💎【Eng】The Plus-Size Stepmom Who Brought the Mafia to Its Knees #ShortMax #aivideo

0:00 I'd been notorious since I was a little girl. My father couldn't control me, and my stepmother didn't dare cross. Anyone who messed with me paid the price. By 28, no man in this city would marry me. So, my family sold me off to a widowed mafia dude. I walked into the Salvatore hashion, ready to rule with an iron fist. But then, a little girl tugged at my dress. >> Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? In that moment, I was eight again, staring at my brand new stepmother the day after my real mom died. Something snapped in me. I swore right there, I'll be the mom I never had, even if I have to burn this whole damn house

0:45 to the ground. Oh, Sloan, sweetheart. Today you're a Salvatore. I'm going to miss you so damn much. >> Really? If you'll miss me that much, how about I just don't get married? >> What? If I hate married life, I can always move back. Keep my room ready just the way IT IS. >> MOVE BACK. OH, hell no. God bless me, Nessie, darling. Hurry up and tie the knot. >> She shoved me toward the church doors. My dress was blood red. My choice. If I was marrying a ghost, I might as well look the part because there was no groom at the altar. Magnus Salvatore was busy running some cartel business overseas. in his place. Just a framed photograph of the man himself. I signed the papers. A cold ring was shoved into my finger.

1:32 No vows, no kiss, just ink. >> I bet he finally saw what the bride looks like and bolted. What's she complaining about? Marrying into the Salvatore family is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to her. >> Let them pity me. They thought being left at the altar was the ultimate humiliation. But I never needed a husband. What I wanted was a mansion, an empire, and walls high enough to keep my toxic family out forever. Iron gates, high walls, security cameras. Not bad. At least the Vitali family won't be breaking in anytime soon. >> Does Magnus actually live here? >> Mr. Salvatore is rarely home. >> Are you Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now?

2:19 >> That tiny cracked voice broke my heart. I knelt down. Yeah, sweetie. You've got a mom now. >> I remembered Magnus's late wife had left behind two kids. >> And you must be Lucas. >> The boy hiding in the dark hallway didn't say anything. Strungy, bruised, arms crossed, jaw-tight. >> Lily, she's not our mom. >> His eyes held something I knew too well. Pure distrust. He didn't even blink, just watched me like a wild animal. I couldn't blame him. Every adult in this house was bad news. Then Beatatri stepped out of the shadows. Magnus's sister-in-law, the widow who ran this place. So, you're the cheap replacement Magnus dragged home.

3:06 Lily, Lucas, past your bedtime. Get to your rooms right now. Lily, how many times do I got to tell you? No wandering after dark. Come here. Disobeying me again. Get your hands off her. You forgot everything I taught you. Before she could touch the boy, my hand shuted out and caught her wrist. >> "Excuse me? I wasn't hurting her. I was just disciplining them. You're blind if you think that wasn't hurting. You're losing your mind." >> Beatatrice looked down at Lily, putting on that fake ass sweet voice dripping with poison. >> "Tell her, sweetheart. Did I hurt you?" >> Lily shook her head, but she hesitated. God, I knew that look. I'd made that

3:51 exact same face a thousand times when I was a kid. >> I don't give a damn how you used to discipline them. From now on, I'm their mother. >> There I stood, less than 5 minutes in this house, stuck with two broken kids. Lily was still shaking. Lucas wouldn't say a damn word. But deep down, behind those guarded eyes, something just shifted. Just you wait until Magnus comes back. He'll throw you out on the street before you even know what hit you. The heavy silence returned to the hallway. I knelt down in front of the kids. [sighs] You okay, guys? Lily didn't speak, but

4:37 her hands stopped shaking. She looked up at me with big, frightened, yet hopeful eyes. Let's get you back to your room. Come on. I offered my hand. I expected Lucas to swat it away, but he didn't. He just looked at his sister, hesitated, and then slowly placed his small, cold hand in mine. "Where are your rooms? I'll walk you back." I looked around the cramped, freezing utility room near the servant stairs. Bare walls, no toys, a thin blanket over a mattress on the floor. You two sleep here? >> Always have >> Don't sleep here tonight. You're staying with me. >> Really?

5:24 Back in my spacious master suite, I tucked them into the big, warm bed. >> Lily held on to the edge of my sleeve as if she was afraid I'd vanish while Lucas finally let his guard down just a little bit, his shoulders relaxing against the pillows. Get some sleep. I'm right here. For the first time in their lives, they fell asleep feeling safe. [sighs and gasps] >> The next morning, reality in this house hit me even harder. >> I wore these yesterday. I don't want them anymore. And take that new game console to my room now. >> Yes, young master. >> And I want a fresh chocolate cake. Yesterday's tasted awful. I'll have the kitchen make another one right away. Whose room is that? >> Colt is Beatric's son since his Salvador has let him get away with everything.

6:10 Even the staff call him the golden boy. >> Magnus' own children were living like orphans in one of the wealthiest mafia families around. This was insane. At 7:00 a.m., the dining room gleamed with wealth and luxury. Beatatrice was eating eggs, fruit, and caviar on a silver platter. Colt stuffed his face with a rich, fresh chocolate cake. My seat was set, but when I pulled back the chair, my plate was completely empty. I look down. Just a single slice of bread for the kids. Dry, hard, and edged with green mold. You expect children to eat this trash? In this house, they eat what they're given. And since you're their mother now, you can teach them some manners. I

6:56 didn't say another word. I stood up, walked over to her end of the table, and picked up the silver platter of caviar. >> What are you doing? Black caviar smeared down her $5,000 silk shirt. [screaming] >> Let's get one thing straight. If my kids eat trash, you eat worse. And if they go hungry, your precious boy won't have a happy day either. Try it again, and you'll be begging Magnus to save you. Clear all of this away and make breakfast again. The children eat first. No one else touches the food until they're full. Didn't you hear me? 20 minutes later, fresh plates hit the table. Eggs, toast, fruit, juice placed right in front of Lucas and Lily first.

