Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Thaddeus felt a wave of relief wash over him as he looked at Lizetta, his eyes sparkling with amusement. The fact that Remington called him 'bro' indicated that during his period of unconsciousness, their bond had grown stronger. With Remington looking out for her, his sister must have had a relatively easy time these past couple of years.

"Thank... you." Thaddeus turned his gaze towards Remington, his words slow and deliberate. His gratitude was sincere. After speaking, he glanced at Lizetta by his side. Remington understood that this thank you was not only for taking care of him during these past two years but also as a brother, thanking him for his kindness towards his sister. However, the harmony and affection he and Lizetta displayed were just for Thaddeus's benefit.

Thinking of what Lizetta had been through these past years, Remington felt a pang of guilt, finding it hard to meet Thaddeus's clear, grateful gaze. He cleared his throat, his lips curving into a small smile as he smoothly changed the subject, his voice soft. "The doctor has given bro a thorough check-up, everything seems fine. I'll arrange for the best rehabilitation team. Don't worry, bro, you'll be back on your feet in no time."

Lizetta, who had just poured a glass of water, looked at Remington upon hearing this. She was still in a daze from Thaddeus's awakening and hadn't thought about arranging for a rehabilitation team. But Remington had already considered it. Lizetta's grip on the glass tightened. She wasn't heartless. Facing Remington, she reminded herself to stay calm, yet his gradual, frog-in-boiling-water approach and gestures of goodwill were hard to ignore.© 2024 Nôv/el/Dram/a.Org.

"Bro, take a sip of water," Lizetta said, bending down. But Remington took the glass from her, "Let me." Lizetta looked at him, and the man signaled, "Just adjust the bed for him." Remington's tone was calm, yet firm. Given that Lizetta and Thaddeus weren't actually related by blood, how could Remington let her care for Thaddeus as intimately as before?

Understanding his point, and with the Gardenias facing tough times, Lizetta wasn't sure how to convey this to Thaddeus. With a heavy heart, she didn't insist further and left Thaddeus in Remington's care. But Thaddeus, drained of energy, fell asleep again shortly after drinking some water.

As Lizetta and Remington stepped out of the hospital room, she told him, "I appreciate your kindness, but we really don't need to bother you with the rehabilitation team." Before she could finish, Remington raised an eyebrow to cut her off. "Eager to kick me out just as your brother wakes up, huh? Talk about biting the hand that feeds you."

Lizetta was at a loss for words. His comment made it sound like arranging medical care was a coveted task. She pressed her lips together, "I just don't want to trouble you." "Whether it's a trouble or not, that's for me to decide. If I'm willing, it's no bother at all."

By now, they had reached the

elevator, which opened to reveal a

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family member carrying a food tray. Remington instinctively pulled Lizetta in front of him, shielding her with his back. Lizetta, catching the familiar woody scent of his cologne, looked up into his deep, endless eyes that seemed to reflect only her, her heart skipping a beat.

"Whatever you say." She let out a soft chuckle, stepping into the elevator ahead of Remington. If he insisted on arranging it, she couldn't stop him. Remington watched her slightly agitated yet irresistible exit, feeling a light feather touch his heart, stirring something deep within.