She tucked her phone away and touched her reddening earlobe.

She composed herself as if all was well.

As she prepared to leave, the door creaked open

Bennett was there, one hand holding the door. A breeze danced past him, causing his shirt to flutter. Claudia thought she could smell the familiar scent of wood.

While Bennett stood against the light, emanating a warmth that contradicted his usually cold demeanor, he observed Claudia intently with his piercing gaze. "Did you sleep well, Miss Marshall?"