Brendan led the way, and Emily's eyes darkened when she saw that the pastries she had given him earlier remained untouched.

But soon, she caught up.

“Mr. Brighthall, slow down a bit,” said Emily, who reached out to grab Brendan’s arm. But as soon as she touched him, he forcefully shook her off.

Brendan didn’t mean it to be that forceful. Slightly furrowing his brows, he demanded, “Don’t touch me.”

Emily forced a laugh. “Mr. Brighthall, is it necessary for you to be so guarded? It’s not like