7:42 Lucas didn't touch a bite of his own food. He pushed the best pieces toward Lily, keeping his eyes locked hard on court the entire time like a starving, protective wolf cub. Eat. I ordered extra just for you. Lucas blinked up at me in shock, then wolfed it down. Beatatri sat across from me in that ruined shirt, face like thunder, eyes locked on me. Let her scheme. I don't need anyone's damn approval. Breakfast finished. I stood straight up. One more thing. Post the meal schedule by tonight. The kids eat first. Anyone breaks this rule? Fired on the spot. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Later, out in the courtyard, Lily tugged my skirt, about to speak.

8:30 What is it? You can tell me? >> Nothing. We're fine. >> He refused to look at me, swallowing his pride, scared of being a burden to someone who just got here. I didn't push, but I didn't miss the look in his eyes either. Midnight. A muffled [snorts] sound crept down the hallway, choked back, sobbing. Where's your brother? [gasps] I threw the door open. >> Let me go. >> Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> Good. Give her my regards. [gasps] >> Grab me. Me. >> How long has he been doing this to you? He stayed silent. Lucas, how long?

9:19 >> Since I was seven. >> Three years. Three whole years. And nobody stopped it. Why didn't you fight back? >> Beatric said if I ever hurt Cole, she'd tell Dad I was violent. She said Dad would send me away [snorts] and I'd never see Lily again. Look at me. A real man goes down fighting. He never bends the knee. But Beatatrice, no butts. [snorts] Make a scene. Fight back. Whatever happens, I've got your back. Just remember one thing. Don't ever let anyone hurt you without fighting back. [snorts] >> What if dad really does try to send me away? >> You're my child now. As long as I'm in

10:06 this house, no one gets to send you away. [snorts] >> Come on. >> Where are we going? >> Back to my room. Lily's waiting for you. >> Slan, thank you. >> Go to sleep. >> Let me go. Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. SLOAN, WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY SON? >> 7:00 a.m. Sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. >> Sloan, what did you do to my son? Stay here. >> I opened the door. Beatric stood there, her face contorted with rage. My son was out on that terrace all night. How dare

10:52 you lock him outside? >> Your son held a lit cigarette to my child's face. You should be grateful all I did was make him spend one night outside. >> What gives you the right to treat him like that? >> If he ever touches Lucat again, last night will seem merciful. Sloan, you'll pay for this. [sighs and gasps] No one will ever bully either of you again. I promise [snorts] anyone who tries will answer to me. A few weeks later, Lucas came home from school. I caught him trying to sneak past the foyer, keeping his head down and his jacket pulled tight over his face. >> "Lucas, stop!" >> He froze, slowly turning around. The

11:38 right side of his face was bruised and swelling up fast. "You get in a fight?" I fought back, but I still lost. Who? Rex Vance and two of his friends. They started talking about my mom again. They said she killed herself because she'd rather die than live with us. Losing doesn't matter. This time you fought back. That matters. Next time win, Slaney, did people bullies you when you were little, too? Of course. After my mother died, I was small and skinny, an easy target. No one protected me back then, so I became the thing they

12:25 were afraid to touch. Eventually, I figured out that if I looked big enough, strong enough, and mean enough, people would stay away. People stopped trying to hurt me. >> So that's why you made yourself so big. >> Back then, this was my armor. It made sure no one could ever look at me and see something helpless again. >> But mom, you're not alone anymore. I'm going to get stronger. I'll protect Lily and I'll protect you, too. >> The word hung in the air. I froze, blinking down at him. What did you just call me?

13:11 >> Mom, I can take it back if you want. >> [snorts] >> And I'm going to get stronger, too. When Lucas and I are strong, Mommy, you won't have to hide inside your armor anymore. I'd spent years teaching myself to need no one, but hearing these two little kids say they wanted to protect me. For the first time, I knew what home felt like. Do you want to get stronger? Then come with me. Don't just swing. Find the opening. Be fast. Be precise. Bring your hands right back after you punch. Don't stand there waiting to get hit. Next time you don't lose. >> You're training, too?

13:58 >> I made myself bigger so people would be afraid of me. But now I want to see what I can become without hiding behind this armor. One month. In one month, we'll see which one of us has changed more. >> Deal. >> I'll keep watch. >> Fine. Keep track of anyone who slacks off. I'd been notorious since I was a little girl. My father couldn't control me, and my stepmother didn't dare cross. Anyone who messed with me paid the price. By 28, no man in this city would marry me. So, my family sold me off to a widowed mafia dude. I walked into the salvage passion, ready to rule with an iron fist. But then a little girl tugged

14:46 at my dress. >> Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> In that moment, I was eight again, staring at my brand new stepmother the day after my real mom died. Something snapped in me. I swore right there, I'll be the mom I never had. Even if I have to burn this whole damn house to the ground. >> Oh, Sloan, sweetheart, today you're a Salvatore. I'm going to miss you so damn much. >> Really? If you'll miss me that much, how about I just don't get married? What? If I hate married life, I can always move

