Feeling uplifted, Claudia took a shower and emerged refreshed.

Shortly afterward, her phone rang, It was a call from Bennett.

It was only seven o'clock at home. At this hour, the disciplined Mr. Dreskin would likely have just finished his swim.

Claudia leaned against the sofa's backrest as she answered the phone.

“Hello, Bennett?"

“Have you checked into the hotel?" he asked.

“Yes. I just finished showering.”

“Aren't you tired

Claudia intended to say could. no," but a yawn escaped her lips before she

“Is the show tonight?" Bennett asked again.

“No, it's tomorrow night." “ALL right."

With her phone still in hand, Claudia wanted to ask if he missed her but hesitated, feeling a bit shy.

After a brief silence, Claudia softly murmured, “I really miss you, Bennett."

Before he could respond, she quickly added, "I should get some sleep. Goodbye!"

She hung up abruptly, touched her warm cheeks, rose from the sofa, and headed to the bed. Once settled, she opened the photo album on her phone.

She was looking at the picture that Bennett used as his screensaver.

A kindly stranger had taken the photo for them, and the more Claudia stared at it, the more convinced she became that they were perfectly matched.

Their heights, physiques, and even facial features were complimenting each other.

What a perfect pairing! As she looked at the photograph, a smile naturally formed on her lips. Unable to resist, Claudia set the photo as her phone's wallpaper.

Perhaps it was the combination of the cozy bed and her recent shower, but Claudia felt both physically and mentally relaxed. Sleep was fast approaching.

She pulled the quilt over herself, turned off the light, and drifted into sleep.

It wasn't a long slumber, Claudia woke up at three in the morning.

She nibbled on a piece of bread and entertained herself with some mobile games.

At five in the morning, a message popped up on Line from Aurora. will you have time for some shopping? Could you grab me some bags?" Hey,