Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Chapter 102

“Nice one, Dr. White, you’ve got some acting chops!” Yolanda pats Hogan on the shoulder “Right back at ya.”

Lizetta looked at Hogan, puzzled, “Weren’t you off doing medical aid? What brings you here?”

“Just got back. Was worried about you girls being here, just in case, so I left the security guy my number to ring me up if there’s any trouble. Let’s get out of here.”

Hogan bent down to pick up two large luggage bags and headed downstairs first, “Don’t lift a finger; I’ll come back for the rest.”

As his tall figure descended, Yolanda nudged Lizetta with her shoulder.

“Remington’s given you a lift home before too, right? But I never saw him leave his number like that. Dr. White’s really quite a catch, uh!”

Lizetta clamped her hand over Yolanda’s mouth, “You’re quite the actress yourself. Hurry up and pack; you really want him to come back up here?!”

She grabbed two cardboard boxes, and Yolanda, knowing she didn’t want to talk about it, dropped the subject.

After they load everything into the trunk of Hogan’s car, they all hopped in, and he said, “Finding a temporary rental could be tough. I happen to have a two–bedroom place nearby that’s just sitting empty. Why don’t you check it out?”

Before Lizetta could reply, Hogan seemed to anticipate her concerns and added, “Don’t worry. I won’t let you crash for free. You’ll pay rent. It’s not good for the place to be empty anyway, and a little extra cash never hurts. Plus, you can help me keep an eye on it – it’s a win–win.”

Lizetta felt it was not quite right, but he’d made his offer so generously, and after all, Yolanda was in this mess because of her. Finding a spot last minute was a hassle.

a great

was obviously top–notch in terms of light, layout, and

to study abroad in just a month or two, had thought about renting a place with Yolanda after her divorce. A two–bedroom apartment would

Lizetta turned to Hogan, “Let’s get the

rush. It’s almost noon after all this running around. Let’s grab some

Chapter 102

and I will treat you

knowing her straightforwardness, raised an

had ordered, Lizetta raised her glass, “Hogan, thanks for all your help today.

was about to respond when a soft, melodic voice cut in, “Hogan, what are you doing with these

stood a few steps away, decked out in a new sparkling dress from Brand X, clutching a platinum bag, looking down her nose

glared at Lizetta, thinking, “This woman is born to be wild. She climbs into Remi’s bed and now

said, “Haven’t seen you in ages, and you’re still stepping out without brushing your teeth? How about a free

Shirley, who scrambled back, nearly tripping over in her high heels.

Yolanda wore a look that read “you’re not

looked to Hogan with her eyes welling up, “Hogan, they are

broke out in goosebumps from

Shirley Dashiell, she who