As she pondered, bewildered, Bennett appeared holding a towel for her. With a puzzled expression, she inquired, “What is it?"

“Shall I wipe your face?"

Prompted by his question, Claudia instinctively touched her face, questioning, "Is there something on it?"

“Yes.”

He placed the warm towel in his palm and gently cradled the back of her head with his other hand. "Please, close your eyes."

Complying, Claudia shut her eyes

In a moment, a comforting warmth enveloped her face.

With tender motions, Bennett cleaned her face before releasing his hold, signaling, “ALL done."

Examining the towel, a self-conscious Claudia sought clarification.

“Was there something on my face? What was it?"

"Something dirty."

“What do you mean?"

She lifted her head and gazed at him with curiosity.

He cast a fleeting glance her way, explaining, “The kiss from Zaria left it dirty."

Embarrassed, Claudia said, "It's really not a huge issue."

Switching topics, he tossed aside the towel and inquired, "What would you like to eat?"

"I can't decide, but I am really hungry He handed her a coconut suggesting, “Have some of this for now. I'LL arrange for the hotel to bring up our dinner."

Accepting the coconut with both hands, Claudia nodded in agreement. She proceeded to the couch, sitting down to enjoy the coconut drink, her head bowed.

After arranging the meal, Bennett spun around to find her immersed in sipping the coconut juice, a picture of deep concentration and quietness.

Suddenly, a memory from many years ago flashed in his mind —- Claudia sitting quietly and earnestly on the steps, sipping her juice.

Well, over the years, his girl had not changed at all. He thought to himself with joy.

The hotel was experiencing a high volume of guests at dinner hour, causing a delay of over 3@ minutes for their meals to arrive. Just as Bennett placed their order, his phone rang. It was a call from Jackson.

"I have to take this," he said, getting up.

Claudia looked up at him and nodded in understanding. "Okay."