She Arrived in Tears, But the Cowboy Gently Said “You Don’t Have to Pretend With Me”

…

Clara Witmore had not stopped writing.

Her letters had been neat, thoughtful, careful.

She had written about growing up in Missouri, about losing her parents young, about wanting a place where she could belong.

She had not written about arriving in tears.

“Levi cleared his throat.

” “I was waiting,” he said simply.

Claraara looked at him fully then, as if truly seeing him for the first time.

He was broadshouldered, sunworn, his beard trimmed close, and his dark eyes steady and unreadable.

He did not look cruel.

He did not look soft either.

She searched his face for something.

Disappointment.

Judgment.

Regret.

He gave her none of it.

I apologize, she said, her voice shaking again.

This is not how I wished to arrive.

That’s so he replied gently.

How did you wish to arrive with dignity? You still have it.

The words caught her off guard.

She stared at him.

He stepped closer, lowering his voice so only she could hear.

“You don’t have to pretend with me,” he said.

“Not here.

Not in front of me.

” Her breath hitched.

For a moment, she looked as though she might deny everything again.

Then her shoulders sagged.

“I’m afraid,” she admitted.

The truth seemed to cost her something.

Levi nodded once.

“Of me?” he asked.

“No,” she shook her head quickly.

“Of starting over, but of failing again.

” He studied her carefully.

“Dry hollow ain’t Boston,” he said.

“Ain’t Denver either.

Folks here care more about how you carry water than how you carry gossip.

She swallowed.

There is gossip, she said softly.

About you? She looked down at the leather case in her hands.

Yes.

Levi did not press.

He simply picked up her trunk and carried it toward his wagon.

You can tell me on the ride, he said.

Or not.

But standing here crying won’t change anything.

She hesitated only a second before following him.

He helped her into the wagon without touching her more than necessary.

She sat stiffly, clutching the case to her chest again as if it held something fragile.

He climbed up beside her and flicked the res.

The horses moved forward, leaving the station and the curious stairs behind.

For a while, there was only the sound of wheels over dirt and wind through dry grass.

Dry hollow faded behind them.

The open land stretched wide and golden under the late afternoon sun.

Clara stared straight ahead.

I was engaged once, she said suddenly.

Levi did not look at her.

All right.

He was well respected.

His father owned the largest store in our town.

She paused, gathering courage.

When I ended the engagement, he told people I had behaved improperly, that I had led him on, that I was unstable.

Her voice trembled again, but she kept speaking.

People believed him.

It was easier than believing a woman might refuse a man simply because she did not love him.

Levi’s hands tightened slightly on the reinss.

My position at the library was taken away.

Invitations stopped coming.

Friends stopped calling.

She gave a quiet but broken laugh.

I did not cry.

Then I kept my chin up.

I told myself I did not need them.

She finally turned to him.

But when the stage coach pulled into this town, I saw how small it was, how far from everything I know, I realized I have nowhere else left to go if this fails.

There it was, the real fear.

Levi slowed the wagon slightly as his ranch came into view in the distance.

A modest house, a barn, fencing stretching across open land.

If this fails, he repeated calmly.

It won’t be because of gossip from Missouri.

She searched his face again.

You are not angry? She asked quietly.

That I did not tell you.

You told me enough, he replied.

You said you wanted honesty, hard work, a place to build something real.

I do.

Then that’s what matters.

She blinked quickly, holding back fresh tears.

You are kinder than I expected.

He gave a faint half smile.

I ain’t kind, he said.

I just don’t see the use in punishing someone for surviving.

The ranch grew closer.

Claraara’s breathing steadied slowly.

When they reached the house, a brown dog ran toward them, barking happily.

Clara startled, then froze as the dog sniffed her skirt.

“It’s all right,” Levi said.

“That’s Scout.

He likes most people.

” Scout wagged his tail and nudged her hand.

After a moment, she let out a small, uncertain laugh and bent down to pet him.

Levi watched quietly.

Inside the house, everything was simple but clean, a stone fireplace, a wooden table, shelves lined with a few worn books, a quilt folded neatly over the couch.

Clara stepped in slowly, as if afraid she might disturb something.

It’s not grand, Levi said.

It feels steady, she answered.

He showed her the room he had prepared.

Fresh linens, a small vase of wild flowers on the bedside table.

She touched the petals gently.

“You gathered these?” she asked.

Figured a house shouldn’t look empty when someone new walks in.

She turned toward him, eyes softer now.

“Thank you.

” He stood in the doorway.

Claraara, he said.

She looked up.

If you stay, we do this honest.

No pretending.

No acting like you’re someone you’re not.

I don’t need a perfect wife.

I need a partner.

Her throat tightened.

And if I am afraid sometimes, she asked.

Then you say so.

And if I make mistakes, you fix them same as I do.

She took a slow breath.

Outside, the wind moved through the grass.

The world felt wide and uncertain.

But inside that small room, something steadier began to take shape.

“I will stay,” she said finally.

Levi nodded once, as if that settled something deep inside him.

“Then welcome home,” he replied.

Clara looked around the room again, then back at him.

For the first time since stepping off the stage coach, her eyes were not filled with fear.

They were filled with cautious hope.

Neither of them knew how the town would react.

Neither knew what storms might come.

