Original subtitles

The DNA results are conclusive.

Miss Kimberly Reid and Mr. Victor Reid are not biologically related.

How could this happen?

I raised her for 20 years. How is she not my daughter?

The hospital is looking into it. We found our biological daughter.

Her name is Belle, and she'll be back tomorrow.

Kimberly, don't take it too hard. Even if you're not a Reid by blood, we...

we'll still be friends.

Friends?

Fiancé?

So starting today, you're calling off your engagement to the Reeds?

No, no, no.

Why would I call off my engagement to the Reeds? I mean, I... So you're saying

we're done.

And once the real Reed daughter comes back, you'll marry her instead, right?

Silas, that desperate to get your hands on the Reed fortune?

Do you have to make it sound so ugly?

Isn't that exactly what you're thinking?

What, you blame me for saying it out loud?

Enough! This isn't the time to fight.

The most important thing is giving Belle a proper welcome tomorrow.

Don't worry, Uncle.

Serena will be there tomorrow, too. She'll become Belle's best friend in no

time.

The Shaws really are shameless.

Brother and sister, both just gold-digging social climbers.

No, I'm not a Reed anymore.

So why keep playing Tice with the Shaws?

Belle, I'm your mother.

Welcome home. Mom?

Hi. You don't have to be so formal, Belle.

This is your home.

We're your family. My old family called me family, too. But everything I did was

wrong. Ate too slow? Wrong. Talk too soft? Wrong. After a while, I was scared

to speak at all.

Okay, Dad. Mom. I got it.

Welcome home, sweetheart.

What do I even call her?

Big sister?

Little sister?

No. Maybe just say hi first.

I want to tell her I never had friends growing up. If she's okay with it, maybe

we could get along.

Hi. Can I come in?

Where is she?

She doesn't want to see me?

Sweetie, Kimberly moved out last night.

Why? Is it because of me?

No.

It's... Father, I wasn't arguing.

Oh, and I brought these. Let's settle everything once and for all today.

These are the shares and funds Grandpa gave me before he died, the two

properties, and the land in the North District.

The title documents are all here.

The lawyer has confirmed ownership.

Yes.

These assets belong to Miss Kimberly personally and have nothing to do with

her bloodline.

Kimberly, these were yours to begin with.

They have nothing to do with the Reeds. But why bring this up now?

What are you planning? I'm moving out of the Reed house.

No, you can't just walk off with those shares.

You're not a Reed by blood.

Holding Reed Group stock isn't right.

Mom and Dad haven't said a word, and you're already objecting.

Silas, finally done playing the lovesick fiancé?

I'm thinking about the Reeds.

Once the real heir is back, those assets should be hers.

You're thinking about your fiancé, aren't you?

Your engagement's to the real Reed heiress.

Now that I'm not her, you want me to hand over everything?

Don't make me sound so greedy. This man's greed is written all over his

face. The engagement kept me tied to him, but now I'm finally free of him.

Silas, we're nothing to each other now.

What's mine is none of your business.

Mom, Dad, I'm sorting this out because I've made up my mind.

Starting today, I'm leaving the Reed house so the real Reeds can be a family

again. Kimberly, no, you don't have to go.

You may not be my own flesh and blood, but we've had 20 years together.

How's that any different from a real daughter?

Mom, if I don't leave now, things will be painfully awkward when she comes back

tomorrow.

So, Mom, Dad, I'm grateful for everything you've done for me, but I'm

really leaving.

Sigh.

Leaving home?

Who wouldn't be heartbroken?

But I can't be bothered with some real versus fake iris cat bite.

Dad, Mom, I truly hope you and your real daughter can be happy together from now

on.

Kimberly just wants to live on her own.

Sweetie, the party we're throwing for you is about to start.

Put on the dress Mom bought you and come downstairs.

Okay.

Welcome home, Miss Bell.

Thank you.

No need to be so formal.

So this is the real heiress?

She's dressed so ordinary.

When Miss Kimberly stood here, she had a totally different presence.

Bell is my daughter.

Anyone in this house who disrespects her can get out.

It's okay, Mom.

They're just telling the truth.

Bell!

Welcome home.

Are you Kimberly?

Sweetie, this is Serena Shaw, the Shawses' daughter.

I'm going to go greet some guests.

You two girls can chat.

Belle, you're even cuter in person.

Don't be nervous.

Kimberly and I used to be really close.

Really? You know her?

Of course.

Kimberly's cold and not very expressive, but she told me everything.

We were best friends.

Does she hate me?

Of course not.

She's just in shock.

She was Miss Reed for 20 years and then suddenly found out none of it was hers.

Anyone would be upset.

I know.

Mom said she moved out.

I really want to meet her, but I don't want to bother her.

Belle, you're too sweet.

From now on, think of me as your friend.

I know all the rules of high society.

I'll help you.

Thank you.

We're friends.

No need to thank me.

Who knew the real Reed heiress would be such a naive little sweetheart?

So easy to fool.

Kimberly's a brick wall, but this one's opening the door for me.

Belle, is that the file on Reed Group's energy project?

Yeah. Dad said I should get familiar with the company's projects, but I can't

really make sense of it.

That's okay. I can go over it with you. Is it okay to show this to someone else?

I'm your friend, not an outsider.

Besides, Kimberly and I talked about this stuff all the time.

Miss Bell, welcome back to the world that's yours.

Thanks. And you are?

I'm Silas Shaw. I'm engaged to a Reed daughter.

Now that the truth's out, I figure I should get to know the real Miss Reed.

Engaged? But Kimberly... Let's not talk about her, Miss Bell.

She dumped me because I wanted to honor my engagement to the real Reed daughter.

If you're willing, we could start as friends.

See where it goes.

No, no, that's not necessary. We don't need to spend time together.

Just think of my brother as a regular friend.

You just got back, so there's a lot to adjust to.

We'll help you settle into your new life.

You're both helping me. I don't know how to repay you.

Silly. Friends don't keep score.

What's that, Beck?

Ex-girlfriend.

Your real Harris little sister is being hunted by the Shaws.

So? What's that got to do with me?

She's not my sister.

Oh, yeah?

What if I told you she just handed Serena the Reed Energy Project files?

What? Is her head full of cotton?

I don't know.

She seems to trust Serena.

Where's Victor?

Mr. Reed's busy chatting up the guests. He hasn't noticed yet.

The Reeds, every one of them more clueless than the last.

You want to come see for yourself?

No.

I'm just going to watch the show.

Belle Reed, you'd better be naive, not just plain stupid.

Belle, this is just a confirmation of the guest list. Sign here so PR can

prepare tomorrow's press release.

I have to sign?

Dad never said I'd be signing anything tonight. It's not a contract, just a

guest list confirmation.

You're the real Reed Aris, and this party is for you, so of course you

should sign it. I... It's just a signature.

No big deal.

People like us sign dozens of papers every day.

Kimberly, still all bark, soft heart.

You are... Sign this.

And tomorrow, you'll be the shortest-lived heir in Reed Group

history.

Kimberly, what are you doing here?

I came to see how you sell off the real Iris and make her sign the receipt.

It's just a guest list.

A guest list needs media authorization for internal Reed data, needs the energy

project's projected price.

Silas, if you're conning someone, at least pick a room without cameras.

Belle, I didn't know any of that was in there.

It's your first public appearance. I was just trying to help you establish

yourself. Serena.

Going through all of Reed Group's project files? That was helping him too?

Belle, is that the project file I gave you? I told you.

Reed Group materials are for Reeds only.

Why show it to Serena? I couldn't really understand it.

Serena said she could teach me. I'm sorry, Dad. Enough.

Belle, stay away from company files for now.

I understand.

What's wrong with Victor?

Shouldn't he be yelling at Serena? He'd say anything to get that piece of Shaw

land.

