Chapter 18: Lies

Steven had already recognized Nicole from afar, even though it was only her back. She was talking to a man who was an acquaintance of his.

"Mr. Scout! Nice to see you again and welcome back here!" Joseph greeted the young man with pleasure.

Steven's face was serious while his eyes were on Joseph's hand pressed against Nicole's back.

Nicole cleared her throat to get their attention. "Do you know each other?"

"Yes, of course! Mr. Scout is one of our VIP guests here." Joseph answered proudly.

"Ahm, well! He's the one I was saying I'd be meeting with." A small smile flashed on her lips and was unable to meet Steven's gaze. She was afraid that it might show through her eyes that what she was doing was a part of her script.

"Oh, I didn't know!" Joseph quickly removed his hand from the girl's back and called a waiter.

Steven formally thanked Joseph and he pulled a chair for Nicole.

"Please, enjoy the meal!" smiling, Joseph turned away and left the two.

"How did you meet Mr. Joseph?"

Nicole