Rena's patience wore thin under Waylen's intense control, reaching a breaking point when she discovered her phone was bugged.

In a fit of defiance, she discarded the device.

Communications between the couple ceased.

Rena held back these details from even Vera, too embarrassed to disclose.

Vera, a hopeless romantic, would likely misconstrue the ordeal as a grand love gesture, thrilling and passionate.

But for Rena, it felt far different.

Rena loved Waylen, aware of the depth of his affection for her, but she knew love wasn't an excuse for treating her like a prisoner.

Nobody enjoyed feeling watched.

Needing a breather, Rena decided to step out.

As she descended the stairs, her form-fitting, elongated dress drew an extra glance from Waylen.

She paid him no mind, requesting Ross to chauffeur her.

Once downtown, she switched to a taxi, throwing Waylen off her trail.

Her phone vibrated. It was Waylen, again.

She answered this time.

Her tone was soft, yet firm.

"I'm with Vera."

After Waylen's response, she ended the call, only to blacklist his number when he tried again.

Vera, observing, cradled her chin in surprise.

“Even after all these years, his love for you hasn't waned," she noted.

Rena replied, her voice tinged with humor, “Perhaps Waylen's going through a midlife crisis." That might explain his fixation on Harrison and the unconscious need to measure up to younger men.