Don't beat yourself up.

I know you didn't mean it. We were only trying to help. It backfired.

Uncle Vict, Belle's been through enough today. Go easy on her. Besides, our

families are tied by marriage. We're family.

I can show her the ropes on this charity energy project.

If I didn't need that piece of Shaw land, I wouldn't let these two idiots

near me.

That's not the point. It may seem harmless, but what if Belle showed it to

someone else?

Someone with bad intentions could be watching this project.

Uncle, we were only trying to help Belle build some confidence.

Kimberly's so capable, anyone would feel inadequate next to her.

Serena, say one more nauseating thing like that and I'll tear your mouth off.

Belle, I didn't mean anything by that.

Here's the plan.

A week from now, you'll represent the group at the Shaw Charity Energy

Conference and give a speech.

My secretary will send you the script.

Okay, Dad.

Don't worry.

I'll work hard. I'll be just as good as Kimberly.

Ex-girlfriend, didn't you say you weren't coming? What, did you come

because you missed me? Yeah, came to see if you're dead.

I'll take that as concern.

Haven, you think these two Shaw idiots will let us hold the press conference

without a hitch?

We'll find out when the time comes.

Val, don't be nervous.

Just read from the script.

Who wrote this script?

Is it okay?

PR gave it to us.

It's airtight.

But Dad said we can't make the pricing public.

It's a charity budget, not a quote.

If you don't say it, the reporters will think you don't know anything.

Miss Bell, this is your first event representing Reed Group.

What would you like to say? And have you finalized the partner for this

collaboration? Is it really Shaw Group, as the rumors say? The partner hasn't

been finalized yet.

But I want to say thank you for trusting Reed Group.

We're putting our full commitment behind this. Reed Group will invest.

Sorry, I need to double-check something.

We will invest $200 million as an initial budget to move forward with the

West Texas Energy Community Initiative.

A $200 million budget? Isn't that too high? Does that mean Reed Group's

officially picked Shaw Group as its partner? I... What Ms. Bell said shows

Reed Group's commitment to this partnership.

If Shaw Group is lucky enough to be picked, we'll do everything we can...

I'm sorry, everyone, but we're suspending this press conference.

Who told you to announce a $200 million budget?

Didn't I say the pricing was confidential?

Dad, Serena said it was a charity budget.

I... Belle, those two Shaws are outsiders.

You can't keep letting them fool you. Sir.

Shaw Group has already released a teaser for the joint project.

The market is assuming we've confirmed the partnership.

If we deny it now, we'll be accused of misleading the charities.

They did this on purpose.

I'm sorry.

This is all my fault.

I shouldn't have trusted them. Belle, it's okay.

They deceived you too. In business, no one cares if you were tricked. Only

signatures and recordings.

I knew I wasn't cut out for this.

It's okay.

Call it a lesson learned.

But Belle, you need someone to teach you.

I've thought it over.

Kimberly's the only one who can.

What do you say?

Really?

I'd like that.

I'll learn everything I can from Kimberly.

Good. Remember what you said.

I'll go talk to her now.

Dad? This late? Did Reed Group go bankrupt?

Not that bad.

Drop the sarcasm.

Come in.

I won't.

I only have two things to say, then I'm leaving.

It's about Belle.

The Shaw siblings set her up.

I know.

I warned her last time.

I can't believe she still fell for it.

Kimberly, I've thought it over.

You're the only one who can teach her.

Come home.

Take her under your wing.

Teach her to read contracts and people.

She's the rightful daughter now.

What would I be if I came back? People would compare us, turn it into some real

versus fake iris spectacle.

She's finally found her footing.

If I go back, I'll only make her insecure.

Dad. Your family's finally whole.

Don't let me stir things up again.

But to me, you're both my daughters.

That has never changed.

I know.

That's why I have to step aside, cleanly.

Only then will this family have peace.

Only then can we stay father and daughter.

All right.

How did you find me? I asked Dad.

He didn't want to tell me, but I begged him. If you're here to cry, the cafe

downstairs has tissues.

I'm not here to cry.

These are everything I've signed, read, and said over the past few days. I spent

all night organizing them.

I know I'm not very smart, but I want to fix this.

You're not stupid.

You just don't guard against people.

Someone hands you a knife and you ask if the handle's warm.

I'm sorry. Stop apologizing. Sorry won't undo a contract.

Then... Will you teach me?

I know you don't owe me anything.

You left home because I came back.

And you lived in that house 20 years. You were more of a misread than I'll

ever be. You don't have to say that. But I really don't know what to do.

All I learned was how to endure.

How to not upset anyone.

I thought if someone was nice to me, they meant it.

I don't want to be used again, and I don't want to disappoint Mom and Dad.

Kimberly, will you teach me?

I'll learn. I really will.

What a hassle.

Perfect timing. You're both here. I came to tell you that Shaw Group is holding a

press conference this afternoon.

What are they trying to do now?

What else?

They're going to pin your mistake on you and force us to admit Shaw Group is the

partner. Then I'll go explain.

Going there would be suicide.

Then what do we do?

Come with me.

Four traps in three days. Are you the Shaw's personal ATM or what?

Sorry, I'll do better.

Starting today, remember three rules.

One, never sign anything you don't understand.

Two, when someone's overly friendly, check what they're after.

Three, if anyone tells you to keep something from Victor, call the cops.

That's safer than signing.

Don't sign what I don't get.

Check what they're after.

Never hide things from Dad.

At least she knows to take notes.

Okay. Maybe there's hope for her.

The press conference starts at 2.

Silas will spin the $200 million budget as a commitment Reed made voluntarily.

He wants to force Reed Group into taking Shaw Group as its partner.

What if we refuse?

The charities, the media, and the shareholders will all accuse Reed Group

of breaking its word.

I'm sorry.

This is all my fault.

Say that again and you're out of here.

The only move left... is to show up at his press conference.

You publicly admit you were misdeaded, but don't play the victim.

Focus on this.

Without board approval, no personal statement counts as a group commitment.

That gives us a way out.

Okay, but what if reporters ask why I was misdead?

Tell them you just returned to the family and lack business training, so

you're accepting corrections from the group.

Shaw Group values its partnership with Reed Group, and we appreciate Ms. Bell

representing the Reeds and showing her commitment.

Has Reed Group confirmed its $200 million investment?

Of course.

You all heard her.

Ms. Bell said it herself.

I did not!

Bell,

what are you doing here?

I'm here to correct a mistake.

Yesterday, without knowing where the documents came from, I quoted figures

the board never approved. That was my mistake.

So Reed Group is denying the $200 million commitment?

That's right.

Without board approval, no personal statement counts as a group commitment.

Bell, are you trying to make the public think Reed Group fabricated this?

It was fabricated, yes.

But not by Reed Group.

By Shaw Group.

Here's every figure from Bell's speech.

Sources, revision history, sender accounts, all here.

Serena, you tricked a girl who just came home into signing a fake PR release,

then used her as a shield.

Clever. No, that's not what happened!

Save it.

I backed up the forwarding records from your phone, too.

Every bit of it proves you manipulated Belle.

Kimberly, you're not a Reed anymore.

What gives you the right to speak here?

I still own Reed Group shares.

There will always be a place for me at Reed Group. Starting today, I'll step in

as a shareholder to help handle Reed Group's crisis.

Anyone trying to swallow Reed Group while Belle doesn't know the rules?

Ask me first.

Thank goodness you're here.

Enough. Go home and memorize the company bylaws.

I'm quizzing you later. Fine, Kimberly.

You just had to stick your nose in, didn't you?

Let's see how long you can protect her.

The announcement's ready.

We'll say Kimberly and Belle are fraternal twins.

