With an elegant motion, she concealed her hands behind her back, gracefully traversed the sofa's expanse, and leaned closer to Bennett. Her eyes sparkled playfully as she addressed him, “Bennett, are you perhaps jealous?"

His response was a faint smile, his gaze locked onto hers as he inquired, "What's your take on it?"

Claudia's eyelashes fluttered and she replied with a teasing Lilt, "I must admit, I find your hint of jealousy quite endearing. But there's nothing more than mere acquaintanceship between Mathews and me. We've crossed paths for just two brief years and our collaborations have been sparse. It's simply..

She patiently began her explanation but, before she could conclude, Bennett unexpectedly scooped her up from behind the sofa, swiftly relocating her to his lap.

Perched upon him, Claudia's long dress accentuated the intimacy of their position, her legs gently parting.