Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Liz turned to look at Andrea, trying to brush off the teasing tone in her voice as harmless. Yet, it left Liz feeling awkward, sensing an undertone of hostility.

Biting her lip, Liz thought back to what Remington had mentioned about the rumors surrounding Tranquil Meadows. Jerome was supposedly Andrea's foster brother of sorts. Was Andrea feeling jealous? Liz had been eagerly ushered to her seat by Mrs. Bernice Madden, the elderly lady brimming with warmth.

Caught up in conversation with Mrs. Madden, Liz barely noticed her surroundings until she realized Remington had taken the seat across from her, his gaze pressing down on her. Recalling the unsolicited kiss in the car earlier, she felt less inclined to engage with him.

Now, feeling uneasy and trapped in an awkward situation, Liz didn't want to get caught in the middle of someone else's emotions and suggested, "Maybe I should swap seats with Florence."

It wouldn't be right to ask Jerome to move.

As she tried to stand, Mrs. Bernice Madden grabbed her right arm.

"Where are you off to, dear?" she asked.

also reached out, holding the

back down by Mrs.

Liz's company. Let's

gaze towards Remington, "You might not be

"How come? Mrs. Dashiell looks ready to have the baby

surprised, his brows furrowing as he turned to Remington, his expression

had always

demeanor. But to hear of his wife, heavily pregnant and contemplating separation, it suggested a grave misstep by the man

his life to his family and spouse, had little tolerance for men

immediately glared at Remington, "I knew it. Archie, he's been bullying Elsa! Kick him out!" Trying to calm his wife, Nelson said,

"Mr. Dashiell, forgive my bluntness. Though it's my first time meeting Liz, Jerome told me

and even helped