Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

He knew he hadn't protected them well enough, and everything he did, it was just a meager comfort to her.

"I'm Daisy's dad, and doing all this is my duty, not something that deserves your thanks. I've never expected these actions to make you forgive me. If it eases your pain, even just a little, that's all I need." Remington's gentle voice blended with the night breeze as his large hand brushed through Lizetta's long hair, over and over again, trying to smooth out the tangled knots of sorrow in her heart.

Lizetta's voice caught in her throat, her feelings a complicated mess.

She pushed away from him, her gaze resting on Daisy's gravestone.

Several bunches of flowers surrounded the grave, some dried, some wilted, and some fresh, alongside many baby toys, making this site uniquely lively and special.

Lizetta now believed Timothy Temple's words; Remington must have been visiting every week.

She clenched her fists, touching the gravestone and whispering in her heart.

Daisy, both your mom and dad love you.

But, please don't forgive us, forget about us. That way, you won't feel lonely over there.

"What are you thinking about?"

Seeing her silent and downcast, Remington stepped in to shield her from the wind and loosely wrapped his arms around her shoulders.

way she can find a happier, warmer home sooner, be reborn, and find better parents..." Lizetta's voice was soft, but it pierced Remington's

placed hand on her shoulder tightened, and he turned her to face him, bending

can't we be those

happier,

her? Maybe

and is waiting for us to reconcile, to

intense and persuasive,

the wind blowing her hair into her face,

fixed on her, unblinking, until Lizetta's lips moved slightly, her

find his answer in her eyes

suddenly, he knelt

crisp and without a crease, touched

startled, reached out

"Brother!"

cry came out, but

Thud.

heavily, kneeling before her in a gesture

eyes met, the shift in perspective bringing a

last light vanished