Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

"Nothing, really. I guess I'm just a bit nervous about going on stage tomorrow."

She tried to hide her unease from him, offering him a fleeting smile as she looked up. "You coming to the show?"

Over the past week, Remington had been bending over backwards to make things right with her. He'd spent every spare moment with her, supporting her in everything she wanted to do.

Yet, there was always this distance between them, a lukewarm vibe that prevented things from going back to how they used to be.

This was the first time since their wedding that she had taken the initiative to invite him to anything. Remington was momentarily taken aback, almost flattered by her gesture.

He took off his coat and draped it over her shoulders, pulling her close and playfully tapping her nose. "When my wife invites me, of course I'll come."

Lizetta looked up at him, with a smile blooming on her face. Her eyes sparkling with joy, she was clearly delighted.

It had been over four years since she last took the stage, and she was genuinely happy about it. This time was special because Daisy would be performing with her, giving it an entirely new meaning. She truly hoped Remington, as Daisy's dad, would be there in the audience. It was like a farewell gift for Daisy.

And perhaps, it was also a way to put a period at the end of the chapter for her and Remi.

Remington looked down at Liz, his gaze deepening. He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer and kissed her forehead softly. "Babe, it's been a while since you've smiled at me like that." The

smile made his heart itch with longing. He tilted his head, about to kiss her lips when they were interrupted by a familiar voice.

"It's cold outside. Why don't you and Liz get in the car to talk?"

Lizetta abruptly turned, seeing Stella smiling from the backseat of the car parked ahead, the window rolled down.

Liz stepped out of his embrace.

She took a deep breath and, sure enough, caught a hint of perfume on his coat; her eyes were filled with sarcasm.

Remington had been slowly

warming up to Liz, careful not to

e

el

push her too hard and risk her resentment. Just as the atmosphere was turning in his favor, their moment was interrupted, causing him to frown deeply. Content bel0ngs to Nôvel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

"Let's go, get in the car."

Remington led Lizetta to the car, pulling the rear door open as Stella scooted over to make room.

He gestured for Lizetta to get in, but she sidestepped, saying, "It'll be too cramped with three of us. I'll sit in the passenger's seat."

As she moved to walk around to the front, Remington quickly grabbed her waist. "Liz, don't make a scene."

His voice was low, likely feeling she was embarrassing Stella.

Lizetta stood firm, refusing to budge. Sitting in the middle would make her feel like the villain in a love triangle, something she wanted to avoid at all costs.

Seeing her stubbornness,

Remington softly explained, "We ran into Stella at the auction today The West family's car had some trouble, and we're just giving her a ride home, okay?"

Inside the car, Stella leaned in slightly. "Maybe I should sit in the front."

She started to get out, but Liz wasn't about to let her play the good Samaritan, making it seem like she was the unreasonable one.

They'd all ride together. She wasn't afraid.

Liz turned and ducked into the car,

et

with Remington following. As they drove off, Stella said, "Liz, did I interrupt something between you two? My car got rear-ended leaving the auction, and I happened to run into Remington."