The highway that afternoon wasn’t as crowded as usual. Rhea parked her car in front of one of the five-star restaurants in California, handing the keys to the valet who would take care of her luxury vehicle.

As soon as she stepped into the elegant, high-class restaurant, it wasn’t hard for her to spot the person who had arranged to meet her there for lunch. Without hesitation, Rhea approached the table where he was already seated.

“Hi, Ed. Sorry I’m late,” Rhea said as she stood ...