Brendan's eyes betrayed his inner turmoil as emotions filled his typically serene, black gaze.

"But I still can't be too invested in you now. I want to deal with Deirdre's matter first, then I'll think about it," he said.

Emily nodded hurriedly—she had been working so hard for this day!

"Of course, Mr. Brighthall... No, Bren. I will wait for you until you agree to be with me and marry me."

When Emily addressed him as 'Bren', Brendan suddenly had mixed feelings. He vaguely remembered that the