The elevator slows to less than its arthritic creep and begins groaning as it settles onto the ground floor. Rose waits while the doors decide whether or not to open this one last time. They manage it in halting lurches. The receptionist has gone home for the day. Rose lets herself out.

Last out tonight. Alma’s words niggle and tickle.

She is standing on the wide doorstep, juggling the fat folder and the slippery clutch, when she hears a familiar voice.

“Gigi! Over here!”

Mel is leaning out the passenger window of a flame-orange Jeep Wrangler Sport. Rose’s heart lifts so strongly, she rises up on her toes. Mel loves her. Mel has forgiven her. Mel has come to say goodbye.

Smiling like a fool, she trots over to the Jeep and climbs into the rear seat.

“What a treat,” she says. “I was afraid you were going to leave before I got to see you again.” She is about to give the driver the address of Royal’s house, where she is to meet with Elizabeth to strategize her coming surrender, when the driver leans around the seat.

“Hello to you, too, Rose,” Stella says.

“Stella! What are you doing here?” Rose’s voice is tart, bordering on rude. The sudden appearance has startled her, as does the orange Jeep. She’s never seen Stella drive one.

“I would have texted,” Mel says, “but Stella took my pack and phone. She shoved them under her seat.”

“There is no possible way to have a civilized conversation when you’re glued to that thing,” Stella says.

“Uncle Daniel told her to pick us up,” Mel continues. “But she won’t tell me why.”

“I did tell you,” Stella says, maneuvering the Jeep into traffic. “I told you I don’t know why. I just got this hysterical text from Dan. Don’t let’s go through this song and dance again.”

“You and Daniel are split up,” Mel insists stubbornly.

“Eleven months and thirteen days,” Stella says.

“I’m surprised you’d do any favors for Uncle Daniel,” Mel says.

“I didn’t do it for him.” Stella meets Rose’s eyes in the rearview mirror. “I did it for you two. Regardless of Dan’s being a prick, I couldn’t leave you stranded, now, could I?”

“We aren’t exactly stranded,” Mel says.

“Jesus!” Stella bangs a palm on the steering wheel. “What is it with you Dennises? Never say ‘thank you.’ Just expect everybody to hop when you say ‘jump’.”

“Uncle Daniel isn’t a jerk,” Mel says.

“I didn’t say he was a jerk,” Stella snaps. “I said he’s a prick. And you’re a twit.”

“Where are you taking us?” Rose doesn’t worry about sounding rude this time.

“To your new house on Applegarth. And don’t ask me why. I’m just the fucking driver.”