15:31 back. Keep my room ready. Just the way it is. >> Move back. Oh, hell no. God bless me. N you, darling. HURRY UP AND TIE THE KNOT. She shoved me toward the church doors. My dress was blood red. My choice. If I was marrying a ghost, I might as well look the part because there was no groom at the altar. Magnus Salvatore was busy running some cartel business overseas. In his place, just a framed photograph of the man himself. I signed the papers. A cold ring was shoved into my finger. No vows, no kiss, just ink. I bet he finally saw what the bride looks like and bolted. What's she complaining about? Marrying into the Salvatore family is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to her. >> Let them pity me. They thought being left at the altar was the ultimate humiliation. But I never needed a husband. What I wanted was a mansion, an empire, and walls high enough to keep my

16:16 toxic family out forever. Iron gates, high walls, security cameras. Not bad. At least the Vitarly family won't be breaking in anytime soon. >> Does Magnus actually live here? >> Mr. Salvatore is rarely home. Are you Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> That tiny cracked voice broke my heart. I knelt down. [sighs] >> Yeah, sweetie. You've got a mom now. >> I remembered Magnus's late wife had left behind two kids. >> And you must be Lucas. The boy hiding in the dark hallway didn't say anything. Strungy, bruised, arms crossed, jaw

17:04 tight. >> Lily, she's not our mom. >> His eyes held something I knew too well. Pure distrust. He didn't even blink. Just watched me like a wild animal. I couldn't blame him. Every adult in this house was bad news. Then Beatatrice stepped out of the shadows. Magnus' sister-in-law, the widow who ran this place. So, you're the cheap replacement Magnus dragged home. Lily, Lucas, past your bedtime. Get to your rooms right now. Lily, how many times do I got to tell you? No wandering after dark. Come here. Disobeying me again. GET YOUR HANDS off her. You forgot everything I taught you. >> Before she could touch the boy, my hand shed out and caught her wrist.

17:51 Excuse me. I wasn't hurting her. I was just disciplining them. You're blind if you think that wasn't hurting. You're losing your mind. >> Beatric looked down at Lily, putting on that fake ass sweet voice dripping with poison. Tell her, "Sweetheart, did I hurt you?" >> Lily shook her head, but she hesitated. God, I knew that look. I'd made that exact same face a thousand times when I was a kid. I don't give a damn how you used to discipline them. From now on, I'm their mother. >> There I stood, less than 5 minutes in this house, stuck with two broken kids. Lily was still shaking. Lucas wouldn't say a damn word. But deep down behind

18:38 those guarded eyes, something just shifted. Just you wait until Magnus comes back. He'll throw you out on the street before you even know what hit you. The heavy silence returned to the hallway. I knelt down in front of the kids. You okay, guys? Lily didn't speak, but her hands stopped shaking. She looked up at me with big, frightened, yet hopeful eyes. Let's get you back to your room. Come on. I offered my hand. I expected Lucas to swat it away, but he didn't. He just looked at his sister, hesitated, and then slowly placed his small, cold hand in mine. "Where are your rooms? I'll walk you

19:23 back." I looked around the cramped, freezing utility room near the servant stairs. Bare walls, no toys, a thin blanket over a mattress on the floor. You two sleep here? >> Always have. >> Don't sleep here tonight. You're staying with me. >> Really? Back in my spacious master suite, I tucked them into the big, warm bed. >> Lily held on to the edge of my sleeve as if she was afraid I'd vanish while Lucas finally let his guard down just a little bit, his shoulders relaxing against the pillows. >> Get some sleep. I'm right here.

20:11 >> [sighs] >> For the first time in their lives, they fell asleep feeling safe. The next morning, reality in this house hit me even harder. >> I wore these yesterday. I don't want them anymore. And take that new game console to my room now. >> Yes, young master. >> And I want a fresh chocolate cake. Yesterday's tasted awful. I'll have the kitchen make another one right away. Whose room is that? >> Colt is Beatatric's son since his Salvador has let him get away with everything. Even the staff call him the golden boy. Magnus' own children were living like orphans in one of the wealthiest mafia families around. This was insane. At 7:00 a.m., the dining room gleamed with wealth and luxury. Beatatrice was eating eggs, fruit, and caviar on a silver platter. Colt stuffed his face with a rich, fresh chocolate cake.

20:56 My seat was set, but when I pulled back the chair, my plate was completely empty. I look down. Just a single slice of bread for the kids. Dry, hard, and edged with green mold. You expect children to eat this trash? In this house, they eat what they're given. And since you're their mother now, you can teach them some manners. I didn't say another word. I stood up, walked over to her end of the table, and picked up the silver platter of caviar. >> What are you doing? Black caviar smeared down her $5,000 silk shirt. [screaming]

21:41 >> Let's get one thing straight. If my kids eat trash, you eat worse. And if they go hungry, your precious boy won't have a happy day either. Try it again, and you'll be begging Magnus to save you. Clear all of this away and make breakfast again. The children eat first. No one else touches the food until they're full. Didn't you hear me? 20 minutes later, fresh plates hit the table. Eggs, toast, fruit, juice placed right in front of Lucas and Lily first. Lucas didn't touch a bite of his own food. He pushed the best pieces toward Lily, keeping his eyes locked hard on court the entire time like a starving, protective wolf cub. Eat. I ordered extra just for you. Lucas blinked up at me in shock, then wolfed it down. Beatatri sat across from me in

