Jace's face was lined with worry. He was loath to let Claudia engage with Anthony. His biggest fear was his daughter falling prey to Anthony's deceit once again.

Claudia was aware of her father's concerns.

"Dad, there's no need to worry. I'm now Bennett's wife. I'm Mrs. Dreskin."

Claudia had the housekeeper assist with the wheelchair, carefully maneuvering the stairs while gripping the railing for support.

Her leg braces were removable, though her doctor insisted that less activity would hasten her healing.