“I see, the Dreskins' gatekeeper!"

After delivering her quip, Claudia gasped, hand over her mouth, feigning surprise as if her words were unintended.

The butler's face reddened. He could only appeal to Bennett, "Sir, she..."

Bennett calmly questioned the butler, "So, are you suggesting we cannot enter?"

His words were gentle, almost feather-light, but the undercurrent of his tone left the butler rigid. "No, sir." The butler dared not utter another word.

He then turned on his heel, leading the way.

With a surreptitious glance, Claudia took in Bennett, who was simultaneously studying her.

His gaze was aloof, yet lacked its typical frostiness.

Bennett, intrigued by the woman beside him, brushed her palm with his fingertips and leaned in to whisper, “Don't be afraid. You're my wife."

Fear wasn't what Claudia felt. Rather, she felt nervous.

On the day of their earlier meeting, the only person present was Bennett's stepmother. Given their frosty relationship, Claudia enjoyed the liberty of not having to be overly courteous to her. In fact, she took a certain pleasure in throwing sarcastic remarks at Jolie.

This occasion tonight, however, differed. In addition to the stepmother, Bennett's biological father was also present.

Claudia was aware that proper conduct and respect were necessary. She wasn't a fool! However, Bennett's whisper somehow indeed helped in easing her nerves.

His words were correct. She was his wife now, despite their relationship being fake. But she was now a part of the Dreskin family and should play the part for now.

With her back straightened, Claudia fell into step beside Bennett.

The Dreskin family was renowned for its power within the city. Their grandeur was evident even in their villa’s gate, more luxurious than most.

Claudia's right leg healed enough for her to walk normally, but it restricted her pace and prohibited high heels.

Consequently, she wore a pair of flat shoes adorned with small diamonds at the caps. The diamonds sparkled under the Light, complementing her stunning dress.

She looked attractive. That was Jolie's second impression of Claudia. But remembering their previous encounter, she averted her gaze in distaste and rose. "Zaria, Let's head in."

Upon noticing Claudia arm in arm with Bennett, Benico, Bennett's father, made a snide comment, “Not any kind of woman can marry into the Dreskin family."

Unfazed, Bennett retorted calmly, holding Claudia's hand. "The same applies to you.”

Jolie, halfway up the stairs, quickly intervened, “Now, Benico, it's unusual for Bennett to join us for dinner. Even though he brought a guest, it's no bother. We'll simply have the help set another place at the table. Besides, we have Zaria today. Let's not quarrel." Reminded of Zaria Santiago's presence, Benico was compelled to swallow his fury, although dissatisfaction lingered. "Are you still a toddler? Will you get lost without holding someone's hand?"

Though directed at Bennett, it was clear his words were meant to chide Claudia.

Claudia chose not to take his words to heart. A confrontation with Bennett's father would be unseemly at this moment. She owed him basic courtesy and respect.