“I used to own a clinic with a friend, and the clinic was always filled with children. Hence, I believe that I have a way with children.”“Alright then.” Laura smirked. “However, if Aurora doesn’t make you look good, don’t try to get in my way and discipline my daughter next time, Ms. McKinnon.”She spoke in a weak, gentle voice that sounded like a breeze yet was filled with coldness. Deirdre knew that Laura was not fond of her intervening in Laura’s family affairs because she was an outsider. Hence, Laura was not a big fan of hers. However, Laura had invited her to stay at the villa despite not being fond of her. She would need to investigate to find out the reason behind it. She walked upstairs and then headed downstairs holding Aurora in less than ten minutes. Deirdre said smilingly, “Even though Rory likes to throw a tantrum, she cares about you very much, Ms. Smith. I told Rory that you don’t feel like eating when she is around, so she left the room and came with me.”
“Who am I involved with?” Brendan was incredulous. Then, an idea occurred to him and he frowned deeply. “Are you talking about Emily?“Fionn, Deirdre refused to listen to my explanation. Are you going to make blind accusations as well? Emily is my attending physician, and there’s nothing between us.”Fionn’s body turned stiff for a moment when he heard that. He gave him a bitter smile and said, “Mr. Brighthall, if there’s nothing between you and Ms. Collins, why were you hugging each other?”“What are you talking about?” Brendan raised his head abruptly. His eyes were filled with astoundment, and his expression was solemn. “Speak properly. What do you mean we were hugging each other!”Brendan exuded such a powerful presence that he scared Fionn into taking a step back. He swallowed a gulp of saliva with great difficulty and braced himself before he said, “I saw it with my own eyes, Mr. Brighthall. I didn’t make it up.“I came downstairs with Ms. McKinnon and found Ms. Collins lyin
“That’s true. Aurora didn’t speak in the past and used to only stare at people. I thought that she was mentally retarded before she was five years old.”At this point, Laura changed the topic of conversation. “Rory has been very guarded since a young age. How come she actually told you about this?”Deirdre said smilingly, “It’s because I just attended the birthday party you threw a year ago, Ms. Smith. Rory is already six, and I was very curious, which is why I asked. Rory then told me about it.”Laura nodded and assumed a sad demeanor once again. Deirdre asked curiously, “Was Rory born mute, or was it something else?”Laura answered, “She was born mute. That is why I say she’s fortunate that, to everyone’s surprise, she managed to speak again.”Deirdre smiled but was having trouble forcing herself. “How did Cillian feel at the time? I believe that a person like him wouldn’t be fond of having a mute daughter. Isn’t that right?”“You’re right. Cillian was never fond of Aurora an
"Mr. Brighthall!"Brendan's pupils trembled as he listened to Deirdre gradually distancing herself from him. His heart ached so much that it seemed to be tearing apart."No, Deirdre, that's not how it is… I didn't come to see you because I'm afraid that my mental condition may harm you and our child. I wanted to wait until my mental condition became more stable…""What level of stability are you waiting for? Do you think that because I hate you and am completely disappointed in you, you can choose not to care and explain yourself only when you have completely healed? Brendan Brighthall, are you too confident in your own charm or too confident in my tolerance?" Deirdre sneered.Brendan was at a loss for words."What a joke. Only I'm treated as a fool while you can date and sleep with her just because of your mental issue!" Deirdre went on."Deirdre, you can blame me for lying, but you can never question my feelings for you! I really don't know what happened that day…I can't recall
"Since you trust Mr. Brighthall, why did you—"Fionn stopped before he could finish his sentence. He looked at Deirdre with mixed emotions.He knew Deirdre must have her reasons she refused to leave."You can go back now and advise Brendan not to come again," Deirdre said.Fionn wanted to say something more, but eventually, he sighed and left.When Laura returned to the house again, Deirdre had already gone back to her room and didn't come out at all, not even in the evening."Where's Ms. McKinnon?" Declan asked while untying his tie. He had just come back from work."Mr. Brighthall came today, and he probably came to apologize to Ms. McKinnon after he had enough fun. But Ms. McKinnon doesn't believe him, and he made her feel bad. She said she's not hungry and won't eat," Laura replied while helping Declan take off his suit jacket."How can that be?" Declan took out his phone and went to the balcony to call Brendan.After learning the whole story, Brendan dropped his pride for
"Your mother only talks behind people's backs. No wonder she can only work as a waitress in a restaurant." Aurora sneered."What nonsense are you talking about!" The girl was stunned."What does it matter if they're too busy with work to come to pick me up? As long as I like it, they can buy me an amusement park without any problem."Your parents have worked hard their whole lives and can barely make ends meet. Their earnings aren't even enough to afford my expenses for a month. That's why they can come to pick you up."With the energy you have to make fun of others, why don't you go home and do some house chores for your parents? Who knows? They might be happy and give you some pocket money to buy a couple of lollipops to show off?" Aurora sneered.The group of children had mixed expressions on their faces. Just then, the classroom's door was knocked on, and the teacher said, "What are you all doing here? Your parents are waiting for you at the gate. Go quickly."The group of ch
