As Brian sank into the sofa, he relaxed a bit more.
âHow long were you planning to keep your survival a secret?â
Barlow paused to think.
âProbably until Aldrich steps down.
â
Upon hearing his words, Brian realized that Barlow was attempting to shield him and the Hughes family.
Brianâs gaze softened.
âBarlow, I owe you an apology and my deepest thanks.
â
It was a profound relief to know his brother was alive.
Brian decided not to press for details on Barlowâs survival.
Knowing he was alive was enough to alleviate much of his guilt.
âSounds like youâre genuinely happy that Iâm still alive.
Not holding it against me for stealing your wife anymore, huh?â Barlow teased.
Brian shot back with a grin, âCome on, Rose spilled the beans about you working with the police as an informant.
I know that you have always been protecting our family.
â
With a smirk, Barlow shook his head.
âWell, it appeared that Rose didnât honor my last words.
I told her to keep that secret buried, yet she spilled it to you.
â
Brian chuckled.
âWell, youâre still breathing, so your last words didnât count anymore.
â
âHuh, you are quite eloquent,â Barlow replied, shaking his head mockingly.
âYou and Rose could sell ice to polar bears.
â
A chuckle broke free from Brianâs lips as a feeling of warmth enveloped his mind.
He relished the renewed bond with Barlow.
He paused, then asked, âDid you send the anonymous tip about Betsyâs real identity?â
Barlowâs tone remained Light.
âYou bet.
Figured you might need a hand with all the chaos in your life.
Had to do a little digging on Betsy for you.
â
Brianâs grin broadened.
âThanks, Barlow; that means a lot!â
Barlow raised an eyebrow.
âAnd you didnât do some digging yourself?â
âYeah, it just hit me,â Brian admitted.
âI know you are putting on an act.
After all, youâre head over heels for Rosalynn.
Remember when you beat me up out of sheer jealousy? Thereâs no way you would stray just because of a few bumps in your life.
â Barlowâs grin widened mischievously.
Brian sighed, âWell, you always know how to hit where it hurts.
Should I let you punch me now to square things?â
âThatâs the plan.
Once you fix your problems, Iâll be seeking payback,â
Barlow said, laughing.
Brian chuckled.
âAlright, Iâll take it without a fuss.
â
âDonât be so easy; itâs not like you.
â