22:27 that ruined shirt, face like thunder, eyes locked on me. Let her scheme. I don't need anyone's damn approval. Breakfast finished. I stood straight up. One more thing. Post the meal schedule by tonight. The kids eat first. Anyone breaks this rule? Fired on the spot. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Later, out in the courtyard, Lily tugged my skirt about to speak. What is it? You can tell me? >> Nothing. We're fine. >> He refused to look at me, swallowing his pride. Scared of being a burden to someone who just got here. I didn't push, but I didn't miss the look in his eyes either. Midnight. A muffled sound crept down the hallway, choked back,

23:13 sobbing. Where's your brother? [panting] I threw the door open. >> Let me go. Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> Good. Give her my regards. [gasps] >> Grab me. Me. >> How long has he been doing this to you? He stayed silent. Lucas, how long? >> Since I was seven. >> Three years. Three whole years. And nobody stopped it. Why didn't you fight back? >> Beatric said if I ever hurt Cole, she'd tell Dad I was violent.

24:00 She said Dad would send me away [snorts] and I'd never see Lily again. Look at me. A real man goes down fighting. He never bends the knee. But Beatatrice, no butts. Make a scene. Fight back. Whatever happens, I've got your back. Just remember one thing. Don't ever let anyone hurt you without fighting back. >> What if dad really does try to send me away? >> You're my child now. As long as I'm in this house, no one gets to send you away. [snorts] >> Come on. >> Where are we going? >> Back to my room. Lily's waiting for you. >> Slan, thank you. >> Go to sleep. >> Let me go. Let me in. I'm telling mom.

24:47 >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. Sloan, what did YOU DO TO MY SON? >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. >> Sloan, what did you do to my son? >> Stay here. I opened the door. Beatatrice stood there, her face contorted with rage. My son was out on that terrace all night. How dare you lock him outside? >> Your son held a lit cigarette to my child's face. You should be grateful all I did was make him spend one night outside. >> What gives you the right to treat him like that? >> If he ever touches Luca again, last

25:33 night will seem merciful. Sloan, you'll pay for this. No one will ever bully either of you again. I promise anyone who tries will answer to me. [snorts] A few weeks later, Lucas came home from school. I caught him trying to sneak past the foyer, keeping his head down and his jacket pulled tight over his face. >> Lucas, stop. He froze, slowly, turning around. The right side of his face was bruised and swelling up fast. You get in a fight? I fought back, but I still lost. Who? Rex Vance and two of his friends. They started talking about my mom again. They said she killed herself because she'd

26:19 rather die than live with us. Losing doesn't matter. This time you fought back. That matters. Next time win, >> slainy, did people bullies you when you were little, too? Of course. After my mother died, I was small and skinny and easy target. No one protected me back then, so I became the thing they were afraid to touch. Eventually, I figured out that if I looked big enough, strong enough, and mean enough, people would stay away. People stopped trying to hurt me.

27:04 >> So that's why you made yourself so big. >> Back then, this was my armor. It made sure no one could ever look at me and see something helpless again. >> "But mom, >> you're not alone anymore. I'm going to get stronger. I'll protect Lily and I'll protect you, too." >> The word hung in the air. I froze, blinking down at him. What did you just call me? >> Mom, I can take it back if you want. And I'm going to get stronger, too. When Lucas and I are strong, Mommy, you won't have to hide inside your armor anymore.

27:50 I'd spent years teaching myself to need no one, but hearing these two little kids say they wanted to protect me. For the first time, I knew what home felt like. Do you want to get stronger? Then come with me. Don't just swing. Find the opening. Be fast. Be precise. Bring your hands right back after you punch. >> Don't stand there waiting to get hit. Next time you don't lose. >> You're training, too? >> I made myself bigger so people would be afraid of me. But now I want to see what I can become without hiding behind this armor. One month.

28:37 In one month, we'll see which one of us has changed more. >> Deal. >> I'll keep watch. >> Fine. Keep track of anyone who slacks off. I'd been notorious since I was a little girl. My father couldn't control me, and my stepmother didn't dare cross. Anyone who messed with me paid the price. By 28, no man in this city would marry me. So, my family sold me off to a widowed mafia dude. I walked into the Salvatore Passion, ready to rule with an iron fist. But then a little girl tugged at my dress. >> Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now?

29:24 >> In that moment, I was eight again, staring at my brand new stepmother. The day after my real mom died, something snapped in me. I swore right there, I'll be the mom I never had. Even if I have to burn this whole damn house to the ground. >> Oh, Sloan, sweetheart, today you're a Salvatore. I'm going to miss you so damn much. >> Really? If you'll miss me that much, how about I just don't get married? >> What? If I hate married life, I can always move back. Keep my room ready just the way it is. >> Move back? Oh, hell no. God bless me. Nessie, darling, hurry up and tie the knot. >> She shoved me toward the church doors. My dress was blood red. My choice. If I was marrying a ghost, I might as well

30:09 look the part because there was no groom at the altar. Magnus Salvatore was busy running some cartel business overseas. In his place, just a framed photograph of the man himself. I signed the papers. A cold ring was shoved into my finger. No vows, no kiss, just ink. I bet he finally saw what the bride looks like and bolted. What's she complaining about? Marrying into the Salvatore family is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to her. >> Let them pity me. They thought being left at the altar was the ultimate humiliation. But I never needed a husband. What I wanted was a mansion, an empire, and walls high enough to keep my toxic family out forever. Iron gates, high walls, security cameras. Not bad. At least the Vitarly family won't be breaking in anytime soon. >> Does Magnus actually live here? >> Mr. Salvatore is rarely home.

