Barlow sighed, his heart skipping a beat.

"And how am I supposed to do that? She's besotted with Brian. What power do I hold?"

“Leave that to me," Aldrich offered.

Barlow eyed Aldrich skeptically.

“And how exactly will you make that happen?"

“Trust me, Barlow. She'll be yours willingly. And if she doesn't offer her heart, sleeping with her isn't a bad idea. Sometimes, women need opportunities to realize who's right for them." Aldrich sneered.

Barlow scoffed inwardly, but he didn't let it show.

"So, your advice is to force myself onto her? I want her to choose me willingly.”

Aldrich gave him a piercing look.

"Barlow, she's Brian's cherished one.

Don't you want to seize what he holds dear?"

A malicious smile curved Barlow's lips as he nodded.

“You're right. Taking everything Brian treasures, including his beloved, would indeed be a delightful game."

“Perfect, leave it to me. I'LL handle it," Aldrich promised, a gleam of victorious cunning in his eyes as they retired to a private room.

Barlow lowered his eyes to hide all his emotions.

Elsewhere, Karina, Rosalynn, and Kennedi huddled together.

“Rosalynn, Kennedi, it's quite a coincidence that you two know each other. Small world, right?" Karina mused, pouring wine for everyone, her face glowing with a warm smile.

“Indeed. I'm glad to have met you guys." Kennedi took a gentle sip of her tea.

Rosalynn smiled, her eyes meeting Kennedi‘s.

“Kennedi, since you're new here, are you visiting family?"

Kennedi lowered her head.

“No. Actually, I'm here to Look for someone.”