"Really?" Deirdre didn't need to look to know that Aurora's eyes must be sparkling with excitement and anticipation."Of course. But I'll need you to lead the way. You know I can't see well, and I'm unfamiliar with this area. Do you know where the restaurant is located?" Deirdre chuckled."Yes, I know, I know! I'll lead you there!" Aurora replied in a light and cheerful tone.She was eager but also mindful of Deirdre's eyesight, carefully leading her along the way. When they arrived at the restaurant, it was crowded as it was near the school. They had to wait in line for over 20 minutes."Shall we go back first? It's too crowded, and there are no seats." Aurora began to hesitate."Let's just wait a little longer," Deirdre replied. She didn't want to disappoint Aurora. However, with the dense crowd and Deirdre's poor eyesight, it might be dangerous for her. Just then, a running child knocked over someone with a tray of food, and the food flew toward Deirdre."Watch out!"Alon
"Exactly!" Brendan followed suit and said, "Deirdre, take Rory to the seat while I get you the food. I promise I'll leave after you finish your meal.""Aunt…""Deirdre."Deirdre was frustrated with the duo. She didn't even have the chance to refuse and could only agree. "Leave after I finish eating.""Sure." Brendan smirked.Aurora took Deirdre to a table near the window excitedly. While waiting for the waiter to clean up the table, she said, "Aunt, is that really my uncle? Is he the father of my cousin in your womb?"Deirdre noticed Aurora had been used to calling her aunt, but she didn't correct her. She only told Aurora, "He's indeed the child's father. But I have some issues with him and can't forgive him yet. So, if you want me to pick you up from school, please don't stand on his side, okay?""Is it because of other women?" Aurora seemed to be pondering.Deirdre suddenly looked up. She was surprised that a six-year-old child like Aurora could hit the nail on the head.Au
"Where is she?"Brendan stared at him, utterly surprised. Sean's voice trembled a bit, but his eyes held a clear and hopeful gaze.Brendan finally calmed down and looked behind him. "There, that's your mother."This was the first time Sean had spoken. Deirdre felt her mind buzzing. When she snapped back to reality, she extended her hand. "Sean, come here."Sean's eyes held gentle amazement. He was intelligent—perhaps he had sensed it on the way there. Thus, his feelings were a blend of happiness and satisfaction.He felt joy that Deirdre was going to be his mother.Being a kid, he took a few steps but couldn't stop his tears, holding onto Deirdre firmly.Deirdre suppressed her own urge to cry and crouched down, wiping away his tears. "Do you... hate mom for not being there and not recognizing you?"Sean shook his head frantically. "As long as you're here… That's enough…"Deirdre hugged him tightly, and Brendan approached, wrapping them both in his embrace.When they brought S
"I was too young back then, still sulking with my father," Brendan replied after recalling his childhood.Arthur chuckled. "Kids will be kids, after all. Besides, your father was an excellent businessman, and you've followed in his footsteps. I've heard about your impressive success with the business in Neve. You're truly talented. With the Parkers under your control, I can finally relax." Brendan thought it was just praise from an elder. He was about to give a humble response when he got surprised by the rest of the statement. This made him freeze in place."The Parkers?" Deirdre was equally surprised."What's wrong?" Arthur beamed. "Don't you both already have children? Although you've divorced, your relationship is still strong. Don't tell me there's no thought of remarriage?""Remarriage? It's not the right time yet." Deirdre blushed from the teasing."It'll come eventually. If that's the case, then you are both part of the Parkers now. You're my only daughter, and he's my s
Beneath the envelope lay the evidence. Deirdre stared at it for a long time, with Brendan by her side, offering silent support.The next day, they boarded a plane back to Southedge. Within three days, news of the top political figure's downfall due to corruption spread like wildfire throughout Southedge, even captivating the interest of other cities.Upon learning the full story in his study, Arthur's aging face was stained with tears of regret. "If only I had known sooner... I wouldn't have let your mother leave like that."Deirdre lowered her gaze and handed the letter to Arthur. "My mother explains in the letter that her departure was a voluntary sacrifice to protect everyone. She never blamed you."Arthur gazed at the letter, struggling to find the right words.Deirdre left silently, shutting the door.-Ryker was also brought to the police station. Under Sterling's methods, he confessed to the murders. Emily faced the same outcome.All of them waited for their trials.-
