Bennett arched an eyebrow and scoffed, “How do we pretend to be more loving?"

“By interlocking our fingers!" As Claudia uttered the words, she gently pulled away from his grasp. signaling him to release her first.

Bennett played along perfectly. He loosened his hold, allowing her fingers to weave between his, one by one. Then he tightened his grip, their palms pressed together.

His dark eyes fell to their entwined hands, and Bennett's Lips curled into a smile. "So this is how it's done."

Hearing his reflective comment, Claudia couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for him in her heart.