Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

"I'm okay with meeting my end, but this has nothing to do with my daughter Stella. I love her more than anything; I couldn't bear for her to be dragged into this mess. Please, just spare Stella..." Barbara pleaded for the last time.

However, the living room remained steeped in a prolonged silence.

Remington clenched his jaw, his deep-set eyes dark and unreadable.

He didn't respond, leaving Barbara to sway slightly, her hope extinguished.

Stella let out a stifled sob, and Barbara, in despair, lowered her head, imploring the police officer.

"Could I go change my clothes? At least let me leave my home looking decent in front of my husband and daughter."

She was wearing a simple nightgown, quite thin for the occasion.

Ordinarily, if a suspect didn't resist arrest and cooperated, the police wouldn't make a fuss over such a request.

But with Remington present, the officer handling the case didn't dare make a decision without his consent, turning to look at him.

Remington frowned slightly, and Martin, his voice cracking with age, said, "Remington, do I need to kneel before you?"

Finally, Remington told the officer, "It's your call."

away the

stepped forward

Barbara gently pushed her hand away. "Let your father come with me. It might be the last time I get to spend

made

glanced at the

other two to

seemed unaware, chatting

you to pick out

your hair like

their retreating figures, his

shared a deep affection, and the West family home had always exuded a warm atmosphere. Remington had enjoyed spending time there

felt his mother's love from Hanna, but Barbara, his godmother, often filled that

for Barbara were genuine, yet he never imagined she could

darkened as he looked toward

I take you home?"

tired but didn't need Remington's escort. She shook

can manage

hand tightly. Lizetta looked down, signaling him to let

on. "Where are you planning to

concession, she knew she had no other