:41You actually believe her?

00:33:43Lily clutched Vivian's hand.

00:33:45Aunt Vivian, Madam may only be doing it for the family's good.

00:33:49That's the first sensible thing you've said.

00:33:52Pity it came so late.

00:33:53Whatever I say, Madam finds it wrong.

00:33:56Grandfather was wheeled in by Martha.

00:33:58Have you all finished squabbling?

00:34:01Grandfather looked at Alexander.

00:34:03What did Sullivan say?

00:34:04The deal continues, but we change material suppliers.

00:34:08Vivian panicked.

00:34:09Father, we can't.

00:34:10That's my brother's people.

00:34:11There's never been a problem in all these years.

00:34:13Grandfather tapped his cane.

00:34:15Never a problem doesn't mean nothing ever happened.

00:34:20Grandfather, the test report in Madam's hands might be mistaken.

00:34:23Uncle Victor has always been careful.

00:34:25He wouldn't hurt the Whitman's.

00:34:26How do you know about the test report?

00:34:28She froze.

00:34:30Alexander looked at her too.

00:34:31Lily's fingers brushed the thermos handle, then dropped.

00:34:34I heard it in the garage just now.

00:34:37I only mentioned the soup, not the test report.

00:34:40Nora, don't seize on one stray word.

00:34:43Grandfather stared at Lily.

00:34:45Lily, who told you?

00:34:46Lily's tears fell.

00:34:48Mrs. Whitlock, she said Madam took a paper to Sullivan Group.

00:34:52I was afraid Alex was being set up, so I went.

00:34:56Alexander's face darkened further.

00:34:57Mrs. Whitlock knew again?

00:34:59Martha said quietly.

00:35:00Grandfather, Mrs. Whitlock was in the backyard all morning.

00:35:03She never left.

00:35:04The room was so still you could hear the clock.

00:35:06Lily looked up.

00:35:08Martha, are you calling me a liar?

00:35:10Martha didn't flinch.

00:35:11I'm only saying what I saw.

00:35:13Bring Mrs. Whitkick in.

00:35:14Lily's face turned ugly.

00:35:16Vivian tried to speak, but Grandfather raised his hand.

00:35:19Anyone stopping this leaves the house with her.

00:35:21Mrs. Whitlock was brought in, her apron still damp.

00:35:24She dropped to her knees the moment she entered.

00:35:27Grandfather, I don't know anything!

00:35:28I looked at her.

00:35:30I haven't asked yet.

00:35:31Her lips trembled.

00:35:33Madam, how many people do you mean to drive to ruin?

00:35:36I took the copper tag from my bag and set it on the coffee table.

00:35:40Mrs. Whitlock saw it and shrank back, her knees scraping a crease into the carpet.

00:35:44Alexander asked,

00:35:46What is that?

00:35:47Ask her.

00:35:48Mrs. Whitlock stared at the tag.

00:35:50It's the Blackrick Mountain Rescue Unit dog card.

00:35:54I didn't look at him.

00:35:55Your fiancé's unit?

00:35:56I didn't look at him.

00:35:58I only asked Mrs. Whitlock.

00:36:00Why are you afraid of it?

00:36:01Madam, I don't dare say.

00:36:04Lily lunged at her.

00:36:05Don't you lie!

00:36:06You know nothing!

00:36:07Grandfather's cane slammed the floor.

00:36:09Let her speak.

00:36:10Three years ago, before the Blackbridge landslide, someone got an evacuation warning in advance.

00:36:17But the warning was suppressed.

00:36:20Miss Ashmouth has a tag exactly like that one.

00:36:23She said that as long as I obeyed her, no one would ever know a call had come through to

00:36:28the cottage that day.

00:36:30She's slandering me!

00:36:33Alexander stood there as if the sound had been knocked out of him.

00:36:36I finally looked at him.

00:36:38Now, do you still think I'm just hard to live with?

00:36:49Father, Mrs. Whitlock has been frightened out of her wits by Nora.

00:36:53What does a three-year-old accident have to do with Lily?

00:36:56Lily was too ill to get out of bed back then.

00:36:59Mrs. Whitlock shook her head, still kneeling.

00:37:02The next morning, Grandfather Whitmore announced in the Great Hall that I would marry Alexander.

00:37:06Everyone was waiting to watch me be humiliated.

00:37:09There wasn't a soul in Ashford who didn't know Alexander had a first love he'd never gotten over.

00:37:15Lily Ashworth, being Mrs. Whitmore, had its uses.

00:37:18The Sterling family needed a foothold in Ashford.

00:37:20I sat in the antique armchair, met the gaze of a room full of guests, and raised my glass to

00:37:25Alexander in a toast.

00:37:26His eyes were complicated.

00:37:28After all, I'd just caught him with Lily the night before.

00:37:31Drink this, and from now on, we're husband and wife.

00:37:33At last, he lifted his glass.

00:37:34As the wine went down, I leaned close and whispered,

00:37:37Alexander, tell me, did Lily ever mention the phone call?

00:37:40His head snapped toward me, but I'd already pulled back, smiling sweetly at the guests.

00:37:44On our wedding night, we'd barely finished our toast when a maid's panicked voice came through the door.

00:37:48Sir, Miss Ashford's taken ill with one of her headaches.

00:37:51It's bad, sir.

00:37:52Please, won't you go see her?

00:37:54If you don't come soon, I don't know what will happen.

00:37:56Alexander's face changed instantly.

00:37:58He half rose before he caught himself and glanced at me.

00:38:01Go.

00:38:01If it's a matter of life and death, nothing else matters.

00:38:04I'm sorry.

00:38:05I'll check on her and come straight back.

00:38:07I nodded and said nothing more.

00:38:09Mrs. Whitmore, I wouldn't dare lie.

00:38:11That year, the call to cottage came through me.

00:38:14I didn't!

00:38:15Miss Ashford told me to transfer it to her.

00:38:18She listened, then hung up, and said not to let Alexander know.

00:38:21What did the call say?

00:38:23Mrs. Whitlock's teeth were chattering.

00:38:25It said there was a risk of a second collapse at Blackridge.

00:38:29The rescue team needed to be told to evacuate immediately.

00:38:33Why did it come to the cottage?

00:38:36Mrs. Whitlock looked at Lily and didn't dare answer.

00:38:39Lily's voice went thin and shrill.

00:38:42She's making it up, Alex!

00:38:44You can't believe her!

00:38:46Because that day, the Whitmans had donated relief supplies, and the on-site contact had left the Whitman number.

