Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Lizetta had only been in Evercrestia for about two weeks, as the West family had been tirelessly searching for her.

Dora helped Lizetta leave, and they eventually settled down in a quaint town called Luminesia.

The town was nestled among mountains, with homes built along the lakeside. Colorful rooftops dotted the landscape, covered in snow during the winter months, making it feel like something out of a fairy tale. The locals were warm and friendly, making Lizetta's days there peaceful and serene.

However, as April approached, an unexpected snowstorm hit the town, causing a sudden drop in temperature and a shortage in heating supply.

"The fireplace must be broken; it's letting smoke into the room," Dora said, frowning as she tried to light the living room's fireplace.

Lizetta sat cross-legged on the carpet, following a video tutorial to knit a beanie, a new hobby she had recently fallen in love with. She wanted to make a cashmere beanie for Daisy, smiling at Dora when she heard her comment.

"Let's just put it out; it's not that cold. I'll wear an extra layer. Oh, and don't forget to deliver some of the cookies I baked to Nolan."

Nolan was a neighbor's young boy who often visited Lizetta. With Lizetta's beauty, gentle personality, and knack for baking delicious treats, she quickly became a favorite among the local children. Nolan and his pet forest cat, Daisy, were regular visitors.

"I'll head over now, better than having him come over in the snow."

As Dora got up, Lizetta also stood up to help her fetch a down jacket and scarf.

Watching Dora leave, Lizetta's gaze fell on the two trays of heather in the yard. The plant was cold-resistant, but perhaps not enough to withstand such heavy snowfall.

outside, reaching for the flower pots when she heard the crunch of footsteps in

Dora had returned, Lizetta turned with a smile, only to freeze at the sight of a

short hair, illuminated by the indoor lighting, was a stark black, unlike that of the

Lizetta's grip loosened, and a flower pot

"Watch out!"

man's deep, mellow voice

as he

pulling Lizetta away

shelf and blocking

Hom

with his hand.

pot

heart raced as she looked up to

"Mr. Madden?"

out to be Jerome, not the

fluttering, Lizetta managed to say,

gaze with a smile, "You should wear a scarf when you come out. Where's Dora? Let's go inside and

"Right, let's go inside."

night, Lizetta was happy to have an

nodding eagerly as she