Deirdre struggled to grasp the deeper meaning behind Brendan's words, but it eluded her understanding.

"Are you suggesting... that I can't protect her?" Deirdre asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.

"Can you truly protect him? Can you safeguard our child?" Brendan retorted.

Lost in her thoughts, Deirdre realized her powerlessness in the current situation.

Leaning back in his chair, Brendan loosened his tie and took a rare moment of comfort. "Deirdre, once you give birth to the child, you