“You're overthinking it. I interfered in your affairs simply because you're Rosalynn's best friend. Assisting you is merely a way of courting favor with Rosalynn. Karina, you would put in a good word for me with Rosalynn, wouldn't you?"

The man's comments were incredibly irritating. The tenderness he had shown moments ago had dissipated entirely.

As Karina gazed at him, she felt a surge of self-deprecation.

She had been naively hoping that he would admit, after much contemplation, that he loved her.

How could she forget that this man was perpetually a jerk?

Anger welled within Karina, her eyes reddening further.

Furious, she kicked Barlow and shoved him aside.

“Barlow, keep your distance. Let's get one thing straight, I won't assist a home-wrecker! Stop daydreaming!"

Having said that, Karina pivoted on her heel and strode away.

Barlow watched her retreating figure, a Lump forming in his throat.

A sharp pain radiated from his foot. Lowering his gaze, he noticed the imprint of her shoe. A wave of helplessness washed over him.

She must be livid!

Their misunderstanding was now more profound than ever.

His phone chimed with an incoming call. He checked the screen, and his expression hardened.

It was Aldrich calling.

Casting one last look in Karina's direction, he answered the call and started walking the opposite way. lello?"

“Barlow, I'm already at the private room. Where are you?"

“I'LL be there shortly.”

Barlow disconnected the call with a frown.

Surprisingly, Brian's opposition had benefited him considerably.

It had convinced Aldrich that he and Brian were arch-rivals.

In the future, Aldrich would trust him more and reveal his true intentions.