Her lips tightened, and she hesitated before admitting, "Actually, I've arranged a present for you. But..."

Her gift seemed insignificant in comparison to his, and embarrassment stopped her from revealing it.

“It's nothing." Shaking her head, Claudia continued, “I'll bring your gift. It's in my room."

Something was better than nothing, right?

He had gifted her a bracelet and roses.

Though meant for putting on the show, they were still for her, weren't they?

Suppressing a sinking feeling, Claudia returned to her room with the bracelet and roses and fetched Bennett her gift for him.

“Thank you."

As Bennett reached to unbox it, Claudia halted him.

“Could you open it later?"

Her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

"Certainly."

Glancing at his watch, he announced, “It's getting late. You should sleep. I have an early start tomorrow."

Claudia was taken aback, watching him walk away before involuntarily calling out, "Mr. Dreskin!"

He stopped, turned to face her, and inquired, “Did we miss anything?" Shaking her head, she met his dark eyes. "Did you come back just to spend some time with me?"

"Yes, Why?"

Claudia refrained from pressing further, sincerely expressing, "Thank you. This is really sweet.”

She felt a bit sad recalling her past with Anthony.

Delilah was always in the picture during their years together, and besides, Anthony seldom made such sweet gestures for Claudia.

Today, despite everything, Bennett made time especially for her and it made her so happy.

After scrutinizing her for a moment, Bennett abruptly pivoted, declaring, "Actually, we did miss something."

Perplexed, Claudia Looked at him, wide-eyed. "What?" As the words left her lips, she felt him lean closer, his lips briefly meeting hers. Claudia was left stunned.

He raised a hand, gently touching her head. "Now we're good. Goodnight, Mrs. Dreskin."

When Claudia regained her awareness, she discovered herself propped against the door, flowers in her left hand and the gift box in her right.