Belle was separated from the family by accident and has finally come home. This

should stabilize the stock price and stop the media from turning the real

versus fake Iris story into a circus.

Kimberly, would you be willing to move back?

I'm only coming back temporarily.

Temporary is still good. Don't get too excited. I'm not here to play sisters.

I'm here to teach you how to survive high society.

I'll learn.

I promise.

Welcome home, Miss Kimberly.

With Miss Kimberly back, things will finally be steady. I heard Miss Kimberly

came back to teach Miss Bell.

Miss Bell really depends on her.

Gosping in front of the lady of the house?

Since when did the reeds get so sloppy?

I'm sorry, Miss Kimberly.

I'm not the one you should apologize to.

I'm sorry, Miss Bell.

It's okay. It is not okay.

Bell, from now on, if anyone disrespects you, push back.

Got it?

Got it.

I will.

Come on.

Let's go to the study.

All right.

Today we'll start with contracts.

Remember, never judge a contract by its title.

A charity title can hide penalties.

A partnership title can hide an equity transfer.

This is the contract Silas sent you. Find the traps.

Here. It says that if the project is delayed, Reed Cuppy bears all the costs.

What else?

Here. The partner gets the right of first vessel. At least you've got eyes.

Don't celebrate. You found two and missed five.

I'll keep looking.

Miss Kimberly, the Texas Energy Charity wants Miss Bell there tonight.

Can I skip it? No, you're a Reed daughter.

Sooner or later you have to show your face.

But I'm afraid I'll say the wrong thing.

That's why I'm going with you.

Really?

Don't look at me like that. I'm just making sure you don't get sold and then

help count the money.

Miss Bell, I hear you just came back to the Reeds. How are you adjusting?

I'm still learning.

Miss Kimberly never had to learn one look and you know, she's a read Of

course 20 years suffering in an ordinary family and she still made it here That

already makes her better than some people who only get in on their

husband's last name What did I tell you yesterday if anyone

disrespects you you hit back right away Okay, I'm still a little scared but next

time I'll do exactly what you said

Got it.

For now, stay behind me and watch.

She's so obedient.

Hard to stay mad at someone this obedient.

Miss Bell, people say you and Miss Kimberly are both Reed heiresses, but

you fall short in every way. What do you say to that?

I may not measure up to her yet, but I'll learn.

I'll keep learning from Kimberly until I'm just as good.

Then who should be the next president of Reed Group?

From what we hear, Ms. Kimberly stepped down recently.

Was she clearing the way for Belle?

She resigned from the group because I came back?

First, I resigned for my own reasons.

Second, the next president of Reed Group won't be me or Belle.

We'll hold a board meeting tomorrow and give you an answer then.

Miss Bell was honest last night, but honesty doesn't run a company.

Reed Group needs someone who can make the call.

Mr. Victor isn't in good health, and Miss Bell is still too inexperienced. If

you ask me, Miss Kimberly is the obvious choice.

She's inexperienced, but that doesn't give you the right to patronize her to

her face.

Miss Kimberly, that's not what I meant.

Then get to the point.

The group does need a president.

Bell isn't ready yet.

And Kimberly is clearly the best fit.

Miss Kimberly knows the group inside and out.

Why not come back and take the presidency?

I'm not taking it.

Kimberly, this is an emergency.

You're the only person who can do it.

It took a lot to get out of Reed Group. I'm not tying myself to it again.

Then who can keep things steady?

Haven Dodge.

He's got the talent, the resources.

And most importantly, he's not afraid of the Shahs.

What? Not happy?

The man who runs Texas's top conglomerate taking our president's

seat? That's a huge downgrade for him.

I know, but I have one question.

Why would he help Reed Group?

Because of my personal relationship with him.

Anyway, unless anyone objects, that's the decision.

Have. Reed Group needs an interim president.

At least three months.

Remember to show up for work.

You asked personally.

How could I say no, my dear ex-girlfriend?

Spare me.

Fine. I'll be there tomorrow.

Right on time.

Sis, I warmed up some milk for you.

Belle, these past few days with you, I know you don't mean any harm.

And I know you know I've never been against you.

You don't have to suck up to me.

I'm not sucking up.

I just want to take care of you a little.

You teach me, help me, and now you're finding someone to run the company.

I want to do something nice for you.

Alright, I get it. Um, are you and Mr. Dyker close?

We're okay.

Kimberly, you really trust him, don't you?

We used to date.

He's a good guy. We just weren't right for each other. So, yeah, I trust him.

I see.

I'll go now.

You came to meet me yourself.

I'm flattered.

I was worried you'd get lost.

I've been to Reed Group plenty of times.

Ex-girlfriend, I still remember all those days I picked you up after work.

That was then.

You're here to work now.

Haven, thanks for doing this.

No problem, Uncle.

I'm only here to hold the plate for three months.

Reed still retains full control of the company's day-to-day operations.

Hello, Mr. Dodge.

Miss Bell, I've heard a lot about you.

I still don't know much about the company, but I'll work hard and try not

to get in the way.

You're doing great.

Knowing what you don't know and being willing to learn puts you ahead of

people who pretend to know everything.

Write that down.

What's so funny?

You look even scarier teaching than when you used to chew me out.

Brings back memories.

How close were they before?

Kimberly never seems guarded around him.

The Shaws are tight on cash lately. They'll keep coming after Reed Group.

So Bella can't be alone with Silas again.

I won't trust him again.

Silas is good at exploiting emotional weak bots.

The more alone you feel, the easier it is for him to slip in.

Bella, remember this.

You're not alone.

Mom, Dad, and I are your family.

We've got your back.

Okay.

I got it.

If you know, why are you crying?

Come on, wipe your tears.

You're still terrible at comforting people.

As long as it works.

Doesn't look like it's working.

It is.

See? It works.

These are the Shah's recent cash flows.

You were right. They're desperate to get cash out of Reed.

Did Silas go after you for Reed's assets?

What else? Love?

Can you stop asking stupid questions?

You two were like this when you dated, too.

Arguing while getting things done.

Were you together for a long time?

It wasn't exactly brief.

I didn't want to break up back then, but... Haven, we're over.

Bring it up again and get out of my house.

See? That's exactly how she dumped me. Clean and quick.

You okay?

I'm fine.

Kimberly and Haven look so good together.

Of course, someone as amazing as Kimberly needs someone even more

amazing.

I'm full.

I know you don't want to talk to me, but I just want to check on you.

Belle, if you want a real place in the Reeds, you need to find your own way.

Silas is full of lies.

Who knows what he's trying to trick me into now?

A marriage alliance.

You're the real Reed heiress. Get engaged to me, and the world will

recognize you immediately.

Then you'll have a firm place in the Reeds.

Silas, you're disgusting.

People like you, I feel dirty just talking to you.

Kimberly, if I had another guy around, would you be even a little upset?

Believe me, I won't fall for Silas again, but I need to know how you feel.

Let's meet tomorrow and talk about it.

Belle, I'm glad you made such a smart choice.

You're welcome.

Who let him in?

I did.

Belle, did I or did I not tell you never to meet him alone?

Kimberly, I know, but I'm not a child.

He won't fool me again. Right, you're not a child, but you just learned to

walk, and you're already strolling on the freeway.

Belle, why won't you listen?

Kimberly, stop talking to her like that. Shut up!

You don't get a say here.

Kimberly, I'll listen to you. Enough!

Why did you meet him?

Kimberly, Belle just agreed to marry me.

The Shaws and the Reeds are about to become an unstoppable alliance.

Belle, I thought you were just a little naive.

Turns out you're a complete idiot.

You've really let me down.

What are you saying?

I said, hope you and this scumbag are very happy together.

Kimberly, what else can I do?

Just stand by and watch you and Haven handle everything?

What does Haven have to do with this?

