"You always see right through me, Claudia."

Following his work discussion, Bennett headed directly to the airport, skipping meals both there and during the flight.

After a moment of looking at him, Claudia offered, "We've got some soup. Care for a bowl?"

Her gaze drifted to the ward.

Gently holding her hand, Bennett responded, “I'm not in the mood to eat."

Just then, Jace, guided by a nurse, emerged. Catching sight of Bennett, he said, “Bennett? I thought you were out on a business trip?"

“I had to return, with you going into surgery."

Jace was moved. Bennett's swift arrival was clearly to ease Claudia's concerns.

It comforted Jace to know his daughter married such a thoughtful man.

"It's a minor procedure, but I'm grateful you made it back swiftly."

Jace sighed.

"You're welcome. Almost everything has been handled there."

As their conversation flowed, a nurse chimed in, "Mr. Marshall, we have to go to the operating room."

Jace gave a nod, directing his words to Claudia.

"Cece, get Bennett some food. They'll anesthetize me for a while before surgery begins.”

Shifting his attention to the nurse, he said, “Let's proceed to surgery."

Claudia felt a twinge of guilt knowing Bennett skipped lunch, yet her concern for Jace's impending surgery weighed on her heart.

Even though it was a minor procedure, being his child, she couldn't help but worry.

Noticing her internal struggle, Bennett coaxed, “I'm fine, really.

Let's head to the operating room. They typically need family to sign some paperwork before starting."

Glancing at her wristwatch, Claudia countered, “First, let's get you something to eat. When I last checked, there were five others ahead in line."

She gently took his hand, continuing, “There's this restaurant across from the hospital. It's quite decent. How about we grab some noodles?"

Even though she phrased it as a question, Claudia's determined stride signaled her decision. They started moving.

With a smile, Bennett said, "Sure, it's up to you.”