NICOLE

Esmeralda tells the housekeeper to leave us as soon as she places a tray of tea, coffee, and other treats on the center table in the living room.

We're seated across from each other. Esmeralda is still smiling like she's happy to see me but I know that can't be true. Why would she be happy to see me? That makes no sense at all.

"So," she begins, grabbing a cup of tea and sugaring it before stirring slowly. "What did you want to talk to me about?"

"I think you have an idea."

"I ...