Of course it does.

Do you know I... Baby, don't be sad.

Let's talk about the marriage alliance.

Kimberly, I'll make sure you get an invitation.

You have to come!

Kimberly, you've been staring at that invitation for 15 minutes. What's on

your mind?

I'm thinking about when Silas goes to hell.

Are you Satan?

Yes.

Want to go with him?

I take back what I said.

Shaw Group's tight on cash lately.

Silas is rushing this engagement to make the market believe Shaw can lock down

Reed Group.

Your concerns are valid.

I already know all that.

That's how I know he'll never really care about Belle.

Kimberly, you look pretty angry.

Of course I am. She's an idiot.

Is that all?

What else would it be?

Kimberly, I think Belle likes you.

What are you talking about? We're both women.

So? You don't have any lesbian friends?

This is ridiculous.

I've seen it all, dated more people than I can count, but never this?

No. I don't buy it.

Haven's just messing with me.

Keep talking and I'll send you straight to hell.

Belle said yes, but I keep feeling Kimberly will come ruin everything.

I feel the same.

Kimberly knows we're trying to swallow Reed Group.

She won't cave easily.

A fake Iris?

And she thinks she's Reed Group's savior?

At the engagement party, we need to get Belle firmly on our side.

How?

We make her lose control.

Everyone sees she can't live without me. Crazy about me.

Then even if someone tries to stop it, they can't argue.

I'm Belle's true love.

Bro, isn't this a little obvious?

Relax. Small dose.

She'll just run a fever, panic, cling to whoever's closest.

I'll take her out.

Media gets photos of her in my arms.

What if she goes to Kimberly?

Belle seems to trust her.

Then Kimberly gets humiliated in public.

She'll probably be the first to shove Belle away and scream in her face.

Belle, nervous?

Yeah, a little.

Don't be.

After tonight, everyone will know you as the Reed Heir.

and as Mrs. Shaw.

Belle, what are you looking at? Are you waiting for Kimberly?

No.

Belle, you look gorgeous tonight. Here, have some juice and relax.

Look, Caperline's here.

Didn't she and Bella have a falling out?

Why is she here with Haven?

I knew they never really ended things. Good thing I didn't marry that slut.

Nice dress.

Quick question.

Is your brain still working?

Huh? Yeah, yeah. Oh, good.

Wouldn't want you signing something you shouldn't, then showing up crying

outside my apartment with a file again. Kimberly, this is my and Belle's

engagement party, not one of your lessons.

Drop the condescending attitude.

You know, it's an engagement party.

I thought this was a Shaw Group investor roadshow.

Kimberly, you came.

You're here to bless my brother and sister-in-law, right?

Serena, you know I never want to waste a word on you. And I warned you.

Say one more thing that tips me off.

You hit me? Who told you to forget?

I said I'd tear your mouth off.

Belle, what's wrong?

I feel hot.

Why is your face so red?

I didn't even hit you.

You must be exhausted after today.

Come on, I'll take you somewhere to rest.

Kimberly?

What's wrong with you?

She's just nervous.

I'll take her to rest. Don't! Touch her!

I'm her fiancé.

The engagement's not even done.

Stop acting like her husband already.

Kimberly, you're finally looking at me.

What are you talking about?

You kept looking at Haven.

Now you're finally looking at me.

What did you drink?

Juice.

Serena gave it to me.

Oh, that's just the juice for the guests. Had a little alcohol in it.

Belle, are you drunk? Let my brother take you to rest. Not him.

I don't like him.

Kimberly, do you hate me?

Hate you?

Who told you that?

But I'm not someone people like, am I? I'm so stupid. I keep getting fooled.

That part's true. You do keep getting fooled.

But I only wanted you to look at me a little more.

Kimberly, the footage shows Serena put something in the glass.

Lab results will tell us what, but Belle's definitely not just drunk.

I know.

I'm taking her out of here.

Kimberly! This is my engagement party with Bella.

What do you mean, taking her away in front of everyone?

It means she looks sick, and you're not trustworthy.

What right do you have to take her? She's holding my hand and won't let go.

That's all the right I need.

Belle, listen to me. Come here.

No. Belle, snap out of it.

You're supposed to get engaged to my brother tonight. He's your fiancé.

I don't want to get engaged.

Belle,

didn't you agree to this engagement?

Dad, I don't want to marry him. Belle.

You're drunk.

Nothing you're saying right now counts.

I'm not drunk.

I just don't want to marry you.

Belle! You agreed just a few days ago. How can you go back on your word?

I said yes because I thought it would make Kimberly care about me more.

I don't like Silas, and I don't want him touching me.

He's been lying to me. All he wants is the Reed fortune.

Fine. Then don't marry him. The engagement is off.

Kimberly, who the hell do you think you are? You can't just call it off. I just

did. What are you going to do about it, Silas?

You'd better pray I don't find out what you gave Bella.

If I do, I'll make you pay a hundred, a thousand times over.

Everyone, the party is over.

Everyone,

give the two lovely ladies some privacy, okay?

I think you'd be better off interviewing Silas and Serena Shaw about how they're

feeling.

Mr.

Shaw, your engagement to Kimberly, the elder Reed daughter, was called off.

Then you turned around and got engaged to the younger one, Belle. Now she's

publicly called it off, too. Rejected by both Reed irises. How do you feel?

How do I feel?

What else is there?

Devastated. I truly wanted to marry Belle, I swear to God.

But you can't force love. If she doesn't love me, I respect her decision.

Belle just said you only went after her for the Reed fortune.

Kimberly also accused you of drugging her. Mr. Shaw, answer directly.

Slander.

Pure slander.

I've never done anything to hurt Belle.

She wasn't herself tonight. Just drunk talk. Listen if you want. Don't take it

seriously.

Exactly.

Belle had too much to drink. She wasn't watching what she said.

The Shaws have always been sincere with her. God is our witness.

We already held the party. How can she just call it off?

Can't call it off?

My daughter said she doesn't want it, so it's over.

Call the doctor and the lawyer.

Every drink Belle touched tonight gets sealed and sent for testing.

I'll arrange it now.

Poor child.

Her face was frighteningly red. If the tests find something... Mr. Shaw, the

Reeds won't let this go.

Mr. Reed, accusing someone without evidence is a bit... We'll know once we

test it. And if something's wrong, you'll find out how the Reeds deal with

unwanted guests.

You're a smart man, Mr. Shaw. I shouldn't have to explain.

Everyone, everyone, you've got enough tonight to run headlines for three

months. Give us some breathing room, all right? Besides, instead of crowding this

door, snapping two ladies freezing in the wind, why not dig into Shaw Group's

cash flow this quarter?

Now that's a real story.

Kimberly, this is all I can do.

Serena, keep that smile on. If we lose it in front of everyone tonight, we're

finished.

Belle doesn't know when she's got it good.

Have some water, settle yourself.

Still dizzy?

Why are you crying? I give you water and you cry.

Kimberly, do you know why I agreed to the marriage alliance?

Why? Because seeing Haven by your side made me unhappy.

I wanted you to look at me more.

Kimberly, I was scared you'd stop caring about me.

Bell, it's not that I don't care.

Kimberly Reid, that's not what I mean. I need to tell you, I like you. Not like

family. I like you. I want to be with you.

What nonsense?

Kimberly,

do you mean you hate me?

I don't hate you.

Then you like me.

Not hating you doesn't mean I like you. Bell, don't push your luck just because

you're drugged. How am I pushing my luck?

I haven't gotten anything.

Kimberly, does that mean I can get something?

Kimberly?

Can I give you my first kiss?

I've never seen anyone ask for a kiss like that.

Belle, you've done way too many things I never saw coming.

You didn't say no.

So that means yes, right?

Oh my god, did you get that? Miss Bell just kissed Miss Kimberly?

