Afraid of waking him, she avoided sitting beside him.

Recalling Jackson's remarks that morning, Claudia couldn't resist the urge to touch Bennett's forehead.

Careful not to disturb his sleep, she Lightly brushed her hand against his forehead and quickly withdrew it.

His temperature didn't seem too high. Perhaps he had already recovered from his fever.

Having experienced chickenpox in childhood, Claudia remembered the intense itching, which led her to scratch incessantly.

Thankfully, Jace got her scar removal ointment, ensuring her body remained unblemished.

But what about Bennett?

Since his face bore no marks, they must be concentrated on his body. Could the case be severe?

Observing the man before her, Claudia wrestled with herself before deciding to assess the extent of Bennett‘s chickenpox.

Her gaze roved over Bennett, finally settling on his slightly open shirt collar.

She swallowed hard, contemplating.

Would it be appropriate to unbutton his clothes and inspect the condition of his chickenpox?

Her intentions were purely to gauge the severity of the ailment. Bennett slept soundly, unaware of her contemplation. With care, she could explore discreetly.

Encouraging herself inwardly, Claudia's trembling hand inched toward his collar.

You've got this, Claudia. Stay composed. She thought.

The collar was already partially open. Just a little more and she could have a look.

Alright, you've touched the collar. Keep your cool, Claudia, and gently unbutton it. Great! His collar is pulled open!

Just as Claudia was on the verge of peeking within, the slumbering man suddenly awoke, seizing her right hand. "Mrs. Dreskin?" uttered Bennett.

Taken aback, Claudia was caught off guard by Bennett's extended leg accidentally brushing hers, causing her to lose her footing and tumble right into his embrace.

Bennett found himself at a loss for words, and so did Claudia.

Could Claudia provide an explanation that Bennett would entertain?

The man dipped his head slightly, his lips curving into a faint smile as he regarded her.

“Throwing yourself at me?" teased Bennett.

At his words, a rosy blush crept from Claudia's ears to her cheeks in mere moments.