"Why are you here?" Brendan asked.

Emily said softly, her voice filled with tenderness, "I came because I miss you. Is there a problem? Bren, don't you want me here?"

"It's not that." Brendan's voice was unusually loving and tender. "I was just surprised. It's late already. How will you get back?"

"Then I won't go back." Emily adjusted his collar. "Bren, can I stay here tonight?"

Brendan hesitated for a moment, then covered his mouth. "I was just joking. I know you're tired from your work, so I won't disturb you."

"I'm sorry." Brendan's eyes showed guilt.

Emily leaned against him. "Don't apologize. It's not just your fault. I should have been more careful and not used the incense without knowing its effects on you."

She sighed. "Let's not dwell on this. Where is Ms. McKinnon?"

A flicker of emotion crossed Brendan's eyes. "She's asleep."

"She goes to bed so early?" Emily was surprised.

"Well, pregnant women tend to do that. Let's go downstairs and talk."

Listening from inside