She snatched her phone from the nightstand. A quick glance at the time, and she turned off the alarm. Rising, she felt the cool floor beneath her bare feet as she headed to freshen up, the promise of a new day lingering in the air.

Bennett had started the day early.

After splashing cool water on her face and rinsing her mouth, Claudia brewed a cup of hot coffee. With warmth cradled in her hands, she ventured towards the swimming pool.

In Linmarsh, the arrival of November brought forth a crisp morning air, painted with autumnal hues of amber and russet, enveloping the yard in a shiver-inducing cold.

Claudia, bundled up in layers of clothing, felt the wind's chilly fingers as she stepped outside, causing a shiver due to the cold.

When she approached the swimming pool, Bennett had already finished.

As he emerged from the pool, she observed the water cascading down his body, and a chill ran down her spine.

“Go take a shower!" Claudia suggested, seeing him approaching.

In response to her words, Bennett stared at her for a moment, then turned around to head for the shower.

The cup of hot coffee in Claudia's hand had endured the wind for a while, gradually turning warm.

With her head lowered, Claudia savored a sip, the warmth of the cup contrasting with the cool breeze. Not long after, Bennett emerged from the rest area.

Approaching her, he remained half a meter away.

Claudia sensed the coldness on his body; reaching out, she touched his hand and remarked, "It's so cold."

Bennett looked at her, responding, "It doesn't matter."

"It's warm," Claudia insisted, handing him the cup.

“No, thanks,"

Bennett declined, glancing at her. “I will be warm soon."

"Okay."

Bennett went upstairs to change, while Claudia poured another cup of coffee and made her way to the dining room for breakfast.

Having risen earlier than usual, Claudia found Marcia's freshly prepared breakfast awaiting her-a plate of savory sausages.

A few days prior, Claudia casually mentioned her fondness for sausages. Today, Marcia surprised her by cooking them.

"Thank you, Marcia." Claudia expressed her gratitude to Marcia.

"Mrs. Dreskin, please give them a try. It's my first attempt at cooking them, so they may not be as delicious."

Expressing trust in Marcia's culinary skills, Claudia replied, “They must taste good."