00:38:52Alexander was out of town.

00:38:54The main house line was busy, and the cottage was closer, so it rang through to the cottage.

00:39:00How do you know that?

00:39:01My fiancé died there.

00:39:03No one spoke.

00:39:05This is a photocopy of the call log from that day.

00:39:08The number is the Whitmore Cottage.

00:39:09The call was answered at 4.27 in the afternoon.

00:39:13The second collapse happened at 5.09, 42 minutes in between, more than enough time to get people out.

00:39:20Lily, don't!

00:39:21She stared at him.

00:39:23You're stopping me.

00:39:24The veins stood out on the back of his hands.

00:39:27I just want to see clearly.

00:39:29Alexander, have you lost your mind?

00:39:32For a few words from Nora, you'd interrogate Lily!

00:39:36Grandfather took the paper and studied it a long while.

00:39:39Nora, you've had this all along?

00:39:43Not all of it.

00:39:44The dog-cag was brought to me by an old friend of my father's.

00:39:48The call log, I only completed in the last few days.

00:39:52You married into this family to investigate?

00:39:56Grandfather arranged the marriage.

00:39:57I didn't refuse.

00:39:59And once I was in what needed investigating,

00:40:02I investigated.

00:40:04An ugly expression crossed his face.

00:40:06So, from the very beginning, you never meant to make a life with me?

00:40:10Did you ever give me room to?

00:40:12Lily laughed suddenly.

00:40:14The laugh was short and sharp.

00:40:15So that's it!

00:40:17Madam married in for revenge!

00:40:19Alex, you see?

00:40:20She never treated you as her husband.

00:40:23Even now, you want to twist this into a question of husband and wife?

00:40:27Lily wept, shaking her head.

00:40:29I don't know anything about any phone call.

00:40:31Even if the cottage received a call, I wasn't the one who answered.

00:40:34Mrs. Whitrock hates me!

00:40:35Of course she'd try to destroy me!

00:40:38Miss Ashford, how much have I covered for you?

00:40:41You had me take the painting.

00:40:42You had me switch the homecoming gift box.

00:40:45You copied the proposal from the young sir's study.

00:40:48And the powder in the soup, you had me put it there.

00:40:51You can't push it all onto me!

00:40:53Vivian slapped her across the face.

00:40:56Wretch!

00:40:57You dare drag Lily down!

00:41:00Mrs. Whitfield, I've served you for 20 years.

00:41:03I know the Carlisle supply accounts are dirty.

00:41:05I know Miss Ashford passed messages for Mr. Carlisle.

00:41:07If you keep protecting her, the Whitmonds are finished!

00:41:10This time, Vivian went still too.

00:41:12Grandfather closed his eyes.

00:41:15Alexander, bring Victor here.

00:41:17Father, my brother isn't in Ashford tonight!

00:41:20I picked up my phone and glanced toward the door.

00:41:22He is.

00:41:23He just arrived.

00:41:24The study door opened.

00:41:26Victor Carlisle stood in the doorway, two Whitmore bodyguards behind him.

00:41:29A forced smile still clung to his face.

00:41:32Father, the house is blithely tonight.

00:41:34Why wasn't I invited?

00:41:36Grandfather looked at him.

00:41:37The materials.

00:41:39Explain.

00:41:40Victor smiled.

00:41:41What materials?

00:41:42I don't follow.

00:41:43The Sullivan shipment.

00:41:45Victor glanced at it and sneered.

00:41:47Miss Sterling has only just married in, and already she's managing Whitmore Industries?

00:41:51Alexander, your wife overreaches.

00:41:54Alexander said nothing.

00:41:55Mr. Carlteil can keep up the bravado.

00:41:58Mr. Sullivan has already sent the materials for retesting.

00:42:01The results will be out tomorrow morning.

00:42:04Uncle Victor, don't let her frighten you!

00:42:06She just wants to drive us all out of the Whitmore house!

00:42:09Victor glanced at her.

00:42:11There was no pity in that glance.

00:42:13My me asked only a warning.

00:42:15Miss Ashfield is in a hurry.

00:42:17Mr. Carlisle isn't scared yet.

00:42:19But you already are.

00:42:21Lily bit her lip.

00:42:22Tonight, no one leaves this estate.

00:42:25When the results come tomorrow morning, we'll talk.

00:42:30Father, you mean to keep me prisoner in my own family's house?

00:42:36Grandfather lifted his cane and pointed at the door.

00:42:39The doors of this house have let you come and go as you please for too long.

00:42:44Sister, are you just going to stand there?

00:42:47Vivian's lips were white.

00:42:48She looked from Lily to Alexander and in the end said nothing.

00:42:52Lily, head bowed, slipped a hand into her sleeve.

00:42:55I saw her thumb light up a phone screen.

00:42:58Martha.

00:42:59Martha stepped forward at once and took the phone from her.

00:43:02Lily shrieked.

00:43:04What right do you have to touch my things?

00:43:08Uncle Victor, the things are in the studio cabinet's hidden compartment at the cottage.

00:43:12It has to be handled tonight.

00:43:14Alexander shot to his feet.

00:43:15To the cottage!

00:43:17The cottage door was opened, with Lily practically carried in by the guards.

00:43:21She cried the whole way, the sound echoing hollow off the stair rail.

00:43:25Alex, don't do this!

00:43:27That's where I've lived for over ten years.

00:43:29If you let all these people go through it, how will I ever hold my head up again?

00:43:34Alexander stood in the middle of the sitting room.

00:43:36Where's the hidden compartment?

00:43:38Lily shook her head.

00:43:39There isn't one!

00:43:40I walked to the bookcase.

00:43:41It was the first time I'd set foot in this cottage, but it wasn't unfamiliar.

00:43:45Among Cole's belongings after he died, there'd been a blurred photograph, and in the corner

00:43:51of that photograph was this very carved molding.

00:43:54I reached up and pressed the wood grain on the right side of the third shelf.

00:43:57Click!

00:43:58The panel sprang open.

00:44:00Lily's crying cut off.

00:44:01Inside the compartment were a manila envelope, an old voice recorder, several bank transfer

00:44:07receipts, and a copper dog tag.

00:44:09Alexander picked up the tag.

00:44:11What is this?

00:44:12The second one.

00:44:13He looked at Lily.

00:44:14Lily, you said you didn't recognize it.

00:44:16She backed away, step by step.

00:44:18I don't know who put that there!

00:44:19It must have been Nora!

