Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Stella was helped to her feet by a maid, still wanting to argue, but Hogan raised his hand to stop her.

"Ms. West, I've recorded everything you just said. Whether you meant well or were trying to provoke, should I play it for Mr. Dashiell and let him decide?"

Stella froze, her gaze shifting to the smartphone in Hogan's hand, her face paling.

Back in the hospital room, Hogan poured Lizetta a glass of water, noticing the slight redness around her eyes.

"You're still in your postpartum recovery. You shouldn't be crying," he gently admonished.

Lizetta took a sip of water, "I know, brother. I'll try to control it."RêAd lat𝙚St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

Hogan didn't press further, instead steering the conversation to lighter topics. He mentioned Dories and the possibility of going abroad, asking Lizetta about her future plans.

"Liz, Master Dories has finished his world tour and returned to teaching. You've kept in touch, haven't you?"

Indeed, Lizetta had been sending her dance videos to Dories' email.

Dories would reply now and then, always encouraging and looking forward to the day she would join him abroad.

Lizetta had planned to continue her studies abroad once the baby was a bit older. But now, with the sudden loss, she found it hard to even contemplate the future.

"Liz, consider studying abroad. A change of scenery could help you move past everything that's happened in Zion City. Your stage is out there waiting. If you decide, I'll help you make arrangements..." He spoke with genuine concern, but Lizetta interrupted him.

"Thank you, brother. I'll think about it."

But her heart wasn't in it. She felt as if her Daisy was still here. Leaving Zion City meant leaving every trace of her baby behind.

Hogan, peeling a lychee, paused, sensing her reluctance.

He looked up, his eyes hidden

the reflection on his glasses

to ask if her hesitance

of that ma

because

But before he could, Lizetta turned to him.

was

"Brother, I'd like to transfer to your hospital. Are there any beds available?"

Lizetta no longer wanted to stay in this hospital, with the Wests and all the memories. She needed a fresh start.

"I'll check for you," Hogan said, handing her the peeled lychee, a soft smile on his face.

Lizetta took the lychee, "Thank you, brother. If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to transfer as soon as possible."

Hogan nodded, stood up, and quickly left with his phone. He returned shortly after.

"Liz, everything's arranged. I'll handle your

Call discharge paperwork. I've

nurse to help you

r will be here any Pacel.net

and

Lizetta nodded, and soon a nurse came in to help her get ready, putting on a hat and a trench coat for her.

Supported by the nurse, Lizetta made her way downstairs where a minivan was waiting right outside the hospital.

The driver got out, took the bags, and said, "Ms. Gardenia? Please, get in."

The nurse helped Lizetta to the car, and the driver opened the door for her. Lizetta, head bowed, climbed into the vehicle.

As the door shut and the driver

returned to his seat, Lizetta leaned back, closing her eyes, taking a deep breath. But then, a familiar scent in the car made her eyes snap open.

As she turned to look at the back seat, a deep, somber voice from behind her filled the space.

"Liz, where are you planning to go now?"