Behind that mask

"Third Brother, why did you lie?"

Slater's steps halted. Even without context, he somehow knew what Benjamin was talking about. Slowly, he looked back at Benjamin, his expression stern.

"I don't know what you're talking about," said Slater, in a frail attempt to dodge this.

Benjamin frowned. "You know what I'm talking about, Third Brother. That time I saw you in Homeland Security. That time, you told me Miss Penny asked you to run her an errand. However, if that's the case, doesn't that mean my cousin and Miss Penny already knew each other before meeting today?"

"She's probably messing with you again."

"I asked her," he returned without a second hesitation. "And I can tell she has no idea. So, I'm curious, Third Brother. Why did you lie?"

"..." Slater briefly held his breath, eyes on Benjamin. His fist balled slightly as he asked quietly, "You told Penny?"