31:02 Are you Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> That tiny cracked voice broke my heart. I knelt down. >> Yeah, sweetie. You've got a mom now. >> I remembered Magnus's late wife had left behind two kids. >> And you must be Lucas. The boy hiding in the dark hallway didn't say anything. Strungy, bruised, arms crossed, jaw tight. >> Lily, she's not our mom. >> His eyes held something I knew too well. Pure distrust. He didn't even blink, just watched me like a wild animal. I couldn't blame him. Every adult in this house was bad news. Then Beatatri stepped out of the shadows. Magnus' sister-in-law, the widow who ran this

31:49 place. So, you're the cheap replacement Magnus dragged home. Lily, Lucas, past your bedtime. Get to your rooms right now. Lily, how many times do I got to tell you? No wandering after dark. Come here. Disobeying me again. Get your hands off her. You forgot everything I taught you. >> Before she could touch the boy, my hand shut out and caught her wrist. Excuse me. I wasn't hurting her. I was just disciplining them. You're blind if you think that wasn't hurting. You're losing your mind. >> Beatric looked down at Lily, putting on that fake ass sweet voice dripping with poison. Tell her, sweetheart, did I hurt

32:36 you? Lily shook her head, but she hesitated. God, I knew that look. I'd made that exact same face a thousand times when I was a kid. I don't give a damn how you used to discipline them. From now on, I'm their mother. There I stood, less than 5 minutes in this house, stuck with two broken kids. Lily was still shaking. Lucas wouldn't say a damn word. But deep down behind those guarded eyes, something just shifted. Just you wait until Magnus comes back. He'll throw you out on the street before you even know what hit you. >> The heavy silence returned to the hallway. I knelt down in front of the

33:23 kids. You okay, guys? Lily didn't speak, but her hands stopped shaking. She looked up at me with big, frightened, yet hopeful eyes. Let's get you back to your room. Come on. I offered my hand. I expected Lucas to swat it away, but he didn't. He just looked at his sister, hesitated, and then slowly placed his small, cold hand in mine. "Where are your rooms? I'll walk you back." I looked around the cramped, freezing utility room near the servant stairs. Bare walls, no toys, a thin blanket over a mattress on the floor. You two sleep here? >> Always have. >> Don't sleep here tonight. You're staying

34:10 with me. >> Really? Back in my spacious master suite, I tucked them into the big, warm bed. >> Lily held on to the edge of my sleeve as if she was afraid I'd vanish while Lucas finally let his guard down just a little bit, his shoulders relaxing against the pillows. >> Get some sleep. I'm right here. For the first time in their lives, they fell asleep feeling safe. >> The next morning, reality in this house hit me even harder. >> I wore these yesterday. I don't want them anymore. And take that new game console to my room now. >> Yes, young master. >> And I want a fresh chocolate cake. Yesterday's tasted awful. I'll have the kitchen make another one right away.

34:56 Whose room is that? >> Colt is Beatric's son since his Salvador has let him get away with everything. Even the staff call him the golden boy. Magnus' own children were living like orphans in one of the wealthiest mafia families around. This was insane. At 7:00 a.m., the dining room gleamed with wealth and luxury. Beatatrice was eating eggs, fruit, and caviar on a silver platter. Colt stuffed his face with a rich, fresh chocolate cake. My seat was set, but when I pulled back the chair, my plate was completely empty. I look down. Just a single slice of bread for the kids. Dry, hard, and edged with green mold. You expect children to eat this trash?

35:42 In this house, they eat what they're given. And since you're their mother now, you can teach them some manners. I didn't say another word. I stood up, walked over to her end of the table, and picked up the silver platter of caviar. >> What are you doing? Black caviar smeared down her $5,000 silk shirt. [screaming] >> Let's get one thing straight. If my kids eat trash, you eat worse. And if they go hungry, your precious boy won't have a happy day either. Try it again, and you'll be begging Magnus to save you. Clear all of this away and make breakfast again. The children eat first. No one else touches the food until they're full. Didn't you hear me? 20 minutes later, fresh plates hit the

36:27 table. Eggs, toast, fruit, juice placed right in front of Lucas and Lily first. Lucas didn't touch a bite of his own food. He pushed the best pieces toward Lily, keeping his eyes locked hard on court the entire time like a starving, protective wolf cub. Eat. I ordered extra just for you. Lucas blinked up at me in shock, then wolfed it down. Beatatri sat across from me in that ruined shirt, face like thunder, eyes locked on me. Let her scheme. I don't need anyone's damn approval. Breakfast finished. I stood straight up. One more thing. Post the meal schedule by tonight. The kids eat first. Anyone breaks this rule? Fired on the spot. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Later, out in the courtyard, Lily tugged

37:14 my skirt, about to speak. What is it? You can tell me? >> Nothing. We're fine. >> He refused to look at me, swallowing his pride, scared of being a burden to someone who just got here. I didn't push, but I didn't miss the look in his eyes either. Midnight. A muffled sound crept down the hallway, choked back, sobbing. Where's your brother? [sighs] I threw the door open. >> Let me go. >> Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> Good. Give her my regards. [gasps] >> Grab me. Me.

