Bennett, can you lie without the slightest flicker in your eyes? I clearly heard Breck's voice just now! She thought.

Feeling embarrassed, Claudia sealed her Lips and gently reminded him in a hushed tone, "I distinctly heard Mr. Santos" voice."

Without uttering a word, Bennett suddenly leaned in, placing his hand upon the back of her chair. Their faces were mere inches apart, and Claudia could discern the distinct woody fragrance emanating from him.

Unable to withstand the charged atmosphere between them, she averted her gaze, focusing on his hands resting on the table, as she remarked, "The weather is exceptionally pleasant today.”

Bennett fixed his gaze on her and inquired, "And?"

Feeling somewhat awkward, she continued, “Well, it's rather conducive to a game of golf."

Bennett chuckled, seemingly conceding, “Alright, Mrs. Dreskin."

"What?"

Before she could react, he had abruptly straightened up and began to make his exit.

Claudia instinctively rose from her seat. However, she hadn't anticipated his sudden halt, and she inadvertently collided with his back.

Blushing with embarrassment, Claudia offered her apology, "I'm terribly sorry."

Bennett turned around, brushing her forehead gently, and proposed, “Shall we head out for a round of golf?”

“Okay.”

Claudia let out a sigh of relief.

She could venture anywhere, just as long as she wouldn't be left alone with Bennett in the house.

A profound sense of losing control enveloped her; if it were just the two of them at home, who knew what might transpire!

Anxious that Bennett might backtrack on his commitment, Claudia swiftly ascended the stairs to change her attire before descending once more.

Bennett, however, remained unchanged in his attire, donning the loose-fitting shirt. Seated on the sofa, he cast an observant eye over her rapid descent and couldn't resist a teasing remark, “Do you have such an intense passion for golf?"

With a conscience laden with guilt, Claudia gently tapped his nose and replied, "It's been some time since I've played."

He regarded her for a moment with a knowing look before uttering, "Shall we go, then?"

Claudia breathed a sigh of relief and followed his lead.

Just as they had taken a few steps, she felt a warm sensation in her hand.

Claudia was momentarily startled and, upon glancing downward, discovered that her hand was firmly held by Bennett.

Their fingers were interlocked and Claudia gazed upon their entwined hands, feeling a mingling of bashfulness and indescribable happiness.