Sanford's response came almost reflexively. Then, a pause, as a thought seemed to strike him.

"Could it have been my mother?"

Rosalynn remained silent, her suspicions mere conjecture.

From the other end of the line, Sanford's labored breathing was audible. Eventually, he said, “I understand. I gotta go."

Rosalynn exhaled deeply, her gaze lost on the phone's screen.

Why did such overbearing mothers-in-law exist, twisting the lives of others to satisfy their own domineering urges?

Beside her, Brian noticed her troubled expression, his Lips tightening slightly.

“Rosalynn, do you believe that Maggie was driven away by Sanford's mother's intimidation?"

Casting him a glance, Rosalynn set her phone down and rose, heading to the bathroom to freshen up.

"I can't be certain, but it's a strong possibility. After all, aren't the matriarchs of affluent families notoriously self-important?" she said, her voice tinged with sarcasm, ensnaring Brian in her criticism.

As she strode by him, her expression icy, he inquired, “Are we dining in the hotel restaurant, or would you prefer room service?"

Without a word, Rosalynn continued to the bathroom.

Brian followed, catching her in an embrace.

"I'm talking to you! Don't abuse me."

Rosalynn's face wore a look of bewilderment.

“How did I abuse you?"

"Silent treatment is also a kind of emotional abuse."

Struck mute, Rosalynn found herself at a loss for words.

She simply hadn't settled on an appropriate response to his inquiry.

“Brian, your pestering is too much. Allow me to brush my teeth first, will you?"