Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

"Remington, come on in. Mom and Dad are waiting for you," Stella said with a smile, stepping forward to loop her arm through his. Remington deftly sidestepped her advance, closing the car door himself, and replied with a nod, "Congratulations. Let's head inside." Stella's attempt to link arms fell short, and withdrew her hand; she didn't seem disturbed. Lifting her face, she said with a smile.

"I hope you don't find it silly, but it's been ages since I've been to anything like this. My memories of these events are so hazy; I'm actually quite nervous. I'm so glad you're here, though. Seeing you makes me feel a bit more at ease."

Chatting away, they entered the villa.

The guests hadn't quite filled up the place when Martin, supporting Luna, came over. The couple was glowing, and even Luna looked much better, not needing her wheelchair today.

"Remington, you made it. Could you please escort Stella for the entrance?" Barbara asked pleadingly, holding onto Remington's arm with a hopeful look.

"Godmother, for something this important, it's better if Godfather escorts Stella."

Stella looked down, her spirits dampened by his refusal.

"Remington, I twisted my ankle a few days ago. Trying to navigate those stairs might end up being a bit awkward. We wouldn't want to embarrass Stella, would we?" Martin chimed in. Remington noticed Martin's difficulty in walking with his left foot and frowned slightly.

for Mr. West to escort Ms. West down the grand staircase under the

Remington's reluctance, quickly said, "Dad, if Remington doesn't want to, let's not pressure him. Maybe I can manage on my own. It's just I'm nervous about possibly tripping up.

looked at the anxious Stella and

Stella's eyes lit up.

give her one last touch-up. I might not see it, but I know my daughter will be the most beautiful tonight, right, Remington?" Barbara asked with

Stella, Remington replied

in her red dress, while Lizetta's exquisite face flashed through Remington's

Lizetta's attire was selected by Fiona, who loved to dress her in red.

looked good in red when she was young; must look breathtaking if wearing it now. Remington was considering getting

he found his gaze lingering on Stella longer

bashfully; eyes downcast,

she turned and hurried upstairs, her retreat filled with a shy urgency. Remington came back to the reality, feeling nothing but baffled

minutes later, as guests

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