The earthy and woody scent filled her senses, prompting her to ask, "Do you think we've known each other for a long time?"

Bennett smiled in response and didn't answer.

He put his arm around Claudia's waist and drew her closer.

"I forgot to buy a gift for you on the business trip."

Claudia's mind was still preoccupied with her previous question, leaving her in a daze as she responded, "It doesn't matter. You came back early because of my dad's surgery."

"But it does matter." He gazed down at her with a soft and tender expression.

"Let me make it up to you, Claudia."

As his words lingered in the air, he tenderly pressed his lips to hers.

She was stunned when he kissed her.

When Claudia descended the stairs, her cheeks were flushed.

The housemaid, initially heading up to call them for dinner, paused upon seeing Claudia and Bennett. She smiled and said warmly, "Mr. and Mrs. Dreskin, dinner's served."

“Alright,” Claudia responded, glancing at Bennett.

She noticed the man was looking at her. When she turned her head, her gaze met his eyes.

Her face flushed again in an instant.

"It's dinner time," Claudia remarked, averting her gaze with a cough.

“I'm not hungry."

Bennett looked at her and replied calmly, "I already ate earlier.”

Bennett had changed!

A blush tinted Claudia's ears. She headed to the counter, pouring herself a glass of water, taking a big sip.

But as she moved to take another, Bennett stopped her, warning, “If you drink too much now, there'll be no room for soup later."

Embarrassed, Claudia set the glass aside.

Jace's operation was successful. After two days in the hospital, he was mobile and in good spirits.

Having spent over a week in the hospital, Jace couldn't stand it anymore.

Claudia had to seek advice from the attending doctor to inquire about Jace's discharge date from the hospital.