"Noted," she responded, choosing a luxurious handbag to match her ensemble. With her wheelchair as her chariot, she left the room.

Shortly after, she heard the familiar footsteps of someone ascending the staircase.

It was Bennett.

Standing at the Landing, some seven or eight meters away, he cut an imposing figure. His dark eyes, nestled deep within their sockets, glowed from the dimly lit corner, a soft warmth emanating from them as they rested on Claudia.

She instinctively clutched her purse, greeting him with a simple “Hi Acknowledging her with a nod, Bennett made his way towards her, his gaze unapologetically drinking in her beauty. “You look stunning," he complimented.

Striving to maintain her composure, Claudia returned his sentiment with asmile, "Thank you."

“May I carry you down the stairs?"

It was a mundane offer, yet to Claudia, the words held a different weight.

She stole a glance at him and said, “I-- “You're welcome. It's no problem at all."

Barely had she opened her mouth to reply when she found herself swept off the wheelchair and into his arms.

Flustered, she muttered a soft, "Thank you."

Bennett suddenly leaned in closer, causing Claudia to tense up. She quickly averted her gaze, only to realize how close his face was to hers.

"You're wearing perfume today?”

His inquiry caught her off guard.

She was flattering herself.

She'd been expecting a kiss, but all he was interested in was her scent!

With a flushed face, Claudia turned back towards him. Their eyes met, and a wave of guilt washed over her, quickening her pulse. “A friend of mine created this perfume as a gift."

During a visit to France, she had met a perfumer. After she'd played a piece for him, he'd crafted a unique perfume just for her.

The scent of orange flowers intertwined with a subtle hint of grass filled the air, creating a fresh and sweet aroma.

It was as unique as Claudia herself.

Bennett took another moment to appreciate the scent. "It's delightful."

Catching sight of Bennett's bobbing Adam's apple, Claudia fidgeted nervously. Reminded of their close contact a couple of days prior, a blush spread across her face once again.