If she offended him too, would she become the family's archenemy?

Yet she felt reluctant to quietly endure the insult from Bennett's brother.

Before she could decide on a response to Darnley's inevitable sarcasm, he said, "Bennett's marriage to you is just a ploy to irritate our dad!"

Embarrassed, Claudia said, “Well... But our marriage is legally documented."

With a scoff, Darnley countered, "In two years, he'll leave you!

Think a marriage registration will hold him back?"

He was right.

“Maybe you're right," said Claudia.

Darnley believed he was offering her genuine advice, yet Claudia's response came off as “mockery” to him. Instantly, irritation clouded his face, and he said, "You are smug. Let's see how long that smugness lasts!"

After a brief pause, Claudia replied, “Actually... I'm not being smug. I genuinely believe you have a point."

He was left dumbfounded.

Had she lost her mind?

Why did Bennett marry a lunatic!

Darnley intended to say something more, but Claudia's unexpected response silenced him.

Finally, he gritted his teeth and said, “If I were in your shoes, I'd cash in while I'm still in favor and then run away! Instead of naively falling for his affection."

Claudia was bracing herself for a scolding, but she didn't anticipate that Darnley would advise her on how to "maximize gains and leave."

She wondered... Was he genuinely caring deep down?

"Just watch out for yourself!"

Once Darnley had his say, he spurred his horse and galloped off.

Watching his retreating figure, Claudia mused to herself about the unique personalities within the four-member Dreskin family.

It was really intriguing!

When she was thinking about it, Bennett rode to her side.

Claudia glanced at Bennett as the horse's hooves echoed and said, "Your brother spoke to me a moment ago."

With a hint of amusement, Bennett asked, "What did he say?"