"Can't you speak for yourself? Don't you know how to decline when someone tries to strike up a conversation with you?" Brendan's unreasonable blaming made Deirdre laugh in frustration.

"How would you know I didn't decline when you weren't around? Could it be that I am only regarded as declining him by shouting loudly for him to bugger off?" She smirked, anger evident in her voice. "If that's the case, you'd probably blame me for making a scene and embarrassing you, right?"

Brendan frowned. "You berated me so much just for making a comment about you."

Deirdre gnashed her teeth. "If I were to slander you and claim that you refuse to reject other women, would you be pleased?"

Brendan's gaze dimmed, and he turned his head to the side. Deirdre was surprised by Brendan's lack of obsession over the details, realizing the situation. She gave him a strange glance.

"Brendan, are you... jealous?"

Brendan took a cold, sidelong glance at her. "Dream on."

Deirdre realized she may have overtho