00:44:21She planned this long ago!

00:44:22She wants to destroy me!

00:44:23I picked up the recorder.

00:44:25Then let's listen.

00:44:26Victor lunged to grab it, but the guards held him back.

00:44:29Don't notify the rescue.

00:44:30Alexander donated supplies over there.

00:44:32If the team pulls back, the media will say the whip's donation was useless.

00:44:35Wait until they get the people out, and then we'll see.

00:44:37Miss Ashfield, people will die!

00:44:39Tell them to rescue faster!

00:44:40If you tell Alex Alexander, I'll have Aunt Dylan throw you out.

00:44:44The recording stopped.

00:44:45The only sound left in the room was Lily's ragged breathing.

00:44:48That's your voice.

00:44:51Alex, I was young and stupid then.

00:44:53I was scared.

00:44:54I didn't mean for anyone to die.

00:44:56I truly didn't.

00:44:58I looked at her.

00:44:5942 minutes.

00:45:01You had a way to make it right every single one of those minutes.

00:45:04Sister Norris Vigil, your fiancé died because he was unlucky!

00:45:08He chose to go rest!

00:45:10Alexander lifted his hand and for the first time pushed her away.

00:45:13Lily fell to the carpet, staring at him in disbelief.

00:45:15You pushed me.

00:45:17You lied to me for three years.

00:45:19Lily laughed through her tears.

00:45:21I lied.

00:45:22You believed me willingly, didn't you?

00:45:24My head ached.

00:45:25You came.

00:45:26I cried.

00:45:27You left.

00:45:28When did you ever believe a word Nora said?

00:45:32Vivian rushed in.

00:45:33Lissy, why would you keep these?

00:45:35Don't play innocent Aunt Viviana.

00:45:38Didn't you always know I had something on you?

00:45:41Didn't you say that as long as I obeyed, the Whitmums would protect me for life?

00:45:45Vivian stumbled back a step.

00:45:47Grandfather was wheeled to the door, his face terrible.

00:45:50Vivian, you knew?

00:45:52Father, I didn't know she suppressed a call.

00:45:55I only knew she held the Carlisle materials accounts and I was afraid she'd talk so I protected her.

00:46:00Victor laughed suddenly.

00:46:02Fine.

00:46:02One and all, you'd throw me to the wolves.

00:46:05Lily, don't you forget.

00:46:07Who was it that buried that phone record for you?

00:46:10Lily screamed.

00:46:11You were paid!

00:46:12You said the Whitmans couldn't afford a scandal!

00:46:15Nora!

00:46:16You think you've won?

00:46:17You've got all this evidence?

00:46:19So what?

00:46:20If the Whitmills fall, don't imagine your Mrs. Whitman title stays clean.

00:46:25I never counted on the Whitmills to stay clean.

00:46:28And what are the Stirlings?

00:46:30Your father begged the Whitmills for this marriage.

00:46:33Isn't that just him clawing his way up?

00:46:36Victor, watch your tongue.

00:46:38My father walked in, leaning on his cane, followed by Mr. Sullivan and a man in a gray suit.

00:46:43Victor's smile froze.

00:46:45How did you get in?

00:46:47Grandfather glanced at me.

00:46:48I invited them.

00:46:50My father came to me and looked me over first.

00:46:52Nora, are you hurt?

00:46:53I shook my head.

00:46:54The man in the gray suit produced documents.

00:46:57I'm the attorney by the representatives of the Black Rudge victims' families.

00:47:01These pieces of evidence will be submitted through proper legal channels.

00:47:05You wouldn't dare!

00:47:08Mr. Sullivan spoke.

00:47:09Mr. Carlisle, I have the retest results.

00:47:12The shipment you supplied to both Whitmore and Sullivan failed inspection.

00:47:16The results are in?

00:47:17Rush through.

00:47:19You should thank your wife, Mr. Whitmore.

00:47:21If she hadn't stopped it, that material would have gone into use,

00:47:24and it wouldn't be a deal that blew up.

00:47:26It would be lives.

00:47:28Alexander looked at me.

00:47:29I didn't look back.

00:47:30Mr. Sullivan, don't listen to one's one-sided stories.

00:47:35I only read what's on the page.

00:47:37Alex, I was wrong!

00:47:39I was wrong!

00:47:39I was so wrong!

00:47:41Please save me!

00:47:42For the sake of all the years we grew up together!

00:47:45He looked down at her, his lips moving.

00:47:47I thought he was going to soften again.

00:47:49Call the police.

00:47:51Lily's sobs changed key entirely.

00:47:53Vivian threw herself forward to block him.

00:47:56Alexander!

00:47:57Lily can't go in there!

00:47:58She's not well!

00:47:59She'll die in there!

00:48:01He closed his eyes, then opened them.

00:48:03Mother, enough people have already died.

00:48:06Lily clung to the door.

00:48:07Alex, you can't do this to me!

00:48:09You promised you'd protect me for the rest of my life!

00:48:12Alexander stood on the steps and didn't move toward her.

00:48:14I was protecting the wrong person.

00:48:17Nora, don't be so smug.

00:48:20You think because he regrets it now, he'll love you?

00:48:22His heart is rotten now!

00:48:24Do you even want it?

00:48:25No.

00:48:26Alexander's face went white.

00:48:27Lily was led into the car.

00:48:29Vivian took a few steps after them before Grandfather's voice stopped her.

00:48:33Stand still.

00:48:34She turned back, her makeup ruined by tears.

00:48:37Father, she's still a child.

00:48:38Grandfather stared at her.

00:48:40Three years ago, she was 22.

00:48:43You protected her not because she was pitiful, but because she held the Carlisle family's leash.

00:48:49Vivian's mouth was stubborn.

00:48:51I only felt sorry for her.

00:48:53The moment he was gone, I called for someone to help me out of my dress.

00:48:56Martha, the old housekeeper, watched me carefully.

00:48:58Madam, you're not going to wait up for him?

00:49:00I met her eyes.

00:49:01Don't overthink it, Martha.

00:49:02He won't be back tonight.

00:49:04She opened her mouth, then thought better of it.

00:49:06The following morning, Alexander came back to our bedroom, smelling of medicine.

00:49:09He was afraid I'd make a scene in front of Grandfather.

00:49:12I walked over and straightened his collar.

00:49:14I've married into this family.

00:49:16Your reputation and mine are the same coin now.

00:49:18Last night was a small thing, not worth dragging in front of your grandfather.

