Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Lizzy had slipped across the border under a false identity, thinking that once the cops showed up, she'd be in a world of trouble. But somehow, Rem had handled it. The cops had only asked Lizzy a few simple questions before they left.

After a night of restless sleep, shaken by the encounter, Lizzy had quickly fallen into a deep slumber once the police were gone. When she next awoke, she sensed movement.

Opening her eyes, she was startled to find herself in Rem's arms, being carried out the door.

"Where are you taking me?" Lizzy looked around, bewildered.

Seeing her awake, Rem looked down and said, "Back to Zion City."

Lizzy was shocked, grabbing at the man's shirt collar, "You bastard, you promised you wouldn't force me!"

She kicked and pulled at his collar as if she wished she could strangle him.

Rem's eyes flashed with resignation, his lips pressed into a thin line, almost grinding his teeth as he spoke.

"I agreed to your condition," he said.

Lizzy blinked, surprised. "Really?"

was a bit skeptical, feeling an odd mix

her doubtful look, Rem scoffed, "You don't

big, sarcastic smile. "I'm thrilled! I was just worried about someone

of pain. He wished he didn't have to let her go, especially with other men buzzing around her like flies.

forceful tactics, he dared not use

of pushing her further

large,

your wish... consider it compensation for

disastrous marriage was

the only way to

eyes; she could

was

releasing her grip on Rem's collar, whispering, "So, after the flight,

"Yeah."

down, letting Rem lift

the window, her eyes filled with reluctance

tightened, but

he suddenly