"Indeed! Should this project fall into such hands, rest assured, there will be an outcry!"

Voices clamored around her. The crowd was in turmoil, directing their yells at Rosalynn.

Rosalynn compressed her crimson lips, dismissing Ballard's allegations with ease. Yet, amidst the clamor, a single truth pierced her composure.

Barlow was gone.

Though not by her doing, his death had etched a permanent scar upon her heart.

Her hands involuntarily tightened into fists.

ALL she aspired to was a life of unremarkable design. Why did it have to be fraught with hardship?

Why did their animosity invade the territory of her personal life?

Her integrity and down-to-earth demeanor had always been her guiding light, but what would it take to convince these prejudiced onlookers?

In the midst of the turmoil, the door swung open, welcoming a new presence.

A man dressed in a sharply tailored white shirt and black trousers entered, his appearance striking.

His features were so captivating that they seemed to cool the air itself.

Upon his arrival, his commanding presence hushed the gathered crowd.

It was Brian!

What brought him here?

Like all others, Rosalynn's gaze was riveted on him.

Her pulse quickened as she observed him stride towards her.

Brian approached Rosalynn, taking in her elegant face. A slight pursing of his lips was his only reaction.

"I'm here now. It's going to be okay."

These simple words caused Rosalynn's fingers to ease slightly.