For an instant, an awkward atmosphere enveloped them.

Seeking to break the tension, Claudia hesitated before suggesting, "Mr. Dreskin, are you feeling hungry? Would you like me to cook something for you?"

Bennett glanced at her face, and then at her knee.

“I don't have an appetite."

Though he only spoke those words, Claudia could discern the underlying message.

Claudia found herself at a loss for words. You've gone too far, Mr. Dreskin! I'm not disabled here! She thought.

In the following instant, Bennett extended a box of candy to Claudia.

“I brought you a present from my business trip.”

Gazing at the candy box, Claudia expressed, “Thank you."

A twinge of guilt pricked her. She shouldn‘t have vented like that! “Get some rest. You'll be better soon."

Claudia, ready to share the candy with him, responded, "Alright."

As she lowered her head, the man unbuttoned the top button of his collar and said, “I'll carry you back to your room."

“Ah, no—"

Before she could voice the words "No, thank you," Claudia found herself ensconced in the man's familiar embrace.

The scent of wood enveloped her instantly, and she instinctively encircled her arms around his neck.

Actually... Having an injured leg wasn't such a bad thing!

Realizing her thoughts, Claudia hurriedly pinched herself!

How could she entertain such notions?

She had to quell these troubling ideas!

Luckily, Bennett soon arrived at her room's doorway.

Once she was placed back on her feet, Claudia relinquished her hold on him. Overwhelmed by guilt, she averted her gaze from his eyes. After stealing a glimpse at him, she looked away and murmured, “I'll head back to rest now.”

“Alright,” Bennett responded, yet he lingered.

Meeting his gaze, Claudia blinked and clasped the candy box tighter. "Would you Like to try some mango candy?"

Somehow, she wanted to share the candy with him.