While it wasn't her first time kissing Bennett, it was the initial occasion when she felt his emotions so intensely and distinctly.

Like a hungry wolf that had been enduring for a long time, he finally had no scruples and wanted to open his mouth to swallow her.

Claudia's body quivered, and she instinctively curled her legs while pulling the thin quilt around herself, almost as if she was seeking an escape.

In the dark room, the increasingly heavy breathing and the faint sobs mixed together, constantly stimulating the senses of the two.

"Cece."

In the pitch-black night, she couldn't see anything, but she sensed the gleam in his eyes. The desire within his gaze was simmering, a blend of restraint and patience. He was cautiously assessing her feelings.

His gaze made Claudia's heart beat fast. Although she was sober, her mind was in a mess.

As his kiss landed on her chest, she quivered. Her fists abruptly relaxed, and she instinctively clasped his shoulders.

She closed her eyes and let him do whatever he wanted.

Just when she believed tonight was the night they would finally go all the way, the man embracing her suddenly stopped.

Surprised, Claudia looked up at him, her eyes filled with questions.

Seeing her puzzled look, Bennett gently placed a hand over her eyes.

He settled beside her, pulling her close. In a soft murmur, he said, “Next time. We don't have a condom."

Resting against him, the steady rhythm of his heart and his words echoing in her ears, Claudia felt a sudden whirlwind of emotions inside her head.

It felt like a sudden explosion.

She believed sleep would elude her that night.

In the darkness, neither Claudia nor Bennett said anything. They simply listened to each other's breathing.

After a while, Claudia felt the dryness of her lips.

She was thirsty and wanted some water.

Considering this, she couldn't resist moving slightly.

Bennett murmured, "Baby, it's tough for me."

Her movements were making it hard for him.

"I just need some water," Claudia whispered, her voice tinged with embarrassment.

She didn't mean it.