00:49:21Don't worry.

00:49:22I know exactly what to say.

00:49:24Thank you.

00:49:25When he came back that evening, he walked into the great hall to find me in the head chair,

00:49:29with seven or eight maids kneeling on the floor, their hands bound.

00:49:32He spotted Lily's old housekeeper among them at once.

00:49:35What is this?

00:49:36The housekeeper, Mrs. Nolan, saw her savior arrive and immediately began struggling and

00:49:40whimpering.

00:49:41Sir, help me.

00:49:42The young madam means to have me beaten.

00:49:44Just because our Miss Ashford has your affection, she's taking it out on me, trying to shame our

00:49:49Miss Ashford.

00:49:51Alexander's face darkened, but he didn't turn on me right away.

00:49:53He wasn't a fool.

00:49:54If I wanted to hurt Lily, I'd go at Lily directly.

00:49:57There was no need to circle around her housekeeper.

00:50:00I looked at him calm.

00:50:00You felt sorry for her, so you trampled Nora, seized her household keys, and let her be

00:50:07dragged through the mud outside these walls.

00:50:09Mother, why did you never ask if Nora was hurting?

00:50:12You blame me now.

00:50:14Who was it that ran to the cottage on his wedding night?

00:50:17Who protected Lily over and over?

00:50:20Alexander, don't try to scrub yourself clean.

00:50:24Mr. Whitfield, we'll take the evidence, and we'll take Nora.

00:50:29Alexander's head snapped toward me.

00:50:30You're going back to the Sterlings?

00:50:32Where else?

00:50:33Nora, the Whitmares owe you this one.

00:50:36If you want to go home and stay, I won't stop you.

00:50:41Once this is sorted out, the Whitmares will come to your door and make amends in person.

00:50:46Amends are fine, but don't speak of husband and wife again.

00:50:49The Whitmalls can't give her that, and the Sterlings no longer need it.

00:50:53Nora!

00:50:53He was still holding the copper dog tag.

00:50:55Here, this is yours.

00:50:57I took the tag.

00:50:59I didn't know about three years ago.

00:51:01I know.

00:51:03A little light flickered in his eyes.

00:51:05But not knowing doesn't make you innocent.

00:51:07My father and I left the estate.

00:51:09As the car pulled through the gates, I saw Martha standing at the door, quietly wiping her eyes.

00:51:14The next day, the story of Lily and Victor spread through all of Ashford.

00:51:17Whitmore Industries cut off every Carlisle supplier.

00:51:20Grandfather personally stepped forward to steady the partners.

00:51:23Alexander didn't return to the manor for days.

00:51:25I moved back in with the Sterlings.

00:51:28Gemma came by once, carrying fruit, and studied my face the moment she stepped inside.

00:51:32Nora, is all that stuff online true?

00:51:34My mother glared at her.

00:51:36If you can't say something properly, keep quiet.

00:51:38I was just wondering, did Lily really get someone killed?

00:51:40The case is still under investigation.

00:51:43Gemma bit into an apple and muttered,

00:51:44Then I actually defended her before.

00:51:46Was I really that stupid?

00:51:47You're finally improving.

00:51:49She didn't dare talk back.

00:51:51After a moment, she set a card on the table.

00:51:53The money I borrowed last month, I'll pay you back half now and the rest next month.

00:51:56I didn't spend it on anything bad.

00:51:58Some, someone conned me into, into investing in a shop.

00:52:01Gemma!

00:52:02Mom, I know I was wrong.

00:52:04I won't envy people marrying into rich families anymore.

00:52:06It's terrifying.

00:52:07My mother couldn't help a small laugh.

00:52:09The house for once felt a little alive.

00:52:11That afternoon, Mr. Sullivan came to the Sterling home.

00:52:14He brought a new partnership agreement.

00:52:16Whitmore has changed its materials supplier.

00:52:18I'm willing to go forward.

00:52:20But I'd like to bring Miss Sterling in as an external oversight advisor.

00:52:23My father looked at me.

00:52:24It's your call.

00:52:25I asked Mr. Sullivan,

00:52:26Why me?

00:52:27You were willing to undermine your own husband,

00:52:30which means you won't lie to save face.

00:52:32Alexander and I may not even stay married.

00:52:34He smiled.

00:52:35Even better.

00:52:36One less complication.

00:52:37I took the agreement.

00:52:38The doorbell rang.

00:52:40The maid came in.

00:52:40Mr. Whitmore is here.

00:52:42The laughter in the living room stopped.

00:52:44Alexander stood outside,

00:52:45his suit rumpled,

00:52:46holding a document envelope.

00:52:47Nora, I came to bring you something.

00:52:49My mother didn't want to let him in.

00:52:51Let him in.

00:52:52He walked over and set the envelope down.

00:52:54These are the remaining things Lily had.

00:52:55The police have made backups.

00:52:57The originals includes the roster of your fiancé's rescue unit.

00:53:00I thought you'd want them.

00:53:02I opened it and looked.

00:53:03On the first page was a name.

00:53:05Cole Brooks.

00:53:05My fiancé.

00:53:06I closed the file.

00:53:08Thank you.

00:53:08I don't deserve your thanks.

00:53:10At least he has some self-awareness.

00:53:12Aunt Meredith pinched her.

00:53:14Alexander heard it but didn't get angry.

00:53:16He looked at me.

00:53:16Lily's confessed a part of it.

00:53:18Victor is still dragging the Whitmans down with him.

00:53:21Grandfather asked whether you'd come to tomorrow's Whitman board meeting and lay out

00:53:24the materials issue clearly.

00:53:25In what capacity?

00:53:27He was silent.

00:53:28The title of Mrs. Whitefield, I don't want it anymore.

00:53:30The room went still.

00:53:31Then what title do you want?

00:53:33Nora Sterling.

00:53:34Of the Sterling family.

00:53:36The day of the Whitmore board meeting, I walked in as a representative of the Sterling family.

00:53:41Alexander met me at the door himself.

00:53:43The room was full of Whitmore relatives and senior executives.

00:53:46Vivian was there too, looking ill.

00:53:48Someone spotted me and immediately went snide.

00:53:50The family's dirty laundry is already all over town and now we're bringing an outsider

00:53:54into the meeting.

00:53:55I can leave.

00:53:56The Sullivan partnership leaves with me.

00:53:59The man shut up.

00:54:00Alexander set the materials report on the table.

00:54:02All supplies handled by Victor Carlisle are suspended.

00:54:05The losses fall on the Carlisle family.

