"Stop joking around. The cast of the musical is trained professionals, and this is their first show. I'm sure they can't change the story as they please, so it can't be strange."The woman nodded, relieved. "You're right. I must be overthinking it.""Yes, you're definitely overthinking it."With that, they finished washing their hands and left without dwelling on the matter.Deirdre couldn't shake off the thoughts about the musical performance as she sat on the toilet. If she had to pinpoint something strange, it would be the supporting actress. The character seemed to undergo a drastic change midway through the musical. Rubbing her face, she stood up and exited the washroom.Brendan was smoking nearby. He extinguished the cigarette and dispersed the smoke upon seeing Deirdre."Let's go," he said.Deirdre followed Brendan, and he drove as they got into the car. With his assistant gone, Deirdre naturally took the passenger seat and fastened her seatbelt. Just as she did, she aske
"What did both of you do?"Deirdre opened her mouth, but Brendan, concerned that she might say something that would cause Emily to misunderstand, took the lead and spoke instead."It's nothing much," Brendan's expression was cold. "We went for a prenatal checkup.""Prenatal checkup?" Emily's expression relaxed.Deirdre sneered to herself, thinking Brendan's made-up excuse was flawless."So, it turns out you accompanied Ms. McKinnon for her prenatal checkup, huh? Ms. McKinnon's health is not doing so well, so she needs a proper checkup indeed."Brendan nodded, his voice turning slightly gentle. "The weather is so cold today. Why did you come?"Emily lowered her head shyly. "I missed you. You haven't had time to meet me alone because you're so busy with work. I'm worried that it has been too long... and you've forgotten about me.""That would be impossible," Brendan said firmly, his expression becoming serious. "I won't forget about you."He spoke with such seriousness that his
"You can be rest assured about this, Ms. McKinnon." Emily said calmly, "I've already made arrangements for a female caregiver who will take care of your diet and daily routines, and she is meticulous in every way. Ryker here will take care of your health and nutrition so that you can stay healthy to give birth to the child."Deirdre clenched her fists tightly. 'A female caregiver who will take care of my diet and daily routine?'"It's fine. I already have Mrs. Wanner—""Oh, right." Emily interrupted Deirdre and said with her head raised in a regretful tone, "Brendan, I've almost forgotten to tell you this. Mrs. Wanner's youngest son has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, and her eldest son is facing bankruptcy of his company. She is so busy and badly battered from dealing with these matters that she won't be returning."Mrs. Wanner packed up her things this afternoon and headed to the hospital to take care of her youngest son. I'm afraid that… she won't be able to care for
Emily's face flashed with a shy, angry look. She turned away and grunted, "Jealous? You've overestimated yourself. How could I possibly be jealous?""Is that so?" Ryker smirked, staring at her. Taking his time, he said, "I sense someone's jealousy toward Deirdre. Could it be that you fear she'll steal my heart, just like she stole Brendan's?""You—"Before Emily could vent her anger, Ryker leaned over and kissed her passionately. His technique was exquisite, leaving Emily unable to resist, only clutching his shirt in arousal and breathing heavily.After satisfying Emily with his actions, Ryker dressed and handed her a tissue to clean up. He reassured her, saying, "Don't worry. How could Deirdre ever compare to you? I'm already head over heels for you, so why would I care about a pregnant woman who doesn't even wear makeup?"Emily had her doubts. "Really? Then why did you suddenly suggest switching caregivers and offer to take care of me instead?"Ryker caressed her hair and expla
"You're putting yourself in a dangerous situation if you choose to keep him in the villa. Don't forget that it was him who took me to your engagement party with Emily!"Brendan narrowed his eyes, his tone filled with contempt as he nonchalantly addressed Deirdre, "So, are you suggesting that you have a close relationship with him, and I should be wary?"Deirdre felt stunned by Brendan's words.He leaned in, his dark eyes fixed on her as if trying to peer into her soul. "It's naïve of you to think that way."Brendan continued, his voice filled with scorn. "Ryker is the president of a publicly-held pharmaceutical company. Why would he be interested in a blind and pregnant woman like you?"Embarrassment washed over Deirdre as Brendan insulted her. She braced herself, ready to endure his words, and mustered the courage to speak up. "Yes, he might not be interested in me, but what about our child?"Deirdre noticed Brendan's irregular breathing, a sign that he still cared about the chi
Brendan, true to his nature of keeping promises, had made Deirdre believe that he would uphold his commitment to not allow Ryker into the villa. Deirdre's belief turned out to be correct. Brendan calmly stated, "After careful consideration last night, I realized that it would be a waste of your colleague's talents to solely care for Deirdre. Someone as brilliant as him should be out there exploring the vast world rather than confined to a small home."I will find a suitable caregiver to take care of Deirdre, so Mr. Wight won't be burdened anymore."Deirdre felt a sense of relief while Emily was taken aback.Emily expressed her surprise and probed, "Brendan, didn't we have a good conversation last night? You promised me that my colleague could take care of Ms. McKinnon. Why are you suddenly changing your mind? Did someone else influence you last night?"Brendan remained stoic, not answering immediately, but Emily quickly grasped the situation. She grew furious.It seemed that Dei
"Indulged in wishful thinking?" Deirdre felt slightly dizzy from the anger. "You're a disgrace!"Brendan turned his head to glance at her in contempt and spoke nonchalantly. "Disgrace? Don't blame me. You seemed to have had a good time last night too, right?"Deirdre gritted her teeth and angrily threw the pillow on the floor. She vowed never to believe Brendan again, not a single word.The incident took her by surprise because she had always believed that Brendan would never break his promises. This was completely out of character for him.She had underestimated Emily's influence on Brendan, and that realization hit her hard.Later that day, Deirdre met the female caregiver arranged by Emily. A young and agile caregiver, Frances Ramos entered the house respectfully and introduced herself.Brendan was pleased with Frances and instructed her to take good care of Deirdre's diet and daily routine. But Deirdre felt uneasy hearing this and abruptly left the room.Brendan closed his d
Despite Deirdre's refusal to believe it, Ryker remained firm in his stance. He insisted that she comply with him, or else he would take it out on Brendan."Alright." Deirdre nodded slowly, realizing she had no better choice at this point. She knew Ryker couldn't hypnotize her.As they headed out, Ryker handed her a jacket, draping it over her shoulders. Deirdre felt uneasy with his action, as it breached the safe distance two strangers would maintain."I'll do it myself," she said, putting on the jacket and walking along the roadside.Ryker casually remarked, "Ms. McKinnon, you don't need to be on guard with me. Your mother and I are partners, and I promised to treat you well. So, we're friends."Deirdre's gaze momentarily became distracted at the mention of her mother. She found Ryker cruel whenever he brought up Ophelia."There's no need for you to mention her to get close to me. My mother and I are no longer on the same path."Ryker seemed incredulous. "Ms. McKinnon, your mot
"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