Madame Brighthall broke out a smile. “Now that’s more like it! You’re one of our family, Dee. I will not have you treat this as something that doesn’t belong to you. Besides, it’s not like I can wear it with me when I finally go to see the Maker, can I? It’s less of a waste when it’s with you!”

As she spoke, a strong fit seized her again. She breathed hard as though she was asphyxiated. Brendan frowned as the maids came to her aid immediately and led her to her room.

Deirdre caressed the bracelet lovingly, but after mulling it over, she took it off. “I still don’t think I can accept this, Brendan. You should hold onto it. Then maybe, one day, you can pass it to someone you love.”

Passing it to someone he loved one day?

But she was already there! Right in front of him!

His eyes darkened. When the last of any ray of joy finally died, he replied flatly, “No. My mom gave it to you, so it’s yours, period. She adoring you has nothing to do with me. She would have given you the bracelet