Wow, bigger than the cancelled engagement.

Bell, hey.

Do you know what you just did?

I know.

I kissed you.

Winning you back's harder than I thought.

Now I've got women to compete with, too. Hey, you're joking at a time like this?

Sorry, I'll shut up.

Bell, what on earth happened?

Kimberly, you two...

You two... Mom, I'm fine.

I just wanted to tell Kimberly... Belle, don't say anything yet. You need to

rest. She's not herself.

Lingering drug or emotional breakdown?

Either way, I can't let her keep talking in front of the cameras.

Security! Control the crowd now!

Belle, have you lost your mind? This is the Reeds public gala and you kiss this

fake Iris?

I... Don't you dare talk about her like that. She's a fraud!

Using that face to seduce you. Making the Reeds a laughing stock!

Serena, your brother drugged Bell, you handed him the knife, and now you stand

there acting superior?

That's rich.

Kimberly, stop throwing dirt on the Shaws. After what just happened, how

dare you? Not so fast.

By the end of tonight, everyone will know exactly what you did.

So what have you two cooked up this time?

Everyone, look. This is a DNA test.

Kimberly isn't a read by blood.

Miss Kimberly, what do you have to say about this report?

What can she say?

A fake Iris, clinging to the Reeds, refusing to leave, and now she sticks

her nose into the real Iris' marriage.

Kimberly, you're no long-lost fraternal twin.

The Reed announcement may fool the public, not us.

Silas! Uncle Victor, I'm only stating the facts.

Kimberly has no blood tie, no inheritance rights, and no right to

stand here representing the Reeds.

She has every right.

She saved me. Has she scrambled your brain?

She stole 20 years of your life, and now she wants to steal your feelings too,

yet you're still defending her? She's innocent.

She's a victim too. Like me, she had no idea we were switched at birth. You

can't pin everything on her!

It's not fair!

After all this, she's still defending me. Belle, you're too naive.

So naive it's almost pathetic. So naive I can't bring myself to leave you.

Are you done?

Why are you still pretending to be calm?

You're a fraud!

I'm the Reeds' adopted daughter.

They've known from the start, and as the people involved, they haven't said a

word. Who are you to comment?

Serena, you didn't bring out this evidence for the truth. You brought it

out to distract from the fact that you drugged someone.

Kimberly, where's your evidence?

Don't rush me.

I'll take this one piece at a time.

Oh, right.

Let me start by explaining why you two hate me so much. Kimberly, you... Shh!

Don't interrupt.

You'll ruin my train of thought. That's right. It's because... Because I own

Reed Group shares, plus the property and funds old Mr. Reed gave me. Kimberly,

you're making things up.

Silas, wasn't that why you got engaged to me?

Then Belle came back, the real Iris, and you switched sides.

What did I get wrong?

So the Shaws were after Reed's assets from the very beginning?

No, no, no. That's just the prep work. They've already gone after those assets.

Tonight? I'll show everyone just how far the Shaw's reach extends.

Belle's first day back, Serena pretended to be my best friend.

Got close, told her you could trust everyone in high society.

I just wanted to be her friend!

Does being friends mean snooping through Reed energy files? You think everyone

here's a child?

Serena sent this to Silas? Records show the file went from Serena's phone to

Silas. Back then, I really thought she was my best friend.

Belle, it's not too late.

You know the truth now. That still matters.

Belle's the stupid one. Why blame me?

So you admit you were lying to her.

Second time.

Silas gave Belle a fake speech, had her announce a $200 million budget the board

never approved.

That was a communication error. A communication error that just happened

to make Shaw Group release a joint teaser first?

That proved Shaw Group was ready to use Belle's statement to force Reed Group

into a partnership.

Exactly. The moment Belle spoke, they could put Reed Group on the spot.

Silas.

Shaw's really know how to play dirty.

That's how business works.

If this idiot didn't understand what she was saying, who else is there to blame?

You're despicable.

You used a kind, innocent girl's trust. Doesn't your conscience bother you?

Do you sleep at night without nightmares?

Third time, the contract trap.

Silas buried a right of first refuse in the fine print, hoping Bell would sign

Reed's North District Energy Project over to Shaw. Enough!

Not enough.

You haven't paid for everything you did to her. First files, then a speech, then

a contract. You ran Belle in circles.

When none of it worked, you tried to destroy her reputation tonight. You're

the lowest of the low. Stop slandering me. Do you have evidence?

Belle clearly refused alcohol before the party.

You got her to drink juice, then had a server hand her a drug drink.

I didn't. You didn't?

Is that the servant who delivered the drinks tonight? Yes.

We've already found him.

I was paid to deliver the drinks. I didn't know what was in them. You're

lying!

You paid me to give the marked glass to Miss Bell. Mr. Silas was there, too.

Bullshit. One servant's word brings down the shahs.

Dream on.

Of course there's more.

Money came from Serena's private account. Sil assistant bought the drug.

You wanted Bell to lose control at the party so the media could catch her

clinging to Silas. So what?

She's easy to fool. Marrying my brother's the best thing that could

happen to her.

Shut up. Kimberly, what are you, her knight in shining armor?

She just kissed you. Everyone saw.

Doesn't that disgust you?

You two are the disgusting ones.

She wasn't in control of herself after being drugged. That doesn't give you the

right to humiliate her.

Call the police.

Now!

Serena Shaw, Silas Shaw.

Please cooperate with the investigation into the suspected drugging of Miss

Belle Reed. I didn't do anything!

Kimberly set me up!

Did I transfer the money for you?

Did I buy the drug for you? Did I make you hand the glass to Belle?

Kimberly, you think taking us away means the Shahs have lost?

At least tonight, you don't have a chance in hell of turning this around.

Belle, you can still call this a misunderstanding.

Say the word and I won't hold the public cancellation against you.

You're disgusting.

I never loved you.

I agreed because I was insecure, desperate to prove myself. You kept

using that against me.

You're pathetic.

Stop it!

No!

Don't get cocky, Kimberly.

You can protect her tonight, not forever.

What I do is none of your concern.

Kimberly, without you tonight, Belle would have been destroyed.

This isn't the time for a heartfelt speech. Get her home first.

Belle looks awful.

Don't go.

She said too much tonight that she shouldn't have. But every word stirs

something inside me. What's happening to me?

Okay. I'll take you home. The car's outside.

The dose isn't fatal, but it amplifies his emotions and dependency.

She just needs someone with her tonight. She should be mostly back to normal

tomorrow.

Thank you, Doctor.

Kimberly, thank you for staying with her tonight.

She shouldn't see too many people right now.

You get some rest.

Are you mad at me?

Do you think I shouldn't be?

I caused you trouble tonight.

More than that.

You kissed me.

I'm sorry.

Don't cry.

I didn't say I blame you.

You must think I'm weird.

You're under the influence.

Get some sleep.

I'm afraid that when I wake up, you won't let me say it again.

Kimberly, no one looked after me growing up.

My foster parents only yelled, told me I was useless, didn't deserve anything.

And when I came back to the Reeds, I still didn't know how to do anything.

When you call me stupid, You're the only one who tells me the right answer, too.

You say I'm easy to fool, but you stand in front of me and take down anyone who

tries.

Belle, do you know every word you say is hitting me right in the chest?

Blunt, clumsy, no technique at all.

Yet I can actually feel your pain.

But should I respond?

You don't have to pity me.

I just want you to know that you're the first person who's ever truly cared

about me.

But your real parents care about you, too.

They love me, but they don't know what I like or hate. Only you.

You're the only one who truly knows me.

That's why I like you.

I really do.

Can you not push me away so fast?

Belle, I think the drug hasn't worn off yet.

All it did was give me the courage to say what's in my heart.

