“Maggie, go freshen up," Rosalynn instructed.

“Alright. Maggie headed to the bathroom.

After some contemplation, Rosalynn returned to Brian's apartment to fetch an ice pack from the fridge. She also collected some breakfast from the table, intending to return to her place.

Brian emerged from the bathroom and raised an eyebrow.

“Darling, what are you up to?"

"I'm going to have breakfast with Maggie next door," Rosalynn replied.

“Why don't you invite her here?" Brian asked.

“We have some private matters to discuss. You can eat alone," Rosalynn said before heading out.

Brian was left slightly disgruntled and disappointed, quietly blaming Maggie for his solitude.

Once Maggie had splashed her face clean, Rosalynn suggested she cool it with an ice pack.

Maggie flashed a thankful smile and accepted the cold comfort.

“You must be hungry, right? Let's grab a bite first."

Rosalynn found a seat at the table, sliding a milk-filled glass across to Maggie.

“Appreciated.”

As Maggie voiced her gratitude, she tasted the milk, gently pressing the ice pack to her cheek.

The question came softly from Rosalynn, cautious in the asking.

"Was it Sanford's mother who slapped you?"

Maggie, lips tight, let her gaze drop.

“My aunt visited me at the hospital early morning. She blamed her daughter's arrest on me and slapped me. Then, Sanford's mother arrived.

She believed I caused his injury and gave me another slap."

Twice she had been slapped that morning.

A disaster she hadn't earned.