Chapter 14: Liam’s Lie Exposed (1)
(Beta- Something elders call children when they refer to them. I used it for the feel. Do tell me if you think I should change it.)
The Next Day
The Mehra family’s modest kitchen had never hosted anyone quite like Vincent Cornelius.
He stood beside Rina’s mother at the narrow counter, his expensive suit jacket draped over a chair, sleeves rolled up with practiced ease. The knife in his hands moved with surgical precision as he julienned carrots into perfect matchsticks, each cut measured and deliberate.
"Arrey, you’re really very skilled," Rina’s mother said, watching in amazement as he segmented an onion without shedding a tear. "Where did you learn to cook like this?"
Vincent’s smile carried a hint of old sadness. "An old neighbor taught me when I was young. She used to say that a man who can’t feed himself properly has no business trying to feed his ambitions." He paused, the knife still for a moment. "I think of her every time I cook this food. She would have liked meeting your family. You both are quiet similar."
The warmth in his voice was genuine—carefully calculated, but genuine nonetheless. Rina’s mother beamed, already charmed by this mysterious benefactor who spoke of humble beginnings despite his obvious wealth.
"She sounds like a wise woman," her father said from where he sat sorting through the new library cataloging supplies Vincent’s investment had made possible. "You must miss her."
"Every day," Vincent replied softly, then brightened. "But good memories should be shared, not hoarded. Speaking of which..." He set down the knife and turned to face them both, expression growing wistful. "I have a young friend who would love to meet you both properly. A student, actually." He paused, his gaze drifting momentarily, as if recalling a fond memory. "I haven’t seen him in too long, and I know he’d be delighted to share a meal here. He’s the one who spoke so highly of your family when I made the investment."
Rina’s parents exchanged glances, their eyes lighting up with sudden understanding. The young man who’d recommended their library—of course!
Her mother leaned toward Rina, whispering urgently under her breath, "Beta, call that Liam boy right now. Let’s give them both a surprise!"
Rina, who had been quietly setting the table, looked up from arranging the plates. She noticed the torn rabbit plushie sitting on the side table—a reminder of the terrifying ordeal she’d barely escaped yesterday day, thanks to this kind stranger who’d saved her from false drug charges. "You want me to invite him? But won’t that ruin the surprise for your friend(She thinks it’s Liam)?" she asked Vincent.