Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

"Sweetie, I...I just wanted to see you, to say I'm sorry, I..."

Kicked into the flowerbed, Hans clutched his abdomen, his expression one of agony as he crawled out and staggered to his feet. Lizetta, still reeling from the shock, shuddered violently once more.

Remington's gaze swept over fiercely, "Get lost!"

With that, he no longer paid Hans any heed, bent down to scoop Lizetta into his arms, and made a beeline for the building.

Inside the elevator, the bright lights shone on their faces.

The steady and strong heartbeat resonated in her ears, while the familiar scent of wood and a hint of cold spice filled her nostrils, reminiscent of the times when, as a child haunted by nightmares, all it took was being close to Remington to feel safe again.

Nestled in her brother's embrace, she felt fearless once more.

"Liz, he's gone now. You're safe here with me, I'll always be by your side, okay?"

Remington's voice was gentle and soothing above her, gradually calming Lizetta down.

She opened her eyes but avoided Remington's concerned gaze.

"I...I'm much better now, you can put me down..."

She struggled slightly, but in truth, she was still weak, a residual effect of her overwhelming fear.

at her pale lips,

river yet, and you're already thinking of dismantling the bridge?

she was pregnant, he was extremely careful, always wary of pressing too hard against her belly, thus his arms were a bit suspended, not allowing her to fully lean

the elevator doors opened, Remington, still cradling Lizetta, headed to the apartment door before

her against himself as he

had moved upstairs a couple of days ago, into the

original code was Lizetta's birthday,

it, it was evident the code had

changed the

of significance from her childhood, every common password she used, Remington knew them all too

two more unsuccessful tries, it was clear something was

about to attempt again when Lizetta pushed his

gaze, who could clearly see the numbers she

in his chest, a shadow crossing his eyes, as he mumbled, "You've memorized the

wedding anniversary to their divorce date. Was she

Lizetta hummed, pushing the door

stepped forward, Remington bent down to carry her

him, and swiftly placed Lizetta

hugging her knees, her face still void