What nonsense are you talking about?’

Jolie shifted her focus to Zaria, remarking, "Zaria, did you return specifically for Benico's birthday celebration? I've heard you've been busy with your studies overseas. It must've been quite the effort to make it back."

Zaria responded with a bright smile, "For Mr. Dreskin's special day, I just had to be here!"

She then directed her attention to Claudia, commenting, "Mr. Dreskin, remember that story I shared about the person who rescued me? That's Claudia right here. I had hoped for a chance to introduce her to you at some point. Little did I know, Bennett would make her your daughter-in-law."

It was clear that Zaria was advocating for Claudia. While she was addressing Benico and Jolie, she also intended for those with malicious intentions to hear that.

Suddenly, Darnley appeared, questioning, "Miss Santiago, has this lady fooled you? She is very cunning! What if she set up everything, just waiting for the right moment to rescue you so that she could be your savior?"

Jolie's face creased with concern when she heard her son. Softly, she admonished, “Darnley, remember it's your father's birthday. Please, act appropriately."

With a dismissive huff, Darnley shot Bennett a displeased glance.

Benico didn't fault Darnley's words and began to feel slightly happier.

However, Zaria wouldn't let anyone badmouth Claudia. She retorted, “Darnley, you don't know the truth! Cece came to my rescue five years ago. She probably doesn't even remember the incident! In the past five years, she has never acted as manipulative as you claim, trying to be my savior! I only pieced together that she was my savior when I had dinner at the Dreskin family's residence. We hadn't been in touch before then. You're being quite rude. She's your sister -in-law, after all."

Darnley scoffed, "Since when did I accept her as my sister-in-law?"

Jolie's expression grew stern.

“Darnley, another word, and you'll lose access to your bank card!"

After she said that, her eyes naturally drifted towards Bennett.

Even though Benico hadn't fully accepted Claudia, he didn't want a scene today. Noticing the surrounding guests eagerly waiting for drama, he sighed and remarked, "Today's about celebrating my birthday.

Are you intentionally trying to upset me?"

He likely directed that comment to Bennett alone.

Observing Claudia, Darnley held back any further biting comments with a disdainful snort.

Bennett, glancing at Claudia, suggested, “Join Miss Santiago for some food. I'll catch up in a bit."

Today, Claudia chose to be more reserved. Apart from her initial greetings to Benico, she held back further comments.

Upon hearing Bennett's words, Claudia nodded and replied, "Miss Santiago, I'm feeling a bit hungry. Shall we grab something to eat?"

While Zaria seemed eager to stand up for Claudia, she understood her place and chose not to challenge Benico directly.

"Sure, I'm hungry as well."

She believed that since Benico was Bennett's father, it was up to him to solve the situation.