Neither knew how deeply past wounds could reach into a new life.

And but one thing had already changed.

She had arrived in tears.

And he had not asked her to hide them.

The first week at Levi Dawson’s ranch passed quietly, but quiet did not mean easy.

Claraara woke before sunrise each morning, not because she was rested, but because sleep did not stay with her long.

The new house creaked in the night.

The wind moved across the plains like a living thing.

Every sound felt unfamiliar.

Every shadow felt larger than it should.

Still, she rose from the narrow bed, dressed carefully, and went downstairs before Levi returned from the barn.

She wanted to prove she had not made a mistake.

On the fourth morning, she was already kneading dough when Levi stepped inside, dust on his boots, and the smell of hay clinging to his coat.

He paused when he saw her at the table, sleeves rolled up, flower on her cheek.

Uh, you don’t have to wake so early, he said.

I know, she answered, not looking up.

But I prefer to.

He studied her for a moment.

Prefer to work or prefer not to lie awake? Her hands stilled.

She glanced at him, surprised.

Both, she admitted.

He washed up at the basin and sat at the table.

You’ll get used to the sounds.

I am not afraid of the house, she said quickly.

I didn’t say you were.

She exhaled slowly and set the pan in the oven.

I am afraid of being useless, she corrected.

Levi leaned back slightly in his chair.

You rode here alone from Missouri.

That ain’t useless.

That was desperation.

That was courage.

The word hung between them.

She did not argue, but she did not accept it either.

After breakfast, Levi asked if she wanted to see more of the property.

She agreed, though, though the thought of riding far from the house tightened something in her chest.

He saddled two horses and brought one to her.

“Her name’s Belle,” he said.

“Stady as they come.

” Clara placed her hand on the mayor’s neck.

The animals warmth soothed her in a way she did not expect.

“You ride?” Levi asked.

“My father taught me when I was young,” she said softly.

“Before he passed.

” Levi nodded once and offered his hand to help her mount.

She surprised him by swinging up on her own.

He watched her settle into the saddle with quiet approval.

They rode across open land that seemed to stretch without end.

The sky was wide and pale blue, the grass shifting like waves under the breeze.

Clara felt small beneath it all, but not in the same frightened way she had felt at the station.

Levi pointed out the fence lines and the creek that cut through the property, the pasture where he kept most of the cattle.

“This all yours?” she asked.

“Ours?” he corrected calmly.

“If you mean to stay?” The word still startled her.

“Hours?” They wrote in silence for a while until Clara spoke again.

“Will the town speak about me?” Levi did not pretend not to understand.

“They’ll be curious,” he said.

“Curious ain’t the same as cruel.

” “And if they hear about my past,” he looked at her then directly.

Clara, folks here care about who shows up when a fence breaks or a child’s sick.

They don’t care much about rumors from three states away.

She wanted to believe him.

When they returned to town 2 days later for supplies, Claraara’s hands trembled slightly as they rode down the main street.

She wore her simplest dress, neat but plain.

She did not want to appear proud.

Th she did not want to appear weak either.

Levi dismounted first and helped her down.

heads turned, not in judgment, in interest.

At the general store, Mr.s.

Harper greeted them with a bright smile.

“You must be Mr.s.

Dawson,” she said warmly.

Clara hesitated at the title.

“Not yet,” she replied gently.

“But soon.

” Mr.s.

Harper’s eyes softened.

You’ll find this town small, but it holds together when it matters.

Clara nodded politely, unsure what to say.

As Levi spoke with the store owner about feed and tools, Clara wandered a few steps away, studying jars of preserves and bolts of fabric.

She could feel eyes on her, but they did not burn the way they had back home.

A young mother approached her shily.

Are you the one who came from Missouri? She asked.

Yes.

I heard you worked in a library.

Clara blinked.

I did.

The woman smiled.

We don’t have much in the way of books here.

My boy is just learning to read.

Maybe you could help sometime.

The request stunned her.

Not suspicion, not accusation.

A request.

I would like that, Clara said quietly.

When Levi returned to her side, he noticed something had shifted in her expression.

“You look steadier,” he said.

“I was asked to teach a child to read,” she answered.

“And no one asked why I left.

” Levi gave a small nod.

“Told you.

” On the ride home, clouds began to gather in the distance.

The air felt heavy.

By evening, the storm broke.

Rain slammed against the roof.

Wind rattled the shutters and thunder cracked across the sky.

Clara jumped at the first loud strike, her breath catching sharply.

Levi was already at the fireplace, building it higher.

“Huh? You ever been through a prairie storm?” he asked.

“Not like this.

” He pulled a chair closer to the fire for her.

“It sounds worse than it is,” he said.

“House is solid.

” Another crash of thunder shook the windows.

Without thinking, Clara stepped closer to him.

He noticed.

He did not move away.

“You’re safe here,” he said quietly.

The words were simple, but they landed deep.

She sank into the chair, her hands twisting in her lap.

“In Missouri,” she began slowly.

When the rumors spread, I would lie awake at night, imagining every whisper, every laugh, every door closing.

Levi listened without interrupting.

I kept telling myself I was strong, that I did not care, but I cared.

I cared very much.

Her voice wavered.

I do not want to be that woman again.

Yet the one who pretends nothing hurts.

Levi crouched slightly so he was level with her.

