With a bashful nod, Claudia admitted, "It was a bit rushed. I've only been learning for two days. I'm not adept at crafting floral patterns, so I kept it simple."

“It's beautiful," Bennett replied, smiling gently as he cast a fleeting glance her way and then closed his eyes.

A few seconds later, he opened his eyes and blew out the candles.

Claudia fetched a bouquet of roses from the decorations and handed it to him. “They might not look their best. I forgot to water them all night."

The autumn season was naturally dry. Besides, she had left the roses untouched the entire day.

And with the room being dimly light, Claudia couldn't tell whether the roses were beautiful or not. Nevertheless, she took precautions in advance.

In truth, she felt a bit embarrassed for doing such a thing for the first time.

Accepting the roses, Bennett remarked, “Thank you, honey."

Claudia pressed her lips together. “Have you made a wish?"

"Yes."

Bennett grinned, about to say what he had wished for, but Claudia swiftly covered his mouth. "Don't say it. It won't come true if you do!"

Next, she retrieved a gift and handed it to him.

The gift box was quite big. Bennett moved to open it, but Claudia reached out and grasped his hand. As she was about to speak, an unexpected yawn escaped her lips.

Blushing, Claudia suggested, “How about we eat the cake first?"

She preferred Bennett not to open the gift in her presence.

"Okay."

Even though it was Bennett's birthday, he allowed Claudia to take charge of everything.

He followed Claudia's every instruction.

Smiling warmly, Claudia handed him the knife. “Let's just have a little."

Given the late hour, eating in excess could result in indigestion.

"Alright," Bennett acquiesced, his smile lingering as he cut a small portion of the cake.

Claudia gazed at him expectantly, asking, “Is it delicious?"

While she had tasted the cakes during preparation a few days earlier, she refrained from trying the final product. Now, she was worried it might be too sweet.

"It's very delicious!"