“Gosh, Miss McKinnon! What happened to you? You look terrible. Is it the cold? Aww, this is why I told you to wear one more layer of clothing over your first one! Good thing I prepared this coat for you, huh?” Mrs. Engel nagged in concern as she cupped Deirdre’s hands in her own, warming her.

Deirdre cast her eyes down as a war of conflicting sentiments raged in her head. How was she supposed to believe this kindly older woman was a mole all along? Or that she was one of them?

She could feel her unrestrained, almost sincere care for her. So why was the same kindly older woman working for those people to harm her?

Brendan gently pulled Deirdre into his arms, stunning Mrs. Engel, who let go. “Mr. Brighthall! Why have you changed out of your hospital gown?” she asked.

“I’m ready to be discharged.”

“Discharged? Today?” Mrs. Engel was shocked. “But the doctor told me you’re to stay hospitalized for a week more.”

“I know how well my health has recovered, and I know for sure I don’t n