Karina quietly confirmed, her fingers nervously entwining.

Annalise and Virgil had already encountered Barlow. It wouldn't be a stretch to introduce him as her boyfriend.

"Really? You two have met him before? Karina, what does he do? What's he like?" Denisse pressed.

Karina responded with a smile, “His name is Barlow Tucker. He recently returned from abroad to start his own business. He's just bought a film and television company and is Looking to break into the industry. And he's quite attractive."

“Is that so? You should invite him over sometime. I'd like to meet him," Denisse said, her excitement evident.

Karina's heart fluttered.

“Mom, we've only just begun dating. It's a bit early for parent introductions."

“That's a fair point, ma'am. You need to give Karina more space and time. Virgil and I can help assess Barlow's character," Annalise interjected.

“Yes, that seems sensible. As young people, you might have a clearer perspective on their compatibility." Denisse nodded in agreement.

"Yes." Annalise turned to Karina, her smile gentle.

"Karina, perhaps you'd Like to invite your boyfriend for a meal with us soon?”

Detecting a spark of opportunity in Annalise's enthusiasm, Karina agreed.

"Sure."

Seeing Annalise's enthusiasm, Karina considered exploiting this chance to her advantage.

On the second day, Rosalynn groggily rose from bed, gingerly massaging her aching waist, silently cursing Brian.

Brian had been too rough with her.

As she emerged from the bedroom, her eyes fell upon Brian, who sat serenely on the couch, engrossed in his laptop.

Catching sight of him, she contemplated retreating back to the safety of her own home.

“Why are you leaving again? How dare you?"

Brian's voice carried a calmness that concealed his true emotions, leaving others inexplicably fearful.

Rosalynn glared at him.

"Can't I return to my own place?”