Barlow smiled, thinking he had made progress, but before he could say more, Rosalynn continued, "You're not a bad man. You're a cunning fox."

He was cunning, with a hidden agenda that no one could see through.

Barlow was left speechless, unable to come up with a response.

Barlow chauffeured Rosalynn to a famous hotel in the city, a venue currently abuzz with festivity.

Harlan and Brylee’s wedding photos graced a massive electronic screen, illuminating the Lively scene of arriving guests.

Stepping out of the car, Rosalynn spotted the parents of the newlyweds greeting guests.

Approaching Harlan's mother, Mamie, she offered her gift.

“Congratulations, Mamie!"

Mamie, with a smile as radiant as the venue, responded, "Seeing you at Harlan's wedding warms my heart. However, I can't accept your gift."

Rosalynn, recognizing the polite refusal as nothing more than a formality, pressed the gift into Mamie's hands.

“Pleasure to meet you. I'm Barlow Tucker, a friend of Rosalynn's.”

Following suit, Barlow introduced himself and handed over his gift.

“Nice to meet you too." Sizing up Barlow's elegant demeanor and high-end attire, Mamie teased, "Are you Rosalynn's boyfriend?"

“No,” Rosalynn quickly retorted, her brows knitting into a frown.

Unfazed, Barlow chimed in, "Well, I'm still chasing after her."

“Oh, I see." The coy exchange elicited a chuckle from Mamie, who then encouraged them to join the party inside.

“Come inside. Harlan's just entertaining some of the guests."

As they crossed the threshold, Rosalynn cautioned Barlow, "Please refrain from making unfounded claims in public."

She had barely prevented him from claiming boyfriend status.

Strolling leisurely behind her, Barlow grinned, “Isn't Harlan your ex? Don't you want me to play the part of your boyfriend, to make him rue the day he let you go? After all, I'm notably more handsome and affluent!"

“I don't need that." Rosalynn curtly dismissed his suggestion.

Barlow, sensing her Lack of amusement, ceased his playful provocation.