"Alright." Claudia nodded and moved her attention to the chessboard.

Despite not being particularly skilled at chess, Claudia occasionally surprised herself with her ability to make a strategic move. After checking where all the pieces were, she managed to find a move that would benefit Jace.

She pointed at the board. "Dad, move that piece here."

Jace chuckled. "You shouldn't suggest moves during a game."

He spoke in a tone that conveyed indulgence, not chastising her.

Bennett smiled and reassured. “It's alright; there's no harm done."

Hearing what Jace said, Claudia blushed and lowered her head, pretending to drink milk.

After that, she chatted without saying anything about the chess game.

Jace eventually triumphed, and soon after the game, Marcia informed them that lunch was ready.

After the meal, Jace left for his appointment with his friend.

Claudia walked her father to the door. She stood for a moment, her gaze fixed on the disappearing black vehicle, before finally turning to go back in.

Lost in thought, Claudia hadn't noticed Bennett there. The sudden collision jolted her back to reality.

"Ouch!" Claudia instinctively touched her forehead and winced. “It hurts," she said, rubbing her head.

Bennett leaned over, kissing her forehead. "There, it doesn't hurt anymore."

His tone was soothing, akin to calming a child.

Embarrassed, Claudia said, "I'm still tired. I'm going to take a nap.

What about you?"

“Well, I feel the same way."

The playful glint in Bennett's eyes hinted that their definitions of "nap" weren't the same.

Her heart raced as she made her way back to the bedroom. She changed into her pajamas and quickly tucked herself under the quilt.

Bennett, having changed as well, emerged. He furrowed his brow at Claudia, nestled in the bed with the quilt wrapped around her.

Then he thought of something and crawled into bed with a grin.

The comfortable, expensive mattress dipped slightly with Bennett's weight before resettling to its original form.

From her position, Claudia acutely sensed the bed's slight change.