Corrine hurried toward the kitchen, desperate for an escape.

Keanu noticed Kelli and gave a polite nod. Though he didn't recognize her, his manners were impeccable.

Kelli's sharp eyes followed his retreat into the kitchen, curiosity replacing her anger. "Tilda, who is that man?"

Tilda hesitated. "His name is Keanu Wright. He's.."

"Kelli, he is Corrine's boyfriend!" Sheldon piped up innocently.

Tilda blinked, rendered speechless.

Keanu? Corrine's boyfriend?

This little rascal-what was he thinking?

Kelli's surprise turned to delight. “Really? Tilda, is that man truly Corrine's boyfriend? Is she finally seeing someone?"

Caught in an awkward position, Tilda chuckled weakly. “It's true, Kelli. If Mr. Wright weren't Auntie's boyfriend, why would he be cooking in her kitchen?" Sheldon, in his endearingly naive tone, chimed in to help Tilda out.

Kelli's eyes sparkled. "Oh, so he can cook? Is he the one preparing dinner?"

"Yes." Sheldon nodded enthusiastically.

Kelli clapped her hands in joy. “A man who can cook? What a treasure! Why didn't she tell me about him? Is it because of his family background? She must be worried I wouldn't approve Her tone softened, and a warm smile spread across her face. "I'm not that shallow. As long as he's a good man and healthy, that's all that matters!"

Tilda couldn't hold back her chuckle, amused by Kelli's words.

Her amusement quickly faded as she shot a sharp glare at Sheldon.

This kid had spun a tale so tall it was bound to collapse under its own weight. What was he thinking?

Why on earth did he lie in the first place?

Sheldon, unfazed by her glare, blinked his eyes.

Keanu should try to find himself a girlfriend so he could move on from his lingering feelings for Tilda.

Besides, Corrine didn't have a boyfriend.

They'd make a perfect pair, wouldn't they?

Before Tilda could think up what next to say, Corrine and Keanu emerged from the kitchen, arms laden with steaming dishes.

Kelli, surprisingly upbeat, took her seat at the dining table.

“Mom, you haven't eaten yet, have you? Why don't you join us?"