She subtly pulled out her phone, pretending not to notice.

“Do you want to go home or not?"

Xavier's expression grew stern as he voiced his irritation.

Felicity shot a quick look at her brother, trailing behind him with apprehension.

"If you ever lie to me again, I'll cancel your supplementary card."

1 His words rattled Felicity.

“I won't do it to you again, Xavier."

She'd depleted her allowance for the month. Her strategy was to coax Xavier into taking her to the hospital, pretend to be sick, and ask for some cash out of him.

She hadn't anticipated running into Claudia before seeing the doctor.

Her anger made her reveal her lie.

Seeing the two of them leave, Claudia continued to walk forward.

Benico's birthday was on Friday.

Claudia had already freshened up and slipped into a new outfit. Once Bennett returned, they would head to the hotel.

Truthfully, she was very nervous.

Things were different for her now.

ALL along the way, Claudia felt on edge.

Her focus wavered when she got anxious.

Claudia missed most of what Bennett said, lost in thought about whether she'd have to leave alone or with him if Benico didn't want her there.

"Cece, what are you thinking about?" beside her, Bennett questioned with a genuine concern.

Hearing his words, Claudia raised her head and answered, "I was pondering if, should your dad want me gone, I'd leave on my own or drag you with me."

Why did she always speak out her inner thoughts?

Ugh, she wished she could kick that habit!

Claudia's cheeks blushed, and she quickly said to Bennett, didn't really mean it like that. Do you believe me?"

Keeping such thoughts to herself was preferable. Saying it aloud was quite awkward.