38:01 >> How long has he been doing this to you? He stayed silent. Lucas, how long? >> Since I was seven. >> Three years. Three whole years. And nobody stopped it. Why didn't you fight back? >> Beatric said if I ever hurt Cole, she'd tell Dad I was violent. She said Dad would send me away [snorts] and I'd never see Lily again. Look at me. A real man goes down fighting. He never bends the knee. But Beatrice, no butts. Make a scene. Fight back. Whatever

38:47 happens, I've got your back. Just remember one thing. Don't ever let anyone hurt you without fighting back. >> What if dad really does try to send me away? >> You're my child now. As long as I'm in this house, no one gets to send you away. [snorts] >> Come on. >> Where are we going? >> Back to my room. Lily's waiting for you. >> Slan, thank you. >> Go to sleep. >> Let me go. Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. Sloan, what did YOU DO TO MY SON? >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. >> Sloan, what did you do to my son? Stay

39:33 here. I opened the door. Beatric stood there, her face contorted with rage. My son was out on that terrace all night. How dare you lock him outside? >> Your son held a lit cigarette to my child's face. You should be grateful all I did was make him spend one night outside. >> What gives you the right to treat him like that? >> If he ever touches Lucat again, last night will seem merciful. Sloan, you'll pay for this. No one will ever bully either of you again. I promise anyone who tries will answer to me.

40:18 [snorts] A few weeks later, Lucas came home from school. I caught him trying to sneak past the foyer, keeping his head down and his jacket pulled tight over his face. >> "Lucas, stop!" He froze, slowly turning around. The right side of his face was bruised and swelling up fast. "You get in a fight?" I fought back, but I still lost. Who? Rex Vance and two of his friends. They started talking about my mom again. They said she killed herself because she'd rather die than live with us. Losing doesn't matter. This time you fought back. That matters. Next time win, Slaney, did people bullies you when you were little, too?

41:06 Of course. After my mother died, I was small and skinny, an easy target. No one protected me back then, so I became the thing they were afraid to touch. Eventually, I figured out that if I looked big enough, strong enough, and mean enough, people would stay away. People stopped trying to hurt me. >> So that's why you made yourself so big. >> Back then, this was my armor. It made sure no one could ever look at me and see something helpless again. >> But mom, you're not alone anymore. I'm going to get stronger. I'll protect Lily and I'll protect you, too.

41:54 >> The word hung in the air. I froze, blinking down at him. What did you just call me? >> Mom, I can take it back if you want. And I'm going to get stronger, too. When Lucas and I are strong, Mommy, you won't have to hide inside your armor anymore. I'd spent years teaching myself to need no one, but hearing these two little kids say they wanted to protect me. For the first time, I knew what home felt like. Do you want to get stronger? Then come with me. Don't just swing. Find the opening. Be fast. Be precise. Bring your hands right back after you punch.

42:40 Don't stand there waiting to get hit. Next time you don't lose. >> You're training, too? >> I made myself bigger so people would be afraid of me. But now I want to see what I can become without hiding behind this armor. One month. In one month, we'll see which one of us has changed more. >> Deal. >> I'll keep watch. >> Fine. Keep track of anyone who slacks off. I'd been notorious since I was a little girl. My father couldn't control me, and my stepmother didn't dare cross. Anyone who messed with me paid the price.

43:25 By 28, no man in this city would marry me. So, my family sold me off to a widowed mafia dude. I walked into the salvage passion, ready to rule with an iron fist. But then a little girl tugged at my dress. >> Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> In that moment, I was eight again, staring at my brand new stepmother the day after my real mom died. Something snapped in me. I swore right there, I'll be the mom I never had. Even if I have to burn this whole damn house to the ground.

44:14 >> Oh, Sloan, sweetheart, today you're a Salvatore. I'm going to miss you so damn much. >> Really? If you'll miss me that much, how about I just don't get married? What? If I hate married life, I can always move back. Keep my room ready. Just the way it is. >> Move back. Oh, hell no. God bless me. N you, DARLING. HURRY UP AND TIE THE KNOT. She shoved me toward the church doors. My dress was blood red. My choice. If I was marrying a ghost, I might as well look the part because there was no groom at the altar. Magnus Salvatore was busy running some cartel business overseas. In his place, just a framed photograph of the man himself. I signed the papers. A cold ring was shoved into my finger. No vows, no kiss, just ink. I bet he finally saw what the bride looks like and bolted. What's she complaining about? Marrying into the Salvatore family is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to her. >> Let them pity me. They thought being

44:59 left at the altar was the ultimate humiliation. But I never needed a husband. What I wanted was a mansion, an empire, and walls high enough to keep my toxic family out forever. Iron gates, high walls, security cameras. Not bad. At least the Vitarly family won't be breaking in anytime soon. >> Does Magnus actually live here? >> Mr. Salvatore is rarely home. Are you Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> That tiny cracked voice broke my heart. I knelt down. >> Yeah, sweetie. You've got a mom now. >> I remembered Magnus's late wife had left

45:44 behind two kids. >> And you must be Lucas. >> The boy hiding in the dark hallway didn't say anything. Strungy, bruised, arms crossed, jaw tight. >> Lily, she's not our mom. >> His eyes held something I knew too well. Pure distrust. He didn't even blink, just watched me like a wild animal. I couldn't blame him. Every adult in this house was bad news. Then Beatatrice stepped out of the shadows. Magnus' sister-in-law, the widow who ran this place. >> So, you're the cheap replacement Magnus dragged home. Lily, Lucas, past your bedtime. Get to your rooms right now. Lily, how many times do I got to tell you? No wandering after dark. Come here. Disobeying me

