Outside the door, Bennett's tongue played with the candy in his mouth as he contemplated. Desire surged within him, threatening his self-control as he focused on the door.

Four days had passed without seeing each other. Had she not missed him even a Little?

This thought soured his mood. He furrowed his brows and rapped on the door in front of him.

Upon hearing the knock, Claudia was taken aback.

She opened the door and gazed at Bennett, who still stood there.

“Is something wrong?"

“I forgot to tell you how much I appreciate your gift for me from the other day.”

Claudia blushed, replying, “I'm glad you liked it."

“Well then, rest up."

Claudia hesitated. She met his gaze and voiced, "I'm fond of your gift as well. Thank you."

“Alright, good night."

Having said that, Bennett pivoted and headed toward his own room. Watching his retreating figure, Claudia felt a surge of sweetness at his recent words.

It was genuinely sweet.

Oh, she was referring to the candy in her mouth.

The corners of her mouth lifted ever so slightly.

During Bennett's absence on a business trip, Claudia’s yearning for him was intense, prompting her to contemplate his return date. Upon his eventual return, she grappled with reigning in her desires.

Thankfully, Mathews‘ concert was approaching rapidly, and as a devoted pianist who made a promise to help, Claudia needed to set aside her jumbled thoughts and concentrate on her work.

The concert was scheduled to commence at eight o'clock the following night, necessitating Claudia's presence for rehearsal on that day.

Morning outings with Bennett were uncommon for her. Upon reaching the door, the upcoming evening's concert dawned on her.

Yesterday, Mathews arranged for someone to provide her with five concert tickets. Claudia allocated two to Aurora, another two to Joann and intended to reserve one for Bennett.

No, she had no ulterior motives. She just thought maybe he'd Like to see her play the piano.

“Well... I possess a ticket to Mathews' concert tonight. Would you be interested in attending?"

Bennett regarded her, his response neither an agreement nor a refusal.

“What time does it start?"