Shattered Illusions: Love, Lies, and Redemption

Conrad's demeanor was gentle, his eyes filled with hope and affection.

Yet, how could a father, who truly cared for his daughter and longed to connect with the child he had been separated from for so many years, insist on keeping the daughter of his nemesis-someone responsible for switching his child and even causing her difficult childbirth-close by, lavishing her with affection?

Lizetta found the situation utterly absurd, feeling not the slightest stir of emotion.

She raised an eyebrow and turned to Andrea. "Bullying at school? If she didn't misstep, she's twenty-three, not thirteen, right?"

Andrea's tears fell immediately, her face turning pale as her lips trembled.

"Liz, don't you believe me? Fine, I'll show you the proof."

With that, Andrea forcefully rolled up her sleeves.

Lizetta saw several scars crisscrossing Andrea's fair arms, with a few cigarette burns still glaringly obvious.All text © NôvelD(r)a'ma.Org.

Andrea's emotions surged suddenly. "Isn't this enough for you? Well, there's more!"

As Andrea began to tear at the collar of her shirt, Eartha was instantly filled with distress, hastily embracing Andrea and restraining her hands. "That's enough, Andrea, it's okay now, you're home..."

Conrad's eyes were also full of concern and worry as he tried to soothe her. "Andrea, don't be afraid. With mom and dad around, no one can bully you, I..."

He stopped, suddenly realizing the impropriety in his words, and turned awkwardly towards Lizetta, only to meet her mocking, scornful gaze.

He stiffened, feeling as though he had been slapped in the face.

"Liz, Dad was just... in a moment of panic..."

Lizetta interrupted him, standing up from the couch.

"I get it, I understand. After all, she's the daughter you raised with your own hands. If it's so hard to let go, then just the three of you live well. I won't intrude."

She picked up her purse and was about to leave, bypassing the couch when Eartha blocked her way, anxiety written all over her face.

"Liz, please don't be mad. Mrs.

Madden will apologize, okay? If you don't want Andrea working at Madden Media, Mrs. Madden can arrange for her to go to another company..."

Lizetta let out a light laugh. "And where could Mrs. Madden possibly arrange for her to go? It's just moving to another branch of the Madden family's businesses." Eartha attempted to explain further, but Conrad stopped her, frowning at Lizetta.

"Liz, Dad knows you're upset, but we have to be reasonable. Andrea hasn't done anything wrong; it's the Gardenia family that committed the crimes.

They've received their due

punishment. Dad's heard how you

treat the Gardenia family's son almost like a real brother. Dad believes you and Andrea can also slowly come to understand each other, just like sisters..."

Lizetta was almost amused by Conrad's twisted logic.

Seeing the couple protect Andrea like this, she didn't even have the energy to argue. She nodded at Conrad, saying,

"Right, if I can't treat her like a sister, then I'm the unreasonable one. Well, I really don't want to be 'reasonable' then. See who wants to be reasonable and recognize them as your daughter."

With that, Lizetta didn't give them another chance to speak, quickly leaving the office.

She feared if she stayed any longer, she might actually lash out at them.

Lizetta told herself not to let these unworthy people affect her mood, yet her spirits failed to lift.

As she left the office, her phone rang. Answering the call, her voice was slightly strained.

"What's up?"

There was a moment of silence on the other end before someone spoke, their voice tinged with concern and anxiety. "Did something happen?"