In an instant, Brendan stabbed the fruit knife toward his arm without hesitation, feeling a sudden pain that brought him back to his senses. Clenching the knife tightly and gritting his teeth, he stumbled toward the bathroom.

Unable to see the blood but catching its scent, Deirdre refrained from touching Brendan and gritted her teeth, hastily leaving the room.

Downstairs, Frances was still tidying up. Holding her breath, Deirdre urged, "Call the doctor! Tell him to come right away!"

Knowing t