Rosalynn was at a loss for words.
Jealousy rearing its head again, huh?
âBabe, ponder this.
I didnât want to wreck his scheme because I hoped heâd assist you sorting out the Hughes Group chaos.
I figured he could lend a hand.
â
Sincerity shone in her eyes.
So sheâd went along with Barlow because she had his back?
Brian felt a weight lift off his shoulders.
He understood Barlow didnât have faith in him.
They werenât exactly tight.
âWhen did he spill the beans about who he really was?â
In that instant, Brian decided to put his trust in Barlow.
âOn that night at the club with Barlow.
He had to spill the beans when he saw me heading out.
â
Rosalynn paused, then continued, âAldrich cooked up this scheme and got Jenifer to rope me into the club, all to cozy up to Barlow.
And thatâs when it hit me what Barlow was dealing with.
â
Brian pondered, and a lightbulb flicked on.
âSo, Barlow sticking to you Like glue when he got to Wragos was all part of his plan to hoodwink Aldrich?â he queried.
âExactly.
â
âHe was playing guard dog all night, fearing Aldrich would smell a rat if you split?â
âSpot on.
â
Brian held Rosalynnâs hand, absorbing it all.
âMy family was heavily in debt to him,â Brian said with a sigh.
Rosalynn nodded knowingly.
âBarlow saw you like a big brother.
He took hits to shield you and your family, swallowing the crap silently.
He was a good man.
â
Sheâd hit the nail on the head.
Barlow, his blood, was a real gem.
He had not only swooped in to save Rosalynn but also shielded her when it mattered most.
Brian couldnât ever square that debt.
Gazing at the sunny scene outside, picturing Barlowâs face, Brian felt a pang.
âHow are you holding up, Barlow?â he mused.