In the solitude of the bathroom, Vera succumbed to tears, her heart wracked with pain. Rena, filled with a desire to console her dear friend, hesitated at the threshold, uncertain of how to approach the situation.

Behind the partially open door, Roscoe tenderly embraced Vera, his voice a gentle murmur.

“Please don't cry, my love. Today is my birthday and didn't you promise that we'll all be happy on this special day?"

Rena, with a heavy heart, refrained from entering the room.

Resolutely, she turned on her heels, retrieving her handbag, preparing to depart ahead of schedule.