Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Even as she fled in embarrassment, a part of him couldn't help but hope against hope that her actions were a sign of lingering love for him. But now, as he faced her usual resolute and cold demeanor, Remington couldn't help but offer a silent eulogy to his own arrogance. He had hoped for too much. The passionate light in his eyes dimmed to a quiet depth as Lizetta spoke, her voice growing softer. "Thank you for looking after my brother all this time, for helping Yoli, and for standing up for me in front of the Dashiell family. If all these were your way of making amends, then I accept them. Remington, I don't hold a grudge against you anymore, truly."

Lizetta wasn't heartless. After overcoming her postpartum depression, she had done a lot of thinking. The complications on that fateful night weren't entirely Remington's fault; she had her share of the blame too. Her resentment had stemmed from believing that he was protecting the West family, defending Stella West. But now, it didn't seem that way at all.

With her brother awake and Remington's recent actions, Lizetta found it in herself to let go of her hatred. But that was as far as it went.

However, hearing her say she no longer resented him brought a flicker of life back to Remington's icy heart. A spark of light returned to his eyes. He was about to tell Lizetta that his actions were not about atonement but because of his undying love for her when she continued.

"You also said in front of the grandparents that from now on, I owe nothing to the Dashiell family and have no ties with them whatsoever. So, let's just maintain this relationship of mutual indifference, shall we?"

The flicker of hope in Remington's heart was doused as if with a bucket of ice water, especially at her last comment, which felt like a dagger to his heart. His handsome face turned cold. "Mutual indifference? Who do you want to be happy with? Jerome? Just how far have you two gone?"

His questions were laced with barely concealed anger and jealousy, as if accusing her of betrayal.

Lizetta sighed, feeling helpless. "Even if I were to be with him, it's none of your business!"

"So, you're actually considering it?" Remington's voice was dark with turmoil, making communication seem impossible.

She pushed past him, took a

hairdryer from the bedside, and sat

down in front of the vanity mirror, starting to blow-dry her hair. If they couldn't communicate, then perhaps it was best not to try. He could think whatever he wanted.

But Remington saw her silence as a form of acquiescence. The thought of her possibly accepting Jerome and being with another man, sharing intimate moments or even starting a family made his head throb and filled him with uncontrollable dark thoughts. However, catching sight of Lizetta calmly drying her hair at the vanity, just as she used to, brought him back to a semblance of the past.

Four months ago, she wouldn't have been able to sit so peacefully in front of him. He didn't want her to hate him again. Suppressing his anger, Remington moved behind Lizetta, taking over the task of holding the hairdryer. "I'll do it."

Lizetta caught his earnest, deep

gaze in the mirror and, not wanting to start another argument, let go. Her hair was thick and voluminous;

drying it was always angContent bel0ngs to Nôvel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

wrist-aching chore. If he was willing

to help, she might as well think of him as Tony for the moment.