“Then don’t be,” he said.

She looked at him.

“I don’t need you fearless,” he continued.

“I need you honest.

The storm raged outside, but inside the fire burned steady.

She reached out before she could second guessess herself and rested her hand lightly on his sleeve.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

He covered her hand with his own, firm and warm.

They stayed that way until the thunder softened and the rain slowed to a gentle patter.

The next morning, the air felt washed clean.

Claraara stepped outside alone while Levi was in the barn.

The grass shimmerred with droplets.

The world looked renewed.

She breathed deeply.

For the first time since leaving Missouri, she did not feel like she was running.

She heard hoof beatats before she saw the rider.

A man approached from the far edge of the property, his posture confident, almost careless.

He dismounted without waiting to be invited and tied his horse loosely to the fence.

Clara’s stomach tightened.

“Morning,” the stranger said.

His eyes moved over her slowly.

“You must be the new wife.

” “I am Clara Witmore,” she answered evenly.

He smirked.

“Name’s Thomas Hail.

I own the property east of here.

” She had heard Levi mention him once.

A neighbor, not a close one.

Levi around? Thomas asked.

He is in the barn.

Thomas stepped closer than necessary.

Hope you know what you signed up for, he said quietly.

Ranch life ain’t kind to delicate women.

Clara felt heat rise in her chest.

I did not come here for kindness, she replied.

I came for honesty.

His eyes narrowed slightly.

Before he could respond, Levi’s voice cut through the air.

Thomas.

The single word carried warning.

Thomas straightened, a lazy smile returning.

Just welcoming your bride.

Levi stepped beside Clara, not touching her, but close enough that she felt the shift in the air.

She don’t need welcoming, Levi said calmly.

She’s home.

Thomas studied them both, then gave a short nod.

Suit yourself.

He mounted his horse and rode off without another word.

Clara watched until he disappeared over the rise.

Does he cause trouble? She asked quietly.

“Oh, he likes to test fences,” Levi answered.

“And people sometimes.

” She looked at him carefully.

“Will he test me?” Levi’s jaw tightened slightly.

Not if he’s smart.

Clara met his eyes.

And if he isn’t, Levi held her gaze.

Then he’ll learn.

The air between them shifted again, heavier this time.

Clara realized something in that moment.

Starting over did not mean the world would suddenly become gentle.

It meant she would have to stand steady when it was not.

She turned toward the house, her back straight.

Levi watched her walk.

She had arrived in tears.

But the woman stepping forward now looked different, stronger, and somewhere deep inside him, a quiet sense of pride began to grow.

Neither of them knew yet how far that strength would be tested.

The test came sooner than Clara expected.

Yet 3 days after Thomas Hail rode onto the property, whispers began moving through dry hollow like wind through tall grass.

Clara felt it the moment she stepped into the general store alone.

The room did not fall silent, but the air changed.

Conversation softened.

Eyes lingered a second longer than before.

Mr.s.

Harper still greeted her kindly, but there was caution now.

Claraara kept her shoulders straight.

She would not shrink.

As she gathered flour and coffee, two men near the stove spoke in low voices.

heard she left Missouri in a hurry.

Some kind of scandal.

Clara’s fingers tightened around the cloth bag in her hand.

The words were not loud, but they were meant to be heard.

She turned slowly and faced them.

“I did leave in a hurry,” she said calmly, “because I refused to marry a man who thought he could ruin my name when I said no.

” The store went quiet then.

One of the men looked embarrassed.

The other cleared his throat and looked away.

Clara did not wait for approval.

She paid for her goods and stepped back into the sunlight.

Her heart pounded, but her steps did not falter.

When she returned to the ranch, Levi was repairing a section of fence near the road.

He saw her expression before she spoke.

“Thomas,” she said simply.

Levi set down his hammer.

What did he say? Nothing to my face.

She held his gaze.

But he’s talking.

Levi’s jaw hardened.

I can handle gossip.

Clara continued.

I just need to know if you believe it.

The question was steady.

Direct.

Levi walked toward her slowly.

I believe what I see, he said.

And what I see is a woman who wakes before dawn, works beside me without complaint and speaks truth even when her voice shakes.

Her eyes softened slightly.

That enough? He asked.

She nodded.

“Yes.

” That evening, Thomas rode past again.

This time, Levi met him at the edge of the property before he could reach the house.

Clara watched from the porch, her hands resting on the railing.

The two men spoke in low voices at first.

Then Thomas laughed.

The sound carried across the open field.

Levi did not raise his voice.

He did not move aggressively.

He simply stood his ground.

After a long moment, Thomas’s smile faded.

He swung back onto his horse and rode away without another word.

When Levi returned to the porch, Clara searched his face.

“It’s handled,” he said.

“Well, what did you tell him?” “That if he’s got something to say about my wife, he says it to me.

” The word settled deep in her chest.

“Wife, not mail order bride.

Not stranger.

Wife.

” Days passed.

The whispers did not disappear overnight, but they weakened.

Clara began helping Mr.s.

Harper’s son with reading in the afternoons.

Soon, two more children joined.

They sat at the kitchen table while sunlight streamed through the window, their small voices sounding out simple words.

Levi would pause in the doorway, sometimes listening.

The house no longer felt quiet.

It felt alive.

