Behind The Lies

The Business

After Carlos's conversation with his mother, Susanna turned to Carlos, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "We'll be having company soon," she said, her voice low but full of enthusiasm. She recounted the discussion she'd had with her husband, highlighting that the visitor was tied to a potential business venture they would be sponsoring.

As they made their way to the living room, Susanna couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and nerves. The room was elegantly adorned, a perfect setting for the occasion, and the family gathered there buzzed with the vibrant energy of anticipation.

Just as they settled in, the door opened, revealing the visitors. Bella and Zack entered, followed closely by their family, bringing warmth and friendliness into the space. Susanna smiled, welcoming them with open arms, as the atmosphere shifted to one of kinship and shared aspirations. 

Her sharp gaze fell upon Bella and Zack, who were amongst the visitors. A flicker of recognition sparked within her; she remembered their faces long ago, a distant memory woven into the fabric of her royal duties. However, Bella and Zack didn't seem to recall her in return, their expressions clouded with polite uncertainty.

As the queen approached, Bella and Zack's family stepped forward to greet her, their voices warm with respect and admiration. "Your Majesty," they said in unison, bowing slightly. The queen smiled, her regal presence instantly putting them at ease.

"Please, do take a seat," Susanna invited graciously, gesturing to the elegantly arranged chairs and sofa around a polished table. As they settled in, her royal guards trailed behind her, a silent yet watchful presence, their armored forms standing at attention, ensuring the queen's safety within the bustling space.

At the same time, maids moved gracefully among the guests, offering delicate trays of snacks: pastries layered with cream, fresh fruits artfully arranged, and small savory bites that wafted invitingly through the air. Laughter and chatter filled the hall as the guests indulged, the atmosphere vibrant with joy.

Carlos, a family friend, stepped forward with a welcoming smile. "Bella, Zack, It's wonderful to see you again." he greeted, his voice genuine. Little did they know, while Susanna observed quietly, a subtle connection of past encounters hung in the air, waiting patiently to be rediscovered.

As Mr. and Mrs. Jones approached, their expressions shifted from curiosity to a glimmer of recognition. They exchanged a glance, the unspoken question lingering between them. 

"Excuse us, Your Majesty," Mr. Jones began as he was sitting on the sofa, an amused smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You remind us of someone very familiar."

Mrs. Jones nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "Yes! Now that it is mentioned. There was a woman in our old neighborhood who had the same kind of grace and warmth about her." 

The queen tilted her head slightly, a hint of amusement playing on her lips as she regarded the couple. "Oh? What was she like?" she inquired, genuinely intrigued. Hiding the fact that they were the Jimson family who had lived there before.

"Charming, just like yourself," Mrs. Jones replied, her excitement bubbling over. "Always spreading joy wherever she went."

"I agree, I must have seen her before." Mr. Vernaya added as he and his wife approached the living room, "But who knows! Could just be an old neighbor. I miss that Village." He chuckles.

"I do too miss the Village, Sir." Mr. Jones added, 

"Though let's move on to what we are here for, honey." Mrs. Vernaya suggested as she tapped her husband's shoulders, shifting his attention to the business they were about to discuss.