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 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

Despite being afraid of Deirdre, Emily still carried the fear of Brendan waking up again. The consequences could have been disastrous if Ryker hadn't hypnotized him once more."Thank you, Bren, for trusting me so much." Emily promised. "I assure you that I will treat this child as my own and protect her from any harm."Brendan nodded in agreement. "I believe you."Taking advantage of the moment, Emily suggested, "In that case, it would be better for Ms. McKinnon to live with me. As a woman, I can provide more convenient care, and I know a well-known maternity nurse who can take excellent care of Deirdre."Deirdre's tension spiked as she looked up at Brendan, her eyes filled with urgency.Pretending not to notice, Brendan replied, "Okay."Emily's smile widened. "Ms. McKinnon, my car is parked at the back. You can follow me to the Collins residence. Don't worry. I'll take good care of you."Deirdre felt a sense of danger in Emily's words, her voice sounding like a growl in her ear

Deirdre laughed, dismissing the significance of the room and villa. "It's okay. Emily will own this place now. I stopped caring about it long ago. If I still did, I'd be devastated by now."Mrs. Wanner smiled wryly and commented, "Ms. McKinnon, it's good to see your positive mindset. You're so beautiful. I'm sure you'll have a bright future."Deirdre laughed heartily. As Mrs. Wanner began preparing tonic soup, Deirdre wandered around the house alone. However, her lack of familiarity led her to bump her knee a few times. When the meal was ready, Deirdre went downstairs, but Brendan was nowhere to be found.Mrs. Wanner explained, "Mr. Brighthall always eats in the study. He's too busy with work and can't be without his documents."Deirdre responded with a simple "Mm," not disappointed but a bit unfortunate that she couldn't see him. She planned to have a conversation with Brendan, ask to meet Joseph and Josie in person to confirm their situation, and request that Brendan return the $

"Why are you here?" Brendan asked.Emily said softly, her voice filled with tenderness, "I came because I miss you. Is there a problem? Bren, don't you want me here?""It's not that." Brendan's voice was unusually loving and tender. "I was just surprised. It's late already. How will you get back?""Then I won't go back." Emily adjusted his collar. "Bren, can I stay here tonight?"Brendan hesitated for a moment, then covered his mouth. "I was just joking. I know you're tired from your work, so I won't disturb you.""I'm sorry." Brendan's eyes showed guilt.Emily leaned against him. "Don't apologize. It's not just your fault. I should have been more careful and not used the incense without knowing its effects on you."She sighed. "Let's not dwell on this. Where is Ms. McKinnon?"A flicker of emotion crossed Brendan's eyes. "She's asleep.""She goes to bed so early?" Emily was surprised."Well, pregnant women tend to do that. Let's go downstairs and talk."Listening from inside