Moments later, she set the cup down and instinctively looked around for Bennett.

The moment she looked up, she spotted Bennett in swimwear making his way down the stairs.

Seeing this, she couldn't help but feel surprised.

To put it precisely, Bennett was clad only in a pair of swim trunks. Claudia's eyes were instantly drawn to his chiseled abdominal muscles.

Although it wasn't the first time she'd seen them, she couldn't help but blush.

"So, you're planning to swim?" she stammered, quickly averting her eyes.

Her gaze finally settled on a safer object-the stair railing behind him. After staring at it long enough to regain her composure, she met Bennett's eyes once more.

He looked at her, the usual calm in his eyes now accompanied by a playful smile.

“Won't you join me, Mrs. Dreskin

She shook her head almost reflexively.

"No."

A frown tugged at the corners of Bennett's mouth.

"That's a shame. I've never seen you swim."

It appeared to be a missed opportunity.

"I'LL go change," Claudia said, her lips pursed.

He glanced up at her one more time and nodded.

"Alright." With that, he turned and walked toward the garden.

As Claudia watched him go, she felt a pang of regret. Had she just passed up a good opportunity?

After some hesitation, she still went upstairs and changed into a one- piece black swimsuit, choosing a design that offered ample coverage.

She examined herself in the mirror and, satisfied with her appearance, headed back downstairs.

By four o'clock, the sun was perfect-neither too hot nor too cool. When Claudia reached the pool, Bennett was already there,

Hearing her approach, he paused and turned. He was tall enough that he could easily lean against the edge of the pool.

In the sunlight, Claudia appeared remarkably beautiful.

Bennett glanced at her legs and then looked up just as Claudia eased herself into the water.