00:54:08The evidence goes to the police.

00:54:10Alexander!

00:54:11That's your own uncle!

00:54:12You drive him to ruin!

00:54:14When he handed Whitmore faulty materials, did he remember I was his nephew?

00:54:18She couldn't answer.

00:54:19Another director spoke.

00:54:20Changing suppliers is one thing, but who guarantees the new materials are sound?

00:54:25Ms. Sterling Ng is neither a Whitmore employee nor a veteran of this industry.

00:54:29I guarantee nothing.

00:54:31He laughed.

00:54:31Then what are you doing here?

00:54:33I laid three test reports on the table.

00:54:36I can only make sure every batch is inspected openly before it enters the site.

00:54:40Whoever signs takes responsibility.

00:54:43From now on, no more.

00:54:45I didn't know.

00:54:46I wasn't aware.

00:54:47I was misled by my subordinates.

00:54:49Several faces around the table changed.

00:54:51Sullivan Group agrees to these terms.

00:54:53Whitmore Industries agrees as well.

00:54:55Vivian sneered.

00:54:56Of course you agree.

00:54:57She's got you so bewitched you'd forget your own mother.

00:55:00I looked at Vivian.

00:55:01Mrs. Whitmore, don't reduce everything to men and women.

00:55:04If your son still shielded Victor today, Whitmore would be dropped by its partners tomorrow.

00:55:09What right do you have to lecture me?

00:55:11The door opened.

00:55:12Grandfather was wheeled in, holding a document.

00:55:15She has every right.

00:55:16Mr. Whitmore has decided to reorganize a portion of Whitmore Industries management under Alexander Whitmore and to establish an oversight

00:55:24seat to be filled on an interim basis by Ms. Nora Sterling for a term of one year.

00:55:30Father, she's about to divorce Alexander.

00:55:32Her marriage to Alexander is a separate matter.

00:55:35What the Whitmores owe her, the Whitmores will honor.

00:55:38Alexander looked at me, his eyes full of something complicated.

00:55:41I refuse!

00:55:43What right does she have to enter this company?

00:55:45She's only here to take revenge on this family.

00:55:48You're half right.

00:55:49Everyone looked at me.

00:55:50I do mean to make the people who killed Cole Brooks pay.

00:55:53But if Whitmore Industries can still be saved, it should live cleanly.

00:55:57From now on, whoever trades human lives for money is out.

00:56:01After the meeting, Vivian cornered me in the corridor.

00:56:03Her fingers gripped her bag strap until the knuckles went white.

00:56:06Nora, are you satisfied now?

00:56:07Lily is ruined, my brother is ruined, and Alexander has been turned against his own family!

00:56:13They're ruined because they did ruinous things.

00:56:15Vivian gritted her teeth.

00:56:17Don't imagine that because Grandfather shields you, you'll keep winning.

00:56:20The Whitmore house isn't your father's little yard.

00:56:23The water runs deep here.

00:56:25Mrs. Whitmore, you still don't understand.

00:56:27Deep water doesn't frighten me.

00:56:28Dirty water does.

00:56:30She raised a hand to strike me.

00:56:31Alexander caught her wrist from behind.

00:56:33Mother, enough.

00:56:34She looked at him as though he were a stranger.

00:56:36You'd stop me for her?

00:56:38I'm stopping you for making another mistake.

00:56:40She shook him off.

00:56:41Fine.

00:56:42Fine.

00:56:43All of you, so clever.

00:56:45We'll see how long you last without the car license.

00:56:48She turned and left.

00:56:49My mother still has people.

00:56:50She won't let it go this easily.

00:56:52Then let her come.

00:56:53You're not afraid?

00:56:54I used to be afraid.

00:56:55Afraid Cole died for nothing.

00:56:57Afraid my parents would grieve.

00:56:58Afraid the truth would stay buried.

00:57:00The thing I was most afraid of has already been dug up.

00:57:02What's left hardly matters.

00:57:03I'm afraid.

00:57:04I'm afraid you'll never look back.

00:57:06Alexander, being afraid isn't enough to earn forgiveness.

00:57:09The elevator doors opened.

00:57:10I walked in.

00:57:11He didn't follow.

00:57:12Vivian's counterattack came fast.

00:57:14Three days later, the Sterling factory was reported.

00:57:16The books were questioned.

00:57:17The fire safety inspection was stalled.

00:57:19And the workers were forced to stop work.

00:57:21When I reached the factory, Aunt Meredith was arguing at the gate.

00:57:24Our paperwork is all in order.

00:57:25By what right do you seal the doors?

00:57:27There's been a named complaint.

00:57:29Business is suspended pending inspection.

00:57:31My father stood nearby, leaning on his cane, looking unwell.

00:57:35Gemma spotted me and ran over.

00:57:36Nora, it's got to be that old witch from the Whitmores.

00:57:38Don't curse.

00:57:39She corrected herself at once.

00:57:41It's got to be that distinguished lady from the Whitmores.

00:57:43I looked at the official in charge.

00:57:45Who filed the complaint?

00:57:46I'm not at liberty to say.

00:57:48A black cloud pulled up.

00:57:49Vivian stepped out, Mrs. Harlow beside her.

00:57:52Miss Sterling, don't be so sharp in life.

00:57:55When you strip others' face, others will naturally make you suffer.

00:57:59Vivian walked up to me.

00:58:00I told you the Whitfield water runs deep.

00:58:03Did you really think a few pieces of paper could turn the world upside down?

00:58:06My mother stepped in front of me.

00:58:07Mrs. Whitfoyle, what does it say about you coming after my daughter?

00:58:10Mrs. Sterling, you ought to teach your daughter that once you marry,

00:58:14you shouldn't keep running home to make trouble.

00:58:16Otherwise, the whole family suffers.

00:58:18Did you file the complaint?

00:58:19I only heard your factory wasn't clean and reminded a friend to look into it.

00:58:23Then let them look.

00:58:24Vivian blinked.

00:58:25I turned to the workers.

00:58:26Bring out every ledger, every fire safety record, every purchase order.

00:58:30Whoever wants to inspect, inspects now.

00:58:32If they find nothing, whoever sealed the doors of Paul apologize.

00:58:35Mrs. Harlow sneered.

00:58:36Who do you think you are?

00:58:37A car stopped at the curb.

00:58:39Mr. Sullivan got out.

00:58:40Two lawyers behind him.

00:58:41She's the oversight advisor Sullivan just signed.

