Perplexed, he observed her actions, noticing that her left hand rested against the window as if reaching out to grasp something, though he couldn't discern what it was.

The traffic light flipped to green and the car jerked into motion. Claudia, unprepared, bumped her head against the window.

A sharp gasp escaped her as she rubbed her forehead.

Bennett watched her for a moment before reaching out. “Let me see.” Through her haze, Claudia felt Bennett's warm breath against her face. Her forehead bore no mark, but her cheeks were aflame.

Bennett stole a glance at her, noticing her big, moist eyes filled with an expression of sadness and vulnerability.