46:31 again. Get your hands off her. [gasps] You forgot everything I taught you. >> Before she could touch the boy, my hand shed out and caught her wrist. >> Excuse me? I wasn't hurting her. I was just disciplining them. You're blind if you think that wasn't hurting. You're losing your mind. >> Beatatrice looked down at Lily, putting on that fake ass sweet voice dripping with poison. >> Tell her, "Sweetheart, did I hurt you?" >> Lily shook her head, but she hesitated. God, I knew that look. I'd made that exact same face a thousand times when I was a kid. I don't give a damn how you used to discipline them. From now on, I'm their

47:18 mother. >> There I stood, less than five minutes in this house, stuck with two broken kids. Lily was still shaking. Lucas wouldn't say a damn word. But deep down, behind those guarded eyes, something just shifted. Just you wait until Magnus comes back. He'll throw you out on the street before you even know what hit you. The heavy silence returned to the hallway. I knelt down in front of the kids. You okay, guys? Lily didn't speak, but her hands stopped shaking. She looked up at me with big, frightened, yet hopeful eyes. Let's get you back to your room. Come on. I offered my hand. I expected Lucas to swat it away, but he

48:05 didn't. He just looked at his sister, hesitated, and then slowly placed his small, cold hand in mine. Where are your rooms? I'll walk you back. I looked around the cramped, freezing utility room near the servant stairs. Bare walls, no toys, a thin blanket over a mattress on the floor. You two sleep here? >> Always have >> Don't sleep here tonight. You're staying with me. >> Really? Back in my spacious master suite, I tucked them into the big, warm bed. Lily held on to the edge of my sleeve as if she was afraid I'd vanish while Lucas

48:51 finally let his guard down just a little bit, his shoulders relaxing against the pillows. Get some sleep. I'm right here. For the first time in their lives, they fell asleep feeling safe. The next morning, reality in this house hit me even harder. >> I wore these yesterday. I don't want them anymore. And take that new game console to my room now. >> Yes, young master. >> And I want a fresh chocolate cake. Yesterday's tasted awful. I'll have the kitchen make another one right away. Whose room is that? >> Colt is Beatatric's son since his Salvador has let him get away with everything. Even the staff call him the golden boy. >> Magnus' own children were living like orphans in one of the wealthiest mafia families around. This was insane. At 7:00 a.m., the dining room gleamed

49:37 with wealth and luxury. Beatatrice was eating eggs, fruit, and caviar on a silver platter. Colt stuffed his face with a rich, fresh chocolate cake. My seat was set, but when I pulled back the chair, my plate was completely empty. I looked down, just a single slice of bread for the kids, dry, hard, and edged with green mold. You expect children to eat this trash? >> In this house, they eat what they're given. And since you're their mother now, you can teach them some manners. I didn't say another word. I stood up, walked over to her end of the table, and picked up the silver platter of caviar. >> What are you doing?

50:24 >> Black caviar smeared down her $5,000 silk shirt. Let's get one thing straight. If my kids eat trash, you eat worse. And if they go hungry, your precious boy won't have a happy day either. Try it again and you'll be begging Magnus to save you. Clear all of this away and make breakfast again. The children eat first. No one else touches the food until they're full. Didn't you hear me? 20 minutes later, fresh plates hit the table. Eggs, toast, fruit, juice placed right in front of Lucas and Lily first. Lucas didn't touch a bite of his own food. He pushed the best pieces toward Lily, keeping his eyes locked hard on court the entire time like a starving

51:09 protective wolf cub. Eat. I ordered extra just for you. Lucas blinked up at me in shock, then wolfed it down. Beatatri sat across from me in that ruined shirt, face like thunder, eyes locked on me. Let her scheme. I don't need anyone's damn approval. Breakfast finished. I stood straight up. One more thing. Post the meal schedule by tonight. The kids eat first. Anyone breaks this rule, fired on the spot. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Later, out in the courtyard, Lily tugged my skirt, about to speak. What is it? You can tell me? >> Nothing. We're fine. >> He refused to look at me, swallowing his pride, scared of being a burden to someone who just got here.

51:56 I didn't push, but I didn't miss the look in his eyes either. Midnight, a [snorts] muffled sound crept down the hallway, choked back, sobbing. Where's your brother? I threw the door open. >> Let me go. >> Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> Good. Give her my regards. [gasps] >> Not me. Name me. How long has he been doing this to you? He stayed silent. Lucas, how long? >> Since I was seven. >> 3 years. Three whole years. And nobody stopped it. Why didn't you fight back?

52:46 >> Beatric said if I ever hurt Cole, she'd tell Dad I was violent. She said dad would send me away and [snorts] I'd never see Lily again. >> Look at me. A real man goes down fighting. He never bends the knee. >> But Beatatrice, >> no butts. >> Make a scene. Fight back. Whatever happens, I've got your back. Just remember one thing. Don't ever let anyone hurt you without fighting back. >> What if dad really does try to send me away? You're my child now. As long as I'm in this house, no one gets to send you away. [snorts] >> Come on. >> Where are we going? >> Back to my room. Lily's waiting for you. >> The salon. Thank you.

53:31 >> Go to sleep. >> Let me go. Let me in. I'm telling mom. >> 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. Sloan, WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY SON? 7:00 a.m. sharp. A heavy, furious pounding slammed against the door. >> Sloan, what did you do to my son? >> Stay here. >> I opened the door. Beatatrice stood there, her face contorted with rage. My son was out on that terrace all night. How dare you lock him outside? >> Your son held a lit cigarette to my child's face. You should be grateful all I did was make him spend one night outside.

