She had feared that he might turn up earlier, so she had promptly risen, freshened up and changed into her outfit for the day.

For over two decades, Claudia had called this place home, and the idea of leaving it behind saddened her. The distant roar of a car engine outside her estate brought her back to reality.

Swiftly wheeling herself to the balcony, she looked down at the entrance.

It was indeed Bennett!

As if on cue, her secondary alarm rang out.

It was eight o'clock.

As always, Bennett was right on time.

Jace, accustomed to early mornings, had just returned from his run as Bennett pulled up.

The butler's news of Bennett's early arrival took Jace, who was engrossed in the morning newspaper, by surprise. “Why's he here at this hour?"

The butler further informed, "Chana has escorted him upstairs."

Jace quickly put the paper aside and ordered, “Go and make a pot of tea!"

In that moment, Claudia went downstairs. "Dad."

Jace was surprised yet again. "What brings you up so early?"

"I'm moving to Bennett's place today."

Their conversation was interrupted by Bennett's arrival upstairs. "Mr. Marshall.”

After acknowledging Jace with a nod, Bennett turned to Claudia and greeted, "Morning, Cece."

Claudia, sipping her water, was reminded of her dream from the previous night as she spotted Bennett.

His black shirt, its soft fabric lending an air of casualness, was partly tucked into his trousers, showcasing his tall and lean figure. In Claudia's eyes, Bennett easily outshone the best of male models. Their eyes met, and a blush crept up Claudia's ears.

She turned away and muttered a quiet, “Good morning.”

“Have you had breakfast?" Jace inquired.

Bennett's gaze shifted from Claudia to Jace. “No, not yet. Claudia wanted me here early."

Claudia was taken aback by his lie. When did she ever request him to come early?