"Brian, it's rare for Selina to visit us. Shouldn't you make time for her?"

“I'm swamped," Brian shot back, slipping from Deanna's hold and settling down at the table.

Acknowledging his indifferent expression, Selina offered a placating smile.

"Deanna, don't stress over your brother's workload. I'm not a stranger here. Your company is more than enough.”

Despite the dissatisfaction flickering across Deanna's face, she cozied up to Selina, whispering, “Don't worry. I'm on your side. I'll make sure my brother comes back to you."

Selina concealed her satisfaction, keeping her face neutral.

“Enough chatter. Let's eat.”

Selina was confident that with Brian's family on her side, he was bound to consider their feelings.

After all, they had been part of each other's lives for over two decades. It seemed unlikely he could easily forget those memories.

That night, Rosalynn found herself lulled to sleep, perhaps influenced by a glimpse of Brian's bathing picture.

She dreamt of their intimate moments, his voice gentle yet persuasive, reaching deep within her heart.

Awakening to the gentle touch of morning light peeking through the curtains, Rosalynn slowly emerged from her slumber.

Her heart fluttered with the Lingering sensations of a vivid dream, the memories and emotions swirling in her mind as she greeted the new day.

Lying in the bed, gazing at the familiar ceiling, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath, willing her pounding heart to calm down.

That man was indeed a piece of work.

She gave her flushed cheeks a playful pat, got up, and readied herself to face the day.

Following a hearty breakfast with Maggie, they set off to the studio.

Around nine, a new assignment popped up on Rosalynn's schedule.

“You're Rosalynn, right? Valeria couldn't stop raving about your designs. I have an apartment that could use a makeover. Think you can help me with it?"

The woman's face was framed by a cascade of curly hair, adding an element of elegance to her overall appearance. Her confident demeanor and refined mannerisms exuded a sense of affluence.

Rosalynn thought she was another referral from Valeria.

"Of course. Could you provide more details about the apartment?”