He could not possibly say no to such a beautiful woman.

Bennett leaned forward and engulfed her in an embrace.

Claudia wrapped her arms around his neck and looked into his eyes, staring at her own reflection in them.

"Bennett."

"Yes?"

He picked her up in a bridal carry and closed the door of the car with his foot.

He then glanced at her, urging her to continue what she was about to say, and started making his way into the villa.

“Have you ever hugged someone like this before?"

No."

After receiving a satisfactory response, Claudia's smile brightened.

She tilted her head so that it could rest on Bennett's shoulder.

Marcia had gone home. So the villa was empty when they entered. When they left earlier, they left the light on the entryway on. But it was still dark inside.

Bennett was about to turn the light on when Claudia stopped him with her hand.

"Make a wish."

"What?"

"Make a wish before you turn the light on."

Upon hearing that, Bennett realized that Claudia was indeed drunk.

His eyebrows went up slightly. After a moment, he closed his eyes.

“Alright.”

Under the poor illumination, Claudia studied his face. She wanted to make fun of him. But she could not bring herself to do so.

"What wish did you make?"

"Can I tell you about it?"

"Of course you can. It's not a birthday wish. So you can say it out

Loud."