Upon Claudia's appearance, Zaria leaped from the car, concern etched on her face. "Did Bennett hit you?"

Embarrassed, Claudia shook her head vehemently. "No. How could he do that to me?"

Zaria's response was a dissatisfied snort.

“It's hard to say. Bennett's a master of pretense. He's not been in any relationship for years. Who knows? He might be twisted and capable of domestic violence!"

Claudia, alarmed at Zaria's escalating opinion of Bennett, quickly redirected the conversation. "Thank you, Miss Santiago. I'm much better now. There were some misunderstandings regarding last night's events. The situation online has turned in our favor now. You needn't worry about me."

Having seen the clarification from Kayla's studio, Zaria's fury abated somewhat. While still displeased with Bennett, she didn't wish to tarnish his character needlessly.

“I'm glad you're feeling better. Don't dwell on those harsh comments. Those netizens have too much free time on their hands. They're utter scum in reality, hiding behind screens to criticize others with warped moral standards."

She quickly added, “I don't mean that you're at fault, of course. You shouldn't let their nonsense bother you. They're just venting their frustrations on anyone and anything they see.”

Claudia knew this to be true, but found it difficult to remain completely immune to the barrage of negative comments.

What troubled Claudia the most wasn't the harsh comments on the Internet. Her sadness stemmed from Bennett's absence at the concert the previous night, and the realization that he had chosen to be with another woman instead.

Though she understood she had no right to feel this way, the sadness persisted.

Claudia carefully concealed her feelings from Zaria, managing a smile as she thanked her friend. "I know. Thank you, Miss Santiago."

"Okay," Zaria responded, glancing at the roses she still held. "Do you want these flowers? I think girls feel happy when they receive flowers."

Claudia welcomed the gesture with genuine gratitude. "Thank you. I Like them very much!"

Zaria was practical and wise. With Bennett having returned home and explained himself, there was no need for her to create unnecessary strife between the husband and wife.

“I'LL head home then. If Bennett ever bullies you, don't hesitate to tell me!"

“Okay, thank you," Claudia responded, her laughter tinged with genuine warmth,

As she watched Zaria climb into her car, Claudia waved goodbye.

But before Zaria could start the engine, she hesitated, leaning out to deliver one last piece of information.

“Wait! I forgot to tell you! Kayla isn't a simple woman. During my time studying abroad, I heard that she and Bennett were romantically involved. They broke up Later because Kayla wasn't willing to return with him, but now that she's back, she might be here for Bennett!"

Claudia's heart swelled with gratitude for Zaria's concern and honesty. Even if Kayla were not as simple as she seemed, what could Claudia do? Compete with her for Bennett's affection?

Could she possibly win such a contest?

Maybe... just maybe... she could win?

Holding the roses in her arms, Claudia stood dazedly at the door. When she realized she had been standing there awkwardly for several minutes, she quickly turned and headed back into the villa, clutching the flowers.