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.

old house, and he might be

old house, with Remi holding Lizetta's

He's smart, and he wouldn't just

held Remi's hand tighter; her worry for Joe was mixed with a sense

love for Joe, she barely acted like a

if Remi felt neglected

up?" Remi caught her gaze, looking down at

only gripping his hand

go was 'Willow Cottage' in the woods behind the

felt down, Lizetta would take him there, teaching him to speak into the hollow of the tree at 'Willow Cottage' - their secret hideout. Arriving at

motioned for Remi to

climb; I'll call him out," Remington

covered his mouth, "Don't scare him. You're his brother; show some patience. Or I seriously doubt Joy will have a patient dad!" Remington sighed internally, acknowledging

patience he had was all spent

climb on up," he conceded, stepping forward to

Lizetta easily

found

we have here, hiding and crying like a little