Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

James cut her off, "After breaking up, is it really okay to stay friends? And why would Esther want to say goodbye over dinner with you? The Waldorfs have nothing to do with her." His words were harsh, yet nobody could argue against them.

Mobius looked down, realizing he had stepped over a line, and chose to remain silent. However, Esther felt bad for him.

"Why not have dinner together? It's just one meal," she suggested.

James could tell Esther was sympathetic. "Fine, but I'm joining too," he said. He wasn't about to let them have time alone, fearing they might rekindle their feelings. His years of waiting would have been wasted.

"Is that okay?" Esther looked at Mobius, seeking his consent, knowing this was James's final compromise.

sharp pang of heartache at the sight of Esther pleading on behalf of another man, regretted his invitation. "Of course. He's your friend, so I don't see why not," he said, emphasizing 'friend'. James caught the jab but let it slide. He took

shoulder. "You need to let go and move

did let go, Pea, but I don't know why I'm still sad," Mobius admitted, his eyes reflecting his

It's part of moving on. Be proud you loved someone as kind as her. She still wants to be friends, even after everything," Pearl

brought Mobius some comfort. "I understand,"

still out here?" Richard's voice broke in,

guessed his brother was probably upset about Pearl comforting him

and James on the couch, with Susan chatting

showing any sign of annoyance. Having mingled

a while, Esther. I thought you'd forgotten about us," Susan said