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,