Age, Hans mused, should bring with it patience and a broader perspective.

But Hans also recognized his place. It wasn't his role to intrude in their family affairs.

Bennett held Claudia's hand in his tightly as they walked. Before exiting the banquet hall, she felt compelled to ask, “Is it considered rude for us to just leave this way?"

While she understood Benico's personal reservations about her, basic manners and respect were still necessary.

After all, there was no doubt about his position as Bennett's father.

Pausing upon hearing her, Bennett offered a soft smile.

"You have a point. It's indeed a little impolite.”

With that, he held her hand and redirected their steps towards Benico, who was standing near the stage.

Benico was already upset, but his expression softened slightly when he saw Bennett's return.

To their surprise, Bennett said, "Dad, we have some other matters to attend to. We're leaving now."

"Mr. Dreskin, we'll be on our way now," Claudia said in a hurry.

"If you're that preoccupied, perhaps reconsider attending next time,"

Benico remarked, his displeasure evident.

He gritted his teeth and said that.

Acknowledging Hans and his wife with a nod, Bennett then left with Claudia.

Casting a fleeting glance at Bennett, Claudia involuntarily Looked over her shoulder.

She felt that Benico was even angrier.

Dealing with her father-in-law was proving to be a challenge.

Claudia and Bennett had only been at the event for about 20 minutes.

When the other guests noticed the two leaving at this point, it sparked conversations among them.

But Claudia couldn't hear those discussions.

Throughout the drive, she stayed silent, sensing that Bennett was in a bad mood.

Once the car stopped, she instinctively reached for her seatbelt. But Bennett gently held her hand and said, "We're not there yet."

He drove into a square and stopped, but they hadn't arrived home yet.