Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

She thought he didn't love her, that he couldn't bear to face her. But in that moment, Lizetta suddenly realized she might've been completely wrong. If he didn't want to face her, he would've blindfolded himself, not her.

Remington must've thought she didn't love him; that was why he'd been holding back all this time, scared to frighten her.

He said he loved her, but she could never feel it. Strangely enough, right now, she felt a glimpse of his restrained love.

He probably wasn't as strong as she perceived, always on top, leading effortlessly. He, too, had his insecurities, his fears.

In an instant, Lizetta gripped the edge of the table, her nails digging into the wood grain, feeling an overwhelming sadness.

Tears seeped from her tightly shut eyes. It was such a pity; she realized too late.

If she'd known earlier, maybe they could've connected, built trust, and she would have the courage to weather any storm with him.

But there were no ifs. So much had happened, so many obstacles.

Their minds had changed; trust had collapsed. She wasn't brave anymore; it seemed they couldn't go back.

tightly, and

reached for a blanket, wrapping her up, and lifted her in

running water filled the space as Lizetta had prepared a

the tap, checked the water's temperature, and then gently placed Lizetta, who was still wrapped in

lay in the warm water, her rigid, cold body slowly warming and relaxing. When she opened her eyes

herself slowly, covering her face, her shoulders shaking slightly, she finally

days that followed, the man who used to come home every day was now busy, not returning for a

with her dance troupe's performances. Lying alone in the

tired too. She also thought, with Stella so proactive,

the

family's long-lost daughter being found and making high-profile appearances in various upscale

the second round of performances in Zion City ended successfully, the dance drama was a

of flowers

her hands, the cleaner,

ready on

of the