“Kyran…” Deirdre murmured. A warm glow seemed to be enveloping her chest. The corner of her lips curled. “You don’t need to say things like that to make me feel better, Kyran. I’ve gotten used to it. People have been making these comments about me for four years. I know what will happen the moment I step outside looking like this.”

“Does it weigh hard on you?”

Deirdre shook her head. She used to feel dejected, but not anymore, or she would not have chosen to stay in Alnwick.

“If it doesn’t,