Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Remi turned his head towards Lizetta, "Any idea where Joe might have gone?"

Hannah, overhearing the conversation, immediately raised her voice.

"Give the phone to Lizetta! I'll ask her!"

But Remi's voice dropped, firm and concerned, "I'll get someone on it."

It was clear that he was worried about Hannah saying something more to Lizetta, so he cut off their conversation.

However, Lizetta snatched the phone from Remi, saying, "Joe hasn't contacted me, and no, I haven't hidden him away."

At Lizetta's words, Hannah broke down, "Lizetta, Joe could pass out at any moment. He ran away because of you; you must know where he is. Please, think!" Hannah's voice lost its edge, now carrying a plea.

Lizetta, being a mother herself, understood the panic and desperation of a mother whose child is missing.

She replied softly, "Joe is my brother; I'm just as worried. Trust me, I'll think it over and work with Remi to find him as soon as possible."

After hanging up, Lizetta looked at Remi.

house,

old house, with Remi holding Lizetta's

He's smart, and

for Joe was mixed with a

for Joe, she barely acted like

wondered if Remi felt

her gaze, looking down

only gripping his hand

Lizetta thought Joe might go was 'Willow Cottage'

him there, teaching him to speak into the hollow of the tree at 'Willow Cottage' - their secret hideout. Arriving at 'Willow Cottage,' they indeed found Joe's sneakers under the

for Remi to let her

I'll call him

You're his brother; show some patience. Or I seriously

he had was all spent on

conceded, stepping forward

Remi's help, Lizetta easily climbed into 'Willow

was found in a corner,

here, hiding