He lowered his head, and the warmth of his breath blew on Claudia's reddened ears.

Claudia was tipsy. In this state, she was a little bolder than she usually was.

To be exact, she was more enthusiastic.

His gentle gesture made her feel bashful, and she lowered her head, her cheeks flushing with a rosy hue. In a soft voice, she answered, "Okay."

Bennett led her back to the villa.

While changing her shoes, Claudia stumbled a bit. It might have been due to her tipsiness or simply losing her balance. However, Bennett was there to help steady her.

Feeling embarrassed, Claudia quickly swapped her high heels for slippers and hurried over to the countertop to pour herself a glass of water.

Bennett followed Claudia, observing her as she took a sip.

Claudia felt his unwavering gaze on her and handed him the glass after quenching her thirst.

"Here you are."

It was just water. She wasn't drinking anything alcoholic.

Bennett took the glass and finished it in one go.

"It's late. Go take a shower and have a rest."

Hearing his words, Claudia took his left hand and looked at his watch.

"But it's only 9:30 p.m."

"I know."

Claudia bit her lip, seeming hesitant, as she looked at Bennett standing before her.

Bennett gazed at her and waited for her to continue, sensing Claudia had something on her mind. After a moment, she made up her mind and voiced her desire. Tilting her head to the side, she asked, "Can you give me a cuddle?"

When she finished speaking, he couldn't help but think how cute she was, and a smile crept to his lips.

His eyes sparkled as he opened his arms.

"Sure, why not?"

Claudia felt a mix of shyness and happiness. She hopped off the stool, leaping into his waiting embrace, and asked, “Bennett, am I drunk?"

"What do you think?"

"I think maybe a little bit."