Chapter 18

Summary

• The narrator expresses relief upon leaving the courthouse and riding away in Charlotte Preston’s luxury car, feeling free for the moment.
• Upon asking, Molly learns from Mr. Preston and his daughter Charlotte that they plan to take her home.
• Charlotte, who is a lawyer, assures Molly that she will help her pro bono to restore her life to normal without expecting Molly to pay bail unless she runs away.
• There are hints of courtroom dynamics and politics discussed in the car, suggesting that Judge Wight may believe Molly is innocent and is protecting her confidentiality.
• Molly is grateful for the Prestons' support but is confused and anxious about how she could be involved in the legal trouble she faces.
• Upon returning home, her landlord, Mr. Rosso, attempts to evict her, but Charlotte intervenes, threatening legal action against him due to violations in the building.
• Inside her apartment, Molly follows her grandmother's cleaning regimen, preparing for the presence of the Prestons.
• The main focus of the visit is to discuss legal strategy and gather information about the case.
• Molly must talk about the events surrounding the murder she is accused of, including Giselle’s visit and the gun she was asked to hide for her.
• Mentions of possible suspects and discussions about foul play and drug charges are made between the Prestons and Molly.
• There is speculation that Rodney and Giselle might be working together and that Rodney could have set up Molly.
• Molly recounts her involvement with Juan Manuel, a dishwasher with an expired work permit who stays in hotel rooms overnight and might be involved in drug trafficking.
• As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that Molly has been used unwittingly as a drug mule.
• The chapter concludes with a discussion between Charlotte and Mr. Preston that reflects on the dark activities taking place at the Regency Grand hotel and Molly's inability to recognize she had been manipulated.