The photographer had requested a smile from her during the photo session. With a blank mind, she'd complied, offering a natural smile.

Her radiant eyes sparkled when she smiled, softening Bennett's stern features.

Upon examining their photo, Claudia had to admit they seemed Like an ideal match.

“Alright,”

Bennett responded in a flat tone and stepped out of the car. He approached Claudia, leaned down, and gently Lifted her from the car.

After being treated like royalty for the entire morning, Claudia's initial embarrassment faded.

She wound her arms around Bennett's neck, clutching their marriage certificates with her free hand.

Upon their return to their room, Bennett gently placed her back in her wheelchair. Leaning slightly, his gaze met hers, their faces only inches apart.

His intent gaze made Claudia blush and shyly avert her eyes, murmuring, “Go on with your work.”

“One week."

Bennett's dark eyes shifted, and he straightened up, gazing down at her. He said in a firm tone, "I will bring you back with me to the Dreskin family in one week."

His words took Claudia by surprise. As he turned to leave, she reflexively reached out to stop him.

Initially, she intended to merely grab his sleeve. However, her hand moved too quickly, and her fingers grazed his.

Startled, Claudia quickly pulled back her hand. “I'm sorry."

Bennett turned to look at his finger before departing.

His words echoed in Claudia's mind long after he left.

She couldn't shake the feeling that Bennett was getting back at her for her ridiculous request, and for putting him in this awkward situation.

She had yet to inform Jace about their marriage.

When a video call from Aurora came through, Claudia couldn't bring herself to eat anymore. She set her fork down, picked up her phone, and wheeled herself over to the couch.

“Have you eaten yet, Cece?" Aurora asked nonchalantly.

“I did, but I couldn't eat much."

Claudia hesitated, on the verge of revealing her marriage to Bennett.