Chapter 19

Summary

• The protagonist, Molly, opens the window for fresh air and reminisces about watching birds with her grandmother, highlighting an emotional connection to her past.
• She overhears Charlotte talking on the phone, discussing background checks on Rodney Stiles and Giselle Black, and mentions of the Regency Grand Hotel.
• Mr. Preston emerges from the washroom and they inquire about Juan Manuel's arrival.
• Charlotte and Mr. Preston had earlier decided to reach out to Juan Manuel for help in Molly's "mess," believing he holds critical information.
• Mr. Preston calls Juan Manuel, bypasses his worries, and assures him that help is available, inviting him to meet.
• Molly's anxiety is contrasted with a sense of comfort from the support of Mr. Preston and Charlotte, especially in her late grandmother's now vibrant apartment.
• Molly suggests contacting Rodney for explanations but is strongly discouraged by Charlotte and Mr. Preston, who highlight Rodney's criminal past.
• A knock at the door triggers panic, but Charlotte reassures Molly that as her legal representative, she would be contacted by the police first.
• Juan Manuel arrives, breathless and apologetic, with a takeout bag containing food as a disguise for his visit.
• Despite his nervousness, Juan Manuel is welcomed in, and the group sets up a casual and inviting atmosphere in the living room with food from the hotel.
• Conversation turns to Juan Manuel's difficult situation, and he explains how he was manipulated by Rodney into handling drugs due to his vulnerable immigration status.
• Juan Manuel reveals the abuse he suffered at the hands of Rodney and his associates, corroborating Molly's circumstances.
• Mr. Preston and Charlotte strategize to connect the dots between Rodney's actions and Mr. Black's death, looking for evidence to prove Molly's innocence.
• Juan Manuel presents photographic evidence of a secret relationship between Rodney and Giselle Black, taken discreetly at the hotel.
• The group, including Juan Manuel, agrees to create a meticulous plan to outwit the true perpetrator and seek justice.