Brendan sank into silence. Deirdre withdrew her fingers into her palm and turned away.

The journey was a silent one as they drove to the old residence. Since Brendan had informed the Brighthall family entourage beforehand, several maids and domestic workers waited for her arrival.

When Deirdre got out of the car, Brendan said, “There has always been just one person in my heart, and that’s you, Dee. I just need more time.”

He did not stop to visit the house. Instead, he drove away.

Deirdre h