Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Hogan listened to Remington's theory with a scoff, his expression dripping with mockery. Not a hint of panic or guilt flashed across his face. He even chuckled at Remington, the sarcasm thick in his voice. "You kid died because you failed to protect him. And now, what? Eager to pin his death on me to win Liz's forgiveness? Dream on... Ah!"

Before Hogan could finish, a vase smashed onto his hand with a loud crash, sending sharp fragments flying. Blood immediately started oozing from the back of Hogan's hand, drawing a pained grunt from him. The next second, Remington, gripping the neck of the vase, drove its jagged edge into Hogan's bloodied hand. The sharp edge sank deeper, blood spurting out more freely, turning Hogan's face ghostly pale. Hogan obviously wanted to scream for help, but Ray was already behind him, smothering any sound he might make.

"You know, Dr. White, if you don't start talking, you can kiss this hand goodbye, let alone ever hold a scalpel again," Jerome coolly reminded him.

The pain intensified, and veins bulged visibly on Hogan's neck, but he gritted his teeth, his voice hoarse. "Speculation is just that, speculation. It can't be turned into fact. If you want to slander me, Mr. Dashiell, you better have some evidence."

Drip, drip, drip. Thick blood dripped onto the floor. Then, noise from the hallway approached.

Jerome walked a few steps towards the door, peered out, and announced, "The cops are here."

It was normal for someone to call the police given the commotion. A few officers, led by a nurse, arrived. When the door to the room swung open, a lingering scent of blood filled the air.

on the hospital bed with a towel

officer, noticing Remington and Jerome, felt a chill. "Mr. Dashiell,

"Just

lead officer, feeling like he'd landed in hot water-given the status of everyone involved-was relieved to hear Hogan's statement. Without

the station for a

were on Liz's surgery

Even though Hogan staunchly

to hide he wouldn't have chosen to smooth things over when the cops showed up. Only guilty

fuss.

UMS

let off by the Maddens either. We're here to assist whenever necessary. Please keep

frowned and asked, "What's the Madden family planning to do