Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Nelson noticed her hesitancy and obvious panic. "Liz, do you... do you not forgive us? Do you not want to acknowledge us?"

Lizetta was momentarily taken aback, then quickly responded, "It's not Grandpa's fault, it's Hans's mistake. How could I not acknowledge you? I trust you, Grandpa."

Lizetta was in good spirits and easily accepted Nelson, along with the matter of acknowledging her family. Having been adrift since childhood, she had always longed for familial love and connection. Especially now, having left the Dashiell household behind, she was more vulnerable than ever, alone and emotionally fragile. The prior rapport with Mrs. Bernice Madden had laid a foundation for affection, making this acknowledgment a deeply desired joy for Lizetta.Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

Nelson had been extremely anxious, fearing Lizetta wouldn't easily accept them, fearing she would blame them for losing her, and fearing any further emotional distress for her. But everything was going smoother than expected. Truly his granddaughter, kind, forgiving, and understanding!

He beamed, wrinkles crinkling with joy, "Alright, let's go home, Grandpa's taking you home! Your grandma's waiting for us."

Nelson was impatient to leave, grabbing Lizetta to head out.

Hogan, not expecting any complications, hurriedly stepped forward. "Liz, have you forgotten what you promised me?"

Hearing Hogan's voice, Lizetta paused, the uncontrollable feeling seemingly returning.

Jerome stepped forward, blocking Hogan, and said sternly, "Dr. White, no matter what Liz promised you before for whatever reasons, she's now Ms. Madden. She's just been reunited with her family, and it's only fitting she goes home with them. Are you intending to stop her?"

Hogan's expression darkened, unwillingly he again addressed Lizetta, "Liz, are you sure about this?"

Lizetta turned to look at Hogan, his eyes behind the glasses slightly shining. A voice in her head seemed to urge her that leaving with Hogan was the right choice. Yet, she was influenced but not foolish. She was beginning to realize something was off, frowning and resisting the urge to be controlled, she shook her head at Hogan.

"Brother, I need to go home, thank you for coming to pick me up from the hospital. Grandpa, let's go."

Lizetta tightly held Nelson's hand, her complexion slightly pale. Hogan clenched his fists, his expression briefly flitting to irritation.

He wanted to speak again, but Remington, who had been silently standing by since the Maddens arrived, stepped forward and grabbed Hogan's shoulder. With no mercy, he squeezed hard, making Hogan feel as if his shoulder was about to shatter. "Ray! Keep an eye on him."

Losing control, Hogan stumbled

backward, unable to cry out in pain before Remington handed him over to Ray. Ray had been itching to act only holding back because of Lizetta Now that the Maddens taking Lizetta away, he had no reservations. He kneed Hogan hard in the chest, causing him to double over, then grabbed him by the collar and flung him onto the hospital bed.

As Lizetta and Nelson reached the hallway, a familiar and deep voice called from behind, "Grandpa, may I speak with Liz for a moment more?"