“First, we dine."

“Will you sign post-meal?"

“That hinges on your performance," Barlow replied.

Karina forced a grin and fawned on him.

“Sample this delicacy. It's a Wragos specialty..."

As she attended to him, Barlow reveled in his delight.

At Beauty Apartments

Rosalynn ascended in the elevator. Looking at herself reflected on the wall of the elevator, she thought of Brian's angry face.

Frustration tugged at her heart.

He misunderstood her.

Should she explain to him?

It was unnecessary.

His ties to Eleanor left her indifferent to his judgment.

Rosalynn drew a deep breath and strode toward her apartment.

Upon entering the darkened home, she wondered if Maggie had not returned.

Flipping on the Light, Rosalynn called out, “Maggie, I'm back. Are you here?"

There was no response at all.

Rosalynn searched the guest room, finding it vacant.

Maggie's whereabouts eluded her.

Perplexed, Rosalynn dialed her friend's number.

The phone rang, and Maggie soon picked up.

“Rosalynn, have you arrived home?" Her voice groggy, she had clearly just awoken.