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?"

feeling an odd mix

doubtful look, Rem scoffed, "You don't seem too happy about it. Having

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

afraid of pushing her further

at large,

this time, I'll grant you your wish... consider it compensation for the

disastrous marriage

ending it was the only way to break

eyes; she could

was

on Rem's collar, whispering, "So, after the flight, you'll come with me to the city

"Yeah."

finally quieted down, letting Rem

through the window, her eyes filled with reluctance and longing. And Rem caught

heart tightened, but then he

here?" he suddenly