With the soup served, the rest of the dishes followed in succession.

There was only the sound of moving tableware and cutlery clinking in the private room. Bennett, the one handling the bill, didn't say anything. His sole focus was on Claudia's preferences and needs, seemingly oblivious to Xavier's presence.

Just after Bennett asked Claudia if she wanted to try the fish, Xavier suddenly brought up the topic of their acquaintance. “I didn't realize you and Claudia knew each other, Mr. Dreskin."

Bennett glanced at him impassively. "I didn't expect you and her to be acquainted, either.”

Xavier chuckled. "How did you two meet? I'm quite curious. After all, I've never seen any women around you before."

Xavier was unaware of Bennett's marital status due to his prolonged time abroad. Although he knew of Bennett, he didn't take an interest in Bennett's private affairs.

They weren't familiar and could easily be considered strangers to one another.

Bennett glanced at Claudia, shrugging his shoulders. He replied casually, "I don't remember. It's been a little long."

Claudia, who was sipping her soup, almost choked on it when she heard Bennett's comment.

She shot him a glance, finding him looking back at her.

In a composed manner, he handed her a napkin, saying, “Be careful and sip it slowly. Don't be in a hurry."

Claudia wished the floor would open up and swallow her whole, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.

Bennett was adept at maintaining composure while weaving through falsehoods.

Intrigued, Xavier commented, "So you two have known each other for a long time?"

Bennett nodded. "You could say that."

Curious, Xavier inquired, “How long has it been?"

Bennett glanced at him and responded in a low voice, “About ten years."

Xavier clicked his tongue, acknowledging the significant duration, and fell into thoughtful silence.

Ten years was indeed a long time.

Hearing Bennett's revelation, Claudia dared not raise her head.

Xavier shifted his attention to Claudia, asking, "Claudia, do you remember? I'm sorry. I'm quite curious.”

Claudia didn't want to embarrass Bennett. But she wasn't good at lying either. She felt anxious as she swallowed the soup and cleared her throat, pretending to think carefully. “Well, I guess I met him on my way to school."

As she spoke, she glanced at Bennett for confirmation and help. “Is that right?"

"Yes, that's right."