The Maddens were out of Zion City, leaving Maple Cottage in the capable hands of just one owner, Jerome, who was often busy with work and not frequently present. To keep things running smoothly, he had hired a housekeeper.
Wilma took care of the cleaning and also handled the grocery shopping and cooking.
Lizetta suddenly felt a pang of guilt and said, "We could have just ordered takeout or gone out to a restaurant."
Jerome chuckled, "I've already prepared everything. I was thinking of hosting a formal dinner to invite Mr. Dashiell another day, but since Mr. Dashiell is hungry today, as long as you don't mind a simple meal, please join us."
Jerome glanced at Remington as he spoke, making his stance clear.
Remington was the guest here, while he and Lizetta were the family—us.
Remington's eyes were cool, "Mr. Madden, it's an honor to have you cook for us. How could we possibly mind?"
As he spoke, Remington stepped forward, gently pulling Lizetta under his own umbrella. He glanced down and said softly, "Liz, Mr. Madden isn't feeling well, it's better not to let him get wet. You shouldn't share an umbrella with him."
With his arm around Lizetta's shoulder, Remington led the way forward without looking back.
Lizetta nodded in agreement, finding sense in his words.
Jerome stood there, watching their retreating figures in silence.
A tall and composed man, with an aura of cool detachment, yet he bent slightly to accommodate the woman beside him, tilting the umbrella to fully shield her. Meanwhile, his broad shoulder was exposed, the fabric of his suit darkening as it absorbed the rain.
Jerome cast one more glance before following them into Maple Cottage, where Remington was greeted by a table set with homely yet inviting dishes.
The meal was simple, with a bottle of wine thoughtfully included. The villa was quiet, confirming that aside from Jerome, there had been no one else around.

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Shattered Illusions Love Lies and Redemption (Lizetta and Remington)
Does evil really triumph always above the good in this novel ? How comes Stella's evilness has no end? Does the author believes that by giving justice and importance to bad people like Stella will make this novel interesring? I am starting to lose my patience and ask when will the writer finally will realize that the protagonist is Lizetta and not Stella....
Update pls thanks!...
This novel is too sad. When will Lizetta experience real happiness. Why is her life so miserable.. Author pls bring changes in the story....
Removed the 5 Chapters per day if you can't keep up to it....