00:58:44The Sterling factory is Sullivan's new supplier,

00:58:46and I have every right to demand an open inspection.

00:58:49The Sterling factory is Sullivan's new supplier.

00:58:51Mr. Sullivan, must you meddle in Whitmore family business?

00:58:54I'm meddling in business.

00:58:56If Mrs. Whitmore keeps using personal grudges to disrupt supply,

00:59:00I'll reconsider partnering with Whitmore at all.

00:59:03A crack finally appeared in Vivian's composure.

00:59:05The inspection began.

00:59:06Ledger after ledger was turned.

00:59:08Fire safety records were checked line by line.

00:59:10How can a factory this small be completely clean?

00:59:13Your kitchen has grease stains.

00:59:15Why does our factory have to be spotless?

00:59:17Aunt Meredith tugged at her.

00:59:18Be quiet.

00:59:19I'm right, though.

00:59:20No evidence was found to support the complaint.

00:59:22The seal is lifted.

00:59:24I looked at Vivian.

00:59:26Apologize.

00:59:27She sneered.

00:59:27I wasn't the one who sealed it.

00:59:29Mrs. Whitmore.

00:59:29I'll be informing Mr. Whitmore of today.

00:59:31Vivian's face darkened.

00:59:33Mrs. Harlow moved to leave.

00:59:34Miss Harlow, at the auction you vouched for Lily,

00:59:36swore she doesn't steal.

00:59:37Today you've come with Mrs. Whitmore to have my family sealed.

00:59:40Is your taste in friends always this poor?

00:59:42Some of the watching workers laugh.

00:59:43Nora, don't push it too far.

00:59:46It's you who showed up at my door to bully me

00:59:48and then resent me for not gravelling in thanks.

00:59:51Alexander arrived as Vivian was climbing into her car.

00:59:53He stepped in front of me.

00:59:54Mother, apologize to the Sterlings.

00:59:56You want me to apologize to her?

00:59:58I've already found out you filed the complaint through the Harlows.

01:00:00I'm your mother!

01:00:01That's why I'm asking you to apologize now

01:00:03rather than letting grandfather handle it.

01:00:05She stared at him and tears suddenly fell.

01:00:07I raised you and you'd turn on me for a woman.

01:00:10You once did the same thing to Nora's mother.

01:00:12He turned to my mother and bowed.

01:00:14Mrs. Sterling, I'm sorry.

01:00:15Mr. Whitmore, I accept your apology.

01:00:16But what my daughter suffered won't be settled by one vow.

01:00:19Vivian, jaw clenched, finally forced out through her teeth.

01:00:22I'm sorry.

01:00:23Who's that to?

01:00:24A mosquito's louder than you.

01:00:25Vivian's face went purple.

01:00:27Enough.

01:00:28The Sterlings are reopening today.

01:00:30I'd rather not ugly words.

01:00:31Vivian got into the car and slammed the door hard enough to shake the glass.

01:00:35Alexander stayed behind and helped my father carry the scattered ledgers back to the office.

01:00:40Mr. Whitmore, you don't have to do this.

01:00:41I want to.

01:00:42Kindness that comes too late is the cheapest thing there is.

01:00:45But it's still better than none.

01:00:47Thank you.

01:00:48Whether Nora wants you, that's not for this family to decide.

01:00:50Before Lily's trial, she asked to see me.

01:00:53I went.

01:00:54Through the glass she was gaunt, her hair cut short, none of that fragile glow left on her face.

01:00:58She picked up the phone and her first words were,

01:01:01You won.

01:01:01I didn't come to hear you concede.

01:01:03Then what?

01:01:04To watch me suffer?

01:01:05I came to ask you one thing.

01:01:07Three years ago.

01:01:08Why didn't you notify the rescue team?

01:01:10Because I was jealous.

01:01:11I held the phone and said nothing.

01:01:13That day, Alexander was supposed to take me to the hospital.

01:01:16But the Whitmores had donated supplies and he left at the last minute.

01:01:20The call came saying the team was in danger.

01:01:23And my first...

01:01:24If something went wrong, Alexander would be even busier and the Whitmales would be blamed.

01:01:29Didn't want his name tied to a failure.

01:01:31So you sacrificed other people.

01:01:33She grew agitated.

01:01:34I didn't want them to die.

01:01:35I only wanted to wait.

01:01:37If the rescue succeeded, Alexander would be the Whitmore heir who did a good deed and I could be praised

01:01:42beside him.

01:01:43Who knew the mountain would collapse?

01:01:44You did know it might.

01:01:46The call told you.

01:01:47Don't stand up there looking down on me.

01:01:49You married Ali Alexander to investigate aid, didn't you?

01:01:51Don't tell me you never used him.

01:01:53I never let an innocent person die in my place.

01:01:56She was breathing hard and suddenly she laughed.

01:01:58Mrs. Nolan spent the day drinking and playing cards in the greenhouse with a few others,

01:02:02telling everyone how you never entered the bridal chamber last night and stayed with Miss Ashman in the cottage till

01:02:07dawn.

01:02:07She had the details down pit, even how long you rubbed Miss Ashman's temples.

01:02:11I didn't make anything up.

01:02:12The young sir has always doted on our Miss Ashworth.

01:02:15I ignored her and kept my eyes on Alexander.

01:02:18Where you choose to sleep is your own business.

01:02:19But when the staff spread your private life around as bossop, at best it sows discord in this house.

01:02:24At worst, it means someone's tracking the Whitmore heir's movements.

01:02:27I didn't do this to make myself feel better.

01:02:29I did it for the family's dignity.

01:02:31Sir, our Miss Ashman grew up with you.

01:02:34You can't break her heart.

01:02:36Is the car ready?

01:02:37Ready, madam.

01:02:38Send these people to the old country house upstate.

01:02:40None of them return without my word.

01:02:42Mrs. Nolan is Miss Ashworth's woman.

01:02:44What happens to her is your call.

01:02:46Sir, if Miss Ashworth wakes and can't find me, she'll be frightened.

01:02:49Send them all.

01:02:50Mrs. Nolan's sobs caught in her throat and she sat backward.

01:02:54He looked at me.

01:02:55Satisfied?

01:02:56I rose.

01:02:57You shouldn't ask me.

01:02:59You should ask whether the Whitfield house rules are satisfied.

01:03:02You know what?

01:03:03I hate people like you most.

01:03:04You're in pain too, poor too, stepped on too, and still you insist on carrying yourself like you're clean.

