All Chapters of Gone Like It Was Never Here: Chapter 21 - Chapter 26

Within the walls of the Connolly residence, Victor and Erica sat on the couch. Their expressions were taut with simmering anger. Nearby, Zeke was kneeling motionless on the floor.None of them had the slightest inkling that Lily's baby was gone until Herman's call came."Zeke, you've made a grave mistake this time. I warned you long ago to sever your ties with Sophie, but you ignored my words. Instead, you took advantage of Lily's blindness by committing misdeeds right under her nose."And now, see the cost. You've lost the baby, and your wife is gone. My granddaughter was already eight months along, almost ready to enter this world…"Erica's voice faltered, and tears cascaded down her face.Victor's gaze burned with a harsh blend of anger and disappointment as he said, "Lily lost her sight for five years because she saved you. You've failed her, Zeke!"Tomorrow, I'm bringing you to her doorstep to ask for her forgiveness. We must bring Lily back, no matter what!""Mom, Dad, Lil

Sophie raised an eyebrow and crossed over to sit in the row reserved for Walker Group.Lily observed her, noting both the air of certainty and the seat she had claimed. Her brows drew together. Was Sophie actually "Cece", the one who had stolen her designs?She'd lost the sketchbook on the day she argued with Zeke. If anyone had picked it up, it should've been him. Could he have handed it to Sophie?The idea felt impossible. Why would he do such a thing? Unless he still had feelings for her.Lily's mind was in turmoil. The moment she saw Zeke take his seat at the judges' table, her face went cold.The host called, "Ladies and gentlemen, our fashion design competition will begin shortly. All participating designers, please go backstage to check your entries."Backstage, Lily's coworkers had already dressed a mannequin in her piece and were making final inspections."Lily, your design is gorgeous. You're definitely going to win a prize.""Yeah, even I want to wear it!""Thanks,"

Lily explained, "Each petal was so carefully blended with the garment that they became one. You wouldn't have noticed it! Now, it's plain for all to see who plagiarized whose work."I've called the police. They're on their way. You said it yourself, Sophie. Plagiarism isn't a small offense. You could end up behind bars!"As soon as she finished speaking, Sophie collapsed to the floor in defeat.When the police arrived, panic swept over Sophie. She gripped Zeke's hand while pleading, "Zeke, please don't let this happen. Save me!"Zeke was utterly disappointed in her. "Save you? How? Sophie, I gave you a chance to change, but you wasted it, and even tried to ruin Lily's career. You're simply dreadful!""Zeke, I didn't mean any of it. I just wanted you to see me in a new light, but I lost my grip. Please, trust me. I didn't do it on purpose!"From the edge of the crowd, Rhonda's voice suddenly rang out. "Ms. Lily!"Lily looked up. "Rhonda? What brings you here?""I came with some