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.

dad like this, and my mom's funeral... I don't know what to do. Could you take care of

Remington silent, she began to

did terrible things, but death trumps all, doesn't it? Her sins should be wiped away with her passing. She may have wronged Lizetta, but she never wronged you. She always cared

to agree; it would mean

be buried, and Stella didn't want to be scorned for having a murderer as a

her off,

and kid, and you say she hasn't wronged

her hands

I'm sorry, I didn't consider your feelings, that was thoughtless of

If she knew

can't forgive. I'm no saint. The most I can do is

desolate. Then, Martin's voice came

let's keep your mom's funeral simple.dll handle it. I'm still here,

need to bother Reming

bother Rent Who

got off the bed and went to

awake? Are you

back hunched, the hospital gown hanging loosely

his head, then looked at Remington with

one uneasy request. Can we keep Luna's cause of death a secret? Stella was lost for so many years, and the rumors about her are already harsh.