One evening after the children had left and the sky burned orange over the plains, Claraara sat beside Levi on the porch steps.

“I used to think starting over meant running away,” she said softly.

“And now,” he asked, “but now I think it means standing still long enough for roots to grow.

” “Levi looked at her carefully.

” “You regret coming?” he asked.

She shook her head.

No, I regret waiting so long to choose myself.

The honesty between them felt easy now, not fragile.

As autumn settled in, the town gathered for a harvest supper near the church.

Long tables were set outside.

Lanterns glowed against the darkening sky.

Clara hesitated before stepping from the wagon.

“You don’t have to prove anything tonight,” Levi said quietly.

I know, she answered.

I’m not here to prove.

I’m here to belong.

They walked together toward the tables.

Conversations paused for a heartbeat, then resumed.

Mr.s.

Harper waved them over.

The children Clara taught ran up to her, showing off letters they had practiced.

Thomas stood near the far end of the table.

It for a moment Clara felt the old fear rise.

Then she straightened.

When Thomas approached, he removed his hat stiffly.

“Mr.s.

Dawson,” he said.

“There was no smirk this time.

No challenge.

” “Mr. Hail,” she replied evenly.

He hesitated.

“Words fast out here,” he muttered.

“I may have spoken out of turn.

” Levi remained silent beside her.

Claraara studied Thomas for a long moment.

In my experience, she said calmly.

Men who speak out of turn can learn to listen instead.

A few nearby towns folk hid small smiles.

Thomas nodded once.

“Seems you’ve done all right for yourself,” he said grudgingly.

“I have,” she replied.

“And she meant it.

” The rest of the evening passed with laughter, shared food, and music from a worn fiddle.

Clara found herself smiling freely, not because she forced it, but because it rose naturally.

But when Levi took her hand to help her back into the wagon, she did not hesitate.

On the ride home under a sky thick with stars, she leaned closer to him.

“You stood by me,” she said softly.

“I married you,” he answered.

“That wasn’t temporary.

” She rested her head lightly against his shoulder.

I was so certain I would have to keep defending myself forever.

Not here, he said.

The house greeted them with warmth and quiet.

Later that night, as they lay side by side, Clara traced a slow line along his arm.

“I was crying when I arrived,” she said.

“You were? I thought it meant I was weak.

” Levi turned toward her.

“No,” he said gently.

It meant you were done pretending.

She studied his face in the dim fire light.

And you meant what you said that day? She asked.

I did.

You still don’t need me to pretend? His hand brushed a strand of hair from her face.

Clara, I don’t want a woman who hides her storms.

I want the one who walks through them.

Her throat tightened, but her eyes stayed dry.

I am not afraid anymore, she whispered.

Good, he said softly, because neither am I.

Outside, the wind moved across the plains, steady and strong.

Inside, the house felt anchored.

Clara closed her eyes and listened to the quiet breathing of the man beside her.

She had arrived in Dry Hollow in tears, certain she was stepping into another life where she would have to be careful, guarded, smaller than she truly was.

Instead, she had found something she had never known before.

Not rescue, not perfection, but truth.

And in that truth, she no longer needed to pretend.

Everything in the swift family of fortune is now ours.

You stole everything my family left for me.

The business, my inheritance, and now my house.

You’re my aunt, Wendy.

You’ll pay for this.

No one is left to stand up for you.

Your parents are dead.

If you don’t want to join them, get lost.

>> Bye.

Dad, mom.

Are you all right? >> I lost my family.

I have nowhere to go.

>> My name is William.

I was a friend of your father’s before he died.

He asked me to take care of you.

I’ll take you home.

from that night on.

William was the only family I had.

who have saved you 2 years ago.

>> Are you all right? >> Are are you all right? >> Her parents died in a car accident.

Her honor uncle, they took over the family business.

They took all the assets.

They took everything away from her.

Even our family home.

>> You’re home now.

Take a breath.

Steady your hands.

>> Who thinks they can do better? >> You only hit us under once.

>> Actually, all three bullets went in the same hole.

>> Danny, you surpassed me as your mentor and you’ve exceeded all of us.

>> Mr. Miller.

May I learn how to shoot? You >> sure? >> Don’t you know you can’t unknown? >> A gun can cause pain for those on both sides of the barrel.

afraid? >> No.

>> The ones who should be afraid are the ones who hurt my family.

>> You don’t have to carry that burden.

I can handle that for you.

>> I need to be the one to do this.

>> Come here.

Hold it with your left hand.

Steady your aim.

Align the scope with the target.

You gently squeeze the trigger.

>> Afraid? >> No.

>> Let’s go again.

Focus on your breath.

I did it.

He’s been gone for 2 weeks.

Why isn’t he back yet? Who’s there? Who’s there? Mr. Miller, you’re back.

>> I decided to come back early and surprise you.

You gave me quite a scare.

>> Well, I would have dressed up if I would have known, but now >> the girl’s all grown up.

Let’s go get some food.

>> Amy, Mr. Miller’s finally home.

Will you please go one of his favorite dishes? >> Of course.

It’s right away.

>> I’m sorry I’ve been away for so long.

>> I got a lot of work to catch up on.

All right, I’ll see you shortly after dinner.

>> Rumors continue to circulate that you took advantage of the loss of a brother to seize control of the company after he was tragically lost in a car accident with other SW group directors.

