His intense stare unnerved her, prompting her to stammer, "I apologize!"

Bennett clicked his tongue and said, "Mrs. Dreskin, are you suggesting double standards here?” She found no words to reply.

She wasn't that kind of woman!

He looked at her, with a teasing smile, he gently probed, “Why aren't you talking?"

“I'm not like that..."

"Close your eyes." She was surprised when hearing that.

The warm, damp breath enveloped Claudia, amplifying the distinct scent of wood that she knew so well.

With her eyes instinctively shut, Claudia's senses heightened, making her more sensitive than ever.

She grew slightly nervous as their Lips met. After a few moments of gentle lip play, Bennett started moving further His exhales caressed her forehead, nose, and cheeks as he moved.

A slight panic set in as his lips graced her delicate neck. In a fleeting moment of clarity, she gently pushed him away, murmuring, “Bennett...”

He lifted his head, and the unrestrained desire in his deep-set eyes was evident.

Witnessing that, Claudia felt a wave of emotions, her eyes glistening with tears, "I'm so sorry. I messed up!"

She wasn't prepared to take things further.

Her voice quivered with tears, sounding more like a seduction than a plea for mercy.

Looking into her tear-filled eyes, Bennett shut his own eyes, reclining as he wrapped her in a comforting embrace.

Under the Light, the pronounced veins on Bennett's forehead hinted at the inner turmoil he was suppressing.

Lying on top of his body, Claudia was so scared that she didn't dare to move at all.

The room's heated tension began to dissipate as both remained silent. Time seemed to stretch before Bennett finally whispered, "You truly are something, my Love."

She retreated into shyness right after their playful exchange.

After saying that, he couldn't help but chuckle when he recalled how she had touched him earlier.

A soft chuckle filled her ears, leaving Claudia feeling embarrassed. Did she do anything wrong?

It was just a playful touch, was that so wrong?

However, Claudia held back from voicing these thoughts to Bennett. There was a brief pause between them before Bennett gently nudged her waist, suggesting, “Maybe you should shower."

Claudia lifted her head and looked at him. His eyes had reverted to their usual coolness as if the passion and indulgence they had just showed were merely her imagination.