At that moment, another message popped up in the group.

Breck had written, "You made quite the effort I didn't think you'd actually bring the flowers back to the office."

Feeling as though she'd uncovered something profound, Claudia hesitated to respond further. She placed the phone in Bennett's hand, confessing, “I'm bowing out. I'm a bit thirsty."

She then grabbed a glass of water and took a sip.

Bennett eyed Breck's message and quirked an eyebrow. “Then I'll tell him we won't go."

Claudia looked at him, a question in her eyes. “Don't you want to join them?"

"You don't want to, do you?"

“It's not that I don't want to..."

The message had merely caught her off guard, stirring a sense of shyness.

“Feeling shy, are we?" he teased.

At his words, Claudia's cheeks turned even redder.

She bowed her head, feigning another sip of water, and murmured a shy denial. "No."

Claudia, despite her shyness, wouldn't let it keep her from facing Breck.

When Bennett remained silent, she found herself compelled to glance his way. Quickly, she announced her intention to visit the piano room, hastily leaving the comfort of their bed.

After deciding they would meet Breck for dinner, Claudia dedicated her time to the piano until five, then prepared to Leave.

As the chill of the season crept in, Claudia wrapped herself in a sweater and a woolen coat. Bennett, unusually opting out of his typical suit, matched her in a sweater of the same hue, topped with a black coat.

Their appearance, both tall and striking, turned heads as they moved from their car into the restaurant's secluded dining area.

Breck and Duncan were already there, deep in conversation, which, as the door opened, was revealed to revolve around Bennett.

Claudia caught Bennett's eye and blinked in silent communication, impressed.

Momentarily caught off guard by their coordinated outfits, Breck managed to compliment, "You two are dressed in perfect harmony."

Claudia's cheeks warmed with a blush as she smiled and took her seat next to Bennett.

Grover, arriving last, was tasked by Breck with settling the bill.

Post-dinner, the group headed to a club.

They paused their game as Grover stepped out for a call.