With mixed feelings, she nodded to Howard with a smile as a greeting.

Howard behaved gracefully and shook hands with her, saying, “Hi, Miss Hudson. I’m Howard, Rebecca’s boyfriend. I heard that you are her best friend. Nice to meet you.”

Estelle nodded and said, “Nice to meet you, too. Take a seat, please. Excuse me, Howard. May I have a word with Rebecca first?”

“Sure,” Howard nodded and said without hesitation.

Estelle then quickly pulled Rebecca to the bathroom and closed ...