Bennett's desire was stirred by her touch, and in a husky tone, he inquired, "Are you truly this fatigued?"

He couldn't help but liken her to a lethargic pig rather than a sprightly rabbit at the moment.

Claudia, initially still drowsy, felt a faint sense of peril wash over her upon hearing Bennett's words. Almost instantly, she began to stir, lifting her gaze to meet the face in close proximity and she asserted, “No, I'm not feeling sleepy anymore."

Bennett, having already carried her out of the room and descended the stairs, was bathed in the sunlight streaming through the window. It cast a radiant silhouette, emphasizing his deep-set eyes and finely sculpted features.

“Oh, what a pity!"

He remarked with a grin, “I thought I could assist you in rousing, Mrs. Dreskin."

He didn't utter another word but Claudia comprehended his implication She blushed, her gaze averted uncomfortably as she replied, "I'm wide awake now.”

Claudia gazed at the French window behind him, which glistened as the midday sun danced upon its glass

She rubbed her eyes and suddenly became aware of Bennett's support.

“I can manage on my own..."

Before she could complete her sentence, Bennett had already settled her inte a chair by the dining table.

Claudia pressed her lips together, casting an awkward look at the dishes spread before her

Four delectable dishes and a savory soup graced the table, all of them her favorites.

Touched, Claudia picked up the knife and fork, proclaiming, "They Look absolutely scrumptious.”

“Let's indulge."

Bennett served her some soup and set it beside her

“Thank you," she murmured shyly, taking a sip of the soup.

Bennett's culinary prowess exceeded her expectations, even surpassing Marcia's.

Words of praise flowed from Claudia's lips intermittently, spanning at least fifteen minutes of her half-hour Lunch.

Throughout, the man's countenance remained composed, making it challenging to discern whether Claudia's accolades pleased him or not.

Following the meal, she offered to clear away the dishes.

Bennett cast a glance in her direction and remarked, “Your phone is buzzing."

“What ?"

Reflecting on the conversation she'd had with Aurora before drifting into slumber, Claudia experienced a faint pang of guilt, prompting her to swiftly divert her attention to her phone.