While reading the message, an outrageous idea sprung into Claudia's mind.

Rather than reaching for her phone, she looked up at Bennett and proposed, "Let's get married."

She knew it was a bizarre proposition, but everyone in town was now making a mockery of her, and she wanted revenge for all the humiliations she had endured.

With gritted teeth, she reiterated, "I want you and me to get married.”

Jackson and Aurora had just reached Claudia's hospital room when Bennett was stepping out.