“Tell me."

Her hesitation was met with Bennett's approach

He stooped to lift her up, causing her to shriek as he carried her into the villa.

“I'm fine! Shouldn't you be catching your plane?" she protested, knowing it wouldn't wait.

Bennett, unmoved by her plea, settled her on the sofa and asked with an uncharacteristic chill in his voice, "Shall I examine it myself, or will you just tell me?"

This was the first time in their nearly two-month marriage that Claudia had seen Bennett so stern.

Fear overtook her, and she quickly explained, “This morning, when I got up, I banged my Left knee on the bed's corner."

"Show me," he demanded, his eyes warning that if she didn't comply, he'd do it himself.

Reluctantly, Claudia rolled up her left trouser leg. Upon seeing the bruises on her knee, she was aghast.

Had it been that severe? From just a bump?

Her pale skin made the bruise appear even more startling.

Bennett's brow furrowed as he inquired, "Did you stumble because of the pain?"

She wanted to deny it, but his gaze made her hesitate. Unable to lie, she admitted, "Yes."

“I'LL summon the family doctor. Wait here," he instructed.

“But your flight..."

Bennett suddenly laughed. "Really? You're still worrying about me when you can't even take care of yourself?"

“I'm sorry." Claudia bowed her head, guilt washing over her.

Bennett paused for a second, lifting Claudia's face gently as he asked, “What are you sorry for?”

“I caused you to miss your flight."

Even though it wasn't intentional.

“I can still make the flight. Just stay here and await the doctor, alright?"

"Alright."

She didn't dare utter another word. Saying anything else might make Bennett truly miss the plane.

His thumb brushed over her injured knee for a brief moment before pulling away.