Damn it!

Was having a wife such a big deal?

Was Bennett the only man in the world with a wife or something?

What a punk-ass!

Claudia handed the phone back to the attractive young lady, saying, “Thank you for Letting me borrow your phone.”

“My name is Arielle Patel.”

“Alright. Thank you, Arielle."

Arielle's eyes met Claudia's, and her face suddenly brightened with a smile. "Miss Marshall, you're quite charming.”

A blush spread across Claudia's cheeks, and she was about to speak when Arielle was summoned by her friends.

“Forgive me, Miss Marshall. We'll catch up another time."

“It's no trouble. We'll talk Later."

Once Arielle had left, Claudia felt a tinge of boredom as she stood alone, but Bennett's instructions to wait in place kept her rooted to the spot. It would have been awkward had she wandered off and they Lost each other.

Just then, a waiter approached with a tray of vibrant drinks. She picked up a glass and tasted it.

The blend of sour and sweet was delicious, touched with a hint of Lemon and passion fruit fragrance.

Claudia savored the taste, reveling in the flavor before succumbing to another sip.

It was her first encounter with this particular beverage. She was uncertain of the brand, but its deliciousness made her want to ask Zaria for a Link to purchase it.

She merely entertained the thought for a moment though

Soon, Claudia had finished her glass and scanned the crowded room, unable to locate Bennett.

Idly, she played a virtual piano on her arm. Her playful motions caught the attention of an unexpected critic.

“Miss Marshall, you're quite diligent, aren't you? Practicing even during a party?"

“Obviously, Miss Marshall must work hard, or she won't win any awards this year."

“Eight months into the year, Miss Marshall, and no prizes yet, am I right?"

The mocking tone was unmistakable. Glancing up, Claudia discovered two unfamiliar women, wine glasses in hand, their faces dripping with derision.

For strangers, Claudia felt no need to be courteous. She gazed at them and said evenly, "I'm nowhere near as hardworking as you, never forgetting to gossip, even at a party.”