These simple words caused Rosalynnâs fingers to ease slightly.
He probably had overheard the conversation.
What was his next move?
Positioning himself beside Rosalynn, Brian faced the panel, his stature commanding as he leaned in slightly.
âLadies and gentlemen, allow me to address Mr.
Morganâs inquiry on Rosalynnâs behalf.
To begin, my decision to take over S.
W.
Studio was informed by my knowledge of Rosalynnâs true identity as Rose.
More than just Rose, Rosalynn is a key partner at $.
W.
Studio who chooses the humble life of an intern over ostentation.
Is her discretion truly a point of criticism for Mr.
Morgan? Not everyone craves the spotlight,â he stated, his resonant voice edged with coolness, his gaze piercingly fixed on Ballard, who shifted uncomfortably under the scrutiny.
Brianâs presence commanded the room like a sovereign.
He went on, âAdditionally, the allegation of Rosalynnâs âambiguous ties with her boss and the claim that she caused the dismissal of three adept designers are baseless.
Her anonymity allows her to observe her surroundings with clarity.
Shouldnât those who compromise the firmâs interests be dismissed? And as a co-founder, does she not hold that authority?â
Ballard was left floundering, unable to counter such a vehement challenge.
Maggie lifted her gaze to the imposing figure of Brian, her hands coming together in a quiet clap.
This man really exuded a captivating allure as he staunchly defended his wife.
It appeared nothing like the actions of a man who had divorced his wife.
âAnd lastly, the accusation that Rosalynn and I were intimately involved? Yes, thatâs true.
We have slept together!â Brian declared, his admission rippling through the crowd.
His candidness was startling.
This was not the defense of Rosalynnâs reputation they had expected.
Rather, it seemed Brian was deliberately tarnishing it further.
Rosalynn couldnât resist lifting her gaze to him, curious about his intentions.
Ballard scoffed, âSo my suspicions were correct, Rosalynn isâ¦â
âShut up! We slept together because sheâs named on my marriage certificate as my other half! Donât you sleep with your wife? How else did you get your daughter?â Brianâs voice was thick with anger.
Ballardâs expression shifted noticeably at Brianâs biting words, not because of the taunt, but because of what Brian had revealed at the start.
He and Rosalynn⦠were married?
âMr.
Hughes, are you saying that Rosalynn is actually your wife?â someone sought further confirmation.
Brian glanced at Rosalynn, who was seated demurely, and reached to lift her up.
His large, veined hand clasped her slim, delicate one.
âIndeed, weâve been married for two years.
A misunderstanding caused me to overlook that she was my wife.
It wasnât until our recent reunion that I recognized her as such.
But my wife prefers to keep a low profile, choosing not to disclose our relationship publicly, which led to this confusion.
Why would a woman of her integrity feel the need to influence judges with bribes?â