“There's no need for you both to travel. I'll be back next week. Let your father know. We can all catch up then," replied Noemi.

“Alright," Brian said, ending the call.

A memory of Barlow flashed in his mind, casting a shadow on his otherwise bright mood.

Walking into the dining room, Brian was met with Rosalynn's query.

"Who was on the phone?"

“Just Mom. She's coming back next week," Brian replied, nonchalant.

His mother was scheduled to return the following week, which meant Rosalynn had to prepare for her first meeting with her mother-in-law.

A wave of nerves washed over Rosalynn.

Seeing her lost in thought, Brian tapped the table with his fingers to break her trance.

“Why so dreamy? Taste my cooking," he urged.

Startled, Rosalynn quickly sliced a piece of steak and took a bite. The meat melted in her mouth.

It was perfectly cooked.

“Good job, darling. You've got some serious culinary skills."

Rosalynn lavished him with praise, genuine.

Brian, busy slicing his steak, flashed her a smile.

"I just wanted to show you that your husband can do anything.”

“And an excellent job at that, my talented husband," Rosalynn responded with a grin.

"So you feel Lucky to have me?" Feeling cheeky, Brian Looked up at her.

"Absolutely!" With a bright smile, Rosalynn readily agreed.

Seeing her radiant smile, Brian felt his concerns ebbing away.

As they continued with their breakfast, Rosalynn's phone began to ring.

A glance at the caller ID had her heart thudding.