Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

When Stella reached out, Remington stood up straight, sidestepping her gesture and pulling his hand from hers. "Here, wipe your face."

He handed her a wet wipe.

Touching her face, Stella felt the tear streaks and sat up awkwardly.

After she cleaned her face, it was like she finally snapped back to reality, her voice tinged with nervous guilt.

"Remington, where's my dad? Is he okay?"

Remington's brow furrowed slightly, a flash of irritation passing through his eyes.

"He's fallen ill, resting in the next room."

The police had just left when Martin collapsed.

That's why Remington had been delayed.

Stella's face filled with worry, and she tried to get out of bed but fell back weakly.

"Rest for now," Remington said sternly. "Your dad's condition has stabilized. The nurse will let you know when he wakes up."

Stella nodded obediently, her eyes wandering helplessly, tears falling as she spoke.

mom's funeral... I don't know what to do.

lip quivered, and seeing Remington silent,

all, doesn't it? Her sins should be wiped away with her passing.

it would mean he had truly

to

cut her off, his

and kid, and you

froze, her

what I meant... I'm sorry, I didn't consider your

regretful and guilty. If she knew you'd forgiven her,

no saint. The most I can

silently, her expression desolate. Then,

your mom's funeral simple.dll handle it. I'm still

need to bother Reming

bother Rent Who

got off the bed and went to support

you're awake?

hunched,

shake of his head, then looked at Remington with

a secret?