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.