Charlene was strangely not irritated at all. She rebutted Deirdre with a cheery smile, “I’ll just take Miss McKinnon’s ornery behavior as good old venting and move on.”

Her mood was blazingly sunny. She took up a seat at the side and took her fill of breakfast, spirited, when there was suddenly a series of commotion outside.

To Charlene's surprise, Madame Brighthall strutted inside with Brendan at her tail.

She rose. “Bren, it’s early! Why are you here?”

Brendan shot her a warning glance.

Madame Brighthall strode inside hurriedly straight toward Deirdre. She picked up the young woman’s hand and examined it, remarking, “God, you’ve got bonier…”

A pang hit Madame Brighthall. “God, that detainment center is just a hotbed for inhumane practices! How could the people working there not try to help? Especially since you’re pregnant!”

A wave of emotions washed over Deirdre. She knew Madame Brighthall’s concern and care for her were genuine. “It’s okay, Madame Brighthall. I didn’t actu