Though his words were diplomatic, Claudia got his drift.

She puckered her lips, asking, "So, when I tied the knot with you, did your old man put up a fight?"

"I'm a different story." Bennett looped his arm around Claudia's waist, locking eyes with her. "Nobody's calling the shots on who I marry."

Claudia chuckled at his words, gazing into his dark eyes reflecting her face.

She knew Bennett had faced his share of hurdles marrying her.

The thought filled her with both sympathy and affection.

After a moment's gaze, she leaned in and planted a kiss on his lips.

“Thanks, Bennett."

He cupped her head, preventing her escape. “Is that how you show your gratitude?"

Their faces inches apart, his warm breath washed over her. Claudia felt her cheeks flush.

Meeting her gaze, Bennett pressed his lips to hers, kissing her tenderly.

A wave of sensation swept through Claudia, melting her into his embrace.

Bennett held her close, deepening the kiss.

As her clothing lifted, a chill sobered her up a bit.

Cracking her eyes open, she found Bennett's usually stoic face tinged with intensity in the dim Light.

His half-closed lids concealed his emotions, his thick lashes casting enigmatic shadows.

This side of Bennett was new to Claudia, a mix of danger and allure.

Sensing her gaze, Bennett suddenly met her eyes.

Caught off guard, Claudia stared into his gaze, feeling her heart race at his raw desire.

"What's got your attention?" he asked her in a hoarse voice.

Dizzy, Claudia shut her eyes tight, unable to meet his gaze again.

Claudia could shut her eyes tight to dodge Bennett's questions, but she couldn't dodge that look she had just caught.

That look stuck in her mind. Every time she blinked, all she could see was his raw desire staring back at her.

It was like those waves rolling in with the tide, all calm from afar but hitting hard when they got close.