Baylor knew from experience that such calls usually meant trouble.

The thought made Baylor uneasy, and he quickly said, "I might be overreacting. Let's just wait for Mr. Dreskin's orders right here."

He preferred to stay back and face a delayed end to his day rather than risk his job.

Jackson acknowledged this with a nod and maintained his post by the door.

Claudia, after drinking some water, glanced at her watch. “Got much left to do? If you are not busy, can you get off work now?"

They had agreed to have dinner together tonight.

"I need to discuss something with one of the directors about a project."

Claudia's eyes darted to the door at his words.

A wave of relief washed over her when she confirmed it was securely closed.

Fortunately, the door was closed.

"Then shall I go out first?"

"No, stay with me for a bit."

He gestured to the sofa as he smoothed her hair.

Feeling awkward, Claudia hesitated. "I don't want to get in the way of your work.”

After a moment's thought, she said, “I'll go wait in the lounge.”

Bennett's brow creased slightly. "Alright."

She handed him the empty cup, grabbed her purse, and said, “Okay, I'll leave you to it. Go on with your work."

The workday was nearly over.

She didn't want to hold up Bennett's schedule, so she darted into the lounge with her purse in tow.

Leaning against the desk, Bennett watched her go with a smile on his lips. He then reached for the phone.

Instead of Jackson, it was his assistant on the line. "Mr. Dreskin?" he asked cautiously.

"Have Jackson escort them in."

Then Bennett hung up the phone.

He turned around, settled into his chair behind the desk, his demeanor reverting to the stern air he had carried earlier.