How do you respond, >> Uncle Luke? My brother’s death shook up the SW group and we worked tirelessly to stabilize the group and now the total assets are in the millions.

So under my leadership, the company is thriving.

>> I know you had something to do with my parents’ death and now I know what you thought their lives were worth.

Wow.

This is my first kala, but I’m thrilled.

This is so delicious.

I can’t believe she’s still alive.

I thought she was meant to be dead by now.

>> How did you get in here? Huh? This is for the elite, not for the people off the street.

Oh, I see.

You’re just a couple of working ladies here to satisfy the rich and wealthy men.

>> You little [ __ ] Stand down before I put you down.

Who is he? He’s the richest man in America.

The owner of this hotel.

And I heard his single.

There’s a banquet in Alva tomorrow.

Would you like to go? >> I’m not filling up to a banquet.

>> So, this is what he had mentioned.

The top banquet he hosted in Alva.

Mr. Miller, my father tells me you and I go back for generations.

I can’t believe we have not met yet.

>> Who are you? >> Mr. Miller, I’ve admired you for a long time.

I hear that you’re the world’s most eligible bachelor.

It’s only natural that we connect.

>> Not interested.

I have never been less interested in anything or anyone in my entire life.

Ever.

I’m also not interested in marriage.

Please leave.

I’m wearing a red dress to a black tie event.

That’s really tacky.

You should know that.

Perhaps you could hang out with the guests outside in the veranda where the light is dimmer.

>> Oh no.

>> Mr. Miller, if you really hate women in red, then look at her.

Shouldn’t she be thrown out, too? I lent this red dress to Annie.

It’s not her fault.

>> Step aside.

>> That girl is in trouble.

>> I’m sorry.

I didn’t know about the red dress.

>> You look beautiful.

But I thought that you didn’t like these kind of events.

>> I didn’t.

It’s Iris.

I didn’t wish to wear the red dress either.

>> Some women they wear a red dress to stand out, but nothing stands out more than your eyes.

>> Why are you being so nice to her? Shouldn’t she be outside in dimmer light? >> Annie shines just as bright during the day than any time of the night.

>> Since you’re here with your friends, go and enjoy yourself.

>> Thank you.

Hey, look what you’ve done.

And you flats.

This worth millions.

How are you going to pay for this? Huh? >> What happened? What happened? >> She just destroyed this capture.

>> And I’m not sure where she’s going to come up with $30 million to pay her back.

Hey, Jack.

Says the damage.

>> $120 million.

$120 million.

So, is that going to be a check or a money order? Um, Mr. Miller, I don’t understand you.

>> How are you going to pay Annie for all this that you broke? A check or a money order.

>> Are you serious? We all just watched how your bodyguards smash all this.

>> No, no, no, no.

You see, I’m just taking a page out of your book because when you thought that I walked away, I was watching you because every time there’s people like you in the room, I’m always watching.

I just transferred this establishment to Annie Swift and I will see that she is fully compensated for all of this.

>> Annie Swift? >> Is that a problem? Mr. Miller, I apologize.

This is our fault.

We will compensate for all the items fully and we will be less clumsy moving forward.

Our sincerest apologies.

>> Don’t apologize to me.

Apologize to Annie.

Apologize to Annie.

>> Annie, our apology.

>> I am sorry.

>> We will transfer uh 120 million.

>> 120 million.

Well, what was the first sculpture worth? >> $30 million, >> right? So 30 million.

>> A total of $150 million.

Honey, it’s our fault.

We will fix this problem within 3 days.

Did William Miller just give you this hotel $150 million? Well, the money is going to be used to fix the broken sculptures and paintings.

Annie, why is Mr. Miller so interested in you? How do you two know each other? William and I are family.

>> Mr. Miller, did you really buy me a hotel? It was just to show my aunt and uncle, right? He actually bought it for you two years ago.

You were a little bit drunk and so you asked him for it and he did it.

>> 2 years ago.

I was just choking.

>> There isn’t anything like this.

You deserve everything in the world.

You look beautiful.

Some women they wear a red dress to stand out, but nothing could stand out as much as your eyes do.

I swear you’ll pay an swift.

Don’t expect to have everything so easily.

It’s so late.

Why hasn’t Mr. Millie come back here? Mr. Miller, what’s wrong? >> You’re burning up.

Are you okay? Are you drunk? Mr. Miller, call me William.

>> William Heat.

Heat.

I guess Mr. Miller must be drugged.

That felt so wrong and so right at the same time.

Honey, I love you.

Honey, I love you.

Was that All just a dream.

Am I in love with Mr. Miller? What am I doing? This is crazy.

I need to clear my head.

I’ll stay at Iris’s for a few nights until I can figure out what’s real and what’s not.

>> Where are you going? >> I was just going to spend a few nights with Iris.

>> What happened? Who did this to you? What happened? Who did this to you? >> Was anything of that real last night? >> Annie, what happened last night? Who did this to you? Who is he? >> Nobody.

I promise.

>> I’ve been raising you for 3 years.

Why are you lying to me? >> I don’t know if any of that last night was real.

And even if it was, he was drugged, and clearly not himself.

>> Jack, have someone keep an eye on her? >> Mr. Miller, I’m not a child.

