Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Her hands were warm and soft, much like Fiona's.

They were the hands of someone who lived a life of comfort and ease, Lizetta noted. The elderly lady carried herself with a grace reminiscent of Fiona's.

She exuded a peaceful aura, the kind that comes with age, not at all the type to mean harm.

So, Lizetta signaled to the approaching bodyguard to hold back.

The elderly lady, as Lizetta had guessed, didn't drag her away but instead stopped in front of a bakery's display window. She pointed at a dessert behind the glass, smiling at Lizetta.

"I'm hungry, I'd really like to have that. Could you treat me to it?" she asked, her eyes gleaming like a child asking for candy.

Lizetta realized the lady was somewhat disoriented, probably separated from her family.

With a gentle smile growing on her face, Lizetta nodded, "Of course, I can do that for you, but you'll have to promise me one thing in return."

The elderly lady nodded eagerly, as if afraid Lizetta might change her mind and the dessert would vanish.

the bakery and

towards her and said, "Here's your treat. Could you give me your family's phone

looked at the dessert and then stood up, "Just

movements were swift for her age, and

to Lizetta, and pushed the dessert between them, smiling warmly, "Elsa, isn't this your favorite

she had been mistaken for a family member. Reluctantly,

also scanned the lady for any contact information,

frantic, Lizetta gently coaxed her into taking a

you take this photo to the radio station for help?" After Dean left with

was Jerome, his coat billowing behind him

Dora was Jerome's hire, and it was

was Jerome, and Lizetta had been feeling a change in her

being decisive when not intending to give hope, she braced herself for

he could speak,

Remington. You've been a great help in Luminesia, a real lifesaver to both me and the baby. When you're free, I'd like to invite you and Remington for