Chapter 53

As he watched Naomi head upstairs, Mason couldn't help but admire her deeply. Her generosity and character were qualities he could never match. She was an amazing wife, yet Brendan didn't cherish her. What more could he possibly want? She deserved the "Best Wife of the Nation" award.

After Naomi left, Mason looked at Brendan, his gaze meeting Chloe's. Seeing Chloe's speechless state, Mason said, "I'll help you take Brendan back to his bedroom."

"Alright," Chloe replied, snapping out of her thoughts.

In the guest room at the end of the hall, Naomi found it difficult to sleep. If her life continued like this, it would be meaningless. She couldn't spend her life watching Brendan fall madly in love with other women. She had done her best to become a mother, but if fate didn't allow it, she would accept that.

This was the first time in their many years together that she had seen him so drunk. He wouldn't have been in this state if he didn't love Chloe so much and couldn't let her go. His deep affection left Naomi feeling powerless.

Meanwhile, in the master bedroom, Chloe watched over Brendan. The air was filled with his scent; every item seemed to emanate his presence. Chloe felt like she was dreaming. If not for tonight's unexpected events, she might never have visited Yellowind Bay or witnessed this side of Brendan.

"Brendan," she whispered, gently touching his forehead. Her voice was soft and content. Mason had told Naomi that Brendan's drunkenness was because of her. Chloe held Brendan's hand tightly, her gaze exceptionally bright.

The next day, Brendan woke with a splitting headache and intense thirst. His body ached, and he vaguely remembered Mason helping him into the car. He also dreamt of Naomi.

"Brendan, you're awake!" Chloe hurried to his side. "Does your head hurt badly?"

Chloe's voice was sweet, but a hint of impatience flickered across Brendan's face. He realized he was in his bedroom and that Chloe was holding his hand. He quickly pulled away, asking, "How did you get in here?"

Chloe, embarrassed by his reaction, rubbed her hands on her pants. "You got drunk last night. Naomi called me to take care of you."

Brendan's lips paled. What was Naomi thinking?

Noticing his poor complexion, Chloe asked with concern, "Brendan, are you feeling unwell?"

"I'll have James send you back," Brendan said, his deep, chilling voice leaving her breathless. She had stayed up all night caring for him, and now he wanted her sent away. How could she face Naomi? Where was her dignity?

Chloe swallowed hard and forced a smile. "I'll leave after you've had breakfast."

Ignoring her, Brendan got out of bed, picked up his phone, and called the driver.

Chloe clenched her fists. After all these years, what more did she have to do to get closer to him, to make him care? She had considered asking him several times but never dared. So, she left Yellowind Bay as he wished.

As soon as Chloe left, Brendan went to the guest room at the end of the hall.