Brendan frowned, his voice filled with irritation. "It's your own responsibility to find your way back, just like how you got here. Are you waiting for me to personally escort you back?""Mr. Brighthall—"Brendan interrupted her sharply, his face exuding a powerful and oppressive aura. "Mrs. Wanner, I spared you from questioning about Deirdre's presence here because of your age. But if you continue to support her, I don't think this job is suitable for you."Mrs. Wanner was rendered speechless, and Deirdre shook her head, disappointed. She took a deep breath, not willing to give up. "Brendan, can you help me one last time? For the sake of the child... if you give me $40,000, I promise to leave immediately and never bother you again!" she pleaded.Brendan turned away, demanding, "Don't make me say it again. Get out of here."Deirdre watched him walk away, her eyes filled with despair. She gnashed her teeth, determined not to shed another tear in front of Brendan.Mrs. Wanner hurri

"Mhmm." Deirdre smiled.Later, Deirdre and Josie found an affordable hotel nearby to stay for the night. They had less than six hours of sleep before waking up the next morning to inquire about Joseph's condition. Unfortunately, his legs couldn't be saved, but he didn't want them amputated. He hoped that they could heal, at least to appear intact.However, this would require a significant amount of time and money. Josie and Deirdre were willing to make this sacrifice.Soon, Josie received a call from Mrs. Wanner's son. They met him in the lobby, where he handed over $30,000 in cash to Deirdre.She expressed her immense gratitude, while the son felt slightly embarrassed and said, "You've helped my mom so much. Consider it a loan. There's no need for thanks. If you ever need more money in the future, you have my phone number. I have an extra $15,000 that I won't need for the next few years."Deirdre held back her tears as she accepted the money.After counting the exact amount with

"Here's what I propose. I'll allow you to think it over for a day. I'll come back tomorrow at this time, and I hope you will give me an answer then."After saying that, he turned and left."No need," Deirdre called out to stop him, a cold smile playing on her lips. "No need. I can give you an answer now. I won't give her the $30,000. Let's go to court and send me to prison if you're willing."The lawyer couldn't believe it. He turned around and saw the determination on Deirdre's face, furrowing his brows instantly."Ms. McKinnon, I hope you don't come to such impulsive conclusions. Do you know what kind of outcome you'll face once the judgment is passed?""I know." Deirdre lowered her gaze. "It's precisely because I know I won't exchange someone else's life for my freedom. Whether it's three years, five years, or ten years, it doesn't matter how long you sentence me. If my child ends up in a welfare institution, so be it. But as long as I can get out, I'll exhaust all means to fin

"Brendan Brighthall, how can you say such things... Are you even human?" Josie exclaimed, holding the child in her arms, who immediately burst into loud wails, sensing the emotional turmoil.Brendan furrowed his brows, finding it somewhat amusing. "Am I even human? What a consistent and boring rhetorical question that comes from all three of you."Deirdre is nothing more than a pastime for me when I'm bored. It's perfectly normal for me to have no feelings for her, isn't it?"On the contrary, she's delusional, thinking I should marry her because she's carrying my child. Everything that has happened is a result of her lack of clarity. If she hadn't indulged in her delusions that I liked her, she would never have ended up in this situation."With those words, Brendan glanced at his wristwatch and briskly walked away.Josie snapped back to her senses and angrily rushed forward, but the assistant intercepted her before she could take more than two steps."Miss, our CEO has made himse

Looking at Deirdre's calm demeanor, the police officer understood deeply that Emily's request was not just a choice but a form of torment. Seizing the opportunity of the sparse crowd, he discreetly handed a prepared sandwich to Deirdre."I may not have much power or influence, and I can't offer much help. This sandwich isn't nutritious, but it will at least fill your stomach for now," he said.Deirdre was taken aback and lowered her gaze in gratitude. "Thank you."The officer waved his hand, let out a sigh, and walked away.Deirdre hastily opened the sandwich and began to eat. Her hunger was overwhelming, causing discomfort throughout her entire body. She almost choked and struggled to catch her breath.The discomfort brought tears to her eyes first. After finishing her meal, she heard a commotion outside."Ms. McKinnon, someone wants to see you," a voice called out.Deirdre looked up, unable to discern the figure, but she heard the police officer say, "You only have ten minutes