>> What’s wrong with him? What’s wrong with me? Jack, get to the bottom of this.

She did not have that mark when we got here last night.

So, either somebody snuck in or somebody on the inside.

>> Yes, sir.

>> It’s been 3 days.

I can’t go anywhere.

>> Am I being held here? >> Annie, that’s Mr. Miller’s favorite.

Then you should have kept it someplace safer.

Any bad bottle could fund half of America.

That’s Mr. Miller’s favorite.

>> Eddie, where are you? Eddie, please.

Please.

If I’ve learned anything over the past 3 years, it’s to always be prepared to win the fight.

We haven’t found her.

And there’s no sign of anybody at the house and her room last night.

Also, uh, security cameras, they picked up Annie at the house this morning.

She breached the vault and she destroyed nearly half a billion dollars of cash and contracts.

She also happened to damage your sculpture, the Dante Marcellis.

And I just received a message from Bailey.

She blew up your beloved stable this morning.

And she burned down the villa.

>> What? Prepare the car.

>> Oh, Mr. Miller, you’re back.

Annie has caused quite stir.

>> What now? >> She blew up your stables, scaring horses away.

Two are still missing.

>> Yes, I heard.

We’re still looking for her.

Go and find out.

>> She’s upstairs.

>> You shouldn’t have locked me up.

>> Why’d you come back? >> I like it here.

>> You got a funny way of showing it.

Next time you want to vent out your anger, have Jack and the others blow things up for you.

Things up for you.

You don’t have to do it yourself.

>> You don’t have to deal with this yourself.

>> Aren’t you angry with me? I lost you a lot of money.

>> That’s trivial compared to how much you matter to me.

You must be hungry.

Let’s go get dinner.

I can walk on my own.

What am I going to do with you? Mr. Miller, I’m truly sorry.

It’s just a mosquito bite on my neck.

I was training in the mountains all day.

>> Perhaps you overreacted.

>> Thank you.

>> Honestly, I believed you.

I just don’t get why you have the need to lie to me.

I’m only trying to protect you.

>> I know.

You don’t need to worry.

I’m an adult.

>> And you don’t get it.

There are people out there in this world that are going to try and hurt you.

They’re not like the other girls.

They’re meant for bigger things.

>> Are you suggesting I shouldn’t have a husband or kids? So Annie wants to fall in love.

Annie has grown up.

Although I gave her a place to live and taught her many survival skills, I always knew she was an independent person who would have her own friends, life, and love.

But why is my heart so heavy? Annie has grown up.

Although I gave her a place to live and taught her many survival skills, I always knew she was an independent person who would have her own friends, life, and love.

But why is my heart so heavy? >> Mr. Miller, thank you for teaching me how to dance.

>> My pleasure.

You deserve the best.

>> Steady, your aim, line, the scope, the target.

afraid.

>> No, I don’t think I understand this formula.

>> Is that correct? >> Yep.

You’re very smart.

>> I wish I could pause time so I can cherish her forever.

What is wrong with me? Weird.

Mr. Miller has never been late for work before.

Mr. Miller, a dog on your face.

And you really need a watch on your wrist.

>> Annie, what are you doing? What are you up to? Come out of here.

You’re safe.

You’re really talented.

It’s a good drawing, >> Mr. Miller.

>> Yeah.

>> Anniey’s drawing is remarkable.

>> I’m sorry.

That was childish.

>> Um, I have wilderness survival training that Jack scheduled for me.

Is it okay if I go? >> Of course.

Any updates on who the man she’s seeing? >> Annie must have cheated.

Nobody can shoot a gun with that level of accuracy.

She almost doubled on a scar.

He has been the best shooter three years in a row now.

>> Yes, there is something wrong with that girl.

I hate France.

I say we especially >> Annie, may I invite you to be my uh date to the ceremony later today? >> Uh, I don’t think so.

>> You know, I always wonder why there was so much heat between us whenever we’re together.

But uh, makes sense.

>> I found some wild strawberries.

Perfect timing.

Of course, I know.

You have to admit.

Owen is handsome, smart, funny, kind.

He’s not really my type.

>> Of course.

Who would be into handsome, smart, funny, kind, and it’s clear he has a crush on you? >> Well, I don’t think Mr. Miller would like that.

And since I’m living under his roof, I think I need to respect his wishes.

He kind of scares me.

Heard you cheated earlier today on the shooting competition.

I wonder who could have started that rumor.

How do you think people feel about liars? I know exactly how I feel about cheaters.

You really think I cheated? You don’t think I can make those shots clean? >> If you’re really that good, surely you can make the same shot twice.

How about we call Owen over since he’s the one you cheated on? >> Fine, let’s do it.

>> Kenny, I’m not saying you cheated.

If you did, I got it.

You don’t have to try to impress me.

I like you.

>> You really think I cheated, don’t you? >> Do you really want to do this? >> I’ve already set up the targets 30 m apart, just like last time.

Except this time, Addie can’t do anything funny with them.

Three shots wins the bullseye.

Let’s do it.

Three perfect shots.

Annie, your turn.

Annie, your turn.

Why are you always doing this to yourself? Why don’t we raise the stakes? Since you’re so confident I cheated, you have nothing to lose, right? Owen won’t lose.

He just hit three perfect bullseye.