01:03:10Why does Alexander look at you now?

01:03:12Because you won.

01:03:13If I'd won back then, he'd have protected me for life.

01:03:16Then even now you don't understand.

01:03:17That he protected you was his mistake.

01:03:20That you harmed people was your crime.

01:03:22Nora, don't go!

01:03:24Tell Alexander I truly loved him back then!

01:03:27As I left, I saw Alexander at the door.

01:03:30She asked to see me.

01:03:31I didn't go.

01:03:32Your business not mine to hear.

01:03:33He walked out with me.

01:03:34At the trial, I'll testify.

01:03:36You should.

01:03:37He gave a bitter little smile.

01:03:39You talk to me now like I'm a stranger.

01:03:41Alexander, we're more complicated than strangers and more distant than a married couple.

01:03:45On the day of the trial, the Whitmores, the Sterlings, and the Carlisles were all there.

01:03:50Victor pushed the blame onto Lily.

01:03:52Lily dragged Victor down with her.

01:03:53Vivian sat in the gallery, her face ashen.

01:03:56When it was Alexander's turn to testify, he laid out the cottage phone call, Lily's hidden evidence, and Victor's suppression

01:04:02of the record, clearly and completely.

01:04:05Alex, do you really mean to destroy me?

01:04:08He looked at her.

01:04:08It wasn't me who destroyed you.

01:04:10You destroyed others and yourself.

01:04:13And you?

01:04:13Can you say you have no fault?

01:04:15Where were you when Nora was being trampled?

01:04:17I have fault.

01:04:19I'll spend the rest of my life paying for it.

01:04:22The day the verdict came down, someone in the Black Ridge Victims' Families group messaged me.

01:04:26Miss Sterling, thank you.

01:04:28We can finally give our loved ones an answer.

01:04:30I stared at those words for a long time.

01:04:32Cole's grave was on the north side of the city.

01:04:34I brought the verdict and went to see him.

01:04:36Cole, the people who buried you have finally been dug out.

01:04:40Footsteps sounded behind me.

01:04:42Alexander stood a little way off.

01:04:43May I pay my respects?

01:04:45He laid the flowers down and bowed his head for a long while.

01:04:48Mr. Brooks, I'm sorry.

01:04:49The wind on the hill was strong.

01:04:51Half his words were blown away.

01:04:52On the way down, he asked me.

01:04:54The divorce papers, are they ready?

01:04:56They're ready.

01:04:57I'll sign.

01:04:57I looked at him.

01:04:58He tried to smile and couldn't quite manage it.

01:05:00I owe you too much to keep you tied down with a marriage.

01:05:03Alexander, you're getting smarter.

01:05:05Too late.

01:05:05The day of the divorce, grandfather came to the Sterling home in person.

01:05:09He brought the Whitmores' formal gifts of apology and a new cooperation agreement.

01:05:13My father read the list and didn't take it right away.

01:05:15Mr. Whitmore, this is too much.

01:05:17It isn't.

01:05:18Next to a human life, everything is light.

01:05:21My mother sighed.

01:05:22Take it.

01:05:23Nora has to live on.

01:05:24She can't keep carrying the past forever.

01:05:27I signed the divorce papers.

01:05:29When Alexander signed, his pen hovered over the page for a long time.

01:05:32Gemma watched.

01:05:33Mr. Whitmore, is the pen out of ink?

01:05:35He glanced at her and actually smiled a little.

01:05:37No.

01:05:38Nora, congratulations.

01:05:41Congratulations to you too.

01:05:43For what?

01:05:44Finally, you don't have to keep playing blind.

01:05:46He lowered his head and after a moment said,

01:05:48Yes.

01:05:49Vivian didn't come.

01:05:50She'd been sent by grandfather to the country house to rest and the Carlisle investigation

01:05:54continued.

01:05:55Mrs. Harlow, for falsely accusing the Sterling factory, had her partnership with Sullivan

01:05:59severed and lost whatever standing she had left in the wives' circle.

01:06:03The day Lily's appeal failed, Alexander sent me a message.

01:06:06The verdict stands.

01:06:07I replied with two words.

01:06:09I know.

01:06:09He didn't message again.

01:06:11A year later, the Sterling factory expanded.

01:06:13Both Sullivan Group and Whitmore Industries had become long-term partners.

01:06:17I didn't renew the Whitmore oversight seat.

01:06:19I recommended Martha for it.

01:06:21You've got a talent for poaching my people.

01:06:24Mr. Whistler, I'm only changing where I work.

01:06:26Martha knows how to watch people.

01:06:28She suits the role better than I do.

01:06:29Alexander came to the expansion ceremony too.

01:06:32When the red ribbon fell, the workers cheered and Gemma tossed confetti into the sky.

01:06:36Mr. Sullivan came over with his tea.

01:06:38Miss Sterling, after today, no one in Ashford will say the Sterlings lean on the Whitman.

01:06:43I looked at the sign being hung over the new factory's entrance.

01:06:46Leaning on no one is better than leaning on anyone.

01:06:48Alexander heard it, watching me from a few steps away.

01:06:51After the ceremony, he handed me an old wooden box.

01:06:53Grandfather asked me to give you this.

01:06:55The last of the Blackbridge Rescue Unit's compensation, the Whitmans have paid it all in full.

01:06:59Every family on the roster has signed for it.

01:07:02I opened the box.

01:07:03Inside was a thick stack of receipts and a letter from Cole's mother.

01:07:06The letter held only a few lines.

01:07:08Nora, don't stay trapped on that mountain.

01:07:11If Cole were here, he'd want you to keep walking.

01:07:13I folded the letter and was quiet for a long time.

01:07:15Nora, I won't ask you to look back anymore.

01:07:18I looked at him.

01:07:19Whitmore Industries will keep investigating.

01:07:20Whoever among the carless touched anything dirty will be handed over.

01:07:24My mother has signed the papers giving up her management rights in the company.

01:07:27Grandfather says the apology she owes you can never be repaid in one lifetime.

01:07:31Then let it go.

01:07:32Just don't hurt anyone else.

01:07:33All right.

01:07:34Nora, come take the photo.

01:07:35If you don't come now, I'm standing dead center.

01:07:38I walked over.

01:07:39My father stood under the sign, leaning on his cane.

01:07:41My mother straightened his collar.

01:07:43Martha was pushed to the front by the workers, looking flustered and pleased.

01:07:46Mr. Sullivan, complaining about the sun, tried to snatch the umbrella from Gemma, who refused.

