Claudia, almost reflexively, reached for it, and in an awkward tone admitted, "Actually, it is a bit cold."

Bennett's eyes held a curious glint as he stood, the coat in hand. Neither relinquishing nor pulling, he locked in a standoff with Claudia.

A mischievous and profound expression danced in his dark eyes. A subtle smile teased his Lips. "Weren't you complaining about the heat?"

The realization crashed down on Claudia. Bennett had orchestrated this! He knew her flushed complexion had nothing to do with temperature but her shyness.

How mischievous he was! He was playfully teasing her!