"I said water. Why are you bothering yourself with the fruits" Anabel said.

"It's an error to come to my house for the first time and drink only water." Sylvester said. "At least take some fruits." He served it on a small mobile table and pushed it close to her.

Anabel hesitated and took a bite of the apple. "Thank you very much."

"It's nothing." Sylvester replied.

As they continued to chat, Vanessa seamlessly slipped into her role as Sylvester's cousin, sharing stories from their supposed childhood together. She was so convincing that Anabel found herself relaxing, her initial suspicions slowly fading away.

Vanessa's laughter was infectious, and she had...