After a while, Saul returned with a wide smile on his face. "Congratulations, Ms. McKinnon. Ms. Collins is kindhearted, and she has agreed to your request at long last."Deirdre's fists clenched so tightly that her knuckles turned white."Alright," she said, her voice strained. "I believe there must be a reason Emily would agree to this.""You're right," Saul replied, his delight evident. He cast a meaningful glance at Deirdre's bulging belly. "However, I'm not sure if you'll be able to accept the reason."Deirdre's heart sank. Judging by Saul's tone, she knew it would be an incredibly difficult choice.Taking a deep breath, she spoke firmly. "How can I know if I can accept it if you don't tell me?"Saul smiled and said, "Alright, Ms. Collins has agreed to your request on one condition: she wants you to abort the child in your womb.""What?" Deirdre exclaimed, shocked by the suggestion.Her hand instinctively went to her belly as she listened to Saul's explanation. "You should
"I'm sorry, baby," Deirdre said softly. "I'm sorry that I don't have the capability to protect you. I hope that you will be reborn into a good family while I... I'll come to see you when I'm done with the revenge."-While on their way to the villa, Emily received a call from Saul. Pleasant surprise and pride filled her eyes."Has Deirdre agreed to it?" she asked."Yes," Saul replied respectfully. "Ms. McKinnon has agreed to terminate the pregnancy but wants the earlier promise to be fulfilled as well."Emily expressed her contempt. "I didn't expect the woman to be so naive. Does she really think everything will be fine with the baby being aborted? It's not an easy feat to terminate a seven-month-old pregnancy. There's a possibility of complications or even death if any errors occur or her body isn't strong enough..."Saul instantly understood. "It would be a waste if something were to happen, Ms. Collins. I will arrange for the best doctor for her.""Good," Emily reminded. "Don
Brendan, with a calm expression, lay in a resting position in the room where incense was burning. As soon as Emily entered, he noticed her presence and expressed his surprise with his dark eyes. "What brought you here?""I heard from a colleague at the company that you took a leave of absence today. I was worried about you, so I came to visit," Emily replied with a gentle expression.Brendan rubbed his forehead. "I'm fine, just haven't been sleeping well lately. But the incense you gave me is quite good. It helps me fall asleep for a while after lighting it."Emily smiled. "Of course. I got it from the research center. It's very effective for insomnia patients. Are you feeling better now?""Hmm," Brendan responded, turning to head toward the closet. He pulled out his suit and continued. "Since you're here today, and it's a rare occasion, I'll take you out for a meal. I know a good place at Waterfront Mall."As he started removing his shirt, Emily hugged him from behind. Sensing th
Brendan's cold expression reflected his inability to recall anything.Emily inquired, "Doctor, what is happening?"The doctor hesitated before responding. "There seems to be functional impairment in the body due to an unknown cause, resulting in temporary impotence."Emily was taken aback. "So you mean..."'Brendan has become completely powerless?'At that moment, she felt intense contempt toward him and hurriedly asked, "Is there a solution?"The doctor shook his head. "That is precisely what I need to discuss with Mr. Brighthall. Did you use or consume anything before or after the accident?"Brendan's gaze significantly dimmed. "I used a certain type of incense.""Incense?" the doctor asked.Emily quickly explained, "It's a special sleep-aid product from another country, unavailable in ours."The doctor furrowed his eyebrows. "So, the product is not FDA approved? Have you looked into its potential side effects?"Emily was at a loss for words.With certainty, the doctor st
Emily bit her lower lip as Brendan's words sank in: "I indeed have a child."Her mind immediately conjured up an image of Deirdre, but she knew Deirdre was in a life-threatening situation on the operating table.Trying to offer reassurance, the doctor remarked, "So you really have a child? That's great. Take your time to recover. There's no rush. Men can still have children at 60, and you're still young."Emily felt a wave of unease upon hearing the doctor's words. As soon as she stepped out, she hurriedly questioned Brendan, "Bren, what did you mean by that? Do you want Deirdre..."Brendan's gaze grew complicated. "Emily, my mother's dying wish was for me to have a child. I can't go against her even in this matter."Emily's heart raced. If Deirdre died during the operation, would Brendan investigate and blame her? After all, he was determined to keep the child."But—"Brendan interjected, his tone serious, "Emily, I know I've mishandled this situation, causing you trouble becau
Deirdre's face felt numb due to the anesthesia, but she was shocked and filled with surprise. She covered her face, suppressing the tears and displaying a gaze filled with hatred."Brendan, who are you to tell me what to do? Weren't you the one who refused to accept this child? So why do you suddenly care so much about the child in my womb?"Brendan's brows furrowed involuntarily. "Because you shouldn't go through this alone. The child belongs to both of us, not just you."Upon hearing this, Deirdre couldn't help but laugh."When I was pregnant, did you take care of me? Did you show any concern? I pleaded with you multiple times, but were you willing to help me? You didn't want this child. Do you think I will obey your wishes now that you regret it? Brendan, get out! I want to sever ties with you!"As she spoke with cruelty, all hope seemed lost. It was clear that these might be part of Emily's plan, but would Brendan listen to her explanation? He simply slapped her without any th
Deirdre was rendered speechless, a mix of amusement and anger filling her. Tears welled up in her eyes as she stared at Brendan, blurting out, "So, am I a heartless woman? Emily wants me to get rid of the child before she saves Joseph's legs. What choice do I have!?"Brendan, you wield power and status. You can look down on others and mock them anytime, anywhere. Have you ever considered their pain? Do you think I willingly want to abort this child? I have no ability to resist! I'm being forced to abort the child to save Joseph!"Her tears streamed down her face, and Brendan stood there, stunned, his brows furrowing as he tried to regain his composure."What are you saying?" he finally managed to ask.Deirdre knew he would react this way. "Believe it or not, it doesn't matter. I am determined to go through with this abortion, and no one can stop me!"Deirdre struggled against his grip. "Let me go!"Brendan snapped back to reality, his eyes filled with sternness. "So, according to
"I want Joe to be safe and sound, and I want you to find the best doctor to operate on his legs and provide physiotherapy until he can live a normal life," Deirdre said, her eyes filled with emotions as she looked at Brendan.Brendan could see her determination, knowing she would push him away if he refused.Sarcastically, he opened his mouth and said, "Should I call you stupid or naive? You could have asked for favorable conditions, living a life of luxury, but instead, you want to give up this rare opportunity to help Joseph?"Deirdre remained calm and replied, "I owe this to Joe."Brendan sneered. "Are you sure? I can agree to your conditions, but once I help Joseph, I won't be able to assist you. After you give birth, you'll have nothing as a blind person—""It's okay," Deirdre interrupted calmly. "I won't even bother asking for your damn money."Brendan's eyes turned cold, but Emily knocked on the rear window before anything else could be said. She had just come out of the c
"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