If Owen wins, I’ll admit I cheated and we won’t have to cross paths again.

But if I win, I’ll take your life.

Yeah, >> that’s my girl.

>> That’s impossible.

>> Deal’s a deal.

>> Oh my god.

Dang, you’re dead.

Mr. Miller, why are you here? >> I’ve been hearing some comments on social media trying to slander Annie over here, ruining her reputation.

>> She cheated this morning and she cheated again.

>> I’ve personally seen all of Annie’s certificates and medals.

She is perfect marksmanship, the best out of all of us.

>> That’s impossible.

>> How about this? I’m going to check the IP for the server and anybody who caused this, and then we’re going to expel them.

Please don’t expel me.

I I was wrong.

I was wrong.

>> Why is she always involved whenever there’s a trouble? I’m never going to trust her.

>> I apologize, honey.

Please forgive me.

Please.

I will never forgive you.

>> What are you doing here? I’m investing in the shooting school.

I always like to come and see my investment in person.

>> Annie, what’s wrong? >> Nothing.

I I just got my period.

I’m I’m fine.

>> Annie, >> where am I? >> The hospital.

You fainted.

I’m sorry.

>> You need to take care of yourself.

>> I will.

I promise.

>> Feeling better? >> Much better.

>> Annie, are you okay? Annie, I just want to see if you’re okay.

Is he pursuing you? Is he pursuing you? Is he pursuing you? >> Maybe, but I’m not interested.

>> Might be.

>> You need your rest? >> Annie, I just want to see if you’re okay.

>> Mr. Miller, may I come in? >> Okay, you choose.

Me or him? What do you mean? >> I can help you get rid of him.

>> What do you choose? Why did you just kiss me? >> It was just acting.

>> Was it really just acting? That had to mean something, right? >> It was just acting.

I had to make it look real.

Don’t take it so seriously.

>> Men can be predatory.

But if he sees that you’re with someone like me, then he’s going to back off.

>> I feel better.

I should get to shooting school.

And good.

What am I doing? Did I just kiss her out of jealousy? My feelings are betraying my role for her, and I think I’m falling for her.

>> Come eat.

Mr. Miller made your favorite breakfast himself this morning.

>> Where is Mr. Miller? >> He had to go to work early.

>> I can’t believe he made me breakfast.

Is this the annual financial report from the company? >> Let’s take a minute and stretch our legs.

>> Boss, can I help you with anything? >> Jack, look at this text from me.

>> Thank you for the breakfast.

>> How is Annie? >> What do you ask? Thank you for helping me to choose the dress for the wedding.

Annie I love you, Annie.

I love you.

>> Hello, Annie.

Anyone home? >> How do I look in this one? Wow.

What are you doing here? What am I doing here? What are you doing here? >> You two were getting married.

>> She’sn’t worth it.

>> How do I look? You are the epitome of grace and elegance.

>> Wow.

>> It’s a bit more than I can afford, but a girl can dream, right? This dress was made for you.

Will you let me buy it? >> You mean it? Thank you, honey.

Of course.

Uh, hello.

Our store requires full payment upfront.

Uh, no installment plan.

I’m quite certain I can afford it.

Oh, it worked.

Are you able to help more than just one person? Are you able to do more than just one thing at a time? >> I apologize, Miss Swift.

And oh my god, you look stunning in this dress.

Isn’t she beautiful? >> Bella.

>> Uh, Miss Swift, are you okay? >> She pushed me.

I was just inviting her to our wedding.

Why are you always so jealous of me? What is wrong with you? I know all about your sugar daddy, William Miller, but that doesn’t make you invincible or above the law.

>> She’s just like her mom.

She did it to herself.

>> Her mother is my future mother-in-law.

Bite your tongue, woman.

>> Well, clearly somebody pushed her.

Nobody just falls, right? >> What’s happening? >> Well, these two are picking fight with our customers.

>> Well, we can’t take it now, can we? Did you witness this event? >> No.

But >> And you still sure without question you know what’s happening here? >> Well, Miss Swift has a platinum membership.

>> Have you reviewed the store civilians footage? >> What? What’s going on here? I’ve never been treated like this before.

>> Are you crazy? Do you have any idea who you’re talking to? You can’t even see clearly on those.

>> All the same.

Let’s have a look.

>> That resolution there is really good.

>> Looks like you fell without anyone near you, let alone pushing you.

Would you like to have a look for yourself? >> I >> Maybe the floor is uneven.

Dela, did you feel someone push you? Is there a chance >> I was punished? Were you? >> Did you pretend to be pushed? >> Owen, please.

>> That is not okay.

Who does something like that? >> Owen, let me explain.

>> I’m afraid we can’t let unpaid merchandise leave the store.

>> I apologize.

>> No need to apologize.

You run a beautiful store and you and your staff deserve to be respected.

Miss Swift, perhaps you don’t know me.

I was hired two years ago to protect this asset for you.

You are any Swift, a silent and majority shareholder.

>> What? You own the place? Did I not mention that? >> So, let me get it straight.

You own the Opel Oyers Hotel, Louis Bridal Shop.

What else do you own? What are you doing? Checking to see if there’s a receipt.

I want to know if you owe me to.

>> Well, 2 years ago when I was studying business operations with Mr. Miller, my first project was to acquire Loveies.

