Bennett was insightful; acting distant could potentially Leave her feelings exposed.

With this realization, Claudia had second thoughts for a brief moment before reverting to her initial stance.

The instant she turned back, she encountered his cool and composed expression.

Gripping the bed sheet tightly, Claudia mustered a facade of indifference, inquiring, “Are you done with your shower?"

Bennett studied her, noting the wavering uncertainty in her eyes. Eventually, he softened his gaze and advanced towards the bedside, choosing to sit rather than recline immediately. He maintained a straight-forward gaze, probing, “Something bothering you? You look quite dispirited.”

Her heart quaked upon hearing his words. The depth of his stare unsettled her, pushing her endurance to its limits as she tried to stay composed. Ultimately feeling a sense of being overwhelmed, she diverted her eyes to the maroon bed sheet beneath her, admitting with reluctance, "Just a Little.”

Yet, it was notably more than just a Little.

She bit her lip, the suppressed unease resurfacing, growing, resembling a floodgate on the verge of giving way.

“Is it work-related?"

She shook her head, gathering the courage to meet his eyes, offering a possible explanation, "Maybe it's because my period is approaching.” She was determined not to let Bennett see her sadness. If Kayla's words held any truth, showing vulnerability now would only underscore her fragility.

Bennett observed her, deep in contemplation.

The room fell into silence. Right as Claudia was gathering the strength to shatter the stillness, a figure cast a shadow above her.

He gradually bent closer to her, immersing her in his encompassing presence.

Suddenly the Light dwindled, prompting Claudia to instinctively Look up.

Bennett gazed down at her, tenderly proposing, “Would a hug make you feel better?"

Taken aback by his words, Claudia froze momentarily. Shortly thereafter, her eyes welled up, turning reddish

"Yes."

Whether he had someone else special in his heart or not, in that very instant, her desire was simply to find comfort in his embrace.

With that, she proactively reached out, draping her arms around his neck.

Bennett reciprocated, enclosing her waist with his arms and drawing her close.

“Wanna tell me what happened?"

He tilted his head downwards, their foreheads nearly touching.

As they held each other, the fragrance from his shower gel mingled indistinguishably with hers, rendering her unable to discern if it was his or hers.

She looked up, her voice faint as she admitted, "I'm just... feeling down."