Shattered Illusions Love Lies and Redemption (Lizetta and Remington) novel Chapter 938

Lizetta and Jerome barely touched their dinner.

Remington, on the other hand, seemed to have an endless appetite, devouring nearly everything on the table. After finishing the last bowl of stew, he placed his spoon down and dabbed his mouth with a napkin, turning to Jerome with a satisfied grin.

"Thank you, Mr. Madden, for the meal. I don’t usually eat this much, but I guess I just couldn’t resist your cooking tonight," Remington said, attempting to sound gracious.

Jerome forced a smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Well, thank you, but I didn’t need the flattery.”

“The rain's picking up, and it’s getting late,” Jerome added, standing up abruptly. “Since you’ve finished, Mr. Dashiell, we won’t keep you any longer.”

Remington chuckled lightly and got up from his seat. “I’d feel better if I could help with the dishes, Mr. Madden. After such a delightful meal, it’s the least I can do.”

Jerome's tone turned icy. “Guests don’t wash dishes in the Madden household, Mr. Dashiell. Isn’t that right, Liz?”

Jerome glanced at Lizetta, who had long since come to see him as family, like an elder brother in the absence of Nelson and Mrs. Bernice Madden, who were away in Zion City.

She nodded immediately, grateful for the excuse to end the awkward dinner. “That’s right. We don’t have such traditions. I’ll take care of it. Let me see you to the door.”

He looked at her with hopeful eyes, wishing she’d ask him to stay a little longer, or better yet, invite him to spend the night.

Remington silently cursed Jerome for being so perceptive. Earlier, he had tried to use a few drinks as an excuse to stay over, but Jerome had seen through his plan, quickly removing the wine with a pointed reminder about drinking and driving.

“Well, then, we won’t see you out,” Lizetta said with a casual wave, completely oblivious to Remington’s longing gaze.

The word “we” struck Remington like a dagger. Jerome had used it several times throughout the evening, and though it grated on him, he’d managed to endure it.

But hearing it from Lizetta, so naturally and without a second thought, felt like an unexpected blow, piercing him deeply and leaving him with a tight, aching heart.