The distance from Southedge to Village Alnwick was immense, yet Brendan displayed unwavering resolve."Then let's depart today," he said.As Deirdre bid farewell to Arthur, an unexpected glimmer of sadness flickered in his eyes. "Visiting your mother's grave, huh? Okay, go ahead. Take care of yourself, don't overexert.""Yes," Deirdre replied. Faced with Arthur's hesitant gaze, she felt compelled to add, "Dad, I'll be back."Arthur met Deirdre's gaze, hope rekindling in his eyes.Deirdre softly sighed. "You're my father, my family. Of course, I'll return." "Really? You mean it?" Arthur's excitement made his hands tremble slightly. He held onto Deirdre as if wanting to convey something, but all that emerged was a murmur, "Then please return early... Come back as soon as you can...""Sure. I have a friend coming over later today. Take care of him. Oh, and my boyfriend is here, too. Don't worry about the specifics. I'll explain everything upon my return."As she stepped out, Bren
"Brendan Brighthall?" Ryker wiped away his own nosebleed. "How did you manage to come from Neve? Didn't I ask Emily to keep an eye on you? That useless fool who can't even accomplish simple tasks.""Choosing to control minds with drugs all along, you should have anticipated this outcome." Brendan acted roughly. As he got up, he took the key from Ryker and placed Ryker on a chair.Deirdre clenched Brendan's sleeve tightly. Sensing her tension, Brendan embraced her to calm her down."It's okay. I'm sorry for coming back so late, making you go through this.""It's not your fault. Your timely arrival saved me from further trouble. It's my own foolishness... I let him find something to use against me," Deirdre said, shaking her head weakly.Brendan frowned, cupping Deirdre's face. "He wasn't someone easily deceived, to begin with. You've done well. I'm the one who brought you into this danger, which is unforgivable."Brendan's dark eyes were filled with intense emotions. He had arrive
Deirdre hugged Ryker, resting her head on his chest as he patted her back. "By the way, you're not curious about where I went after I left early this morning?"Deirdre realized the hidden meaning behind Ryker's words, retreated from Ryker's embrace little by little, and looked at him.Ryker's eyes, as enigmatic as ever, held a clarity that seemed to pierce through everything. "I went to the hospital."He didn't wait for Deirdre to respond. "Because I was curious why I was so sleepy last night for no reason. Any ordinary person might chalk it up to exhaustion. But I know my body too well. You drugged me."Deirdre felt a sudden chill running down her spine.Ryker took a step forward casually, but his eyes were full of killing intent. "I underestimated you, Deirdre. Your acting skills are far more impressive than I imagined. You nearly had me fooled. You deserve an Oscar. What a pity that you're now in my hands."Deirdre retreated abruptly, but she found a cold wall barring her esca
Deirdre was momentarily stunned as she watched Arthur search around the study. Eventually, he uncovered a rusty key from a drawer.Arthur raised the key. "Is this what your mother desired?"Deirdre's mind raced, thoughts swirling. "Is this from my mother?"A hint of disappointment shadowed Arthur's eyes as he nodded. "This is the only thing she left me before she departed. She didn't explain why. She just made me promise to keep this key and never search for her."Although I agreed, the thought of it weighed heavily on me. So, I hid the key in a corner of the drawer instead of treating it like any other possession. In hindsight, I shouldn't have made that promise. I shouldn't have let her go alone."Deirdre's voice wavered, confusion evident. But as realization dawned, her heart raced. "Can you give me the key?"Arthur earnestly nodded, his expression solemn. "This belongs to your mother. I'm willing to give it to you whenever you're ready. To be honest, I'm relieved to pass it o
The butler nodded and guided Deirdre to the study's door. Gathering her emotions, she pushed it open.Arthur's attention was on some documents, but the door's creak made him look up. He met Deirdre's gaze, causing a subtle flicker of surprise and uncertainty in his eyes."Deirdre..." He set aside the file. "Did you just wake up? Hungry? I'll have the kitchen prepare something."Deirdre shook her head, closing the door gently."Not hungry. I came to talk.""Everything okay?" Concern colored Arthur's expression. Though he seemed worried she might leave, he tried to hide it. "Go ahead. I'm with you."Deirdre found his reaction slightly amusing. "I'm not leaving."A spark returned to Arthur's eyes. "Then what's up?"As Deirdre grew more serious, she said, "I came to Southedge not just for a visit. I want to know if my mother left something with you before she passed. Something significant.""Left something?" Arthur was puzzled. "She left several things. Which one do you mean?"De
Brendan's eyes held a hint of pity as he spoke hesitantly. "Your mother took that item away."He gently touched Deirdre's face. "That man kidnapped your mother years ago. I don't know what happened during that time. Maybe he hurt your mother and wanted to keep her forcibly. Eventually, your mother found a chance to escape back to your father with the man's item."She left suddenly while pregnant with you, not out of hatred for your father, but to protect you. Now, that person is unsure if your mother or Arthur has the item. Thus, he aimed to kidnap both you and your father, taking his time to retrieve them."Deirdre's mind was overwhelmed, flooded with information that threatened to drown her. This unexpected revelation left her in disbelief.'My mother left my father because of me? And the mastermind behind Ryker is responsible for my mother's kidnapping?'"So that item holds significant importance for this person, enough to bring him down, right?" Deirdre forced herself to calm