Oh my goddess!

Did he truly not realize her anger, or was he deliberately pretending to be clueless?

Claudia felt really confused.

"Alright," Bennett said in response. A hint of amusement sparkled in his eyes as he turned to Aurora.

“Miss Haywood, I apologize for any inconvenience Cece may have caused today."

Aurora was puzzled. What did he mean?

Claudia was her closest friend!

Why would he insinuate that she was causing her trouble?

Even though such thoughts crossed Aurora's mind, she dared not voice them to Bennett. Instead, she glanced at Claudia, asserting, "Oh, it's no bother at all. Cece and I hang out quite often."

Truly, Aurora was the embodiment of a best friend! Even at this moment, she managed to subtly assist Claudia in avoiding a difficult situation.

“Miss Haywood, whenever you're free, do drop by our place. Cece and I would be delighted to host you for a meal."

“I'LL keep that in mind, Mr. Dreskin." After the formalities and small talk, Bennett gently took Claudia's hand, and they departed.

Watching the two of them walk away, intertwined fingers and all, a pang of envy hit Aurora. She felt a bit Like the odd one out.

Once they were in the car, Claudia noticed Bennett had driven himself here.

Her guilt intensified, so much so that she fumbled multiple times while trying to fasten her seatbelt.

Observing her struggle, Bennett extended a hand to assist. As he Looked up, his gaze Lingered on Claudia's face. "Are you tired?"

At that instant, Claudia was mentally prepared for the potential shift in his demeanor, fearing he might suddenly change his tone and Lay the blame on her.

So, when he gently inquired, “Are you tired?", she was momentarily stunned. She blinked, searching for words, and said, "U-uh, no, I'm good."

"Do you feel Like having a late-night snack with me?"

Bennett steered the wheel and anticipated her question, saying, “You were not at home for dinner. I couldn't really eat without you. I'm feeling a bit hungry now.”

Claudia felt a slight tremor in her heart. She had made a decision in the morning not to entertain him anymore, but now it seemed to have fallen through.

“Okay, sure.”

After expressing agreement, she felt a twinge of regret, thinking she caved too easily. She followed up, asserting, “Actually, I'm a bit hungry myself.”

With a gentle smile playing on his lips, Bennett simply said, "Alright then."