It didn't make me fall for you out of nowhere.

Seeing you with Haven hurts.

You two fit together so well.

I feel like I'll never fit in.

Haven and I are over.

But you still seem like you belong to the same world.

You'll enter that world too.

I don't just want to enter it.

I want to stand beside you.

I've seen every kind of confession.

Subtle, passionate, calculated.

Bell's is the worst.

She hides nothing.

Leaves me nowhere to hide.

I agreed to marry Silas because I saw you with Haven.

I wanted you to care about me more.

So you used your own marriage to throw a tantrum?

I was wrong.

Stop crying Why didn't you pull away tonight?

You could have pushed me away when I kissed you You could barely stand I just

and then you didn't push me away right away. Did you?

Kimberly do you maybe like me a little too?

I don't know.

I never thought I'd fall for a woman.

I never thought someone like you, always getting conned, always crying, would

leave me speechless.

You're insulting me again.

I'm stating facts.

Then don't answer yet.

I can wait.

What do I do?

She's backing off.

So why can't I pretend I don't care?

Have I really fallen for her?

Are you leaving?

I'm getting you some water.

After I sober up, this is going to be so embarrassing.

It's already embarrassing enough.

But it's not ugly.

Liking someone isn't embarrassing.

Being used is.

If I like you, you don't think I'm embarrassing, so you think I'm pretty?

You are.

Then I want to kiss you again.

Belle, you're not in a state to make decisions.

I'm not asking you to say yes. I just want you to know this isn't Silas, the

reporters, or the drug. Not this time.

If you don't want this, push me away.

That's enough you need to rest This time you

didn't pull away Go to sleep

When you wake up tomorrow don't regret this, okay

You're awake?

I'm sorry.

Last night... Did I say a bunch of weird things again?

You did more than talk.

I kissed you, didn't I?

Twice.

I'm sorry. I really... I wasn't trying to take advantage of you.

Fearless last night, terrified today.

Does the real Iris's courage come with an hour renewal, Plaren?

Come out.

Are you going to hate me?

No.

Then do you regret it?

I don't regret it.

But you weren't yourself last night, so we can't count this as anything yet.

I'm sober now.

You just woke up. Eat first.

You're changing the subject again.

Am I interrupting?

No.

She needs to eat.

Belle, eat something.

Kimberly hasn't slept all night either.

You stayed with me all night?

I was worried you'd burn up with a fever in your sleep.

There she goes, smiling again.

Keep smiling like that and I'll have even less idea what to do with her.

I'm going to deal with the Shaws.

Are you coming back?

I am.

Evidence of the Shaw's drugging bell and commercial fraud is with the police.

Their reputation's in free fall online.

Keep pushing.

I want them unable to use the reeds as a prop ever again.

The Shaw board is fighting among themselves, too.

Silas has his hands full for now.

Bell, you okay?

No. Just going through the evidence list.

Get it?

Half of it.

Better than before.

Looks like you don't need me here for now.

Reed Group still needs you at the helm.

I meant something else.

Are you planning to follow me all day?

I'm afraid you don't want to talk to me.

About last night.

I won't force an answer.

You don't have to avoid me or be nice just because you feel sorry for me.

Belle.

I didn't pull away last night because I felt sorry for you.

I honestly don't know how to define this.

Never thought I'd like women.

Much less you.

But I don't regret it.

Can I keep liking you?

Can I stop you?

I'm done for.

She smiles, and I know I'm done for.

I'll study hard and won't cause you so much trouble anymore.

You're not my trouble.

I just want you to learn to stand on your own sooner.

Mm-hmm.

Shaw Group has sent a formal apology and proposed a discounted project to make up

for the harm they caused.

They've got some nerve.

I've reviewed it. The margins look high and the risks are clearly spelled out.

Is Shaw suddenly doing charity?

Do you buy it?

Don't worry. I didn't take it at face value.

I read it three times and had legal do a preliminary review. At first glance,

there are no obvious traps.

The fewer obvious traps there are, the more careful we need to be.

I want to try judging this myself.

I don't want you shielding me from every storm forever.

Fine. But before you make the call, cross-check every attachment.

Okay. Bell's more cautious now. But with someone like Silas, there's no guarantee

he won't use the same knife twice.

Everyone's blaming me. Calling me a drugger, a monster, saying I don't

belong in high society.

Shut up, Serena. Could you stop acting like a jilted ex for five minutes? It's

all Kimberly's fault. Which is why we can't go after her directly this time.

Belle wants to prove herself, so we give her a project that looks flawless.

The harder she checks, the more she'll believe it's her call.

Once the project goes live, Reed's buried in losses, and Belle becomes a

joke. By then, even Kimberly won't be able to protect her from the board.

I want to watch Belle destroy the Reeds with her own hands.

This says cost overruns are shared proportionally, not dumped entirely on

Reed. Keep going.

This says a third-party supplier handles the energy equipment.

The Shars aren't directly involved.

Who is the supplier?

Southern United Equipment.

15 years in business, long-term government contracts.

And the ownership structure?

I'll check.

Belle, at least now you trace things to the source.

Before you just ask, they seem sincere, can I trust them?

I think I've actually watched you grow up.

I... It's because you're a good teacher.

Nothing unusual in the public record so far.

Can I keep moving forward?

Move forward, yes.

Sign anything, no.

Got it.

You brought this for me?

Mm-hmm.

That doesn't sound like you.

What? You've gotten so good, I had to change my style.

Otherwise, once you graduate, you won't need me anymore.

Read your files.

I really want to do this right this time.

I know.

That's why I'm letting you keep going.

Kimberly, you trust me now?

Halfway.

Then I'll work to earn the other half.

She's getting better at keeping up with me. That's a problem. A real problem.

And yet...

I think I'm happy.

Mr. Dodge, these are the supplier records Bell reviewed.

Too clean.

Isn't clean a good thing?

Business documents this clean sometimes mean someone scrubbed them.

You think something's off too?

Supplier checks out, but the Guaranteeders change names three times.

Ends at an offshore fund.

Bell didn't catch that?

That layer is buried deep. Finding the public ownership was already good.

She really did take this seriously.

But thorough doesn't mean she can't be fooled by a smarter setup.

I recommend suspending the signing.

Told Victor?

Not yet.

I want to confirm the final exposure first.

I'll dig into it with you.

If the offshore fund defaults, Reed's on the hook for buying back the equipment.

How much?

Worst case, 800 million.

Silas has some nerve.

It's not in the main contract.

It's buried in a supply chain Addison. The version Bell saw didn't include it.

Someone deliberately gave her the clean version.

Exactly. Once she signs the main agreement, the adamant kicks in

automatically. Belle thought she'd finally learn to judge things on her

own. Silas picked this moment to strike. He doesn't want the project. He wants to

destroy her confidence. They sign tomorrow morning. We still have time.

Stop it tonight.

I'll contact the board. You go talk to Bella.

But she'll be hurt.

This isn't the time to worry about her feelings. Your priority is whether

Reed's about to lose 800 million.

I... Kimberly, you've changed.

Why are you here? I was just about to show you the final version.

Something wrong with the project?

There is.

The main contract is clean.

The trap is in the supply chain added section.

Someone tampered with the materials you reviewed.

I checked the supplier, the ownership, and the guarantor.

You checked right.

They just hid it deeper.

I still got fooled.

This wasn't a rookie mistake.

But the result is the same.

If you hadn't caught it, I would have cost the group 800 million tomorrow.

Belle, look at me.

Are you disappointed in me now? No.

I'm angry that Silas still hasn't changed. Not disappointed in you.

Where are you going?

I'm going to apologize to Dad.

It's two in the morning.

I'm going anyway.

I can't pretend nothing happened.

The signing is already stopped.

Haven is handling the board.

