"Why do the people in these pictures look a lot like you and Mr. Dreskin? Are you two the ones in these photos

Startled, Claudia immediately opened the attached images. She recognized herself and Bennett instantly.

Perhaps due to the camera angle, the pictures captured only her back and a slight side profile of Bennett. To those who didn't know them well, identification would be challenging.

Most of Claudia was obscured, enveloped in Bennett's embrace. Her back of the head wasn't even fully in view, let alone a side profile.

But she recognized Bennett at a glance. She texted back, "Yes, that's us. What's the issue?

Aurora replied, “Wow, what a coincidence! Could it be that Mathews was inspired after seeing you two together and so he said those words?"

Claudia responded, “Hmm. song centered around love? Maybe not. Perhaps he's about to release a new

As soon as she sent her reply, another picture from Aurora appeared on her screen.

Aurora sent a message that caught Claudia off guard.

“Oh, this is intriguing! There's another picture and he was staring right at both of you when he said that

Aurora didn't stop there.

“Ah, now I get it. I was wondering why Mathews would talk like that out of the blue. Turns out he was watching your public display of affection."

Feeling embarrassed, Claudia replied, "You're probably reading too much into it.”

Aurora fired back one last text.

“Alright, I'll leave you alone so you won't feel the need to flaunt your love life to me later."

This time, Claudia was at a loss for words.

She felt the urge to go downstairs and put the texting with Aurora on pause.

As she stepped down, she was welcomed by the rich smell of bone soup filling the air.

She approached the kitchen where Marcia was busy cooking.

“Ah, you're up," Marcia said with a warm smile.

“Mr. Dreskin asked me to prepare some soup for you."

“It smells amazing," Claudia commented.

"It's a blend of carrots, corn, and bone with some water chestnuts for sweetness," Marcia explained.

"Would you like a bowl?"