Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Barbara lifted her gaze to meet Lizetta's clouded eyes, which were unfocused and murky, unsettlingly so.

Lizetta, harboring her venomous thoughts, shuddered instinctively.

Remington's hand, initially resting on Lizetta's wrist, slid down to grasp her hand firmly.

At the same time, the man, growing impatient, lifted his foot and slammed his polished Iridia leather shoe onto Ralap's knee.

Ralap twisted in pain, his body shaking. He looked up, reached out desperately to grab Barbara, and cried out with a hoarse voice.

"I was just doing what you told me, bringing people abroad to get rid of Mrs. Dashiell! You're the mastermind! You are!"

Barbara, though blind to the sight, could smell the strong scent of blood and feel its sticky presence.

She could only imagine what Ralap looked like now.

Her face showed a mix of horror and anger as she struggled and vehemently denied the accusations.

"Ralap! Think carefully about what you're saying. If your mom knew you were trying to pin this on Barbara, how could she go on living?"

also stepped forward, his voice grave, "Ralap! Your dad passed away early, and for years the Wests have been taking care of you and your mom. Your uncle has treated you like his own son.

Martin and Barbara were using Cecilia as

a single-parent household, had

as he

his eyes mocking, not rushing or

shameless they could be

from shock or something else, had been kneeling quietly, tears rolling down

she looked up, crying

everything is because of me! I'm the one who

herself in front of everyone, looking up as she grabbed

looked up at Remington and

me be the one to go to I

as Barbara rushed over,

you spouting? You can't just say things like

do it! If only I hadn't come back, it's all my fault... I've ruined everything..." Stella and

point, trying to coerce or bribe Ralap into taking