54:16 >> What gives you the right to treat him like that? If he ever touches Luca again, last night will seem merciful. Sloan, you'll pay for this. No one will ever bully either of you again. I promise. [snorts] Anyone who tries will answer to me. A few weeks later, Lucas came home from school. I caught him trying to sneak past the foyer, keeping his head down and his jacket pulled tight over his face. >> Lucas, stop. He froze, slowly, turning around. The right side of his face was bruised and swelling up fast. [clears throat] You get in a fight? I fought back, but I still lost. Who?

55:04 Rex Vance and two of his friends. They started talking about my mom again. They said she killed herself because she'd rather die than live with us. Losing doesn't matter. This time you fought back. That matters. Next time win, >> slainy, did people bullies you when you were little, too? Of course. After my mother died, I was small and skinny, an easy target. No one protected me back then, so I became the thing they were afraid to touch. Eventually, I figured out that if I looked big enough, strong enough, and mean enough,

55:50 people would stay away. People stopped trying to hurt me. >> So that's why you made yourself so big. >> Back then, this was my armor. It made sure no one could ever look at me and see something helpless again. >> But mom, >> you're not alone anymore. I'm going to get stronger. I'll protect Lily and I'll protect you, too. >> The word hung in the air. I froze, blinking down at him. What did you just call me? >> Mom, I can take it back if you want. >> And I'm going to get stronger, too. When Lucas and I are strong, Mommy, you won't

56:37 have to hide inside your armor anymore. I'd spent years teaching myself to need no one. But hearing these two little kids say they wanted to protect me. For the first time, I knew what home felt like. Do you want to get stronger? Then come with me. Don't just swing. Find the opening. Be fast. Be precise. Bring your hands right back after you punch. Don't stand there waiting to get hit. Next time you don't lose. You're training too. >> I made myself bigger so people would be afraid of me. But now I want to see what I can become without hiding behind this armor.

57:25 One month. In one month, we'll see which one of us has changed more. Deal. >> I'll keep watch. >> Fine. Keep track of anyone who slacks off. I'd been notorious since I was a little girl. My father couldn't control me, and my stepmother didn't dare cross. Anyone who messed with me paid the price. By 28, no man in this city would marry me. So, my family sold me off to a widowed mafia dude. I walked into the Salvatore hashion, ready to rule with an iron fist. But then, a little girl tugged at my dress. >> Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now?

58:14 >> In that moment, I was eight again, staring at my brand new stepmother the day after my real mom died. Something snapped in me. I swore right there, I'll be the mom I never had, even if I have to burn this whole damn house to the ground. Oh, Sloan, sweetheart. Today you're a Salvatore. I'm going to miss you so damn much. >> Really? If you'll miss me that much, how about I just don't get married? What? If I hate married life, I can always move back. Keep my room ready just the way it is. >> Move back? Oh, hell no. God bless me now, darling. Hurry up and tie the knot. >> She shoved me toward the church doors. My dress was blood red. My choice. If I was marrying a ghost, I might as well

59:00 look the part because there was no groom at the altar. Magnus Salvatore was busy running some cartel business overseas. In his place, just a framed photograph of the man himself. I signed the papers. A cold ring was shoved into my finger. No vows, no kiss, just ink. I bet he finally saw what the bride looks like and bolted. What's she complaining about? Marrying into the Salvatore family is the luckiest thing that's ever happened to her. >> Let them pity me. They thought being left at the altar was the ultimate humiliation. But I never needed a husband. What I wanted was a mansion, an empire, and walls high enough to keep my toxic family out forever. Iron gates, high walls, security cameras. Not bad. At least the Vitarly family won't be breaking in anytime soon. >> Does Magnus actually live here? >> Mr. Salvatore is rarely home.

59:53 >> Are you Are you my mommy? Do I really have a mommy now? >> That tiny cracked voice broke my heart. I knelt down. >> Yeah, sweetie. You've got a mom now. >> I remembered Magnus's late wife had left behind two kids. >> And you must be Lucas. >> The boy hiding in the dark hallway didn't say anything. Strungy, bruised, arms crossed, jaw tight. >> Lily, she's not our mom. His eyes held something I knew too well. Pure distrust. He didn't even blink, just watched me like a wild animal. I couldn't blame him. Every adult in this house was bad news. Then Beatatri stepped out of the shadows. Magnus's sister-in-law, the widow who ran this

1:00:40 place. So, you're the cheap replacement Magnus dragged home. Lily, Lucas, past your bedtime. Get to your rooms right now. Lily, how many times do I got to tell you? No wandering after dark. Come here. Disobeying me again. Get your hands off her. You forgot everything I taught you. >> Before she could touch the boy, my hand shuted out and caught her wrist. >> Excuse me? I wasn't hurting her. I was just disciplining them. You're blind. If you think that wasn't hurting, you're losing your mind. Beatatrice looked down at Lily, putting on that fake ass sweet voice dripping with poison. Tell her, "Sweetheart, did

1:01:26 I hurt you?" Lily shook her head, but she hesitated. "God, I knew that look. I'd made that exact same face a thousand times when I was a kid." I don't give a damn how you used to discipline them. From now on, I'm their mother. There I stood, less than 5 minutes in this house, stuck with two broken kids. Lily was still shaking. Lucas wouldn't say a damn word. But deep down behind those guarded eyes, something just shifted.