Whitney narrates a Friday night dinner with Blake at a budget Mexican restaurant, noting they rarely eat out due to money problems. She observes Blake’s deteriorated appearance: an intense rash from her mixing fragranced detergent into his hypoallergenic brand, scratch marks from constant itching, and exhaustion from insomnia compounded by the ominous night noises she secretly plays to unsettle him.

Whitney reflects that Blake and Amanda now hate each other, a situation she has fueled by slipping passive-aggressive notes under Amanda’s door and signing Blake’s name to them. She acknowledges Amanda has limited housing options due to a damaged reputation with her prior landlord.

At the table, Blake announces he is considering selling the brownstone because he can no longer afford the mortgage. Whitney reacts with alarm, recognizing that a sale would force Amanda out and derail her scheme. Blake mentions possibly moving to a cheaper place in Queens and notes they have already spent Whitney’s two months’ rent and deposit, implying complications in paying her back.

As their food arrives, Whitney spots Elijah entering the restaurant and getting in line. Blake recognizes him as a prior rental applicant with a distinctive hat. Whitney denies remembering him and hurriedly excuses herself to the bathroom, which is technically out of order, to call Elijah privately.

On the phone, Whitney accuses Elijah of following her; Elijah first denies it, then admits he has been following her because he is worried. He says Blake looks unhinged and raises concern about Whitney’s safety, even referencing the psychic’s stabbing prediction. Whitney dismisses the danger, insisting Blake is not violent and demanding Elijah stop shadowing her because Blake noticed him and could react badly.

Elijah agrees to stop and apologizes. Whitney reflects that while Elijah has been a valuable ally, his knowledge and anxiety now pose a liability to her plans. She decides to set the problem aside for the moment, prioritizing the immediate threat that Blake might sell the house.