Deirdre's lower lip trembled as tears streamed down her face, meeting Josie's hopeful gaze. With great effort, she found her voice. "I'm sorry, Josie... I—"

But Josie's grip on her arm tightened, cutting her off. "Deirdre, I don't want apologies. I want Joseph to be healthy again. I won't force you, but can you please ask Brendan for help? He's the father of your child. Maybe he'll be willing to assist us."

Deirdre's heart ached at Josie's plea. It was a moment of unbearable torment. She couldn't ask Brendan for help, not after what had happened. He had nearly taken her to the police station.

Overwhelmed with sorrow, Deirdre sank to her knees, curling into a ball. "I'm sorry, Josie! It's all my fault. I failed to protect Joe. I never imagined that those who hate me would harm innocent people like him. I'm so sorry!"

Josie stared at her, her gaze empty. She held her crying child, but her mind was blank.

As she stood up, her expression vacant, she murmured, "Joseph... Joseph... He w