Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

"Tim? What brings you here?"

Lizetta was taken aback to see Tim standing at her hospital bedside, her eyes wide with surprise.

Navigating the curious gazes of the room's other occupants, Tim offered Lizetta a warm, reassuring smile. "I heard you were admitted, so I thought I'd drop by to see how you're doing. Everything okay?"

His concern was palpable as he made his way to the side of her bed. Of all the friends from their circle, Tim had always been the kindest to Lizetta, offering his help on multiple occasions. Feeling a sense of gratitude towards Tim, Lizetta realized he must have been visiting someone else, likely sent by Remington, but she didn't let her annoyance show.

"Thanks for coming, Tim. Please, have a seat."

"Liz, who's this?" Nelson eyed Tim curiously.

After brief introductions and polite chitchat, Tim pulled up a chair and settled down beside Hogan, who was already seated.

Hogan handed Lizetta his phone, resuming their earlier conversation. "Liz, this is the house I was telling you about. Take a look, and if you like it, we can lock it down now. I'll handle the arrangements with my friend for you."

No sooner had Lizetta returned to her room with Mrs. Bernice Madden, Hogan arrived. Concerned about her future plans, Hogan suggested that once Lizetta was well, she should continue with her earlier plans to study abroad as soon as possible. He mentioned a female friend who was also heading to Astoria to study finance at the same university. She had found a lovely villa near campus and was looking for roommates.Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

"It sounds perfect for you," he told Lizetta.

As Lizetta scrolled through the pictures of the villa on Hogan's phone, she was impressed. "The house looks beautiful..."

The villa, with its neat, cozy arrangement and a small garden, seemed ideal.

Hogan nodded, about to delve into more details when Tim interjected. "Liz, thinking of studying abroad? It might be better not to room with strangers, though. Living habits, personalities... you never know. It could lead to unnecessary friction."

Nelson chimed in, "Liz, your friend's right. Plus, you're still recovering. No need to rush the study abroad plans. Have you thought about visiting Tranquil Meadows? Grandpa says it's the perfect spot for rest and recuperation."

Mrs. Bernice Madden, overhearing this, eagerly grabbed Lizetta's hand. "Back to Tranquil Meadows! Let's go back to Tranquil Meadows!"

Jerome, offering Lizetta a fig soaked

in warm water, added softly, "The dance troupe's been asking about you. The last show was a hit, and we're planning a new one that aims to surpass the previous. It's a big challenge. Interested in joining us?"

Lizetta, taking the fig, smiled thoughtfully, not dismissing the idea of returning to the dance troupe. She had enjoyed her time with the troupe, despite it being short-lived, and fett a sense of guilt for leaving so abruptly, especially after Jerome had offered her an opportunity. Feeling a bit remorseful and eager to make amends, Lizetta was considering it.

Seeing Lizetta wavering, Hogan clenched his fist, his frustration barely concealed.