And when I did, he made me a major shareholder.

>> How many more secrets are you keeping from me? >> I am a bit of a riddle wrapped inside of an enigma mixed with a conundrum and a mystery.

>> Yeah, you are.

Cheers.

Cheers.

>> Dela says you faked those videos at the bridal shop.

>> Neither of us knew the other was going to be there.

How would that even be possible? >> Probably the same way you won those shooting challenges.

>> Are you done? Don’t you have a tin foil hat to go put on? >> I know what you’re doing.

We both know you’d rather be with me than that cringy old dude.

You trying to get between Dell and I is so obvious.

But let me save you some time and heartache.

You chose that old man and I chose Dela.

Time for us to just both move on.

>> You are so delusional.

>> It’s him.

Please sit.

You’re all here for the Nova project.

The head of this project will become the next partner.

I expect you all to bring your agame.

Who would like to go first? >> I’ll go first.

Hey, this project’s really important for your family business.

Don’t let your father down.

>> Thank you, Uncle Cooper.

I’m very confident this will clearly illustrate the kind of work you can expect from me if I’m placed in charge.

my nephew, the comedian.

>> So, this this is the work we can clearly expect from you.

>> You’ve embarrassed yourself and disgraced your family line.

>> I’m disappointed.

I can’t believe Jack was able to set all that up on tape.

>> Hey, I saw you know Ellen out there.

You need help? >> Nothing I can’t handle.

Actually, I have a plan.

>> Joining the show? You know, I was going to take you out for food, but I see you already had dinner.

>> I had a few chips.

Hardly spoiled my dinner.

Not >> really.

Just a few chips.

>> Okay.

A few chips.

A few bags.

Those bags are tiny.

>> Do you want to try one? >> Is that what you want? >> Aren’t you supposed to be providing for me anything I want? Here.

This one’s my favorite.

How do you do that? >> The what? >> I mean, even eating a chip, you do in a handsome way.

>> I’m serious.

You might just be the most handsome guy in the world.

It must be exhausting.

>> I mean, laugh.

>> Hm.

They really are handsome.

>> Who’s that? >> Just some handsome guy Iris met at the bar.

>> I thought you said I was the most handsome guy in the world.

>> I did? Are you jealous? Thanks for coming.

I needed it.

I felt like celebrating.

It was a good day.

Is this where you met me, guys? >> Yeah.

>> I have a bad feeling about this.

>> Bailey, is Danny still asleep? >> I believe she went out with her friend Iris tonight.

>> Oh, yeah.

Do you know where she might have? Velvet Oak.

I took the liberty of writing down the address in case you felt the urge to join them.

>> Bailey, my bad.

>> Predictable.

Not at all, sir.

Not at all.

Lettuce.

It’s time.

What I’ve all been waiting for.

Let’s fix our arms in our absolutely gorgeous ladies nights.

Yeah, guys, show me your passion.

More energy.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Show me how you can do it.

>> This feels amazing.

You should try it.

It’s like models for your fingers.

>> What are you doing? Who are you? You’re scaring her.

Am I >> enjoying yourself? >> I don’t know why you were so upset.

We’re just dancing.

What are you doing? >> What do you think of me? >> He thinks I look good.

Have you been drinking? >> Touch me.

You like sexy entertainment, right? You don’t have to pay to touch me.

I am.

>> Is this supposed to be funny? Because it’s not.

>> I’m sorry.

I don’t know what’s gotten into me.

By the looks of things, too much alcohol has gotten into you.

>> What am I doing? She’ll never see me like I see her.

>> Are you okay? Get some rest, Mr. Mallet.

Did I do something wrong? >> What’s wrong? Grab your life jacket.

You keep drowning in your sorrows.

I’m going to have to call the Coast Guard.

>> A bun boy.

me jack boy.

Two days ago, she tells me that I’m the most handsome guy that she’s ever met.

I see her dancing with some guys.

You know, my mother used to call me handsome.

That doesn’t mean anything anymore.

A heart.

She wants to be with me.

She gives me all the signs.

>> Who? Annie? You think Annie likes you? >> Yeah.

I just know I’ve known her for a long time.

I understand it.

She sent me a red heart.

Boss, a red heart could mean that she’s in love with you.

That’s also what kids used to say.

Yes, I want to order pizza today.

You don’t think she’s a little young? I’ve dropped a Is that a cat? >> It looks like you’re just as lonely as I am.

>> Are you okay? Why are you so drove? I’m sorry.

I didn’t mean to hurt you.

I just uh >> It’s okay.

Let’s just get you home.

Why are you so drunk? >> I wish you knew how much I love you.

I’d have fewer reasons to drink if you did.

All right, I’ve arranged with Jack to um get some medicine and food the vet to check her out in the morning.

He advised to uh to leave her alone for tonight.

>> I guess she’s pretty happy here with you.

>> Yeah.

Um we can watch her, but uh I’m scared of cats.

>> You’re afraid of cats? >> Yeah, I’m not staying alone with that thing.

>> Are you being serious? >> Mhm.

>> Mr. You know, I remember.

I remember.

>> Yes, I understand.

No, I understand.

Yes.

My grandpa invited me to the Swift family dinner.

>> I thought you didn’t talk to your family anymore.

>> I don’t.

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