Brian, casting a glance at Rosalynn's icy demeanor, extended his hand to hers.

Rosalynn, peering out the window, acknowledged the warmth of his grip.

She attempted to withdraw her hand, only to find his hold tighten.

She faced forward, silent and expectant, awaiting his words.

With a soft exhale, Brian murmured, "Does the fake divorce certificate still upset you?"

Her suspicions had been correct. The document Deanna had shown her was a fake.

With her lips taut, Rosalynn suggested, "Perhaps you should seek a legitimate divorce certificate instead."

Despite a flicker of sentiment, her unease remained.

She had a hunch about Brian's motives for the fake certificate.

He had wanted to protect Noemi's feelings.

The mother-son relationship was indeed profound.

Though the certificate was fake, the act itself had embedded a splinter in her heart.

"Please don't speak like that. It was an expedient," Brian implored, his brow creasing.

"You know how fragile my mother was. I resorted to a fake divorce to spare her from a breakdown that might lead to irreversible damage."

Rosalynn's response was icy.

“Really? Then perhaps you should comply more with her wishes and divorce me. After all, secrets come to light eventually. If she discovers the certificate's falsehood, might that not provoke her again?"

Brian's sarcasm did not go unnoticed, and in response, he grasped Rosalynn's chin, urging her to look directly at him.

“You must understand, Rosalynn, despite everything, she's my mother.

She's the reason for my existence. I owe her my filial duty, but this will be the only time," he declared with a brief pause.

“My mom was just in a foul temper. I'm allowing her some space to cool down.