But Anthony was unaware that what awaited him was yet another plummet into a seemingly bottomless pit.

The previous evening had granted Claudia the deepest slumber she'd ever known. She awoke at half past seven the following morning, her sleep unbroken till then. Upon freshening up, she turned to her phone, discovering an unread message that was sent to her in the middle of the night.

“Claudia, victory will always elude you."

The message screamed Delilah, although she hid behind random numbers, a tactic typical of her cowardice.

Claudia, unperturbed by the words, gave it a mere glance.

Soon enough, Claudia understood the reason behind Delilah's conceit.

It was clear as crystal when Claudia's phone flooded with messages from Aurora, all ranting about Delilah.

“Damn it! I've Lost my words. Delilah should have been an actress, her ability to fake it is unbelievable! What talent wasted!

Oh, no. She's too unattractive for the entertainment industry. Even with her acting skills, she would struggle to find success in show business.

Why the drama at dinner last night? She must've been too eager to meet her future mother-in-law. I wonder if Anthony's mother would even take to her.

Has Delilah been buying trending searches again? Same old, same old. Does she believe you're a fool?"

The grievances were plenty. Claudia rapidly scanned through Aurora's messages, which still went on and on. As she started to type her response, "Don't get upset, I.. her phone began to ring. The number was unknown.

Typically, Claudia ignored calls from unfamiliar numbers.

This time, however, her finger slipped while typing and answered the call unintentionally. "Hello," she said reluctantly.

“It's me."

A man's voice, deep and warm, echoed from the receiver, catching Claudia off guard. “Bennett, good morning," she greeted, wondering why he would call her so early.

“Good morning," he responded, leaving a pause before proceeding. “Have you seen the news on the Internet?"

Her breath hitched, and then eased. As long as the discussion wasn't about divorce, it was alright.

“Yes, I have. Is it causing you trouble?"

“Don't worry. Nothing can cause me real trouble.”

His voice carried a soothing tone, yet his words were laced with unmistakable arrogance.

Claudia didn't feel repulsed in the slightest. Considering Bennett's prestigious and influential background, his display of arrogance seemed justified.