They reached the seaside where the motorboat she had just rented was docked. A staff member asked, "Do either of you know how to operate this?"

Before she could answer, Bennett interjected, "My wife's the contestant today."

The worker's expression shifted. "Really? What's her number? I saw the competition this morning, especially CC..."

“cc.”

Initially, the worker didn't catch it. "Excuse me?" he asked with a confused look.

"My wife is CC," Bennett clarified.

The worker's eyes widened. "Oh my God, CC! Can I get a photo with you?” Claudia never anticipated she'd have fans just from piloting a motorboat. Elated, she said, "Of course."

Handing his phone to Bennett, the worker said, “Would you mind taking the picture? Your wife is amazing."

Bennett accepted the phone and gently removed the worker's hand from Claudia's shoulder. "A picture is fine, but let's keep it respectful."

Caught off guard, the worker stepped back.

“Oh, my apologies. I didn't mean anything by it. Force of habit!"

He then positioned himself a good five inches away from Claudia, who donned her helmet and flashed a peace sign for the photo.

In the photo, Claudia’s eyes sparkled, and her teeth shone white. Pressing the button, Bennett tightened his lips and felt a twinge of regret.

What had he gotten himself into?

“Alright,” said the worker, reclaiming his phone and casting an admiring glance at Claudia. His grin grew wider by the second.

After a moment, he turned back to Bennett.

“You're a Lucky man to be married to CC, Take good care of her, and may you have a happy life together.”

Dragging the motorboat closer, he added, "Since it's you, CC, no need to go over the rules. Just enjoy yourselves.

Waving goodbye, the worker retreated to the motorboat rental office. Feeling a Little awkward, Claudia looked at Bennett.

“Would you Like to take the wheel?”

“You said you'd show me the ropes, Mrs. Dreskin," Bennett reminded her. That meant she'd be driving.

Without a second thought, Claudia donned her helmet and climbed onto the motorboat. Looking back at Bennett, she gestured for him to join her.

“Hop on."

Slipping on his own helmet, Bennett took a seat behind her.