Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Liz was utterly flabbergasted as she stared at Remington. What on earth was he rambling about? There was no way she hadn't felt any movement if Daisy was indeed "quietly" nestled in her belly.

Yet, there was Remington, speaking with utter seriousness, "Mr. Madden probably has no clue what it feels like to have a baby kick. I suggest Mr. Madden and Florence hurry up, tie the knot, and start a family. It's quite the miracle, wouldn't you say, Liz?"

He lowered his gaze only to lift his eyebrows suggestively at Liz a moment later. His hand gently caressed her side, his touch whispering, "Let's keep this our little secret."

Liz had just made a fool of herself in front of Jerome, which was embarrassing enough. Now with Remington also stirring the pot, she felt her cheeks burning with embarrassment, unable to face Jerome. She shot Remington a fierce glare, at a loss for words. Just then, a group hastened their steps towards them. Leading them was an elderly gentleman, his hair silver but his spirit vibrant. His face etched with worry.

Mrs. Bernice Madden's face lit up at the sight of him, waving excitedly. "Archie, come see who I found!”

Nelson moved closer, taking his wife's hand, his demeanor visibly softening. "Who is it? Surprise me," he played along.

The elderly lady had wandered off, and it was clear that Nelson was the most concerned, yet he didn't utter a single word of blame. His every emotion seemed to vanish in her presence, his tenderness like that of soothing a child.

Andrea's earlier demeanor, Nelson's affection and silent warmth towards his wife were touching. And Mrs. Bernice

suddenly envied such a bond

the moment, she stepped away from Remington. It's true what they say - some people really set

wanting to close the distance between him and Liz.

mix of pride and confusion, "Archie, look,

if Andrea is in Elsa's belly, then who is this Andrea?"

"Grandma, it's me, Andrea. I'm all grown up now.

Bernice Madden frowned, her expression turning to one of anxious confusion, clutching Nelson's hand tightly. Nelson, while comforting her, couldn't help but fixate on Liz, momentarily

and casual, belly-supporting palazzo pants, draped in a cream cardigan, her hair loosely tied up with a wooden

serene. There was

her