01:07:51The photographer called,

01:07:52Everyone look here!

01:07:53Just before the shutter clicked, Alexander, standing far away, gave me a small nod.

01:07:57I nodded back.

01:07:58Afterward, Lily wrote several letters from prison.

01:08:01I returned every one, unopened.

01:08:04Victor and the rest of the Carliles involved were sentenced one by one.

01:08:08Mrs. Harlow left Ashford.

01:08:09Vivian never appeared before me again.

01:08:12Before Grandfather died, he gave the clean half of Whitmore Industries to Alexander, and

01:08:17left a written apology to the Blackridge families.

01:08:20That winter, I went back to the North Cemetery.

01:08:22I set a sample of the new factory's first certified product in front of Cole's grave.

01:08:26Look, the Sterlings are standing again.

01:08:28I turned to go down the hill where the Sterling car was parked at the foot.

01:08:32Gemma leaned out the window, waving.

01:08:33My mother smacked the back of her head for letting in the cold air.

01:08:36My father sat in the front seat, a thermos in his lap, saying he'd made soup and we

01:08:41could drink it the moment we got home.

01:08:42I walked over, smiling.

01:08:44I used to think the truth was the end of the road.

01:08:46Later, I understood it was only the stone lifted off my chest.

01:08:49People still have to get up, eat, sleep, earn a living, and make their lives ring out loud.

01:08:54When the first snow fell on Ashford, the lights of the new Sterling factory came on one

01:08:58by one.

01:08:59Those who once looked down on me could only lift their heads now to read the sign I'd hung

01:09:03with my own hands.

01:09:04Nora Sterling, not anyone's wife, not anyone's appendage.

01:09:07Nora Sterling, of the Sterling family.

01:09:09That afternoon, Lily finally came to pay her respects.

01:09:12Forgive me, madam.

01:09:14Last night, my health failed me, and I disturbed your wedding night.

01:09:18A few maids exchanged glances.

01:09:20I didn't take the cup.

01:09:21Lily looked up at me.

01:09:23If you blame me, madam, I'm willing to move out of the cottage.

01:09:25Only, I lost my mother young, and grandfather took pity on me and let me stay.

01:09:29If I leave, I'm afraid it will grieve the old man.

01:09:31I swirled the cream through my coffee.

01:09:33I haven't said a word, and you've already convicted me.

01:09:37That mouth of yours, Lily, it works better than your headaches.

01:09:40That's not what I meant.

01:09:41Alexander walked in just then.

01:09:42She swayed, and the teacup slipped from her fingers and shattered.

01:09:45He crossed the room in three strides and caught her.

01:09:48What happened?

01:09:49Lily bit her lip and wouldn't speak.

01:09:50Her little maid dropped to her knees at once.

01:09:52Sir, Miss Ashwind only wanted to serve the young madam some tea, but she wouldn't take

01:09:56it, and she said Miss Ashwind's illness is all an act.

01:09:59I looked at the girl.

01:10:00Did I say that?

01:10:01The maid flinched, but pressed on.

01:10:03It's what the young madam meant.

01:10:04Nora, Lily isn't well.

01:10:06There's no need to make it harder for her.

01:10:08Last night she had a headache and you left.

01:10:10Today she scolds her hand and here you are.

01:10:13Alexander, you'd have made a fine doctor.

01:10:15Alex, don't blame her.

01:10:16I just came at the wrong time.

01:10:19You're right.

01:10:20You did.

01:10:21In this family, a woman with no standing has no business presenting herself to the

01:10:26mistress of the house.

01:10:28If you knew your place, you'd have stayed away today, not knelt here to put on a show.

01:10:32I only wanted to apologize.

01:10:34Then apologize like you mean it.

01:10:36I glanced at her hand.

01:10:38Martha, the first aid box.

01:10:40If the burn is real, we treat it.

01:10:41If it's a performance, don't waste the bandages.

01:10:43Nora.

01:10:44I turned to him.

01:10:45If she's really hurt, I'll treat her myself.

01:10:47If she isn't, you apologize to me on her behalf.

01:10:50Lily's crying stuttered to a halt.

01:10:52Martha brought the kit and took Lily's hand.

01:10:54The tea had only grazed her.

01:10:55The skin wasn't even properly red.

01:10:57The room went still.

01:10:58Alexander glanced at Lily.

01:11:00She snatched her hand back.

01:11:01My skin has always been slow to show marks.

01:11:03I put the ointment away.

01:11:04Funny.

01:11:05I've always been slow to look stupid.

01:11:07Martha let out a small, strangled cough.

01:11:10Alexander's face was ugly.

01:11:11Lily stood there, tears falling harder.

01:11:13If you dislike me, madam, I'll simply come around less.

01:11:17I said it isn't less.

01:11:19Without my permission, you don't enter the main house at all.

01:11:22Nora, you've only just arrived, and you mean to rule with this much of an iron flisk?

01:11:25Yes.

01:11:26If I don't lay down the law on day one, am I supposed to wait until she's sitting on top

01:11:29of my head?

01:11:30Alex, I'll go.

01:11:31She turned to leave, her knees buckled, and she fell straight toward Alexander.

01:11:35He caught her.

01:11:35Martha, note it down.

01:11:37Miss Ashward's health is delicate.

01:11:38From now on, she reports before entering the main house so she doesn't drop mid-step and blame it on

01:11:42me.

01:11:42Alexander carried her out.

01:11:44At the door, he looked back at me.

01:11:46You've turned out harder to live with than I expected.

01:11:48And you've turned out more unreasonable than I expected.

01:11:51On the third day came the family dinner.

01:11:54Grandfather Whitmore sat at the head of the table with Alexander's mother, Vivian, beside him.

01:11:58Lily was there, too, seated next to Vivian, like a half-mistress of the house.

01:12:02The moment I walked in...

01:12:03Some people come from nothing, and manners have to be taught slowly.

01:12:07Lily grew up in this house.

01:12:08She knows Alexander's temperament best.

01:12:11I hear that yesterday, your very first day here, you had the people in the cottage sent to the country?

01:12:16Yes.

01:12:17The Whitvale house is not your father's little factory yard.

01:12:20It won't stand for you venting your temper on the staff.

01:12:23Mrs. Nolan looked after Lily for over a decade.

01:12:26If not for her merit, then for her years of service.

01:12:28Mrs. Nolan looked after Lily for over a decade.

I Won’T Divorce—I’Ll Ruin His Dynasty | Full Series | Short Drama English

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