In Claudia's presence, the two men exchanged pleasantries. However, once she exited, the smile on Xavier's face vanished entirely. "Mr. Dreskin, you seem to have something you want to say to me?"

“Now that we're alone, I won't mince my words."

Xavier sneered, flicking the goblet with his hand. "You must have heard of my reputation. I'm a man who acts as he pleases. I do Like Claudia very much. After all, any man would like such a good woman.

You're just her boyfriend. I..."

"I'm sorry," Bennett interrupted him. "I think you have misunderstood."

Xavier raised his eyebrows, somewhat perplexed. “What have I misunderstood? Aren't you her boyfriend?"

"No, I'm not her boyfriend. I'm her husband."

"Well, even if you are her husband-"

Xavier was accustomed to getting his way, and his subconscious response to Bennett's comment was automatic, without much thought.

However, the word “husband" reverberated in his mind like a deafening drum, causing him to freeze momentarily as the realization set in.

"It appears I may have offended you. It was a nice meal today. Thank you, Mr. Dreskin. I have something else to do. I'm leaving now."

Bennett remained silent. He watched as Xavier opened the door and left the private room.

Just as Claudia emerged from the washroom, she nearly bumped into Xavier. She hesitated to greet him, but he glanced at her and continued walking.

Did he not see her?

Or was he pretending not to see her?

Glancing at Xavier's departing figure, Claudia blinked, allowing the puzzle to slip away.

The reasons lay buried, known solely to those entangled.

At this moment, Bennett emerged from the private room, catching sight of her standing there. Hastening to her side, he inquired, “What's troubling you?"

Glancing at Bennett, she recounted the recent incident. "As I stepped out of the washroom, Xavier left. I hesitated there, debating whether to greet him or not, but he strode past without a word. Are we too distant today?"

Bennett clasped her hand, suggesting, “He mentioned an urgent matter.

Perhaps he didn't notice you."

“Really?”

She was standing right in front of Xavier. Could he have hurried past without a single glance, regardless of urgency?

“Absolutely,” Bennett responded nonchalantly, changing the topic. “How about a horseback ride later?"