Her mind foggy from sleep, Claudia was at first confused.

Then, recollection dawned. "Mathews?"

“That's right."

Embarrassment washed over Claudia, and her lingering sleepiness vanished into thin air. "What's going on?"

“I have a concert tour next month. Linmarsh is the first stop. Two pieces require Live piano performance...

He let the sentence hang, and Claudia filled in the rest.

A tour...

She hesitated for only a moment before declining. "I'm sorry, but you'll have to find someone else."

“The pay is generous this time."

Pushing herself up from her bed, Claudia replied, “It's not about the money. I'm married now. I can't risk drawing too much unnecessary attention."

Bennett was a nice man who was always so kind to her. She couldn't disappoint him.

He was always there to save the day whenever she was in trouble, just like last night. How could she now agree to be part of Mathews’ concert?

A previous collaboration had caused rumors. It wouldn't be wise to repeat that.

Amusement colored Mathews' voice as he said, "Looks like someone else will have to pocket the three million dollars.”

“Wait! Did you say three million dollars?"

“I proposed a guest budget of three million for the concert. The company agreed.”

“Seriously? Why didn't you tell me sooner? When is your concert? Which pieces need Live performance?”

"Do you have a replacement suggestion?”

Caught off guard, Claudia asked, "What about me?"

Her question drew a laugh from Mathews. After a few seconds, he said, “Didn't you just say I should look elsewhere?"

Flustered, Claudia quickly corrected herself. "I reconsidered. Your first stop should be a success. Everything needs to be perfect. I'ma professional, one of the most influential pianists in the country. Your concert can benefit from my exposure.

Therefore, I am the most suitable candidate."

“You're correct. The company only allocated the three million because I mentioned you."

Before she could fully process this, Claudia found herself saying, "That's right. Your company recognizes my value.”