Haven's helping you again? This is a company matter.

I know.

I just feel like every time I try to prove myself, you and Haven are the ones

cleaning up after me.

I need a minute to clear my head.

I pushed this project.

The trap was in the ad deck, but I missed the final risk.

That's on me.

Miss Bell, you've gotten much more careful.

I still wasn't careful enough. I nearly hurt the company, nearly cost it

hundreds of millions.

From now on, I'll add a third-party review to every major project.

I won't rush into decisions just to prove myself.

This wasn't entirely your fault.

I know.

But I can't pretend I had no responsibility.

Project stopped.

No actual losses.

The real ones who need to answer are the Shahs for falsifying documents.

Agreed. Agreed.

Belle, are you avoiding me?

No. I just need to update the files.

Did you have something else to say to me last night?

Belle, look at me.

I just don't want you to keep seeing me at my worst. But I've already seen it.

That's why I don't want you to see it again!

I like you, but I don't want to always be the one you rescue.

When I can really stand on my own, then we'll talk about us, okay?

Belle, is she backing away?

She used to chase me for answers.

Now she's the one stepping out of this relationship.

Why don't I feel relieved? I can barely breathe.

Belle, you don't have to tie your feelings to your abilities.

But I want to be worthy of the way you feel about me.

I can't believe you asked me out for drinks. Never saw that coming.

You didn't have to come.

I was worried you'd get drunk alone and stick me with the bill.

For Belle?

For the Shahs.

You're not as convincing when you lie anymore.

She said she wants to talk about us after she can stand on her own.

Isn't that a good thing?

But she used to... She was so brave when she kissed me. She used to grab you and

ask if you'd leave.

Now she asks herself if she can stand on her own and suddenly you're not used to

it?

You taught her how to stand.

And now you're upset that she isn't chasing you anymore, right?

You're awfully talkative tonight.

It's not often I get to see you at a loss.

I'm enjoying it.

I've always wondered what you'd be like when you really liked someone. Now I

know.

Don't be ridiculous.

You go soft when she cries, panic when she steps back, get irritated when she

stops looking at you. Kimberly, that's not responsibility.

I chased you for so long.

Losing to Bella doesn't feel so bad.

Haven, I never thought I'd like women.

What about now?

Maybe this started out wrong, but I can't deny how I feel about her.

Someone was just outside.

Bell.

How much did you hear?

That you said we were a mistake from the start?

But I also heard Haven say he didn't mind losing to me.

Then why did you leave?

Because I don't know if it was the alcohol or if you just feel sorry for

me. I don't feel sorry for you!

But I'm always messing up and making you clean up after me. I came to apologize,

then I saw you drinking with Haven.

He's great.

He gets you and he can help you.

I just caused trouble.

You took responsibility at the board meeting and added a review process.

Is that causing trouble?

Belle, everyone makes mistakes.

You're just working through growing pains. Why beat yourself up over that?

You're not the girl Serena tricked into signing documents anymore.

Belle, I was drinking with Haven because I don't know how to handle what I feel

for you.

What we feel?

Yes. When you chased me, I thought we shouldn't. Now that you've taken a step

back, I feel even more unsettled.

I hate losing control, and you make me lose it.

Kimberly, is that... a confession?

Kimberly, at this rate, she'll be crying again tonight.

Okay, okay, I'm leaving.

Belle, don't think of me as your enemy.

I've stepped aside to cheer you two on.

I'm sorry.

Don't be.

Kimberly was always hard to chase. You were braver than me. You deserve this.

Come on, Belle.

Let's go home.

Which home?

The Reed house.

Our home.

Morning. Did you cry yourself out last night and come out here to clear your

head?

Could you stop bringing up every embarrassing thing I do?

Sure. But I expect you to prove it.

So what are we now?

You don't have to answer right away. I just want to know if I can keep liking

you.

Of course.

I'll take the time to figure out how I feel too. Not because I pity you.

Not out of responsibility.

Not because of last night.

Belle, don't cry.

I'm not crying?

Silly.

Everyone's saying Belle and Kimberly are perfect together.

People are even making edits.

How is that fair?

The drugging case is still under investigation.

I recommend no more public statements.

So we just sit there and let everyone tear us apart?

Make a statement.

Mr. Shaw?

Turn the narrative onto Kimberly.

Say she's trying to take back the Reed fortune, controlling Belle, and

suppressing the real Iris.

Yes. Say Belle's been brainwashed into liking her.

That would be high-risk defamation.

We're already in too deep.

Kimberly loves pretending she's above everyone. I'll have people call her

disgusting, greedy, and controlling.

The story broke overnight. Every source account ties back to the Shahs. They're

using the media storm to distract from the drugging case.

They can insult me, but why attack you too?

Because they hate me more.

I'll explain everything to them.

How? By saying you chose to like me?

I can.

They say you're controlling me.

Then I'll tell everyone I wasn't controlled.

I chose to love you.

This has nothing to do with you.

A statement like that will make it worse. I don't think we should... It's

already out of control!

Bella's right.

The story is about your relationship, and you can't dodge it.

She's right. The story's about us. We can't dodge it.

Usually I'd pick the smartest play.

This time that means putting Belle in front of the cameras.

Hearing it from her might work better.

Belle, are you ready?

Of course.

Kimberly, are you stopping me because you don't want us public?

I'm trying to keep people from attacking you.

So that's what you're worried about?

What's funny about that? I thought you were worried I'd cause trouble for you

and the company.

Kimberly, I'm not afraid of being attacked.

What scares me is...

I fell for you first, and they'll think you manipulated me.

That would hurt.

People used to make all my choices for me.

This time, I want to speak for myself.

Then speak.

But you're not doing it alone.

They say this is one-sided.

I don't agree.

Let's show them what love looks like.

We don't even have a photo together.

Let's take some cute couple photos and give them something to look at, okay?

Just move a little closer.

Shy now?

Where'd that courage go when you kissed me?

That was different.

How?

I was afraid you'd run.

And I was drugged. Now, so many people.

This is their choice.

I'm just not used to it yet.

It's the first time Belle's had such a strong opinion since coming back.

All set?

Don't shake, Belle.

I'm not.

Your palms are soaked.

Try to relax a little.

I don't know how to relax.

Then look at me.

This one is great.

Do we really have to post it?

Are you scared?

No.

I just didn't expect you to go public with us.

Belle, I'm sure.

I love you.

This is great! Mr. Dodge, the tide has turned!

Everyone's commenting on how perfect you two are. I'll ship anything, keeps me

well fed.

Kimberly, seeing you happy makes me happy.

Everyone's shipping you two, calling you the icy wife protector and the sweet

straightforward one.

Why are they being so blunt? Who doesn't want to say what they really feel

online? Besides, were you exactly subtle when you confessed?

The Shaw's smear campaign backfired. People are piecing together the

timeline, drugging, contract fraud, rumors. Should we keep releasing

evidence?

Yes. Release it in installments. Don't let the buzz die.

Isn't that too harsh?

Going soft on rumor spreaders is asking for trouble.

I'll remember that.

The narrative's completely flipped.

Everyone's accusing us of malicious smarres, demanding the police update the

drugging case. How?

Shouldn't they be attacking Kimberly? She's the fake Iris.

The public isn't talking about her birthright anymore. They're talking

about drugging and corporate fraud.

What do we do, brother?

Delete the posts.

Suppress the trending topics.

We can't, boss.

Haven's clearly spending money to steer the narrative.

Haven again!

Kimberly again! And that bitch Belle! Why don't they all just die?

Shut up!

Stop screaming!

If we can't suppress the narrative, get the lawyers ready.

Ready for what?

To sue Kimberly for defamation.

If she can sue, we can drag this out too.

Once Reed's shareholders get tired of it, Belle still won't hold her seat.

