It wasn't just what Brian said - it was how he said "we" while talking to Ashton.

Nora gave me a "what's going on?" look, but I stayed quiet, holding my breath, waiting to hear Ashton's response.

There he stood in his perfect suit, looking like he owned the place - totally in control, like someone used to calling the shots. Brian, who was supposed to be running the Howell show, suddenly looked more like a yes-man.

"If it's that tough, just make the call ...