The next moment, Deirdre caught Brendan by surprise when she avoided him. She said sarcastically, "I don't wish to trouble you, Mr. Brighthall. Your work is so busy, and it's already exhausting enough for you to be enjoying Ms. Collins' gentleness, Mr. Brighthall. You don't have to worry about me. I can manage this trivial matter."

Brendan was having difficulty bringing himself to speak. "You've misunderstood, Deirdre."

"Misunderstood what?" Deirdre asked calmly, "Have I misunderstood that you