“I'LL buy you more gifts in the future," she promised,

Bennett smiled, genuine and warm.

"Thank you, Mrs. Dreskin."

Afterward, he looked her straight in the eye and asked, "Wanna cuddle?" Claudia's eyes widened a little. She stared at him for a moment, hesitating, and then she slowly nodded,

Bennett swallowed the lump in his throat before leaning closer to her and scooping her into his arms. He placed her gently on his lap.