Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Evelina clutched at her heart as she hurried away from the restroom.

Today, she'd received a call from her doctor, suggesting she make a trip to the obstetrics and gynecology department. Thinking of the baby growing inside her as her last bargaining chip, she didn't dare delay and rushed over immediately. Little did she know, she would witness Remington bringing Lizetta to visit Barbara, who clearly disliked Lizetta.

Now, Stella had been brought back into the picture; wanting to see Lizetta's downfall, she had stealthily followed them. What she hadn't expected was to overhear such a revelation. This Stella was an impostor! The real Stella hadn't been found at all! Why should Lizetta be so lucky! Filled with indignation, Evelina arrived at the obstetrics department and entered the doctor's office. Hearing the doctor's diagnosis made her tremble, disbelievingly caressing her slightly protruding belly, her eyes darkening.

On the way home from the hospital.

Lizetta and Remington sat together in the backseat, his brows furrowed deeply, clearly in a bad mood.

Lizetta figured his conversation with Barbara must not have gone well either. She took the initiative, holding his hand and leaning in to say, "If she really can't come around, maybe we shouldn't rush the wedding."

Remington held Lizetta's hand in return, his fingers caressing her wedding ring, his lips curving slightly as he said, "So understanding?"

Lizetta rested against his shoulder, "Maybe she just needs more time to accept it. Who knows, she might come around."

Besides, Barbara's days seemed numbered; they could always have the wedding after she passed.

After all, she had waited over two years for the wedding; what was a little longer?

Remington tightened his grip on her wrist, his gaze darkening as he asked, "Are you compromising, or do you not care much for the wedding?"

Lizetta frowned slightly; she was thinking of him, not wanting him to be in a tough spot. Why did his words sound like he was upset?

She lifted her head from his shoulder, looking at him as she said, "What if the wedding upsets Barbara, and something happens?"

If that were the case, Remington would feel even more guilty towards the West family. Would he then resent her? She didn't care about getting Barbara's approval or blessing, but Remington clearly did. "Something happens? What kind of thing?" Remington's gaze sharpened.

Lizetta could feel his suppressed displeasure as she slowly withdrew her hand, saying, "It's just a concern, not a curse on Barbara. If you think it's offensive, I'm sorry."

Feeling stifled, she turned to look out the window.

Remington caught a glimpse of her cold profile and suddenly pulled her closer. Lizetta, caught off guard, fell into his embrace.

Remington held her chin, looking into her slightly panicked eyes, and said firmly, "Once we've decided on the wedding, it's not something we can just back out of! I brought you here today to announce it, not to ask for anyone's permission."

There was no room for her to back out.

Lizetta, trapped in his embrace, was still trying to understand Remington's intentions when she heard him instruct the driver, "Christ, head to Graceful Gowns Bridal."

Graceful Gowns Bridal was the most renowned bridal shop in Zion City, collaborating with many famous international bridal gown designers. It was the go-to place for wedding attire in their circle.

Lizetta had discussed with Fiona about checking out wedding dresses there during lunch; Remington must have overheard.

She looked at him in surprise, "We're going to Graceful Gowns Bridal to pick out a wedding dress now?"

"Why not?"

Remington focused on her face, noting her surprise more than excitement, as if he was the only one eager for the wedding.

"But we haven't even set a date yet; how can we choose a dress?"

Especially now that she was pregnant, her body was changing every day. Without a set date, choosing a dress seemed premature. Belongs to © n0velDrama.Org.

Yet, Remington had made up his mind, not allowing Lizetta any room for refusal. Christ had already turned onto another road, heading towards the bridal shop.