When they got inside, because people were still arriving, the banquet hadn't started yet. So, the guests were busy checking the place around while those who didn't like doing so, were finding their respective seats.
On Briar's side, she nudged her mother-in-law, drawing her attention back to her and said to her, "Mother, I need to use to restroom. I am going with Bertha," reporting what she was about to do.
When Madam Meyer heard that the doctor would be with Briar, she readily agreed. At least if anything crops up, Briar won't suffer. Bertha was now well versed in such functions and she seemed to be someone with a fiery temper. Briar was too meek when facing strangers. She might suffer a loss if ganged upon.
The last time she cried and nearly died just because Alice confronted her. Who knows what might happen if she were to go by herself?
When Briar got the permission, she smiled at Madam Meyer before walking towards Bertha and giving the other a nod.