At the City Mall.
Pulling into the parking lot, they made their way to 'Silver Steakhouse & Bar' on the first floor. The restaurant exuded sophistication, boasting Mahogany wood walls, a central fireplace, and ceiling treatments that evoked the ambiance of an authentic steakhouse.
Seated near a glass window, they had a view of the bustling street below, where pedestrians strolled and vehicles hummed along.
As they placed their orders, they eagerly awaited their meals, savoring the drinks that accompanied their conversation. Suddenly, Jude interjected, "Guys, isn't that Lea over there?" gesturing across the street.
Liam's gaze darted in the direction Jude indicated, his expression souring as he spotted Lea engaged in lively conversation with two men.
"Did she mention she was coming here?" Vickey inquired, noting Liam's reaction.
"No, I didn't ask where or with whom she was going," Liam replied, still fixated on Lea.
"Who is she with? Do you recognize them?" Sharen probed.
"No," Rayan said.
"One of them is William; he's a student at our college. The other man looks familiar, but I can't remember where I saw him," Liam remarked, furrowing his brow.
Observing Lea embrace the familiar man and peck him on the cheek, Liam abruptly rose from his seat. "Since she's here, let me invite her to join us," he announced, striding toward the exit.
"Why didn't he just call her?" Sharen muttered, attempting to stop him, but Liam had already left, paying no heed.
In Liam's absence, Sharen turned to the others with a sigh. "Are we sure he's only seeking answers, or is there something more?" she questioned.
Everyone shook their heads in uncertainty, their attention shifting back to the window where they watched as the man Lea had greeted departed in a car. Lea followed suit, leaving with William in another vehicle.
Minutes later, Liam returned to find no trace of Lea. Frustrated, he was about to call her when Rayan's call came through.
"Hello?" Liam answered.
"I've been trying to reach you. Why aren't you picking up, man?" Rayan's voice carried a hint of annoyance.
"What's wrong?" Liam inquired, his tone indifferent.
Rayan sighed audibly. "She left a while ago with one of the men you identified as William."
"And the other man whom she kissed?" Liam pressed.
"He went in a different direction, in another car," Rayan replied.
"Hmm," Liam murmured.
"Come back now; the food is getting cold," Rayan instructed.
"Alright, I'm on my way," Liam acquiesced before ending the call.
Rejoining the group, Liam remained silent as they finished their meal and headed home.