But Jackson refrained from pondering Bennett's intimate Life with his wife, quickly grabbing the documents and leaving to destroy them.

He wasn't entirely wrong, though. Bennett's good mood was indeed closely tied to Claudia.

It appeared that Claudia was indeed a cherished figure in his boss‘ life!

Claudia had worked hard the entire afternoon in the piano room. Once the last melody resonated in the room, her fingers throbbed with pain.

With her phone in hand, she hesitated to unlock it.

But the mountain of unread messages couldn't be ignored. She went downstairs to sit on the sofa, massaging her sore fingers for a while, and then tapped on the message box.

Joann said, “How's your leg? Can you work as usual now? You've been invited to play the piano for an opening ceremony overseas."

Aurora's message followed. "What's happening? Did Zaria reach out to you today?"

Then came Zaria's messages

“Cece, are you upset with me?"

"I'm sorry, but what did I do wrong? Why do you despise me?" Zaria had also included a sad emoji.

Zaria's messages had arrived at three in the morning. Claudia hadn't intended to respond, but Zaria's pitiful emoji melted her heart.

After a moment's hesitation, she texted back, choosing her words carefully.

“I'm not mad, nor do I despise you. I'm sorry. I... I'm straight. Your Love isn't for me."

As soon as she sent it, Zaria responded immediately! "Cece, you finally responded! It doesn't matter if you're straight or gay. I just like you!”

Claudia was left puzzled, wondering if Zaria truly understood her Zaria seemed so relentless.

Just as Claudia was about to clarify further, a noise came from the entrance.

She glanced up, seeing Bennett walk in.

He made his way to the shoe cabinet, changing his shoes, and then untied his tie. He wandered to the kitchen island, poured water, sipped it, and loosened the first two buttons of his shirt.

As his Adam's apple emerged from his collar, Claudia's cheeks flushed. Feeling guilty, she diverted her gaze, rubbing her hand vigorously

“You're back."

"Yes," Bennett replied nonchalantly, eyeing her hand. "Does it hurt?"

“I'm fine, just a long piano practice," she assured. This was nothing

Her wrist's periostitis often acted up but never fully healed.