Bennett settled beside her, casually unbuttoning his shirt's top two buttons.

“Really?”

Claudia darted a glance at him, and then quickly averted her eyes, concentrating on her hands. "Yes."

His hands suddenly appeared before her, prompting her to look up, puzzled. "Mr. Dreskin?"

“I'm strong. Let me help you.”

She grew self-conscious.

“It's not appropriate, is it?"

“Not really," he reassured, taking her right hand and kneading her fingers.

Her heart pounded as she watched his strong hands work her fingers. Unable to bear it, she quickly withdrew her hand. "I'm a little thirsty."

After saying that, she swiftly rose to her feet, made her way to the kitchen island, filled a glass with water, and drank it down.

Bennett observed her, inquiring, "Did you eat well at noon?"

She nodded repeatedly, avoiding his gaze altogether

Bennett smiled knowingly. "Mrs. Dreskin seems a bit different today."

Claudia's greatest fear was him referring to her as Mrs. Dreskin. Upon hearing his words, her hand trembled, and the water in the glass splashed out a Little. "Am I?"

Bennett's smile remained, but he said nothing. Feeling guilty under his scrutinizing gaze, she set the glass down, avoiding his eyes.

“I'm somewhat hungry."

Then, she turned and walked to the kitchen, calling out, "Marcia, is dinner ready yet?"

Upon hearing Claudia's words, Marcia sped up her work, turning to the woman with a smile.

“It's almost ready, Mrs. Dreskin. Just five more minutes, please!"

“Thank you, Marcia, and no need to rush. I was only asking out of curiosity," she murmured, unable to find another excuse to avoid Bennett.

Her thoughts drifted to him again, and she wrestled with her growing emotions for him.

She knew she couldn't keep staring at him, but controlling her feelings proved to be a difficult task.

She endeavored to ignore him for a few days, but the outcome was quite ineffective.

Her affection for Bennett had become obvious, and her behavior less natural around him.