“Thank you for the compliment. So, do we have a deal?" Rosalynn blinked, her smile beaming.

Brian wrapped his arms around her waist and stated, "I have but one condition. Don't betray me during this time. And, stay away from Barlow.”

Arching her eyebrows, Rosalynn replied, “I won't betray you. As for staying away from Barlow, can you distance yourself from Eleanor?"

Brian furrowed his brow.

"That's different."

“Why is it different?" Rosalynn studied the man's handsome face and nodded in understanding.

“You're right. The relationship between you and Eleanor is of a different nature. I'm just a casual friend to Barlow. So, you can't dictate my actions, but I can request you to avoid Eleanor."

She had an uncanny knack for argument.

Brian was left speechless.

He stared at her and asserted, “Rosalynn, not everyone is privileged to share a bed with me. So, you can be assured that there won't be another woman in my bed in the future."

Brian's countenance was grave, chiseled features growing more striking with each passing moment.

Rosalynn found herself on the precipice of confession, her heart teetering on the edge.

She yearned to tell him about their shared history, that she was once his wife, that she lost her virginity to him.

But as images of Eleanor and his true identity came flooding back, she held her tongue.

Last night had been a moment of surrender, an impulsive dance in the sheets.

He had declared a commitment, but how deep did his feelings truly run?

Would his fascination wane after a month? Two? Three?

Would he discard her like a worn-out plaything once the novelty wore off?

The thought of another heartbreak was too much to bear.

"I need to freshen up," Rosalynn announced, snapping back to reality.

She gently extricated herself from his grasp and headed to the bathroom.

Watching the sway of her slim waist and the graceful stride of her legs, Brian allowed a smile to touch his lips, trailing behind her leisurely.