However, they had only known each other for six months, and it had only been two months since they confirmed their feelings for each other.

She didn't know about others, but that was a rapid development for her.

Everything happened so quickly, so of course, she would have reservations.

Claudia got to her feet, planning to go somewhere to calm herself down.

She might burst into tears if she did not get away from Bennett, and she did not want that because it would be embarrassing. After all, she was no longer a little girl to cry over something so trivial.

As she stood up, however, her wrist was grabbed.

In the next instant, she was yanked into Bennett's arms.

Bennett's strength was such that Claudia felt a powerful tug pulling her backward.

She attempted to move forward, but her left foot inadvertently tripped her right, causing her to topple helplessly into his embrace.

Struggling to regain her posture, she found herself unable to sit up, his chin firmly pressing down on her shoulder.

Bennett hugged her and asked, "Are you crying?"

"Absolutely not!"

Yet, as Claudia spoke, a drop of tear escaped her eye.

The tear even fell onto the back of Bennett's hand.

She was left speechless.

It was indeed a shame.

She wanted to catch her breath, but it felt more like she was crying.

Claudia fought the itch in her nose, the sting in her teary eyes intensifying. The very spot where the tear had fallen irked her immensely. She reflexively lifted her hand, only to pull back before making contact.

Yet, the moment she lowered her hand, her eyes unexpectedly grew warm.

Bennett's fingertips gently caressed the corner of her eye, wiping the tear's trace, as he reassured, “Don't be upset."

He adjusted her by the waist with both hands, shifting their positions.

Initially, Claudia held back her tears, but his words brought moisture to her eyes. His soothing tone only amplified her emotional turmoil once she settled.

The light illuminated her beautiful eyes, making the teardrops glisten.

She hadn't started crying, but the tears threatened to fall.