Claudia's rage slowly receded. She realized it had only been amplified by the cruel comments she'd read earlier. With a calmer mind, the situation seemed more manageable.

An idea popped into her head, and her countenance relaxed. Reaching for her phone, she intended to call Joann to discuss her strategy.

But her fingertips brushed against Bennett's lips. A momentary pause later, she realized she was nestled in Bennett's arms.

What had just happened?

Why was she in Bennett's arms?!

She hastily extricated herself from his embrace, putting some distance between them.

“I'm sorry. I lost control for a moment."

The intoxicating scent of her perfume lingered as she pulled away. Bennett resisted the urge to draw her back in. He looked at Claudia, his voice soft.

“Have you decided how to fight back?"

Claudia swiftly retracted her finger that had brushed against his lips, still feeling the lingering touch of his mouth on her skin.

Taking her finger in her palm, she shot Bennett a determined look and announced, "I've made my decision. I won't burden you with this aosue a

The declaration wasn't a plea for assistance from Bennett, but rather a testament to her bravery. In the face of bullying, she was determined to stand her ground and retaliate.

Her anger fueled her words, and she also wanted to alert Bennett to her resolve.

After all, rumors had already circulated online, with most of the Dreskin family being privy to it.

As Mrs. Dreskin, she couldn't simply maintain her grace under pressure, silently bearing the matter for Bennett's sake.

However, her firm words seemed to dim the spark in Bennett's eyes. "If you're capable of handling it, then I'll refrain from interfering."

His tone had perceptibly changed, and though Claudia sensed it, she couldn't fathom the reason.

Shaking off the confusion, she focused on the issue at hand.

“If I cause a commotion, will it affect you in any way?" Claudia asked, considering their partnership as a contract couple meant they had shared fortunes and misfortunes.

Claudia was always willing to collaborate and work together.

"It won't," came Bennett's response, infusing Claudia with newfound confidence.

With his endorsement, she felt emboldened to take action.

She had experienced verbal skirmishes before and was prepared to handle another one.

A surge of gratitude for Delilah washed over her, as without her, Claudia wouldn't have arrived at this conclusion so soon.