You're right, brother.

Kimberly, Belle, get ready to beg me on your knees.

We've compiled the account chains, payment records, and distribution paths

behind the Shaw's smear campaign.

We can formally file a definition suit.

Looks like they're planning to countersue us.

Let them.

The longer they drag this out, the more evidence we'll have.

I want to testify too.

You don't have to appear. They smeared you.

I need to say it myself. You're a good person and my partner.

You'll be asked some ugly questions.

I know.

People will use our relationship against you.

Then I'll say it anyway.

Miss Bell, were you emotionally manipulated by Miss Kimberly?

No.

Loving her was my choice. But she was the Reed's fake heiress. Doesn't that

bother you? What bothers me is who hurt me, not bloodlines.

The Shaw's hurt me.

Kimberly protected me.

I used to trust too easily because I wanted to be loved.

The first thing Kimberly taught me, don't mistake kindness for sincerity.

It can be packaged by people with ulterior motives.

So I'm standing here to prove Kimberly didn't control me. We're truly in love.

She taught me not just how to love, but how to tell sincerity from manipulation.

Beautifully put.

Kimberly really did raise you well.

Miss Bell, you admit that you made several bad judgments, correct?

I do. Then how do you prove you're not still being influenced by Miss Kimberly?

Because I've learned to verify evidence instead of blindly believing whatever

people tell me.

Did Kimberly teach you to say that?

Yes.

But whether I say it, that's my call.

She can teach me anything, but I have my own judgment.

I'm a person who can exercise her own rights.

No one controls me.

Serena said she was my best friend. I believed her.

Silas said a marriage alliance would help me stand firm. I believed him, too.

Then I met Kimberly and learned to observe and judge for myself.

So I swear, every word I've said in this courtroom is true.

The ones who really manipulated me are them.

Payment records for the Shah's smear campaign.

Chat snapshots.

Instructions to push fake high-risk controls real high-risk onto the

trending list.

That was all the PR firm's doing!

The head of the PR firm has submitted a recording.

I want everyone to know, Kimberly's only after the Reed fortune.

She has no right to stand beside Belle.

Also, on the day the smear campaign went live, Silas told the project team to

push the high-risk contract.

In other words, the rumors were a distraction to cover up their business

trap.

Does the defense have an explanation?

Silas is good at manipulating people, but he forgot that once manipulation

leaves evidence behind, the evidence becomes a noose around his own neck.

Did I do okay?

You did great.

The court has heard both sides and reviewed the evidence submitted so far.

On the defamation and commercial dispute...

the court finds the current evidence sufficient for civil penalties.

Silas Shaw, Serena Shaw, reputational damage to the Reeds and Kimberly Reed,

fined and ordered to issue public apologies.

Your Honor, regarding the drugging and commercial fraud.

Criminal charges await further police investigation.

No criminal ruling today.

Once the fines are paid, The defendants are released.

Court is adjourned.

Released?

They drugged me, defrauded the company, and smeared Kimberly, and all they get

is a fine?

You didn't really think a few tears would put us behind bars, did you?

No matter how much evidence you have, due process takes time.

But we're walking out.

Someone's protecting them.

Real heiress, welcome to real high

society.

Serena Shaw, Silas Shaw, you're under investigation for defamation, commercial

fraud, and drugging. Come with us.

Why are you arresting me? The hearing is over. We just pay the fine and go.

New evidence has been transferred. Come with us.

Belle, don't get cocky. Without Kimberly, you're still the stupid girl

who knows nothing.

I didn't know better before?

Doesn't mean I never will.

You fooled me once?

Doesn't mean you'll fool me forever.

You're the stupid one! Your whole family is!

I was fooled.

I stupidly believed you.

But I'm not the one losing now.

Congratulations.

You won.

You were just too weak.

First, all partnership projects get third party review.

Second, every adamant goes to the board.

Third, major partnerships need a second sign out from the risk committee.

Ms. Bell handled this very well. That's a comprehensive plan.

I approve the creation of a risk committee, with Bell serving as interim

head.

Congratulations. Your Bell can stand on her own now.

She's not the little girl who handed over files at the word friend anymore.

I've made plenty of mistakes, been used.

But I learned one thing.

An heir doesn't earn their seat through blood, but through judgment and

responsibility.

I'm formally applying to join the group's management team, starting with

the risk committee, under full oversight.

Can you accept accountability when you fail? Yes. Can you accept that Ms.

Kimberly won't keep covering for you?

Yes. Kimberly didn't teach me to hide behind her. She taught me to stand on my

own and face everyone.

I agree.

Hey, you really like putting your coat on me these days.

Because you never know when you're cold.

Don't catch a cold.

Did I do okay in there? Not bad.

I really think you're amazing.

I won't make you worry about me all the time anymore.

I know.

I won't worry about you anymore.

Okay, I'll still worry.

Am I finally good enough to deserve your love?

Love isn't about being worthy.

If we love each other, that's enough.

But I'm proud of how strong you've become.

Meet me in the garden tonight.

I have something to tell you.

Kimberly?

Is something wrong with the company?

No.

Then what did I do wrong today?

Why do you still assume you're at fault? I'm just Scared then you don't have to

be anymore.

I came to talk about something personal I used to think love was the least

efficient thing in the world Liking someone leaving someone you could handle

it cleanly until you came along You're clumsy easy to fool always crying always

making me clean up your messes Do you have to insult me before confessing?

I'm just telling the truth

But I love you exactly like this.

Not responsibility, not pity, not because you're pathetic.

I want to see you, look after you, watch you smile, and be the first person you

think of when trouble hits.

Are you really sure?

I've never been more sure.

You won't regret it? No.

Can I hug you?

You already do it all the time.

Yeah.

You did.

So am I your girlfriend now?

Yes.

Mr.

Shaw, how do you respond to the commercial fraud and drugging charges?

Belle! Don't think you've won! Without- Kimberly, you're nothing! You're wrong.

Without Kimberly, I used to be easy to fool.

But even if she weren't here now, I'd still know you're no friend.

I win.

Because I finally learned to recognize people like you.

Kimberly, you ruined me.

You should have thought of that before trying to ruin Belle.

Miss Belle, will you formally take over Reed Group next?

I'll start with the Risk Committee.

One step at a time.

I won't rush, and I won't run.

To Belle, and to Kimberly.

Both of you have been through a lot.

From now on, we're family.

No real or fake labels.

I'm happy now, Mom.

To both of you, and to fewer problems for Reed Group. You should tell Belle

that. I'll do my best to cause less trouble.

I still need time to adjust.

You're slow to accept things.

As long as you're serious, not acting out, I won't object.

We're serious.

Reed Group will keep focusing on energy and real estate, but all high-risk

projects go through risk committee review.

We won't sacrifice long-term security for short-term profit.

Ms. Bell.

People say you grew fast after the real Hira scandal.

Who do you most want to thank? My family and Kimberly.

She taught me to read contracts, to spot lies, and not to let past pain convince

me I don't deserve love.

Will Miss Kimberly stay involved in Read Group's management?

She's a Read Group shareholder and my most important partner.

Whether she's involved in management is her call.

I don't need her to stand in front of me anymore.

But I want her beside me.

I didn't say anything wrong, did I? No. I didn't embarrass myself?

You were wonderful.

You're getting more direct with compliments.

I guess you rubbed off on me.

When I first came back to the Reeds, I felt like I didn't belong anywhere.

Now it's different.

You belong now? It doesn't belong to just me.

It belongs to both of us. I once thought leaving the Reeds was a graceful exit.

Turns out some people don't come to take my life away.

They hand me a future I never imagined.

Kimberly?

I won't just follow behind you anymore. I know.

I'll stand beside you.

I know.

I love you.

I love you too.